The South West Daily

Here is what is making news for May 28, 2026.==================================Safety upgrades are underway at Loch Ard Gorge as authorities work toward reopening beach access by October this year. The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is undertaking critical repairs after independent assessments identified a high risk of rock fall and serious structural faults in the existing staircase. ====================================================================Colac is set to receive a vibrant new painting as part of the Shire Council's public art program. An artist has now been officially selected for the piece. Mayor Jason Schram says the high quality of submissions received for the project was incredibly impressive. ====================================================================Local Police are reminding road users to drive safely as cooler conditions kick in across the region. Colac Police Sergeant Jake Andrews says things such as visibility and driving to the conditions are crucial in reducing the risk of road incidents. ====================================================================The Corangamite Shire Council has released its sixty-two point six million dollar draft budget for public feedback. The proposed plan features a nineteen million dollar capital works program, with nearly ten million dollars dedicated specifically to road renewals and upgrades across the shire. ====================================================================Colac Otway Shire Council is inviting public feedback on its newly released Draft Economic Development Framework. The long-term plan aims to guide how the council supports local jobs, business growth, and future investment across the region. ====================================================================As Colac Otway and Corangamite residents are getting a taste of winter weather - the state’s environmental watchdog, EPA Victoria, has some handy tips about how to get the most out of your wood heater and reduce smoke going into the air. Manager of Air, Odour and noise sciences from the EPA Michael Ernest says more information can be found on their website. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTPrincetown cricket export Millie Illingworth has officially secured her spot in the Victorian state women's squad for the upcoming twenty-twenty-six, twenty-twenty-seven season. The fast bowler is looking to build on her success after taking four wickets across five matches in the Women's National Cricket League last year. ====================================================================This weekend the Colac Braves will hit the road with Division 1 travelling to Lara. Division 3 will search for back to back wins travelling to Deakin University this weekend. ====================================================================A massive Sunday of local soccer awaits as the Corangamite Lions clash with the Forest Rangers across multiple divisions. In men's Division One, the second-placed Rangers take on the third-placed Lions, while the women's fixture promises a top-of-the-table battle. ====================================================================In local soccer this weekend, the Colac Otway Rovers women's side takes on Surf Coast F-C, while the Division Two and Three men’s teams travel away to face Drysdale. ==================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 27, 2026.=================================Shock new polling suggests One Nation could become the official federal opposition, but local Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan remains unconvinced they will crack the South West. ==================================================================The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority is inviting the public to a free event in Forrest to discuss the health of the Upper Barwon River. Situated in the heart of the Otways, Forrest serves as a key location for the river's upper catchments. The community information session will run from nine-thirty A-M to one-thirty P-M on Saturday, June thirteen, at the Forrest Community Hub. ==================================================================Fallow deer, a species highly familiar to hunters in the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions, were the second most harvested deer in Victoria last year. ==================================================================The State Opposition has promised to boost infrastructure spending across South West Victoria if they win the upcoming state election later this year. ==================================================================Blaze Aid is still searching for Gellibrand and Kawarren are still urgently looking for volunteers to help communities recover after natural disasters by rebuilding fencing. The Gellibrand camp supports, Gellibrand, Carlisle River, Barongarook, Barongarook West, Beech Forest, Gerangamete, Irrewillipe East and Kawarren. ==================================================================Tickets are now officially on sale for Red Door Theatre Company's & Juliet which promises to thrill for all ages. The show features a soundtrack packed with iconic pop hits from legendary songwriter Max Martin, including songs made famous by artists such as Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry, and Bon Jovi, & Juliet. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTA new top-tier bowls competition could soon hit the region, with a West Coast Bowls Premier League officially on the table. Driven by players from Colac, Camperdown, Mortlake, and Warrnambool, the proposal aims to create a higher standard of local competition. West Coast Bowls Region Chairperson Peter Inglis says a premier league would give emerging talent something to aspire to, keeping top bowlers from leaving for Geelong. The format is currently being developed before seeking official board endorsement. ==================================================================The twenty-twenty-six Melbourne to Apollo Bay Yacht Race has wrapped up with thrilling results along the southern Victorian coastline. Thirty-two boats and over two hundred sailors tackled the fifty-two nautical mile course. The Phoenix Forty-Nine, skippered by Brenton Carnell from the Royal Geelong Yacht Club, claimed monohull line honours after leading for most of the race. However, the overall AMS handicap victory and the Apollo Bay Perpetual Cup went to The Kraken, a Sydney Thirty-Two skippered by Ryan Walker, who credited his crew's experience and tactical planning. ==================================================================The Colac and District Football Netball League has officially announced its Senior Netball squad for the 2026 Interleague campaign. Ten local stars have been selected to represent the region, including Janelle and Brittany Monaghan, alongside Brooke Hawkins and Georgia Robinson. Kelsey Jeffreys will lead the squad as head coach, supported by team manager Jess Downard. The C-D-F-N-L has congratulated all selected players as they prepare for the upcoming competition. ================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 26, 2026.