Articles by: Hannah Toohey
ESVF freeze ‘not enough’
Volunteers and community members at a Winchelsea protest say a temporary reprieve on a new state emergency service tax is insufficient.
Winter fire risk remains in south-west
An increased fire risk will remain for south-west Victoria during winter, with fire officials warning about the dangers of unattended burn-offs and campfires.
Wannon MP’s shift to energy and emissions
Federal Opposition leader Sussan Ley has handed Wannon MP Dan Tehan a new role, with Colac district’s federal member now serving as spokesperson for energy and emissions reduction.
Community’s call for action
With Reconciliation Week underway, Colac’s Aboriginal community has signalled a call for change.
Police warning for motorbike safety
After three motorcyclist deaths in a day, including one at Colac West, Victoria Police has issued an urgent warning about the increase in trauma involving motorcyclists.
Walk for Truth visits district next week
The Yoorrook Justice Commission Walk for Truth is set to come to Colac next week, aiming to build understanding of Aboriginal truths and history.
Acrobats’ storytelling of Country
A story of re-discovering connection to the land is coming to Colac.
Charlie Gaylard’s Elvis evolution continues
Off the back of a whirlwind weekend, Colac’s own Charlie Gaylard will now jet off to perform at Elvis’ birthplace.
Colac family is grateful for support during cancer journey
For Chris Pearson and his family, the personal care offered by Colac Area Health’s Frank Minchinton Centre is proving to be a lifeline.
‘Experience of a lifetime’ for Colac fundraisers
Two friendly faces from Colac have soaked up a milestone event as part of an important cause.
Colac community fund celebrates milestone year
Local money going to local needs – it’s a message worth celebrating as the Colac Community Fund marks its 15th anniversary.
Gardening grows from health scare
Colac’s Mark Rice has experienced a lot of self-growth recently, and gardening might have helped water that seed.
Emergency services busy with weekend incidents
High winds have impacted the district over the weekend, with burn-offs escaping and a storm surge warning issued.
Otways reservoir reaches 15-year low
The West Barwon Reservoir is currently at a level of 16.3 per cent, its lowest level in almost 15 years.
Tax is forcing farmer’s hand
A controversial new levy has prompted Barunah Plains farmer and long-serving CFA volunteer Steve Peel to re-evaluate his decades-long commitment to the fire service.
Colac astrophotographer shines
Colac photographer Brent Martin is thrilled to be named one of the world’s best Milky Way photographers.
Contract could deliver basin, boardwalks and more
Colac Otway Shire Council will consider appointing a builder for its biggest infrastructure project in years.
Fatal Colac West collision investigations continuing
Emergency services responded to a fatal collision in Colac West yesterday.
Anam Cara volunteer efforts celebrated
Anam Cara House Colac is built on the dedication and goodwill of volunteers, and their efforts have been celebrated this National Volunteers Week.
Crews work to tackle Chapple Vale grass fire
Firefighters have worked to control a grass and scrub fire at Chapple Vale.
Women recognised for impact
Surf Coast Shire Council is recognising nominated Local Legends this week, with two Winchelsea volunteers earning a community impact award.
Dedicated volunteers acknowledged today
Colac SES Unit’s 44 volunteers, along with other district SES volunteers, are being recognised today for Wear Orange Wednesday.
Students benefit from active start
Colac students are taking to the streets for Walk Safely to School Week in a move to apply healthy habits.
Coalition promises to revoke levy if elected
The Liberals and Nationals have pledged to scrap Labor’s controversial new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy if elected in November 2026.
