Articles by: Billy Higgins

Coast to miss city visitors

Colac and district will remain under different COVID-19 restrictions to Melbourne for a further week, after an extension to the metropolitan lockdown.

Lake Colac at two-decade high

Farmers, boaters, fishers and managers all agree that Lake Colac is in its healthiest condition in recent memory.

Work starts on Winchelsea servo

Developers expect Winchelsea’s new BP service station to open by Christmas as construction work has finally kicked off at the site. But time is running out for the motel planned behind the petrol station to go up concurrently, as developers continue to search for a business to fill the building. The main street site’s developer […]

Federal flip on phone controls

A regional business advocacy group hopes the Federal Government has safeguarded future investment in mobile technology infrastructure, after veering from consumer watchdog advice.

Colac leading example for QR code compliance

Colac businesses have shown impeccable QR code compliance during the COVID pandemic, State Government data shows.

Seal of disapproval for going too close

Authorities have urged Apollo Bay district beachwalkers to keep their distance from a seal that has taken residence at Marengo beach.

Eventful start for principal

New Colac Secondary College principal Shane Elevato has had a baptism of fire during his first week in the top job.

Year 12 exams delayed again

Year 12 students will have extra study time for important exams after the State Government again postponed General Achievement Tests.

Businesses relieved with early exit, but want consideration in lockdown decisions

Colac businesses were “over the moon” to receive an early restrictions reprieve and resume trading yesterday after the state’s sixth lockdown. But calls have intensified for a more nuanced approach to state-wide restrictions after the Colac district went into lockdown despite zero cases escaping Melbourne.

Pub police do COVID checks

Victoria’s liquor and gambling regulator has continued spot checks during lockdowns to ensure compliance with COVID restrictions.

Dedicated volunteer lifesavers acknowledged

A Lorne lifesaving veteran and surf boat rowing team have earned recognition for their outstanding contribution to their field.

Boorcan farm fetches $19k a hectare

A Boorcan farming property has sold at auction for more than $19,000 a hectare in a thrilling result for agents and vendors.

Big cash boost for popular sculpture event

The Lorne Sculpture Bienniale will return this year, and preparations have received a $131,000 Federal Government boost.

Coastal management report open for comment

Empowering Traditional Owners, supporting climate adaptation and improved management practices are priority actions from a proposed Victorian marine and coastal strategy.

Women’s charity drive returns

Colac’s Share the Dignity drive has returned this month, providing vital support to local women.

Coastal council’s challenge to remain in black

Surf Coast Shire Council has flagged a potential budget deficit in coming years off the back of record capital works spending.

Tourism losses still linger

Great Ocean Road tourism businesses have copped Victoria’s worst impacts from COVID-19, an inquiry has found.

Sport

CELEBRATION: Artist hopes jumpers inspire community

Birregurra and Apollo Bay will break new ground in tomorrow’s highly anticipated football clash as they run out in specially designed jumpers that celebrate Indigenous heritage.

Ashlyn surpasses fundraising goal

Colac student Ashlyn Murnane raised more than $1000 for a children’s cancer charity after sending off her hair to become a wig for a young patient.

Sport

Table-topping Swans welcome big ins

Gun recruits Kaden Newton, Ben Lynch and Ezrah Robertson are all set to return to Alvie’s line-up on the eve of finals.

Sport

Grand final clash still not resolved

AFL Barwon says it’s too early to decide a start time for Geelong Football Netball League grand finals until it receives further clarity about State Government restrictions.