==============================More than $13,000 dollars has been raised following on from the Colac Area Health Foundation's Golf Day at the Colac Golf Course on Friday. Colac Area Health Foundation's Ami Hillage says the total couldn't have been able to raise the funds without the support from Commonwealth Bank as the event sponsor and other food and prize Sponsors ============================================================With prolonged dry weather exposing sediment in dams across South West Victoria, many farmers are considering a clean-out. ============================================================Colac Otway local Lawrence Maskill has been appointed as Rural Aid’s new dedicated counselor and community representative for South West Victoria. ============================================================A concerning pattern of break-ins has emerged targeting local sporting clubs, with two separate venues hit just last week. The West Warrion club has reported its second break-in in six months, with thieves stealing a first aid kit, fuel drums, a battery charger, and even a security camera. Meanwhile, the Irrewarra-Beeac Football and Netball Club was also targeted, reporting a break-in last Thursday night. ============================================================Lorne’s Stribling Reserve is the heartbeat of the local community, but it needs your help to stay in local hands. The Stribling Reserve Community Asset Committee is urgently seeking new volunteer members to bring fresh energy and ideas. If the committee cannot recruit enough local residents, the day-to-day management of the facility will likely revert to the Surf Coast Shire. ============================================================V/Line passengers on the Geelong and Warrnambool lines are being urged to plan ahead, with major infrastructure works set to disrupt services from this tomorrow through to Friday, May 29th. ============================================================AND IN SPORTTwo Colac and District footballers have made the Victorian Under 14s football squad set to play in the National Championships in July. Lorne's Zavier Hollmer and Colac Tigers footballer Nick Jukawics were selected from a pool of 800 boys to feature in the side. ============================================================In this weekend's baseball action the Colac Braves put in a good showing in both grades. Division 1 went down 6-10 to the Ballarat Royals while Division 3 had a win 9-nil against Bacchus Marsh. ============================================================The Colac Otway Rovers nearly pulled off a huge comeback win over the weekend with two goals in the final 6 minutes to level the scores 3-3 against Barwon Heads. The Rovers were 3-1 down in the 83rd minute before Oaklee Balboni and Tim Brain scored. In other club news Football Victoria named Colac Otway Rovers AFC as Club Changer Club of the Month for May, recognising the club’s incredible growth, volunteer spirit and commitment to creating inclusive football opportunities in regional Victoria. ============================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 25, 2026.===================================The property market surrounding Camperdown and Boorcan is experiencing a significant boom following a flurry of major dairy farm sales. Most notably, a massive six-hundred-and-thirty-seven-hectare aggregation milking eight hundred cows has been snapped up by a neighboring agricultural family. Nearby, a three-hundred-hectare corporate farm was secured by an interstate buyer relocating from New South Wales. ======================================================================South West Sport is running the twenty-twenty-six Regional Community Sport Census. Corangamite Shire Deputy Mayor Laurie Hickey says Local clubs and volunteers can complete the fifteen-minute online survey to help shape future facility upgrades and support programs. ======================================================================Corangamite Catchment Management Authority volunteers have converged this month for specialized training to ensure the absolute accuracy of local citizen science data. ======================================================================The Aireys Inlet community has expressed deep frustration after being entirely left out of the latest state budget funding pool. Despite a high-risk summer fire season and land along the Great Ocean Road being acquired back in twenty-eighteen, local C-F-A volunteers are still being forced to operate out of an aging nineteen-eighties facility. ======================================================================Farmers across the Colac Otway and Corangamite shires are being reminded that strict rules apply to the use of drones for aerial chemical spraying. Agriculture Victoria emphasizes that remotely piloted aircraft must comply with the same chemical laws as traditional crop dusters. ======================================================================The removal of the Governments Black Spots programs from the Budget will be contended in coming weeks. Member for Wannon Dan Tehan says the mobile coverage upgrades and works such as the ones recently completed in Mount Noorat are crucial for small towns especially during emergency's such as the fires in the Otways earlier this year. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Golf Club's fairytale return to Division 1 pennant golf has come to an end with the club finishing runners up after a weekend loss in the Grand Final to Barwon Heads. Barwon Heads won the Division 1 final 5-2 at Lonsdale Links. ======================================================================The Colac Imperials were the big winners in this weekends CDFNL action with a 105 point win over Simpson. In other results Alvie caused a 19 point upset over Lorne, Birregurra also upset Irrewarra-Beeac. In other football results South Colac beat Apollo Bay, and the Western Eagles beat Otway Districts by 55. In the A Grade netball - Otway had a thrilling win over Otway Districts, Birregurra beat Irrewarra-Beeac. South Colac was too strong for Apollo Bay, Colac Imperials had a win over Simpson and Lorne defeated Alvie by 2 goals. ======================================================================The Colac Tigers enjoyed a 156 point win over North Shore on Saturday. Adam Garner starred in his return from injury booting 5 goals. The percentage boosting win has Colac sitting 5th with a 3-3 record. ======================================================================The Hampden League has secured a mixed bag of results in their weekend interleague clash against Ballarat. The under-twenty-three footballers claimed a hard-fought nine-point win, while the under-seventeen boys went down by thirty-two points. On the netball court, the under-twenty-threes played out a thrilling draw. Meanwhile, the under-eighteen girls' footy side celebrated a nail-biting one-point...

Here is what is making news for May 22, 2026.===================================A former general practitioner from Colac has been slapped with a five-year ban from practicing medicine following a tribunal ruling on professional misconduct. ======================================================================Ambulance response times are improving across the Barwon South West, with paramedics reaching life-threatening cases faster thanks to a major drop in hospital gridlock. ======================================================================A major joint research project by the C-F-A and Forest Fire Management Victoria has revealed crucial data on how fuel management slows down extreme blazes. ======================================================================Colac's SES Unit is on the hunt for more members to join its team. They are currently recruiting for a range of exciting roles including flood and storm response, search and rescue, community education and more. VICSES says becoming part of the team means you will help your community, make new friends, learn new skills, and experience new challenges. ======================================================================The South West Victoria Alliance has taken its pre-election push to the Shadow Ministry. Deputy Corangamite Shire Mayor Laurie Hickey met with Coalition politicians this week, lobbying for a one-billion-dollar Regional Growth and Liveability Fund. ======================================================================Footpath renewal works have officially commenced at Colac’s Memorial Square to improve safety and accessibility. Funded through the council's Capital Works Program, the project will fix uneven surfaces and trip hazards by resurfacing the asphalt paths and realigning the historic bluestone edging. