An Unscheduled Meeting of Council will be held Tuesday 6 May 2025 at the Swan Hill Town Hall Meeting Room 1 McCallum Street Swan Hill commencing at 12.00pm The purpose of this meeting is to consider the following reports: The final agenda can be viewed on Council’s website www.swanhill.vic.gov.au The meeting will be live-streamed on Council’s website so that members of the community can observe the meeting in progress Swan Hill Rural City Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we meet Report an issue Join the conversation and provide feedback on a range of Council projects Visit Let's Talk We receive a high volume of inquiries and correspondence and it is not possible to respond to everyone individually Here are answers to some common questions we receive How do I listen back to something I've heard on the radio You can hear the full episodes of our radio programs by clicking on 'Programs' at the top of the page and also on the ABC Listen app Each program is available for up to 28 days after broadcast To hear highlights from all programs related to our community click on 'Listen Back' at the top of of this page Can I get a copy of something I heard on the radio If you are looking to obtain ABC content (something you heard on the radio), you’ll find information about the right area to contact here We want to ensure that your complaint reaches the right area of the ABC and is dealt with quickly.  Please use the Lodge a Complaint form How do I find an ABC radio station and listen live The ABC Help Centre has information about our stations and the different ways you can listen If you’re not sure who you need to contact about something ABC-related, you might find the answer on the ABC Help website.  You can find links to our social media accounts towards the base of this page. 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FooterABCMILDURA-SWAN HILLStay informed and entertained with ABC Australia audio and on-demand video streaming from the nation's most trusted broadcaster Swan Hill Rural City Council and the Residents & Ratepayers Association are encouraging a respectful and constructive discussion at the upcoming Residents & Ratepayers Association forum which will focus on the future options for of the Swan Hill Regional Livestock Exchange Some Councillors will attend the forum scheduled for Tuesday 6 May to support the Residents & Ratepayers Association and to listen to the views of those present Mayor Cr Stuart King highlighted that no decisions have been made in relation to the Swan Hill Regional Livestock Exchange will speak on the night to provide background on the review and outline the process Council is undertaking The Council will be limited in their ability to answer questions during the event but are interested to hear from the community Swan Hill Rural City Council’s Mayor said Council was still in the process of collating information from more than 450 submissions and is preparing its next steps which will include a Council-led community briefing Cr King said the Strategic Review report remains available on Council’s website “The report provides a detailed snapshot of the saleyards’ operations and outlines a range of management options — from continuing current operations Council welcomes innovative solutions for the future of the Livestock Exchange,” he said Cr King assured residents that Council would continue to update the community as the review progresses Under Schedule 11 of the Local Government Act 1989 Council approves the temporary road closure of the Tresco West Road from Bael Bael Road intersection to 35 Cornish Avenue Tresco 5 May 2025 – 27 June 2025 (Inclusive) Engineering and Strategic Projects Manager Swan Hill Library is proud to bring back the Be Connected Young Mentors Program a transformative initiative that helps older Australians build digital confidence while fostering meaningful connections across generations the program is powered by Year 12 students from Swan Hill College led by teacher Stephanie Kiel and library staff who will guide older participants through engaging Libraries Manager Camille Cullinan said the program equips older residents with essential digital skills while providing young people with valuable mentoring and leadership experience “The Young Mentors Program is about so much more than technology—it’s about connection and mutual learning,” Ms Cullinan said “Older participants will get hands-on experience with everyday digital tasks Mentors will undergo tailored training to ensure sessions are welcoming making learning an enjoyable experience for all involved “We encourage older residents to bring their own devices so they can practice skills directly on what they use at home,” Ms Cullinan said young mentors gain vital skills in communication and leadership—making this a fantastic opportunity for both groups.” Older residents interested in joining can register their interest now by calling the Swan Hill Regional Library at 5036 2480 Swan Hill Rural City Council is delighted to announce that River Lights will once again illuminate the region returning for its third year during the July school holidays thanks to the Victorian Government’s Regional Event Fund Building on the spectacular success of previous years this year’s event promises an even more mesmerizing experience transforming the beloved Pioneer Settlement into a breathtaking display of light and storytelling Mayor Cr Stuart King expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s return highlighting its unique blend of heritage and innovation “We are excited to see River Lights return bringing with it a stunning celebration of our rich history and vibrant community spirit This immersive event will once again showcase the magic of the Little Murray River weaving light and narrative through the Pioneer Settlement to transport visitors through time,” Cr King said The night sky will come alive during the second week of the school holidays for 10 unforgettable nights of colour and creativity offering an enchanting experience for all ages Stay tuned as more details—including entertainment and special attractions—are unveiled in the lead-up to the event Swan Hill Rural City Council is eagerly preparing to welcome the Country Week Tennis tournament next month Swan Hill Lawn Tennis Club was originally formed in 1910 from the humble beginnings of one asphalt court and has grown into the largest lawn tennis club in the world boasting 51 permanent grass and 4 hard courts in the one complex Mayor Cr Stuart King said the Council was delighted that Swan Hill had been selected to host this prestigious event “Country Week Tennis is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our beautiful region while delivering a significant boost to our local economy this event is the largest grassroots tennis tournament in Australia with local accommodation facilities filled and hospitality venues thriving The event is expected to inject up to $1.5 million into the local economy,” Cr King said Cr King said the tournament also provides a unique chance to showcase Swan Hill and the many attractions we have to offer “We look forward to welcoming players and visitors and encouraging them to explore our wonderful municipality,” he added Cr King commended members of the Swan Hill Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club and all the local volunteers for their vital role in securing this event and the immense effort involved in its preparation “I congratulate our local members for their outstanding reputation for fostering strong community partnerships and successfully hosting previous Country Week tournaments Their hard work and unwavering dedication are truly commendable,” Cr King said Country Week Tennis 2025 will take place from Sunday and promises to be an unforgettable week for players and spectators alike Click here to find out more. Swan Hill Rural City Council is thrilled to announce that the construction tender for the highly anticipated Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Hub has been awarded to Keyystone Building Group with building construction set to commence shortly Council is proud to unveil a stunning new concept fly through of the development offering the community a virtual glimpse into the future of this landmark project Cr Stuart King said this is a significant milestone for the Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Hub “After months of meticulous planning and collaboration with Heritage Victoria we are excited to see the project moving into the construction phase  “This development will enhance one of our region’s most treasured tourism destinations while providing an opportunity to celebrate our rich history and culture We are proud to see this vision becoming a reality,” Cr King said Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Hub will be located within the Pioneer Settlement creating a dynamic space that reflects the heritage and vibrancy of the region Click here to view the virtual concept fly through. Many pages and documents from our old website have been moved Swan Hill Rural City Council warmly invites the community to celebrate the Shared Connections event this event is part of the upcoming Australia Day festivities Everyone is encouraged to come along to this unifying experience at Riverside Park expressed his delight at the return of this wonderful event “The Shared Connections event was created to bring the entire community together Taking place on the evening of Australia Day it provides an opportunity for people to gather and celebrate our remarkable country together  “With the revitalisation of the Australia Day Breakfast in Swan Hill this year the community has the opportunity to commemorate the day together at dawn and dusk,” said Cr King attendees can immerse themselves in traditional First Nations practices and experience a sense of