Articles by: Hannah Toohey
District crashes serve as reminder to stay focused
Emergency service crews have attended multiple crashes in the district across recent days, with police urging motorists to drive to the conditions.
Daytrippers are outgrowing overnight visitors on the Great Ocean Road
A recent tourism survey on international and domestic tourist behaviour in Victoria has highlighted the growth of day trips at the expense of overnight stays.
Second attempt made at Aire River estuary opening
A Colac environmental authority says it is working on reducing the need for land managers to artificially open estuaries.
Tipsy trailer’s diesel spillage at South Purrumbete
Emergency services have attended to an unfortunate diesel spill at South Purrumbete, amid the recent spike in fuel prices.
Crisis could boost biofuel use
A new report suggests that biofuel could reshape Australia’s canola sector amid rising petrol costs.
Spraying company convicted, fined
A Colac district drone spraying business has been convicted and fined $15,000 for their mismanagement during aerial spraying.
Supporting district during trying times
Colac district firefighters have had a busy fire season, responding around the clock to jobs both near and far from home.
Bridging healthcare divide
Victoria’s mobile health clinic has announced its return to Apollo Bay, aiming to address barriers that rural women face when accessing healthcare.
Alleged teen thief set to front court
An 18-year-old Colac man is set to face court on multiple charges, including thefts across south-west Victoria.
Fire restriction end date announced for district
The Fire Danger Period end date has been announced for Colac Otway and Corangamite shires after a challenging fire season.
Reserve fix will kick off soon
The oval at Irrewillipe Recreation Reserve will be out of action for the start of the football and netball season, with a range of factors leading to the playing surface being deemed unsuitable.
Small population has big heart
Timboon and district residents have proved their big hearts can make a huge impact despite their small population, with the region’s $41,514 total topping the entire Colac district tally for the Good Friday Appeal.
Homemade jumps removed, safety reminder
Colac Otway Shire Council has issued a reminder to community members about the dangers of homemade bike jumps on public land, with the council removing newly-constructed unauthorised jumps at Joiner Reserve.
Strength of teams amid emergencies
Colac district firefighters have had a busy fire season, responding around the clock to jobs both near and far from home.
Developing lifelong skills from junior to the frontline
Colac district firefighters have had a busy fire season, responding around the clock to jobs both near and far from home. Colac Herald journalist Hannah Toohey is continuing to get in touch with members from brigades across the region to hear about their journey with the CFA.
Police highway blitz
Colac and district footy fans heading to South Australia for AFL Gather Round can expect an increased police presence on the way to and from the border.
Colac and district’s fundraising efforts make a difference
Colac and district fundraisers have thanked the community for digging deep this year, with the city raising an impressive $37,000 for the 2026 Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
Driving offences disappoint patrollers
Colac Highway Patrol officers have detected high-risk behaviour across the Easter long weekend, with multiple speeding drivers caught.
Lamb prices soar again as demand outweighs supply
Heavy lamb prices are surging across the country, with a Colac livestock consultant saying demand is expected to continue outweighing supply this year.
Volunteers needed for BlazeAid recovery team
BlazeAid has issued an urgent callout for volunteers as crews continue to support fire-affected properties in the Otways.
Colac West playground deemed ‘unsuitable’ for relocation
The State Government has defended its decision to demolish a Colac West playground instead of rehoming it.
‘Bizzare’ callout for district crews at Larpent home
A seemingly innocent household object has been identified as the cause of a house fire at Larpent this week.
Important funds raised over lunch
Colac Area Health Foundation has raised $24,000 for the future of healthcare in the region at its Longest Lunch event.
Public appeal for stolen bicycle
Colac resident and keen cyclist Bryan Cuthbertson is urging community members to lock their bicycles after a brazen theft.