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe local lawn bowls landscape is set for a shake-up following a new competition structure proposal for the twenty-six, twenty-seven pennant season. Under the plan, Weekend Pennant Division One will contract to six teams over fifteen rounds, while Midweek Pennant will feature a ten-team top tier. ======================================================================In this weekends CDFNL action, a full round of fixtures is in order. Colac Imperials host Simpson. Apollo Bay plays South Colac. Western Eagles are back at Irrewillipe against Otway District. Birregurra play Irrewarra-Beeac. and Lorne face Alvie in a mouthwatering clash. ======================================================================This weekend the Colac Tigers take on the North Shore Seagulls at home. The Colac Tigers netballers have the week off due to North Shore not fielding an A Grade side. ======================================================================Football Victoria has finalized the senior men’s divisions for the Geelong competition. The Colac Otway Rovers officially locked into both League Two and League Three for the upcoming season. ====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 21, 2026.==================================Anti-violence advocate and football legend Phil Cleary is headed to Camperdown next month to headline a powerful community presentation. Following the tragic murder of his sister Vicki in the late nineteen-eighties, Cleary has dedicated his life to addressing Australia's domestic violence epidemic. ====================================================================A major agricultural legal battle in the South West has been delayed, with a Cobden primary producer and their farming enterprise set to face a wave of new water-related charges. ====================================================================Colac and Elliminyt have officially taken out the title of Victoria's top fundraising postcode for the anti-bullying foundation, Dolly’s Dream. ====================================================================The latest Situation and Outlook Report from Dairy Australia reveals the industry has steadied over the 2025-26 year, although global uncertainty is threatening late season gains for Colac Otway and Corangamite producers. ====================================================================Time is running out for local business owners to register for a free information session aimed at tackling regional worker shortages. Co-hosted by the Colac Otway Shire Council and the local Chamber of Commerce, the event will explore various overseas visa worker schemes. ====================================================================A thirty-four-year-old Colac sheep shearer has been sentenced to three-and-a-half years behind bars following a violent, jealousy-fueled home invasion. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekend's baseball matchups the Colac Braves take on the Ballarat Royals at home in the firsts. While in Division 3 the Braves are hosts to the Bacchus Marsh Tigers. ====================================================================The Hampden League is in its final stages of preparation as the Bottle Greens gear up to renew their fierce interleague rivalry with Ballarat this Saturday. Now in its fourth year, the representative fixture at Reid Oval will feature under-twenty-three and under-seventeen boys' football, a girls' footy clash, and for the first time ever, an under-twenty-three netball contest. ====================================================================Colac Cricket Club will be without one of its co-captains for 2026-27 with Will Ruddell officially signing for Grovedale CC. Ruddell was the fourth highest runscorer in Colac South West Premier Cricket last season scoring 644 runs at 42.9 also picking up 20 wickets at 25. ==================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 20, 2026.===============================Powercor has completed construction on a permanent quick-connection point for generators in Apollo Bay to combat prolonged blackouts. The town is traditionally supplied by two forty-kilometer powerlines running through the dense, steep terrain of the Great Otway National Park, making storm repairs highly difficult. ==============================================================The Victorian Fisheries Authority has committed to forming a new Carp Action Alliance which aims to eradicate the fish from local waterways such as Lake Colac. VFA CEO Travis Dowling says the network will bring experts and community leaders together to mobilize meaningful action against invasive carp. ==============================================================Farmers, farm workers and agricultural business employees impacted by the ongoing drought conditions in the south west can apply to be part of the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority Drought Employment Program this winter. Corangamite CMA CEO Amber Clarke says the Drought Employment Program will play an important role in supporting farmers and the community. ==============================================================Apollo Bay residents and visitors are being advised not to panic if they notice an influx of drones operating over the local coastline this week. A team of university researchers is currently in town to carry out long-range drone capability testing. ==============================================================The Surf Coast Shire is set to receive a massive environmental facelift, with council unveiling a brand-new public tree-planting initiative. ==============================================================The final weekend of the Camperdown Theatre Company’s comedy show 'Noises Off' kicks off tomorrow night. Local performers will perform at the Theatre Royal with Michael Frayn's Noises Off. ==============================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac District Cricket Association’s highly anticipated Winter Academy officially kicks off next Monday, May twenty-fifth. Running for twelve weeks at the Eastern Reserve Indoor Facility, the elite coaching program will see the region's most committed under-thirteen, fifteen, and seventeen cricketers hit the nets. ==============================================================The Heytesbury Stockfeeds Simpson Speedway has officially released its highly anticipated calendar for the upcoming twenty-twenty-six, twenty-twenty-seven season. Running from December through to April, the action kicks off on December fifth with Jim’s Race, featuring Wingless Sprints, Super Rods, and Vintages. ==============================================================Colac's AFL listed talent was able to hit the scoreboard in the VFL and WAFL fixtures over the weekend. Brisbane's Will McLachlan snagged two goals against Geelong while Peel Thunder's Tobyn Murray kicked one in its win over East Fremantle. ==============================================================The Colac Otway Rovers have launched a brand-new All-Abilities soccer program. Sessions run every Saturday from ten to eleven A-M at the Beeac Recreation Reserve. ============================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 19, 2026.