belonging through performances organised by the award-winning youth initiative and the entire community has had the opportunity to get involved,” added Cr King the possum skin cloak and didgeridoo will be featured again this year Community members are invited once more to add their names King explained that the evening will offer opportunities for reflection and celebration through a local history display as well as the presentation of the inaugural Matakupay Leadership Awards “The evening is a time to understand our First Nations culture on a deeper level and to recognise the hard work and valuable contributions being made by community members.” Cr King said The evening will conclude with a closing ceremony Council’s Aboriginal Community Development Officer explained that this ceremony will bring the day's events to a close "At Swan Hill’s Australia Day breakfast at Riverside Park the event will begin with a Welcome to Country ceremony we will hold a traditional closing ceremony.” will perform two carefully selected songs: 'The Future Anthem' and John Williamson’s stirring 'A Thousand Feet “Our closing ceremony will provide an opportunity to watch the sun set on our beautiful country together while enjoying the melodic harmonies of the choir,” said Ms Chaplin please contact Jacinta Chaplin at 0408 665 788 Revered Australian singer-songwriter Pete Murray is set to embark on a mammoth 54-date run that will see Pete expansively tour the country in solo acoustic mode for the first time ever commencing this May and supported nationally by Rachael Fahim and Brett Wood Pete’s largest tour ever and with most shows being all ages the extensive solo acoustic tour will see him visit a stack of markets he’s never been to rolling through every pocket of Australia in 2025 with a whopping 54 shows lined up across regional Australia as well as capital cities from May through to early September Pete will journey across the Northern Territory the ACT and Western Australia for these special intimate shows with the mammoth run ultimately concluding on Sunday September 7 in the Blue Mountains Pete Murray needs little introduction as one of Australia’s most successful singer-songwriters who has sold over 1.2 million albums and boasts 17 ARIA Award nominations amongst multiple other wins and nominations His upcoming tour will be Pete’s first ever solo tour on home soil armed with an acoustic guitar and a stunning back catalogue of hits to create his setlists from “I’ve never done a solo tour in this country before so it’s been on the cards for a while,” shares Pete “I’ve done it overseas and people love it - so it’s about time I did it in my own country There will be some story telling of my songs Pete has also just offered fans a second taste of his forthcoming new body of work following on from his 2024 release Wouldn’t It Be Good New single I Am Fire finds Pete channelling powerful emotives and tranquil arrangements with a nod to one of his favourite guitar sounds “I just bought a Gibson 1971 Classical guitar before I recorded I Am Fire and I knew this guitar had to be on this song I love the classical guitar sound Rodriguez uses on his recordings and it’s that same 60s/70s classical guitar sound that I was going for The guitar created a real mood on the song that works well with the lyrics Fields marked as 'Required' must be completed Enter your email address or your friend's email addresses all separated by commas Following the success of the Housing Summit in November 2023 together with numerous industry interviews and a recent forum Swan Hill Rural City Council is proud to announce the official endorsement of Housing Action: Greater Swan Hill Council’s Mayor Cr Stuart King emphasised Council’s commitment to maintaining the positive momentum in addressing local housing challenges we are making significant strides in our collaborative efforts to tackle the pressing issue of housing shortages which is insufficient to meet the existing demand and to accommodate new residents who wish to work and live here,” he stated Cr King said he was proud that Council has formally endorsed a new committee - Housing Action: Greater Swan Hill “This initiative will unite stakeholders from the property and infrastructure sectors to collectively address the housing shortfall “I extend my heartfelt thanks to those who have volunteered to be part of the Housing Action: Greater Swan Hill group This initiative will focus on exploring diverse strategies to enhance both the availability and affordability of housing,” he added “Housing Action: Greater Swan Hill aims to foster community engagement and build strong partnerships among residents creating a comprehensive approach to the housing shortage “By joining forces and leveraging the collective expertise and resources of our community we are confident that we can develop innovative solutions that will make a tangible difference in addressing this urgent issue,” Cr King concluded Left to right (Back row) Grant Radford Acting CEO TAFE Victoria (Middle) Swan Hill Rural City Council - Director Development and Planning Steve Dunn – Regional Housing Victoria Roger Hastrich – Regional Housing Victoria Applications for both Swan Hill Rural City Council’s Community Development Fund and Event Support Fund will open on Monday Council’s Director of Development and Planning announced that community groups and organisations will soon be able to apply for up to $5,000 through these grants and contributions programs  “Council values the contributions that our community sporting and not-for-profit groups and organisations make to our community and this is one of the ways Council supports these contributions,” Ms Grainger said The Community Development Fund assists eligible community groups and organisations in undertaking a variety of projects many community groups received funding from the program for building updates and many more diverse projects across our municipality,” she added The Event Support Fund recognises the benefits of events to our community and municipality “The Event Support Fund provides assistance to new and existing local events that offer social and economic benefits to our communities,” Ms Grainger explained applications will be processed through the SmartyGrants platform “The transition to the SmartyGrants platform will provide a more user-friendly system and we are excited for our applicants to use it,” Ms Grainger said Ms Grainger encourages all groups and organisations to consider applying this year Visit our website www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/grants to access application forms and guidelines For more information, contact the Economic Development team on 5036 2333 or email ecodev@swanhill.vic.gov.au Swan Hill Rural City Council is pleased to announce that Bendigo Stadium Ltd (BSL) - Red Energy Arena has been appointed as the new centre manager for Swan Hill Stadium following a formal tender process for the lease contract This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for the stadium ensuring high-quality management and operations to support the local sporting community Red Energy Arena brings a wealth of experience in facility management making them an ideal choice to enhance the stadium’s offerings Cr Stuart King welcomed the new partnership “We are excited to work with Red Energy Arena to ensure Swan Hill Stadium continues to provide excellent facilities for our community Their expertise in managing sporting venues will be invaluable in fostering participation and enhancing the user experience,” Cr King said Red Energy Arena’s General Manager – Sports and Participation Craig Armstead expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity “We are delighted to expand our operations to Swan Hill and look forward to working closely with the Council and the broader community to maximise the stadium’s potential,” Mr Armstead said The transition to Red Energy Arena’s management is now underway with stadium users and stakeholders collaborating closely with the new contractors to ensure a seamless handover while maintaining existing schedules Swan Hill Rural City Council is thrilled to invite the community to participate in an impressive array of events happening next weekend Mayor Cr Stuart King highlighted that the festivities would kick off on Saturday with Citizenship Ceremonies and Australia Day Award Ceremonies in Robinvale and Swan Hill “These ceremonies honour our newest citizens celebrate the remarkable contributions of Australia Day Award recipients including the coveted Citizen of the Year and Community Event of the Year Awards and recognise the efforts of local students “It is always inspiring to hear the stories of those who make a difference in our community,” Cr King said there will be several events being held right across the municipality “Australia Day Breakfasts are a cherished tradition bringing people together to enjoy great food and entertainment while celebrating what it means to be an Australian in our vibrant communities It is also fantastic to see some of our passionate service groups band together to bring back the Swan Hill breakfast in Riverside Park this year.” “All of these events make Australia Day a truly inclusive celebration and I encourage everyone to take part in the festivities and enjoy what promises to be a fabulous weekend,” said Cr King Cr King said the weekend’s celebrations would culminate with the Shared Connections Event on Sunday evening from 6pm to 9pm at Riverside Park in Swan Hill “This event is a celebration of culture and community showcasing Swan Hill’s incredible diversity through storytelling “It’s a truly meaningful way to wrap up the weekend fostering deeper connections within our community I’m especially excited about the opportunity to commemorate the day together For a full list of events happening in the municipality