News

Trail run’s funds boost Foundation
Rotary Club of Colac has donated a vital $35,000 to Colac Area Health Foundation following fundraising efforts at its annual AKD Otway Trail Run.

Childcare important but location matters: councillors
Colac Otway Shire councillors have shot down plans for an almost 100-place childcare centre on Colac’s Woods Street after neighbours raised concerns their street would be inundated with traffic and noise.

MP unbothered by One Nation surge
Polwarth MP Richard Riordan remains skeptical that One Nation can gain a foothold in south-west Victoria come November, despite the far-right party’s historic by-election win in the New South Wales seat of Farrer.

Dedicated members awarded
Multiple Colac SES members have been recognised for reaching milestones in their commitment to the community.

Backpacks providing care
Polwarth members of the Country Women’s Association are hoping to bring dignity to district young people through another year of their backpacks for homeless youth program.

Agent hopeful for new angles
Colac’s biggest empty commercial site is back on the market, but hope remains for a new party to take on the site.

‘Vulnerable’ lake running low
Corangamite Catchment Management Authority says it will take years of “significant rainfall” to improve the resilience of Lake Corangamite’s water levels.

Asset policy opens
Colac Otway Shire Council is inviting residents and ratepayers to have their say on its draft asset management policy.

Check batteries, eliminate blazes
A district fire brigade is reminding residents about the importance of taking proper care when storing and charging lithium-ion batteries after a shed caught fire at Winchelsea.

Pet-perfect coast road trip
It might be time to buckle your four-legged best friend up for an adventure, as the Great Ocean Road has been ranked as one of the best pet-friendly road trips in Australia.

Letters to the editor
Time for anchor to take pride of place Many years ago an Anchor was “unearthed” from Lake Colac. It was believed to be the anchor from a ship called the Dorothy. At the time there was much speculation as to its authenticity and what to do with it. Suggestions included placing it near where it […]

Working together on a water future
Colac and district residents and businesses are encouraged to contribute their thoughts on Barwon Water’s five-year action plan that sets out prices and outlines the priorities for delivering reliable, sustainable and equitable water services for the region.

LOYAL FUR-RAISER: Bracks is back for a good cause
Colac resident Megan Bridger-Darling and her trusty border collie-cross companion Bracks are hoping to raise funds and awareness at this year’s Multiple Sclerosis Walk, Run and Roll event.

Calls for stronger carp control
Victoria’s peak body for recreational fishing is urgently calling on the State Government to commit to stronger carp control measures that would rid waterways such as Lake Colac of the aquatic pest.

Countdown on for crucial Census survey
There are less than 100 days left until the 2026 Census, as the Australian Bureau of Statistics is encouraging residents living in Colac and district to make sure they are counted.

Calls for inquiry into Great Ocean Road flood
It was pure luck that January’s flash floods at Wye and Cumberland rivers didn’t strike 12 hours earlier or later, and for Peter Christoff, convenor of the Great Ocean Road Communities Network, this bodes poorly in anticipation of future disasters.

COPACC cinema to stay
Colac Otway mayor Jason Schram says misinformation surrounding the future management of the Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre is dampening a positive move to revitalise the facility.

IVG company says it is ‘mindful’ of Colac venue
The boss of the international entertainment company set to assume management of the Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre says it is mindful of the role the venue plays in the local community.

Forrest family farm inspiring young agricultural leader
As the next generation of the last dairy family in Forrest, Eloise Murnane is preparing to return to her roots and help steer the future of the local agricultural industry.

Nominations open for Footy’s Favourite Farmer
Do you know a Colac and district farmer who works hard, looks out for others and backs their local footy and netball club like no other?

New diesel reserves welcomed
Colac district transporters have welcomed government measures to secure diesel supply for industries like agriculture, but some say they are continuing to feel the effects of earlier price spikes.

Budget gives industry boost, but ‘more’ needed
Victoria’s newest budget has received mixed reactions when it comes to support for the agricultural industries.

Criticism for emergency app
Colac’s State MP says a truck spill that closed the Princes Highway for more than half a day should have been reported on the state emergency notification website.

Council to vote on childcare centre
Colac Otway Shire Council officers are recommending councillors award planning approval for a proposed childcare centre on Colac’s Woods Street.