===================================Frontline volunteer positions are officially opening up in our immediate district, with Ambulance Victoria looking to boost its volunteer response teams in Port Campbell and Simpson. ======================================================================A Cobden woman with a history of traffic offences has faced court after breaching her driving ban and being caught with illegal drugs. Police uncovered methamphetamine at her home late last year, weeks before security cameras captured her driving an unlicensed vehicle to a local service station. ======================================================================The United Dairyfarmers of Victoria will once again operate as a single entity, following a reconciliation with breakaway group Dairy Farmers Victoria. Dairy Farmers Victoria President and Larpent local says the splinter group was originally established amid industry frustration over funding cuts to the sector by the Victorian Farmers Federation. ======================================================================The Warrnambool rail line and its lack of allocated funding in the proposed State budget was brought up in parliament by Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan. Mr Riordan says the service quality has dropped to its lowest functionality in its more than 150 years of history. ======================================================================The state government is investing twenty-eight million dollars in high-tech road safety cameras to crack down on dangerous driving in areas such as the COLAC OTWAY REGION. TAC CEO Tracey Slatter says by marking National Road Safety Week, the T-A-C funded package includes new mobile trailers for high-risk regional roads. ======================================================================A home on Estcourt Street in Terang has been targeted in a terrifying shooting incident for the third time. Police say heavy shotgun pellets destroyed the building's guttering in the latest attack, which occurred near the town's main street. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a huge weekend for the Colac Otway Rovers as they celebrated the 150 game milestone for club stalwart Lincoln Alfred in style. Alfred opened the scoring onslaught against Ocean Grove with a penalty in the 5 minute of the match. The Rovers went on to win the match 5-1. The reserves went down 8-0 to Barwon Heads. ======================================================================It was a tough weekend on the mound for the Colac Braves with the Division 1 side going down 18-3. It was a high scoring encounter in Division 3 as East Belmont defeated the Braves 20-12. ======================================================================It was an unfortunate weekend for the Corangamite Lions as both men's sides went down by a single goal in their fixture against Ballarat SC. The seniors lost 1-0, while the reserves went down 2-1. The women's side won their match-up 3-0. ====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 18, 2026.================================A sixty-year-old man has been hospitalized following a serious dog attack in Camperdown. Emergency services were called to Manifold Street following reports of an animal-related incident. ================================================================A prominent fishing co-operative on the Great Ocean Road has been fined fifteen thousand dollars for breaching child employment laws. The Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Operative pleaded guilty in the Magistrates’ Court to thirteen offences involving three children under the age of fifteen. ================================================================Colac's search for its newest group of volunteers is underway with the countdown on for the Colac Volunteer Expo this week. The event will be held at COPACC on Tuesday. Salvation Army's Josiah Van Niekerk says its about finding volunteers across all walks of live for all different sorts of organisations. ================================================================The Federal and State governments are delivering an extra thirty-seven million dollars to assist communities such as the Otways recovering from the January bushfires. The funding package includes nearly thirty-three million dollars to construct over one hundred temporary modular homes for uninsured residents. Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery Vicki Ward says Four million dollars will also be injected into local legal services to support families and primary producers. ================================================================Two men have been heavily fined in the Geelong Magistrates’ Court following a major investigation into the illegal harvesting of native tea tree from the Otways. A seventy-four-year-old Colac man and his forty-four-year-old son were found guilty of taking protected native vegetation to sell as fencing stakes. The court heard the pair made approximately thirty thousand dollars from the illegal venture. ================================================================This week Volunteers from all across the region with Australia's National Volunteer Week kicking off today. Colac Volunteers Leaders Network's Liz Bishop says events will be on such as the Volunteer Expo at COPACC tomorrow to celebrate those who are the backbone of the community. ================================================================AND IN SPORTIn the weekends Colac and District Football and Netball action, Birregurra proved too strong in the football winning by 25 againts Otway Districts, and South Colac beat the Western Eagles by 32 points. In the netball Otway Districts caused an upset to topple ladder-leaders Birregurra to notch the Demons third straight win. AND South Colac beat Western Eagles by 7. ================================================================In the Hampden League's netball results Cobden had a thrilling win against Warrnambool while Camperdown suffered a heavy defeat against South Warrnambool. In the football Cobden went down by 15, and Camperdown lost by 24 points. ================================================================The Colac Golf Club has advanced to the South West Golf Association’s Division One Pennant Grand Final. Playing on their home greens, Colac defeated Curlewis five matches to two in a dominant semi-final performance. The historic win cements their place in the flag decider next Sunday against Barwon Heads at Lonsdale Links. ================================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 15, 2026.==============================The 2026 Apollo Bay Ladies Lunch has delivered a major win for local emergency services, with a six-thousand-dollar donation officially handed over to the Apollo Bay C-F-A. The committee says the total was raised through a combination of raffle ticket sales, waivered event fees, and generous community donations. ============================================================Details of a cold-blooded ambush have emerged in court as two regional residents were jailed for their roles in a 2025 Beeac shooting. ============================================================South West police are warning motorists that a third of all cars stolen in the region this year have been taken using high-tech key-mimicking devices. The technology allows thieves to override security systems without needing physical keys, a trend that is mirroring statewide figures. ============================================================A 69-year-old Port Campbell man is facing multiple charges after being caught drink driving just weeks after losing his license for the same offense. ============================================================There’s significant progress behind the fences at Point Grey this week as the redevelopment gathers pace. The slab has now been poured for the new Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club, providing the first real look at the building’s footprint. ============================================================The Elliminyt Wetlands project is nearing the finish line, with civil construction now complete and final landscaping underway. ============================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Golf Club hosts Barwon Heads Golf Club this weekend in the first round of South West Golf Association's Division 1 Pennant finals. In Colac's first year since its leap from Division 2, Colac finished on top of the ladder and looks to cement a spot in the Division 1 Pennant Grand Final.============================================================In this weekends CDFNL matches Otway Districts hope to celebrate club president Dean Mahoney's 350th senior match in style against Birregurra. While South Colac look to continue their winning momentum against the Western Eagles. ============================================================In this weekends Hampden League actions the Cobden Bomber will travel to Reid Oval to take on the Warrnambool Blues. Camperdown hosts South Warrnambool at Leura Oval. ============================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 14, 2026.