please visit: https://www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/Explore-our-region/Events/Australia-Day-Celebrations Councillor Stuart King has been re-elected as Mayor of Swan Hill Rural City Council at a Scheduled Council Meeting held on Tuesday Councillors elected Cr King to serve as Mayor for the next 12 months This marks his second consecutive term in the role Cr King was first elected to Council in 2020 and was the first elected candidate for Swan Hill Rural City Council Councillors also elected Cr Les McPhee as Deputy Mayor for the upcoming term Cr King said it was an incredible privilege to be elected as Mayor and he is deeply committed to serving the community “I am sincerely grateful for the confidence and support from the community and my fellow Councillors and I look forward to working closely with them and our dedicated Council staff members to drive meaningful progress across our municipality I am excited to see key projects come to life and to welcome new investments that will strengthen and enrich our region,” Cr King said Cr King said he was committed to continuously improving efficiencies and delivering exceptional services to align with the needs of our community I am dedicated to collaborating with our CEO Scott Barber and Directors to strengthen our municipality’s core infrastructure while fostering investment and unlocking development opportunities “I am committed to showcasing our municipality as a thriving region open for business with a proactive approach to supporting growth and innovation “I will continue to advocate strongly to higher levels of government for fair funding allocations and to address critical issues like the housing crisis improved facilities and infrastructure and greater connectivity,” Cr King said Councillors also determined the 2025 meeting schedule with Scheduled Meetings to remain mostly on the third Tuesday of each month and stakeholders of the Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Hub and Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery recently gathered to participate in a traditional Smoking Ceremony This sacred ritual was held at the construction sites of the new and refurbished buildings and extended to the Pental Island Bridge preparing the land for its role in future cultural tourism initiatives an important tradition of the First Nations people was performed to cleanse and prepare the land as a safe and welcoming space promoting unity and respect for all who visit.  Led by First Nations Elder Aunty Debra Chaplin she acknowledged Wamba Wamba and Wadi Wadi Country Aunty Debra highlighted the living culture and the unique role we all play in caring for our beautiful country She paid tribute to her ancestors in the Dreamtime Those footprints have supported and guided us as we walk on this land,” she said urging all present at the ceremony to continue to move forward together “We should show respect to our fellow countrymen and women who are present here today treat the earth and all living things with respect And respect our culture and the law of the land,” Aunty Debra said Swan Hill Rural City Council’s Aboriginal Community Development Officer shared her gratitude and excitement about the ceremony.  “It’s truly special to see the Swan Hill Art Gallery and Pental Island Bridge sites smoked as part of this ancient tradition It’s a meaningful step in honoring our connection to Country and creating spaces that are welcoming and safe for everyone,” Ms Chaplin said Ms Chaplin expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts behind the initiative and highlighted symbolic items present at the ceremony “I want to thank the First Nations Advisory Committee for their invaluable contributions Their guidance has been instrumental in bringing these projects to life in a way that reflects unity and respect for culture “Items present at the ceremony represent the shared journey of our community—like the possum skin marked during Shared Connections Day the gifts from the Torres Strait Islander community and the clap sticks handcrafted by Impaja to represent our local mobs they tell a powerful story of collaboration and connection,” Ms Chaplin added creating good opportunities for the entire community It’s about preparing the spaces for new beginnings guided by respect for culture and the spirit of the land,” she concluded For more information on these projects please click here. Swan Hill Theatre Group is pleased to present Cinderella Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella is the new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical This contemporary take on the classic tale features Rodgers & Hammerstein's most beloved songs including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It's Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” alongside an up-to-date hilarious and romantic libretto by Tony Award nominee Douglas Carter Beane Originally presented on television in 1957 starring Julie Andrews Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella was twice remade for television first in 1965 for Lesley Ann Warren and again in 1997 The original Broadway production of Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella opened in 2013 and starred Laura Osnes Please select which date you want an invite for Council understands the impact associated with the current housing market conditions including the negative impacts the housing shortage has on employment and growth outcomes for the region At present around 60-70 homes are built each year in the municipality and this is not addressing the current shortfall let alone building houses for people to move here to work and live Council conducted a Housing Summit which highlighted the need to explore and develop new innovative approaches to support housing outcomes This included bringing people together in a well-coordinated community approach Articulates Council’s role and intent to increase housing outcomes for the region over the next two years Featuring key initiatives from the Robinvale Housing Strategy and Loddon Mallee Housing Action Plan the Swan Hill Region Housing Action Plan is a flexible working document Housing Action: Greater Swan Hill Committee: A Committee of partners who see communities across the greater Swan Hill area realising social and economic potential because the region has sufficient diverse sustainable and affordable housing – housing for all comprises two forms of membership: To support improving the quality and timelines for Planning Permit applications and approvals this service will seek to access and utilise professional advice Vacant residential land audit for the city of Swan Hill to support potential infill housing outcomes To determine locations that land can potentially be rezoned Council hosted Beyond Bricks & Mortar Housing Summit in a bold move to tackle housing availability and affordability in our municipality together with industry specialist – Regional Housing Victoria the Beyond Bricks & Mortar Housing Summit aimed to foster collaboration share innovative ideas and explore strategies to provide affordable sustainable and inclusive housing solutions with a particular focus on an emerging workforce for the Swan Hill Region The summit will brought together local business owners state and federal government representatives to find some creative solutions Attendees will had the opportunity to hear from a range of expert speakers as well as actively participate in break-out groups Holmes Dyer was engaged by Council to investigate and produce the Small Town Future Development Plan with the aim to target priority initiatives that deliver housing and seasonal workers accommodation solutions within the region’s rural settlements for the next ten years The Plan highlights each township demographic facilities and infrastructure and required elements to support its potential growth Housing characteristics the region including type income as well as forecasting population growth has been completed by id profile Council has sought a Housing Strategy for Robinvale to assess accommodation and housing stock needs of the current and future workforce Resource Centre Robinvale Investment Prospectus Robinvale Housing Revitalisation Investment Strategy (2021) is seeking to attract private investment and development - focusing on seasonal workers accommodation outcomes Titles have been received and the first lot of pads have been poured There are currently 8 homes under construction a couple of which are nearing lock-up stage Council Submission into the Inquiry into the Supply of Homes in Regional Victoria Council is working on a submission for the inquiry into the supply of homes in regional Victoria More information can be found here: https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/regionalhousing This site is owned and operated by Swan Hill Rural City Council using software licensed from Social Pinpoint. For details on how Swan Hill Rural City Council collects and protects your personal information, refer to their Privacy Policy below. For details of how Social Pinpoint may access personal information, please refer to Social Pinpoint’s Privacy Policy Please see the Swan Hill Rural Council privacy policy for more information Need an account? Sign up today We will send you instructions to reset your password Back to Log in Creating an account helps us better understand your needs and the needs of our community Completing the questions below helps us better understand the diverse range of people who contribute their ideas Would you like to follow this project to receive email updates Would you like to create an account or sign in Have an account? Log in Swan Hill Rural City Council has proudly awarded Vicki Allen the 2025 Australia Day Citizen of the Year and the Robinvale Centenary Committee has been recognised with the