================================A motion was carried 6-to-0 at the Colac Otway Shire Councils Submissions meeting to progress talk on the future of a soccer hub for the Colac Otway Rovers. Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says there is still heaps of work needed, but the topic will be put forward at the next council meeting. ================================================================Work is finally beginning on the one-point-three million dollar upgrade of the Simpson Recreation Reserve changerooms. The project will replace dilapidated fifty-year-old facilities with a modern hub featuring home-and-away rooms, umpires' quarters, and a dedicated first-aid station. ================================================================A prolific burglar responsible for a string of high-value break-ins across Colac has been sentenced to nineteen months behind bars. The court heard the offender targeted several local businesses, including a jewelry store and a technology shop, stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of goods. ================================================================With fog setting in as the region approaches winter, road users have been urged to make sure they make themselves as visible as possible to other road users. Roadsafe Otways Matt Daniels says something as simple as turning lights on or monitoring distance can reduce the rate of incidents. ================================================================There were both positives and negatives from the the federal budget for the regions farmers. EQ Economics Managing Director, Warren Hogan said on Ace Radio's Country Today Program that while farmers where low on the Governments priority list changes to the capital gains trust tax were positive. ================================================================New location signs will soon be welcoming visitors to the Corangamite Shire as part of a major modern upgrade. Mayor Kate Makin says the project will replace blue signs that are nearly twenty years old and, in some cases, no longer legible. ================================================================AND IN SPORTThis weekend the Colac Otway Rovers women will travel to Grovedale to take on Barwon SC on Saturday. The Men's Sunday matches include a Beeac double header with the Division 2 side playing Ocean Grove, and Division 3 facing Barwon Heads. ================================================================This Sunday the Corangamite Lions travel to Ballarat for a much anticipated weekend. The Division 1 match is an early season top of the table clash, while the women's match is second verse third. ================================================================The Colac Braves baseballers are on the road this weekend with the Division 1 side playing against East Belmont. Fresh off there second win of the season, the Division 3 side also takes on East Belmont. ================================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 13, 2026.===================================As cost-of-living pressures continue to impact households, Barwon Water is beginning a major consultation process regarding future water prices and service standards. ======================================================================With the fire season now behind us, emergency services are urging Colac Otway and Corangamite residents to register their burn-offs to prevent unnecessary callouts. CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook warns that despite recent rain, unusually warm autumn weather makes care essential. The quickest way to notify authorities is through the Fire Permits Victoria website. ======================================================================A million-dollar support package is being rolled out across eleven local government areas, including Colac Otway, to combat the effects of the South West drought. ======================================================================Lorne is celebrating a top spot in Australian Traveller’s annual rankings, coming in at eleventh in the country. The coastal favorite led a strong showing for the Surf Coast, with Torquay and Geelong also making the top one hundred list. Port Fairy was the highest-ranking town in along the Great Ocean, narrowly missing a podium finish in fourth place. ======================================================================Sewell's Lawyers Biggest Morning Tea is back for 2026 to raise funds and foster community connection for locals impacted by cancer. Sewell's Layer Nick Lenehan-Anderson says everyone is encouraged to donate or attend in helping raise funds for the Cancer Council. ======================================================================A thirty-two-year-old father from Skipton has admitted to more than thirty charges in the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court following a series of dangerous driving incidents. The court heard the man was repeatedly caught driving unlicensed and with drugs in his system throughout last year.======================================================================AND IN SPORTColac Gun Club shooter Penny Smith has reached a new career high, claiming World Cup Gold in Kazakhstan while shattering a world record. The twenty-twenty-four Olympic Bronze Medalist delivered a flawless performance in the Women’s Trap Final, shooting a perfect thirty out of thirty. Smith’s clinical display obliterated the previous world record of twenty-four, further cementing her status as one of the world’s elite competitors. ======================================================================The Great Ocean Road Running Festival returns this weekend, with more than ten thousand participants and visitors expected in South West Victoria. Stretching from Lorne to Apollo Bay, the event provides a rare chance to experience the iconic road completely free of traffic. ======================================================================Two high-profile reports have emerged from the weekend’s regional football action. In the C-D-F-N-L, Alvie’s Dominic Dare faces a three-match ban for striking Simpson’s Sam Rial. Meanwhile, in the G-F-N-L, Colac’s Jack Slater is facing two weeks for rough conduct against St Albans. Both players can reduce their suspensions by one week if they elect to enter an early guilty plea. ====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 12, 2026.=================================A sixty-year-old Camperdown man has been refused bail after allegedly holding a woman captive at gunpoint for several days. The court heard the New South Wales woman managed to escape on May seventh by convincing her captor she needed to take her pet bird to a vet. She was later found in the central business district by a member of the public who alerted police. ==================================================================Agriculture Victoria is offering a series of workshops this week to help regional farmers navigate complex financial decisions during the current drought. Agriculture Victoria program manager Aimee McCutcheon says these events provide technical advice and allow farmers to share challenges with specialists. Producers in the Skipton region can discuss drought management and fire recovery opportunities while connecting with like-minded farmers. ==================================================================Live music returned to the Great Ocean Road over the weekend as Lorne hosted a major free pop-up event. The seaside town became a live music hub for the day as part of the Victorian Vibes series. Crowds from across the region gathered along the coast to watch performances in the unique outdoor setting. ==================================================================Applications are now open for a new Resilient Farming Course tailored for producers in the Upper Barwon, Warrnambool, and Otway regions. This five-day program, running from August to November, focuses on sustainable techniques to build profitable and ecologically sound farming systems. ==================================================================Residents across Colac and the Corangamite region are looking to todays’s federal budget for relief from rising costs. With fuel and energy prices climbing alongside inflation, productivity in the South West has taken a significant hit. Innes Willox from the Australian Industry Group says difficult choices are needed now to protect the future of our regional areas. ==================================================================One Nation’s recent victory in the Farrer by-election is being viewed as a warning to the Coalition ahead of the Victorian state election. The result suggests a growing trend of regional voters moving away from major parties as they seek alternative representation. Political expert Dr. Zareh Ghazarian says the minor party’s plan to run local candidates could trigger a voting shift in the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Braves were much more competitive in this weekends matches with the Division 1 side going down 14-5 to the Bellarine Bears. Division 3 recorded a win over Deakin Gold winning 8-5. ==================================================================The Corangamite Lions had a successful outing against Daylesford and Hepburn United. The Lions senior side won 6-1, with the women's winning 5-1. The men's seniors currently sit second on the ladder behind Ballarat SC, while the women's sit second behind Forest Rangers SC. ==================================================================In the weekends Colac Otway Rovers results the Reserves went down 5-3 to Corio SC on Friday night. Armstrong United won by 6 goals in the women's fixture while the seniors won by forfeit against Corio Bay. ==================================================================It's been a massive couple of weeks on the local golf scene. Colac Golfer Hunter Togni was crowned The Sands Golf Club's Club Champion for 2026. The women's Division 4 side from Colac won the South West Golf Association's Pennant with Colac defeating Clifton Springs 4-1 at Barwon Valley. ================================= See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 11, 2026.=================================Ahead of the federal budget's release tomorrow Member for Wannon Dan Tehan says early forecasts don't look good for those across the South West. Mr Tehan says he will watch eagerly, especially looking towards negative gearing capital gains tax concessions. ==================================================================Commuters on the Geelong line are facing more evening disruptions starting tonight as V/Line begins scheduled maintenance night works. From today through until May thirteenth, coaches will replace evening trains between Southern Cross and Waurn Ponds. For those traveling this evening, city-bound coaches start at eight-p-m and Waurn Ponds-bound services at nine-p-m. ==================================================================A sixty-year-old Camperdown man has successfully appealed a twelve-month jail sentence for the sexual assault of his teenage granddaughter. The man appeared in the Warrnambool County Court on May eighth, where his jail term was reduced to seven months. ==================================================================Colac School Students are encouraged to prepare to walk to school with the annual Walk to School Day this Friday May 17th with Walk to School events taking place the following week. Colac Police's Stef Ward says by simply walking to school healthy habits are being taught and encouraged. ==================================================================The Corangamite Shire Council has expressed strong disappointment after the State Budget overlooked funding for the Skipton Recreation Reserve. Mayor Kate Makin says the lack of support for the bushfire-struck community sends a discouraging message to residents still working to rebuild. ==================================================================Colac Area Health’s Alcohol and Other Drug Program is receiving over two hundred and sixty thousand dollars in funding from the state government. The investment will provide better consulting rooms and increased privacy for clients. New telehealth options are also being introduced to create a more welcoming and accessible space for those seeking help in the region. ==================================================================The Colac Otway Shire is calling for public input on its revised Draft Asset Management Policy. This document serves as the primary framework for how the council maintains and upgrades essential community infrastructure, including roads, drains, and public buildings. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTThe weekends CDFNL football results saw some drubbings with Lorne defeating Irrewarra-Beeac by 72. The Colac Imperials ran away 99 point winners over Apollo Bay. Alvie won by eight points over Simpson in a close encounter. On the netball court Lorne has a narrow 5 goal win over Irrewarra-Beeac. Colac Imperials smashed Apollo Bay, and Alvie closely beat Simpson. ==================================================================The Colac Tigers are back on the winners list after a 31 point football win over St Albans Micah Robb was named the Tigers best on ground after his four goal performance. The netballers also recorded a massive 41 goal win over St Albans. ==================================================================In the weekends Hampden League results Cobden suffered a 54 point defeat in the football to North Warrnambool. while Camperdown didn't fair much better going down by 76 to Koroit. In the netball Cobden flipped the result winning by 19, while Camperdown went down to Koroit by 16. ================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 08, 2026.=====================================A truck rollover has delayed operations Geelong bound between Birregurra and Winchelsea on the Princes Highway for more than 15 hours little-to-no alerts or information provided from the Department of Transport. Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan says locals deserve better than having one of the countries largest arterial roads sectioned off with little-to-no explanation. ==========================================================================Police have used bank records and encrypted messaging data to secure a guilty plea from a Colac mechanic involved in online child sexual offences. ==========================================================================Today marks the official Do it for Dolly Day, and the Scoops of Kindness Tour is visiting two Colac schools. The Bulla ice cream van is scheduled to arrive at Colac Secondary College at eleven-ten this morning. ==========================================================================The G21 regional alliance says smaller communities further from main town centers have been overlooked in Tuesday's state budget. Chair and Colac Otway Shire Mayor Jason Schram says while any investment is helpful, the alliance wanted to see options that benefit the entire region. The group believes areas in the Colac Otway and Surf Coast shires are being underfunded compared to Geelong and Melbourne's outer west. ==========================================================================The Australian Hotels Association of Victoria is launching mates day at you local taking place tonight. Local pubs will be encouraging connection and checking in on your mates with both the Union and Austral featuring special deals this weekend. ==========================================================================Victorian industries are expected to have access to more affordable locally produced gas following the approval of the Annie Gas Field Project in the Otway Basin. ==========================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekends CDFNL action Irrewarra-Beeac hosts the Lorne Dolphins. The Colac Imperials have Apollo Bay. and Alvie faces Simpson. ==========================================================================In this weekends GFL action the Colac Tigers have St Albans at home. The Tigers are looking to bounce back after a big loss to South Barwon last week. ==========================================================================In this weekends Hampden League action Cobden hosts the North Warrnambool Eagles. While Camperdown faces Koroit at Leura Oval. ========================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 07, 2026.