Australia Day Community Event of the Year for 2024 Cr Stuart King expressed his admiration for the people and the communities that make up Swan Hill Rural City Council "Our municipality is woven together by incredible generous residents who are deeply passionate about where they live we received numerous high-calibre nominations and these recipients truly exemplify the community spirit that our municipality is renowned for,” stated Cr King Cr King recognised the endeavours of the 2025 Australia Day Citizen of the Year "Vicki has been acknowledged for her unwavering commitment to her community Her lifelong dedication to the advancement of our municipality is truly inspirational.” "Her contributions include 30 years with the Nyah-Nyah West United Football Netball Club earning club life membership and AFL Victoria recognition She is actively involved in the Nyah District Action Group and has devoted hours to community projects including the community garden at Nyah West Vicki also plays a key role in organising the annual Nyah District Christmas Carnival and was instrumental in the successful running of the Nyah Fishing Competition.” “Vicki’s selfless work in the community has benefited so many and this is what makes her an incredibly worthy recipient of the 2025 Australia Day Citizen of the Year,” said Cr King The Robinvale Centenary Committee has been awarded the Australia Day Community Event for 2024 for their exceptional work in organising a five-day celebration of Robinvale’s centenary in October 2024 "This successful event was a testament to the dedication It was an outstanding occasion that brought many people together including past residents from all around Australia to reflect on Robinvale’s rich history and look forward to the future," added Cr King Cr King extended his heartfelt congratulations to all 2025 Australia Day Award recipients “Congratulations to everyone across our municipality who has been recognised this Australia Day for their valuable contributions Acknowledging the hard work that goes on day in day out across a year is a privilege and an honour,” expressed Cr King VICKI ALLEN is hereby awarded the AUSTRALIA DAY CITIZEN OF THE YEAR FOR 2025 in recognition of her dedication to community service and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of the municipality Described by AFL Victoria in 2024 as "One of the best from Nyah West," Vicki’s lifelong commitment to her community is truly inspirational Vicki’s tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on the Nyah District A life member of the Nyah-Nyah West United Football and Netball Club Vicki has dedicated over 30 years to the club ensuring meals are served to players and supporters every Thursday during the season Vicki’s leadership extends beyond the club to the wider community She has been pivotal in organising the Nyah District Christmas Carnival an event that draws over 1,000 attendees annually which was a major fundraiser for the Nyah-Nyah West United Football and Netball Club and also raised funds to replenish the stock of fish in the Murray River Her efforts in projects like the redevelopment of Nyah West Park the Blue Tree Project for mental health awareness and the creation of a community garden demonstrate her commitment to improving local facilities and services As a longstanding member of the Nyah District Action Group Vicki has played key roles in publishing the Local Link newsletter and working on memorial spaces honouring local heroes Vicki has been recognised for her dedication with numerous accolades including the Nyah District Citizenship Award in 2000 and AFL Victoria’s Local Legend recognition in 2024 as she continues to coordinate the upcoming Nyah District heritage weekend this April a celebration she has worked tirelessly to bring to life Vicki has made a profound difference in her community and is a most deserving winner of the 2025 Swan Hill Rural City Council Australia Day Citizen of the Year Council congratulates Vicki on this well-deserved honour and thanks her for her remarkable contributions THE ROBINVALE CENTENARY COMMITTEE is hereby awarded the AUSTRALIA DAY COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR FOR 2024 The Swan Hill Rural City Council proudly recognises the Robinvale Centenary Celebrations as the 2024 Community Event of the Year This extraordinary five-day event exemplified the spirit of "small town big heart," uniting the Robinvale community in a spectacular celebration of its 100-year history After twenty-two months of meticulous planning the Robinvale Centenary Committee delivered a once-in-a-lifetime event for residents The thoughtfully curated program drew large crowds and created cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come The festivities included a wide range of activities that honoured Robinvale's rich heritage Highlights of the celebration included a Centenary Golf Day a barbecue at “The Cliffs,” and a buffet dinner featuring cultural performances and the cutting of a centenary cake and a free outdoor concert showcasing Robinvale’s home-grown talent were among the standout moments The celebrations concluded with heartfelt church services ensuring the event’s legacy for generations to come This incredible occasion even attracted the attention of His Majesty who sent a letter of congratulations and best wishes to Robinvale on its milestone anniversary The success of this event is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Robinvale Centenary Committee Their efforts brought the community together to reflect on Robinvale’s history Swan Hill Rural City Council congratulates the Robinvale Centenary Committee on this outstanding achievement and thanks them for creating an unforgettable celebration that showcased the best of Robinvale to the world Congratulations to the Robinvale Centenary Committee – 2024 Community Event of the Year Council is thrilled to announce its 2025 scholarship program for students pursuing university and tertiary studies in fields related to Local Government This exciting initiative provides $2,000 per annum and seven weeks of paid employment during semester breaks offering students hands-on experience in Local Government while supporting their educational journey Council’s Acting CEO Michelle Grainger said the program was about investing in the future of our community by supporting students in fields critical to Local Government “We want to empower country students to see the opportunities available in Rural Victoria and encourage them to build fulfilling careers that contribute to our region “Fields of interest for the scholarship include areas such as maternal and child health including those who had already commenced their studies “First Nations and Torres Strait Islander students are particularly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity “In addition to financial support and valuable work experience the scholarship offers the potential for ongoing employment with the Council upon completion of studies,” she highlighted Apply Now by clicking here. Upload your resume along with a cover letter or online submission addressing your community involvement and what this scholarship would mean to you For more information, contact Human Resources at hr@swanhill.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5036 2333 The Swan Hill Rural City Council is excited to announce the upcoming Grants Guy Roadshow featuring six free workshops being held across north-west Victoria from March 24 to 27 This collaborative project involves the Swan Hill Rural City Council highlighted the success of the free grant writing workshop held at SuniTAFE – Swan Hill last November funded by the Community Recovery Hub initiative She emphasised that the positive response demonstrated a clear need for additional grant writing workshops in the future “The response we received from the workshop in November was tremendous We had 45 participants attend both in-person and online We also heard from many people who were unable to attend due to timing or distance When the opportunity arose to be involved in the roadshow collaboration with other councils Grainger explained that they’re thrilled to have the workshops facilitated by Keith Whelan “Keith conducted the grant writing workshop in November last year and we’re thrilled that he’s able to conduct all six of the workshops throughout the Grants Guy Roadshow,” added Ms The Grants Guy Roadshow includes three grant workshops designed for community groups and individuals aiming to master the art of grant writing and Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) The dates and locations for these workshops are as follows: • Grant Writing Workshop: Euston Club Resort • Community Capacity Building: Theatre Royal • Grant Writing Workshop – Moulamein Bowling Club • Community Capacity Building: Swan Hill Neighbourhood House • Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) Workshop • Grant Writing Workshop – CluBarham Grainger explained that places are limited and that participants wanting to attend should register “We’re expecting places to fill fast and we’re urging people to get online and register to ensure they don’t miss out,” Ms Tickets can be booked by following this link https://shorturl.at/9vr6Y   in collaboration with the Swan Hill Yamagata Club is excited to be welcoming visitors from our sister city The delegation will arrive in Swan Hill on Saturday The sister city relationship between Swan Hill and Yamagata officially started in 1980 "We have so much to celebrate because of our strong connections with Yamagata we aim to strengthen these bonds and ensure that our longstanding friendship continues to flourish." A full itinerary has been planned to highlight the agricultural diversity and natural beauty of the Swan Hill region "The group will experience firsthand the region’s bountiful irrigation innovative farming practices and vast open spaces,” Mr Barber said The organisers have planned various activities to ensure that the group experiences traditional Mallee hospitality These activities include a spit roast dinner at Pental Island The 40 year friendship will be officially commemorated at a plaque unveiling event to be held on Sunday “We will unveil a plaque in the Yamagata Garden This garden has been built on the banks of the Murray River and demonstrates the strong connection between our two cities,” Mr Barber added Join us at our upcoming coffee or coldie with a Councillor Sessions These sessions offer a friendly and relaxed setting to chat with your councillors about the issues that matter most in your town and local area Don't miss out – check out the upcoming sessions and be part of the conversation Swan Hill Rural City Council is calling on V/Line to recognise the essential role its services play in the community and to make crucial improvements to meet the growing demand for rail travel said the Council appreciated the 2023 ticket fare reduction which has resulted in increased passenger numbers “Council would be interested to view trends on service utilisation and any observed changes following the fare reduction and an ageing population have led to more people choosing rail as their preferred mode of transport This trend further reinforces the urgent need for enhanced train services to meet growing demand,” Cr King said Cr King also acknowledged the ongoing advocacy of current and past Councillors who have consistently pushed for improvements to rail services for our region Council is a member of the Rail Freight Alliance an ogranisation that also advocate for improved rail services The Mayor further stated that the Council was aware that the Member for Murray Plains had raised concerns regarding the Swan Hill service in August 2024 He highlighted the lack of commitment to essential onboard facilities the Melbourne to Swan Hill service will be guaranteed disabled toilets on all trains Cr King said the Council supported the call for improved onboard services recognising that passengers on long-haul journeys require basic amenities for a comfortable trip “Council is also advocating for VLocity trains to be introduced to Swan Hill and are calling on V/Line to prioritise upgrades to its fleet A high-speed express service could cut travel time between Bendigo and Swan Hill by at least an hour “Recent reports of air conditioning failures and inconsistent beverage services are unacceptable and we’re strongly advocating for newer more comfortable carriages to improve the travel experience for passengers in our region,” Cr King said Cr King confirmed that the Council would continue advocacy efforts in this space “My fellow Councillors and I will continue to advocate for improved passenger and freight rail services on behalf of our community,” he concluded Swan Hill Rural City Council is pleased to announce the signing of a sub-lease agreement with the Skid City Consortium for the former drag strip site This follows considerable negotiation and marks a significant step forward in maximising the use of this space for the benefit of the community The sub-lease agreement will officially commence on January 1 Mayor Cr Stuart King expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement and the potential it holds for the site  “This collaboration with the Skid City Consortium reflects Council’s commitment to fostering innovative uses for community spaces We are confident this will breathe new life into the former drag strip site creating value for both the community and visitors to the region “The primary lease for the site is held by the Chisholm Reserve Committee (CRC) and Council extends its gratitude to the Committee for their support in finalising the sub-lease with Skid City We look forward to collaborating closely to achieve our shared goal of making the site operational once again,” Cr King said shared their excitement about the opportunity and we are eager to work together with Council to create a space that will be enjoyed by the entire region and its visitors,” Mark said Pictured L to R (Back row) Cr Terry Jennings (Front row) Skid City Consortium Alec Berias and Chairperson Mark Humphrey Swan Hill Rural City Council CEO Scott Barber Chisholm Reserve Committee Roger Day and Swan Hill Rural City Council Director Development and Planning Michelle Grainger Swan Hill Rural City Council is calling for a fair share of funding Cr Stuart King said Council was ready for Federal Government investment and urged the community to join with Council in making our voices heard “Now is the time to speak up and ensure our municipality gets the funding we deserve We are advocating for these things all the time but election time is the perfect opportunity to bring our community aspirations to the forefront  “With our thriving agriculture and manufacturing industries we are actively pursuing investment opportunities to enhance transport Cr King said Council had been advocating for quite some time “A true population is critical for recognition and resource allocation in our region – more people the population data is not being recognised Council funded a population study in Robinvale back in 2019 which demonstrated its real population was twice the official census population.”  "We’re advocating for streamlined pathways for overseas workers and targeted solutions to address workforce shortages in key regional industries such as agriculture Cr King highlighted that funding for critical infrastructure projects was essential for our region’s growth and prosperity “At least $50 million is needed to advance the redevelopment of Swan Hill Hospital replacing outdated facilities for our residents and cross-border residents in NSW Urgent action is also required to address the region’s childcare shortages on either side of the Murray River,” he said Cr King said Council was advocating for significant transport and infrastructure upgrades to support economic growth and regional connectivity “Significant investment is needed for road maintenance and to upgrade roads for High Productivity Freight Vehicles ensuring more efficient transport for primary producers and processors Progressing the new Swan Hill Bridge remains a key priority along with establishing vital pedestrian links between the Swan Hill CBD and the Riverfront Precinct “Additional funding is also essential for water and sewage infrastructure in our smaller towns supporting sustainable community growth,” he added Cr King emphasised that addressing the region’s housing shortages remained critical with Council seeking support to develop key worker accommodation and provide essential housing for the local workforce “Further investment in backbone infrastructure and community facilities is required to enhance livability and support regional development,” he said Cr King stressed that these projects go beyond infrastructure—they are about building a stronger “We urge the Federal Government to commit to these transformative initiatives and we call on the community to join us in taking action we can secure the funding our community needs and make our municipality an even better place to live For more information please click here. Swan Hill Rural City Council is standing up for local residents farmers and pensioners in raising serious concerns about the proposed Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) and its impact on local governments and rural communities Mayor Cr Stuart King warned that the proposed transition from Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) to the ESVF by 1 July 2025 is not suitable to our regional areas in its current form and requires an urgent review “While the ESVF proposal has been introduced to Parliament and we urge decision-makers to carefully consider the unintended consequences this would have on rural communities,” Cr King said “For many households already grappling with cost-of-living pressures and an increase in unpaid rates—particularly among pensioners "Primary production properties will see a 125% increase in charges With farmers and country communities already battling rising costs piling on a new tax is not just unfair—it’s a cruel and reckless burden they can’t afford the very same people out there when emergencies happen protecting lives and properties,” Cr King said Cr King said the increased costs would not only impact individuals but could also flow on to the wider economy “This levy could drive up the cost of fruit and meat across the state—hitting households at a time when many are already struggling with rising living costs,” he added Cr King also raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the proposed model which would see a state-imposed charge collected via local government “This shift would place a major financial strain on councils yet there is no state funding to support its administration Ratepayers may see this as a council-imposed rate increase leading to more objections and putting added pressure on our council staff is not transparent to the average person who pays their rates and will lead to confusion and frustration among ratepayers,” Cr King said Cr King said the Council strongly supported concerns recently raised by Rural Councils Victoria (RCV) Cr King said Council was calling on the Victorian Government to pause and reconsider this legislation and co-design a solution that ensures fairness for councils Council will continue to work with RCV to advocate against the increased state levy emphasising that the State Revenue Office (SRO) should be responsible for recovering these charges 14 March 2025 | Tennis Victoria International tennis is making its way to Swan Hill as the Australian Pro Tour continues at the historic Swan Hill Lawn Tennis Club from Sunday 16 March to Sunday 23 March