===================================RoadSafe Otway is hosting Safe Plate Day this Mother's Day at Bunnings Colac. RoadSafe Otway's Matt Daniels says locals can get free anti-theft number plate screws fitted from 10 am. ======================================================================Surf Coast residents in Deans Marsh, Winchelsea, and Lorne are being urged to keep batteries out of their kerbside bins to prevent dangerous fires. ======================================================================Following an update at the April meeting, Corangamite Council will continue pushing for its Grow Corangamite scheme. Mayor Kate Makin says it’s essential for protecting the shire's farming legacy. ======================================================================Climate change and the environment are front and center in the latest Berrybank Wind Farm grant round. ======================================================================South West Healthcare’s workforce has surged by sixteen percent over the last five years. C-E-O Craig Fraser expects growth to continue under the new strategic plan, though at a slightly steadier pace. ======================================================================Local sporting clubs in the South West can receive a bag of game footballs valued at thirteen hundred dollars by participating in a new safety initiative. The WorkSafe prize is awarded to the club that nominates the most individual farmers for the Footy’s Favourite Farmer competition. ======================================================================AND IN SPORT This weekend the Colac Otway Rovers have a full slate of matches. The women take on Armstong United. The mens Seniors take on Corio SC and the reserves play Corio Bay. ======================================================================It's as a big weekend for the Colac Braves as they search for their first win for 2026. Round 5 action sees a double header at home with Division 1 playing the Bellarine Bears and Division 3 taking on Deakin. ======================================================================The Kangaroobie Base Camp Ultra Relay is now a permanent fixture on the Princetown East Running Calendar and takes place this weekend. Inspired by the Ragnar Relay Series and The Amazing Race, the event tasks each runner with covering a total distance of fifty-four kilometers. The distance is completed over several separate outings rather than a single run. ====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 06, 2026.===================================Following the summer fires across the Otways and Skipton regions, health professionals are reminding emergency service volunteers about the long term mental health impacts being a first responder might cause. Emergency Services Lived Experiences Lead Dr Tara Lal says its becoming increasingly important that smaller remote areas offer high quality services for those that can't attend metropolitan health clinics. ======================================================================Tourism and conservation across the Colac Otway Shire have received a major boost in yesterday’s State Budget. Nearly eight million dollars has been allocated to restore the historic Cape Otway Lightstation and renew sections of the Twelve Apostles Precinct. The funding aims to preserve our natural beauty while upgrading infrastructure within the Great Ocean Road parks. ======================================================================Residents and workplaces across the Colac Otway region are being encouraged to join together and have a 'cuppa for a cause' this month as part of Australia's Biggest Morning Tea. Since 2012, the annual event has helped raise more than $200 million dollars across the country. ======================================================================Laughter, learning and river-side adventure are on the menu when families, locals and visitors come together for the Curdies Family Fun Day on Saturday 16 May, from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm at Peterborough Hall. General Manager Community and Catchment Services Corangamite CMA Sarah Holland-Clift says free, family-friendly celebration puts the spotlight on the Curdies River and its catchment. ======================================================================There has never been a better time to book a getaway to Lorne, with a massive thirty-three thousand dollars in local spend cards up for grabs. It is all part of the Surf Coast Shire’s "Stay and Win" initiative to support local businesses after a challenging summer of flooding and bushfire risks. ======================================================================Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling says the Snobs Creek Hatchery's Open Day was a roaring success celebrating the premier native fish breeding facility. Dowling says the the hatchery breed the majority of the fish used to restock South West waterways such as Lake Purrumbete and Lake Bullen Merri. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe C-D-F-N-L has locked in its leadership for the twenty-twenty-six Senior Interleague campaign. Senior coach Kane Leersen will be supported by a powerhouse specialist panel, including Mahoney Medallist Bailey Scott managing the midfield and Alvie premiership footballer Patrick Seal overseeing the forwards. Irrewarra-Beeac coach Cooper Stephens rounds out the group as the back-line lead. This elite team will oversee a forty-two-player squad selected from across the region. ======================================================================The region’s top basketballers have been recognized with the announcement of this year's Colac Kookas Awards for Season 2025/26. Asha Higgins and Billy Keast took out the under-twelves MVP's, Reagan Smart and Harry Callahan won the under-fourteens. They were joined by under-sixteen stars Stella Foley and Ted Hay, and under-eighteen winners Jess Dellar and Izaac Tate. Luka Gerber and Indi Cameron were named CBL senior MVP's. ======================================================================Mayhem Pro's Colac Carnage is gearing up to be the largest Colac wrestling event ever with a 6-way Mayhem Mosh Pit match. Tickets are still available for the event which is at the Colac RSL this Saturday night.====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 05, 2026.==================================A three vehicle collision yesterday left parts of the Great Ocean Road between Lavers Hill and Princetown closed in both directions. A blue Hyundai hatch collided head on with the minibus in Gellibrand Lower just before 12pm yesterday. ====================================================================Results are in from this years edition of the Otway Trail Run with more than $35,000 raised for Colac Area Health Foundation. Colac Area Health Foundation's Ami Hillage says the funds raise money for much needed equipment and facility upgrades. ====================================================================The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and Wannon Water have officially strengthened their long-standing partnership. The Chairs of both organizations signed a formal agreement to deliver better environmental outcomes for South West Victoria. ====================================================================South West healthcare has launched a new strategic plan for the next 5 years which will help guide services and care for those in Camperdown and surrounding areas. Chief Executive Craig Fraser says The health care provider is keen to further develop the Camperdown Hospital. ====================================================================As whales make their annual return to the South West, the Conservation Regulator is asking Great Ocean Road boat operators to drop their speed. Barwon South West Regulatory Operations Manager Glenn Sharp says keeping a safe distance isn't just a courtesy, it’s a legal obligation for every boat and drone user on the water. ====================================================================Winchelsea C-F-A volunteers have taken delivery of a new four-hundred-and-thirty-thousand-dollar heavy tanker. The versatile vehicle is designed to tackle both town and country fires safely and effectively. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a tough weekend for the Colac Otway Rovers with both senior sides suffering defeats. The Rovers Division 2 side went down 6-0. The Reserves went down 2-1 against Barwon SC, with John Lapalui scoring. ====================================================================It was a tough weekend on the mound for the Colac Braves baseballers with Division 1 going down 15-4 against the Guild All Stars. In Division 3 The Braves lost 13-4 to the Corio Tigers. ================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May the Fourth be with you.====================================================Colac residents have another chance to turn recycling into serious cash with the Win A Million Cents competition returning tomorrow. Every fifty containers returned earns you an entry to win ten-thousand dollars. With sixteen million containers already recycled in the Colac Otway region, the next big winner could be local. Minister for the Environment Enver Erdogan says the program has been an overwhelming success. ========================================================================================================Colac Otway Shire Council is entering the next phase of management for the Hearn Street Youth and Recreation Centre. Following an Expression of Interest process, Colac Area Health has been named the preferred proponent to manage the facility. Mayor Jason Schram says this is a key step toward activating the centre for broad community benefit. ========================================================================================================A Moonee Ponds transport company has been slapped with a four-thousand-dollar fine following a gruesome spill near Camperdown. In late February, a truck carrying animal by-products leaked blood and tissue along a hundred-and-fifty-metre stretch of the Princes Highway at Gnotuk. CFA crews were called to scrub the "smelly mess" just five hundred metres from Lake Gnotuk. ========================================================================================================Victoria police are on a recruitment drive as they try and fill more than 1500 vacancies across the state. The most recent batch of recruits include a butcher, concreter, barista, personal trainer and operating theater technician. ========================================================================================================Colac Otway Shire has released its Draft 2026-27 Budget. Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says the plan prioritises essential services and thirteen million dollars in capital works. ========================================================================================================Corangamite and Colac Otway farmers could benefit if the Victorian Farmers Federation gets their way... as they call for the Federal Government to deliver a $1.3 billion fuel crisis payment to primary producers in their May Budget ========================================================================================================AND IN SPORTThe weekends CDFNL round saw some smashings in the football. Colac Imperials were 115 point winners against the Western Eagles. Lorne won by 81 points against Otway Districts. In other closer results South Colac beat Birregurra by 20, and Simpson won by 5 points against Apollo Bay. In the netball Otway Districts registered its first win of the season with 2 goal win over Lorne. Biiregurra beat South Colac, Simpson smashed Apollo Bay, and Colac Imperials was too good for the Western Eagles. ========================================================================================================The Colac Tigers suffered a big loss on Saturday at the hands of South Barwon. Chaise Murray was named Colac's best as South Barwon ran away 64 point winners. On the netball court the Tigers also suffered a big loss going down by 45 goals. ========================================================================================================In the weekends Hampden League results in the football Cobden went down by 3 points against the Hamilton Kangaroos. Camperdown went down at the hands of the Warrnambool Blues. In the netball Cobden had a 43 goal win over Hamilton while Camperdown lost against Warrnambool. ======================================================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 30, 2026.==================================Local fishing clubs are set for a major boost. The Colac Anglers Club and the Otway Regional Sports Fishing Club have both grants in V-F-A funding for equipment and facility upgrades. ====================================================================Corangamite Shire is taking a major step toward future-proofing early years services in Skipton. Council has officially authorized a funding application to the Victorian School Building Authority to expand the local kindergarten. ====================================================================Big names in entertainment are expected to add Colac to their national tours. Following Council's decision to discuss outsourcing COPACC management to I-V-G, CEO Andrew Tenni says the venue is poised to attract a higher caliber of touring artists. ====================================================================Despite no comment regarding overcrowding or the need for increased services, V/Line has announced that trains will return a week early following a massive infrastructure blitz. CEO Will Tieppo says sixteen million dollars has been spent on critical renewals, including bridge repairs and track works. ====================================================================Patients across Colac and the South West could miss out on life-saving breakthroughs unless the state’s medical research sector receives an urgent funding boost. Ten of Victoria’s leading institutes are reportedly facing closure without immediate help in the upcoming state budget.================================== ==================================Farmers in Deans Marsh and business owners along the Great Ocean Road are set to receive continued rate relief in the new Surf Coast Shire Draft Budget. ================================== ==================================AND IN SPORTThis weekend the Colac Braves Division 1 side will travel to take on the Guild All-Stars at the Geelong Baseball Centre. The Division 3 side will also travel facing the Corio Tigers. ================================== ==================================Simpson will be without gun Ryleigh McVilly this weekend after receiving a rough conduct charge against Irrewarra-Beeac. The incident occurred in the first quarter and was graded as careless, high impact and high contact. ================================== ==================================The Colac Otway Rovers are hunting for a bounce-back win following a tough round of defeats. The senior side is set to face Surf Coast F-C while the Reserves travel to take on Barwon’s third-division team in grading matches. ================================== ================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.