The 2025 Swan Hill International is set to showcase an impressive lineup of Aussie talent featuring notable Australian Open competitors Marc Polmans Leading the men’s field is Omar Jasika (Vic) who recently reached the final of the Burnie International against fellow Aussie Jason Kubler (Qld) Both players on the back of the Mildura International a former Davis Cup representative and top-100 player enters the Swan Hill International fresh off his Burnie M25 and Launceston M25 victory along with regional talent Josh Charlton (Vic) from Traralgon The women’s draw is equally compelling headlined by Lizette Cabrera (Qld) who claimed victory against Sakura Hosogi (JPN) at the Launceston International Cabrera is joined by emerging Victorian talent Elena Micic (Vic) is also set to make her mark and Gabriella Da Silva Fick (NSW) hopes to go back-to-back The Swan Hill International is the second of two grass-court events on the Australian Pro Tour offering a combined prize pool of USD $60,000 – allocating $30,000 each to the men’s and women’s ITF Futures categories The Swan Hill International is part of the Australian Pro Tour a series of professional tennis events held throughout the year to bridge upcoming players with the ATP/WTA Tour providing an opportunity to earn significant world ranking points Swan Hill Town Hall Performing Arts Centre and The ACRE Project are excited to bring you A Cross Border Twig—a magical night of music with farmers across the region generously hosting artists to create works inspired by the land In response to the disconnect caused by the 2020/21 Covid-19 lockdowns The Borders Project was launched to reconnect artists living on either side of the Dhungala (Murray River) Set along the banks of the Marraboor River on Friday this special event brings together artists featured in both these innovative projects and invites you to step into a world where art and nature come together Council’s Director of Community and Cultural Services says the night will be filled with creativity and community spirit “The fire’s glow will light up a unique experience and more—all under the stars,” Mr Myers said says the event explores the idea of borders—whether real or imagined—through amazing performances and artwork Featured artists include Adrian Sherriff (multi-instrumentalist and Suzanne Connelly - Klidomits (Wiradjuri woman “With talented artists and musicians from both sides of the river A Cross Border Twig is about breaking boundaries and seeing the world in new ways through sound A Cross Border Twig is a chance to connect and experience art in a whole new way,” he added Book your tickets Location: The Lodges (next to Spoons Riverside) Horseshoe Bend Price: (including dinner and access to the show) Adults - $45                                         Senior/Student $35 Youth (aged 13-17) $15                      Family (2 adults and 2 children) $90 can now access two new dump points: one at the Swan Hill southern entrance toilet block and another at the Gray Park public toilets on Marraboor Street These newly installed facilitates are ready for use and are offered as a free service by Swan Hill Rural City Council Scott Barber highlighted that easy access was a priority when selecting the location of both facilities “The previous dump point in Swan Hill located at the Swan Hill Showgrounds Recreation Reserve was often difficult for travellers to access especially during events such as football matches or the Swan Hill Show located at the southern entrance of Swan Hill will offer convenient 24/7 access for travellers.” the location was strategically chosen to encourage travellers to visit the township with the aim of supporting local businesses,” he said He further explained that disposing of this kind of waste at a dump point is the most environmentally friendly way to do it “We welcome many RV travellers to our region and we’re pleased to offer the infrastructure that allows campers to dispose of their grey and black water that’s both eco-conscious and convenient,” “The community have advocated for dump points to be installed at both sites for some time and we’re pleased to have these facilities ready for use prior to the busy summer-season ahead,” added Mr Barber The new dump points at Swan Hill’s southern entrance toilet block and the Gray Park public toilets at Lake Boga are available 24/7 and add to the public Fresh water is also available at all sites The dump point currently located at the Swan Hill Showgrounds Recreation Reserve will be decommissioned over the coming weeks Swan Hill Rural City Council is once again giving residents the chance to microchip and register their pet for free – a saving of up to $200 This is a great opportunity for pet owners to save money on something that is required by law A microchip provides pets with a permanent form of identification which can quickly reunite owners with lost or injured pets Sessions are being held at the Swan Hill and Robinvale pound facilities throughout the month of May and include free animal registration up to April 10 Council’s Regulatory Services Coordinator Trish Ficarra highlighted the importance of microchipping “A microchip is one of the quickest and easiest ways owners can be reunited with their beloved four legged family member” Ms Ficarra said When a lost or stray pet is handed in or picked up by Council Rangers their microchip number can be scanned and cross-referenced with Council’s animal registration database to obtain their owner’s details” “Bookings are essential for this free initiative which is part of council’s commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership.” “There are limited spots so make your booking as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on this great opportunity”.  It is a legal requirement that all cats and dogs born after 1 July 2020 are required to have a source number prior to being microchipped Your pet’s breeder should be able to provide you with the source number. You can also register for a source number online at https://per.animalwelfare.vic.gov.au/ Ms Ficarra said appointments could not be accepted if a source number was not supplied for any pet born after 1 July 2020 Click here to book online There is a limit of two free microchips per household and kittens and puppies must be at least eight weeks old please contact Council’s Regulatory Services on 5036 2346 or visit Councils website Swan Hill Rural City Council is excited to extend a warm welcome to all competitors and visitors arriving in our beautiful region for the NSW Golf Open The NSW Golf Open will be held from November 14 to 17 at Murray Downs Golf and Country Club Mr Barber said the NSW Golf Open promises to be a landmark event for Murray Downs Golf and Country Club and the broader Swan Hill region attracting thousands of visitors who will not only enjoy high-caliber golf but also have the chance to explore everything our region has to offer “From our vibrant arts and cultural scene to fine dining and outdoor adventures we invite everyone to take advantage of this unique experience “The tournament is expected to boost the local economy and local businesses set to benefit from the influx of visitors.  We are committed to ensuring a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all with plenty of opportunities for both competitors and fans to enjoy the hospitality and beauty of Swan Hill,” he added For more information click here.  Swan Hill Rural City Council is moving forward with plans to rezone a significant parcel of land along the Swan Hill riverfront This amendment represents a critical step in the implementation of the Swan Hill Riverfront Masterplan (2013) and aims to facilitate the future redevelopment of the area Council’s Director Development and Planning formerly owned by GrainCorp and recently acquired by the Council will be rezoned from a Transport Zone 1 (State transport infrastructure) to a Commercial 1 Zone allowing for mixed-use development opportunities that will enhance the city’s riverfront precinct an Environmental Audit Overlay will be applied to the site to ensure the area is suitable for redevelopment “Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review Amendment C79swan which outlines the proposed changes to the Swan Hill Planning Scheme These changes include minor updates to Clause 17.02-2L and Design and Development Overlay (Schedule 2) to align with the objectives of the Riverfront Masterplan The amendment documents are available for public inspection online at the Department of Transport and Planning website. “Alternatively in person at Swan Hill Rural City Council offices during office hours,” Ms Grainger said Ms Grainger said community members are invited to submit their feedback in writing by 16 December 2024 Submissions must include the submitter’s name and clearly state the grounds for support or opposition Submissions will be made available for public viewing until two months after the amendment takes effect or lapses,” she said For more information please contact Council on 5036 2333 or click here. Click here to view the Swan Hill Riverfront Masterplan 2013 Or via email: planning@swanhill.vic.gov.au Swan Hill Rural City Council’s appointed contractor will begin the reconstruction of Saleyards Road during the week of Monday with completion expected by mid-late April Council’s Director of Infrastructure Leah Johnston explained the reconstruction will involve temporary closures of Saleyards Road and detours “The works will mean a closure to Saleyards road affecting traffic coming from the Murray Valley Highway “Traffic entering from Karinie Street can still get through to the Murray Valley Highway and Central Murray Petroleum,” Ms Johnston said While Ms Johnston acknowledged that the restricted access may cause some inconvenience she assured the community that Council would work to minimise disruptions “We will do our best to keep street and business interruptions managed keeping in mind that the safety of our community Council appreciates the community’s understanding and cooperation as these essentials works are carried out For more information please contact Council on phone 03 5036 2333 or email council@swanhill.vic.gov.au Swan Hill Rural City Council invites everyone to join a variety of exciting events across the municipality over two days to celebrate Australia Day 2025 Cr Stuart King said the festivities would begin on Saturday 25 January with Citizenship Ceremonies and Australia Day Award Ceremonies in Robinvale and Swan Hill “Events will honour our newest citizens and recognise the outstanding contributions of our Australia Day Award winners "These ceremonies are a wonderful opportunity to welcome our new citizens and celebrate the incredible achievements of our community members I am always inspired by the stories of our award recipients,” Cr King said the much-loved Australia Day Breakfast returns to Riverside Park from 7am to 10am “This event will be hosted by The Rotary Club Swan Hill in collaboration with Sunrise Rotary and Swan Hill Lions Club with the morning featuring a complimentary breakfast and live performances by local artists "The Australia Day Breakfast is a highlight for our community and a chance to come together to enjoy a delicious meal and be entertained by our talented local artists,” Cr King said Shared Connections Day would then take place from 6pm to 9pm at Riverside Park “This event offers an evening of cultural revival and community bonding warmly welcoming everyone to participate and celebrate Swan Hill’s diversity "Shared Connections Day showcases our rich cultural tapestry and is a fantastic way to end the weekend and strengthen our community bonds,” he added Cr King said additional events would also be held in Beverford "These events spread throughout our municipality make Australia Day a truly community-wide celebration I encourage everyone to take part in the festivities and enjoy the fabulous weekend,” said Cr King Swan Hill Rural City Council is pleased to advise users of the Alan Garden Recreation Reserve that they will notice an exciting upgrade on their next visit with the installation of new LED scoreboards on two netball courts and the sports oval a collaboration between Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Community Infrastructure Projects Team delivers a significant enhancement for players Cr Stuart King said the new scoreboards will not only elevate the game-day experience but also provide relief for volunteers who will no longer have to score matches in outdoor conditions “The upgrades include two full-colour LED video boards that can be controlled via mobile phone as well as a larger five-metre by three-metre full-colour LED video board which also has a smaller sister board displaying football scores for netball spectators – pretty impressive!” “The installation was completed utilising local trades and suppliers where possible,” Cr King said Cr King said that the new technology would be a valuable asset to the precinct "The addition of these state-of-the-art scoreboards is a fantastic outcome for our sporting community They will enhance the experience for players We look forward to seeing the community enjoy these fantastic new facilities,” Cr King said Swan Hill Rural City Council wishes to inform the community and visitors to the region that the Pioneer Settlement will be closed on Monday The temporary closure will affect all Pioneer Settlement attractions the Murray River Laser Light Show and the Paragon cafe Michelle Grainger said the temporary closure was necessary to carry out essential infrastructure upgrades in preparation for the highly anticipated Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Hub building works “These upgrades are critical to ensuring the Pioneer Settlement continues to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors and aligns with the broader vision of enhancing Swan Hill’s cultural and tourism offerings “We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding and support as we work towards creating an exciting new chapter for our region’s tourism landscape,” she said All Pioneer Settlement services will resume please contact Pioneer Settlement on 5036 2410 The complaints report that some Personal Watercraft and Jet Ski users are travelling at speed within the 5 knots zone which is located 100 meters from the shoreline Director Development and Planning Michelle Grainger said that it is disappointing to see that users are not following waterway rules “Water safety rules apply to everyone and are there to prevent accidents from happening,” Ms Grainger said “It’s important to realise that our lake caters to not just PWC and Jet Ski users swimming and partaking in other non-motor sport recreational activities,” “Lake Boga is a beautiful asset to our municipality and is plenty big enough to be safely enjoyed by everyone,” she added Council currently maintains the foreshore signage and navigational buoys when required as waterway managers while Victoria Police enforce speed limits and safety regulations Community members are encouraged to contact Victoria Police for any concerns regarding unsafe water use The touring exhibition showcases a range of textile banners created by craftivist and artist Dr Tal Fitzpatrick quilting and applique techniques to create textile banners that explore challenging issues attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate unequal power relations “Craft is a fundamentally human technology one that has been with us since the dawn of civilisation and has helped us transform the world around us,” she said “Textiles are a kind of universal language which can open up soft spaces for hard conversations The handcrafted banners I created for this exhibition highlight some really challenging issues that we the unequal distribution of domestic labour gender-based violence and financial abuse.” The travelling exhibition invites audiences to explore the power of craftivism a global movement that combines craft with activism Craftivists challenge clichéd notions of needlecraft and ‘women’s work’ to create platforms for advocacy: raising awareness The exhibition is activated through programming where visitors are invited to share ideas and create their own banner MoAD Director Stephanie Bull said MoAD is delighted to partner with the Commonwealth Bank and share with regional audiences this thought-provoking exhibition “This exhibition provides a perfect opportunity to encourage all people to consider their part in creating communities of change we build a brighter future,” she said is looking forward to the touring component of the Changemakers exhibition coming to Swan Hill “For centuries art has bought awareness to social issues and challenged us to problem-solve and grow within ourselves and our communities- and this very important exhibition Residents of Swan Hill Rural City Council are encouraged to take part in the annual Community Satisfaction Survey This is a valuable opportunity for residents to help shape the future of the community and ensure their voices are heard “An independent market research agency will be reaching out to randomly selected households to gather valuable feedback,” he said residents may receive a call on their landline or mobile phones The survey is an opportunity for Council to hear directly from you Your insights will help us assess our performance and identify areas where we can improve to better serve you,” Mr Pratap said He assured residents that responses would remain confidential with only overall results shared with the Council “This ensures your individual feedback will stay private allowing you to speak freely and honestly about your experiences and suggestions “We deeply value the time and input from our residents Your feedback is crucial for guiding our strategic planning and ensuring we meet the expectations and needs of our wonderful community you are directly contributing to the betterment of our services and the overall quality of life in our municipality,” he said Mr Pratap emphasised that the survey results will help shape the Council’s future initiatives and projects “We encourage all selected residents to take a few moments to share their thoughts and experiences Your participation is not just appreciated—it’s vital to the ongoing improvement of our community,” he said To find out more please contact Council on 5036 2333 Swan Hill Regional Library is thrilled to welcome back acclaimed author Darry Fraser to discuss her latest novel The novel is primarily set in Echuca during 1894 readers are taken on an adventure filled with resilience Swan Hill Regional Libraries Manager Camille Cullinan explains that they expect the audience to engage with both the author and her novel while connecting readers to the natural beauty along the Murray River "We have been fortunate to have Darry Fraser visit us several times we have witnessed the deep connection she instantly forms with the audience where she developed a fascination with the Murray River along with her understanding of the generational challenges that have shaped our resilient culture allows her to engage deeply with the local audience." "We like to think of Darry Fraser as one of our own!" The Night on the Darling River will be available for purchase during the evening for $29.99 each. Darry will be available for book signings To reserve your seat for a night of riveting historical adventure contact the Swan Hill Regional Library on 5036 2480 Swan Hill Rural City Council is excited to announce the swearing-in of its seven new Councillors Council’s CEO Scott Barber said this marked the beginning of a new chapter for the municipality as we welcome a team of leaders who bring diverse skills “Each Councillor is committed to working collaboratively to address the needs and aspirations of our community fostering growth and well-being across the municipality Their unique expertise and passion for the region will be instrumental in shaping the future of our municipality,” Mr Barber said Mr Barber said the election of the Mayor will take place on Tuesday when Councillors will select their Chair and Spokesperson to represent the Council “We look forward to the contributions of our new Councillors and encourage the community to stay engaged as we work together for a prosperous future,” Mr Barber said Swan Hill Rural City Council has partnered with Grant Guru to launch a grant finder platform This user friendly tool makes it easier for local community groups not-for-profit organisations and individuals to discover funding opportunities The Swan Hill Rural City Council Grant Hub is available free of charge and community groups and clubs are encouraged to explore the platform’s offerings In addition to providing information on funding opportunities the platform provides comprehensive grant application support said “This innovative platform will transform how community members discover funding opportunities and access valuable information about grant funding.” “Instead of spending hours searching across multiple websites users can access funding opportunities all in one place They also have the option to receive notifications when a new opportunity that matches their preferences becomes available,” added Ms Grainger Ms Grainger spoke of the success of a recent grant writing workshop led by industry expert Mr Whelan highlighted Council’s Grant Hub being a useful tool for the community in finding and obtaining funding The workshop drew 45 participants both in person and online demonstrating the commitment of the local community to enhance facilities and provide more opportunities “The strong turnout at this workshop made possible by the Community Recovery Hub initiative validates our community’s proactive and passionate approach to seeking funding.” Ms Grainger added “Council’s Grant Hub builds on this momentum by providing year-round support and resources.” Access to the Swan Hill Rural City Council Grant Hub is available through Council’s website or directly at https://www.grantguru.com/au/swan-hill Swan Hill Rural City Council officially launched the Circular Agricultural Plastics Economy (CAPE) baler project at the Swan Hill Landfill site on Wednesday This project is supported by the Circular Economy Councils Fund The Fund is delivered by Sustainability Victoria (SV) under the Victorian Government’s circular economy policy Scott Barber explained the significance of the project for the region “This initiative marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to create a more sustainable future for agriculture and waste management in the Loddon Mallee region,” he said Mr Barber explained that the disposing of agricultural plastics is one of this region’s most pressing challenges “Recent studies by RMCG revealed that our Loddon Mallee region is Australia’s largest producer of agricultural plastic waste generating an estimated 10,000 tonnes annually which could fill approximately eight Olympic-sized swimming pools.” “This volume underscores the urgent need for innovative approaches to waste management With the support of Sustainability Victoria and funding of $330,000 from the Circular Economy Councils Fund we are proud to lead the charge in addressing this issue,” said Mr Barber Representatives from Sustainability Victoria Mildura Rural City Council and the Swan Hill Residents and Ratepayers Association attended the launch praised Swan Hill Rural City Council’s commitment to sustainability He noted that along with the CAPE Baler Project SV has funded two other initiatives under the Circular Economy Councils Fund in Swan Hill – a Mattress Processing and Recycling Project and an Organics Processing Facility in Ultima “We congratulate the Council on taking a leading role in building circular economy capacity in the region Projects like the CAPE baler provide opportunities for jobs growth and increased productivity by realising the potential of recovered resources and their contribution to a cleaner more resilient regional economy” he said Program Manager of the Agsafe bagMUSTER initiative was thrilled to attend the official launch of the CAPE baler project He explained that Agsafe is hoping to collaborate with Swan Hill Rural City Council and SV as they prepare to commence stage one trial of their bagMUSTER program in early 2025 “Agsafe have chosen to start stage one of the bagMUSTER trial in Victoria because SV is at the forefront of soft plastic recycling We hope to join forces with Swan Hill Rural City Council to collect and bale soft plastics throughout the region,” he said Barber explained that Council recently conducted a successful CAPE bale project trial in the municipality which involved the collection of specific soft plastic items including table grape covers “The response from the agricultural sector was overwhelming we diverted 12 tonnes of agricultural plastic waste from going to landfill we have collected an additional 20 tonnes of grain bags and cover plastics It is truly satisfying to see this initiative so well received by our agricultural community,” noted Mr Barber The equipment funded by this project delivered by Sustainability Victoria under the Victorian Government’s circular economy policy, Recycling Victoria: a new economy in partnership with Swan Hill Rural City Council allowing them to be transported to facilities where they are repurposed into products such as fence posts Swan Hill Rural City Council has partnered with Sustainability Victoria to launch the Small Acts aimed at improving recycling habits across the region Cr Les McPhee said as part of this initiative residents will notice new signage on Council’s kerbside collection trucks featuring important messages to help reduce contamination and improve recycling rates “The campaign aims to address some common recycling mistakes and to encourage residents to take simple actions that can make a big impact on the environment “One of the key issues identified is bagged recyclables which should always be placed loose in the bin rather than in plastic bags and food scraps are also frequently found in recycling bins when they should be placed in the red landfill bin instead Keeping the recycling stream clean helps improve recovery rates and ensures materials can be properly processed,” Cr McPhee said Cr McPhee said the new truck messages would serve as a simple yet effective reminder for residents when sorting their waste “A few small changes in how we dispose of waste can make a big difference to our environment Messages on our collection trucks will provide everyday reminders to help everyone recycle right,” he said Council encourages all residents to pay attention to the new messages and take simple steps to ensure they are putting the right items in the right bins For more information about the Small Acts, Big Impact campaign and how to recycle correctly, please click here. Swan Hill Rural City Council is reminding residents that the new 24-hour cat containment order will take effect from January 1 Michelle Grainger said the measure was being introduced to enhance the welfare of domestic cats “Following a significant amount community engagement and feedback a 24-hour cat containment order will be introduced across the municipality from 1 January all cats must be confined to their owners' properties unless the cat is appropriately restrained in a cat carrier or leashed This can be achieved through secure indoor spaces or outdoor enclosures “We are encouraging residents to take proactive steps to ensure their cats are safe and comfortable within these boundaries,” Ms Grainger said Ms Grainger said the containment order reflected Council’s commitment to balancing the needs of pet owners “This initiative not only helps to protect our native wildlife from predation but also keeps cats safer by reducing their risk of injury Ms Grainger said the containment order would commence with a 6-month grace period and during this time cat owners would not receive infringement penalties for cats at large “During the 6-month grace period our focus will be on education and working with cat owners to keep their cats safe and contained “From 1 July 2025 enforcement action for non-compliance will commence,” Ms Grainger added Ms Grainger said all residents with a registered cat can expect to receive a text message from Council advising them of the implementation of the new 24-hour Cat Containment Order For more information about the 24-hour cat containment order, including tips for successful containment, please click here.  Swan Hill Rural City Council is set to begin important infrastructure upgrades in Swan Hill Laura O’Dwyer said these works were part of Council's ongoing commitment to enhancing pedestrian connectivity and safety within the municipality “Works are scheduled to commence this week and we anticipate completion at the end of February “These improvements are aimed at providing a safer and more accessible environment for pedestrians and supporting the overall liveability for Swan Hill residents,” she said Ms O’Dwyer said Council was committed to investing in the development and improvement of infrastructure in the municipality to ensure it meets the needs of our growing community "These upgrades will not only enhance pedestrian safety but will also contribute to the long-term connectivity and accessibility of key areas within our town,” Ms O’Dwyer added Ms O’Dwyer requested residents' patience and cooperation during these essential works She noted that there may be minor disruptions to traffic and pedestrian access in the area during construction