Politics & Council
24 December, 2023
REFLECTION Strengths of our shire on show during the year
AS WE approach the end of another eventful year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the last 12 months. For Loddon Shire Council, it has been a busy year with a range of projects and events taking place. Some of the highlights of this year...
AS WE approach the end of another eventful year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the last 12 months.
For Loddon Shire Council, it has been a busy year with a range of projects and events taking place. Some of the highlights of this year include the infrastructure projects across the Shire. From the nearing completion of Stage 1 of Donaldson Park Community Hub to the revitalisation of Pyramid Hill Streetscape, and the awarding of the contract for Stage 1 of the Pyramid Hill Community Centre redevelopment.
Throughout the year, we came together to celebrate some wonderful events including the Loddon Valley Arts Trail, Whole Loddon Love music events and the unforgettable visit from footy legend “Dipper”. Through these various fundraising efforts, we have raised money to support flood recovery. There was also Inglewood Alive, Back to Bridgewater, Boort Agricultural Show.
Of course, none of these events would have been possible without our valuable volunteers across the Loddon Shire. To all the volunteers in our communities, your collective impact is immeasurable as is the positive change you bring. Thank you for exemplifying the true spirit of service and for making our communities stronger, kinder and more vibrant places to live.
Our community also received some positive news recently, with the announcement of the first government-funded child care in Loddon Shire,
set for 2026. This was thanks to the ongoing advocacy efforts of Wedderburn’s local parent group.
Despite the challenges we faced, our Council demonstrated its ability to adapt and allocate resources efficiently. We have prioritised infrastructure renewal and upgrades, ensuring our community enjoys well maintained facilities and services.
Council continues to demonstrate resilience and sound financial management. This will grow evermore important as we face the challenge of maintaining our community infrastructure off a small rate base.
As we move into the upcoming year, we will continue to focus on responsible expenditure and investment. We will seek opportunities for strategic partnerships and grant funding to further enhance our financial position and maximise the value we can provide to our community.
There are so many in our communities who are deserving of our deep and ongoing gratitude for all the work they have done to support us this year. For these people especially, may you find time to relax and be fully replenished. I am filled with gratitude for the tireless efforts of our volunteers and community members who have contributed to the vibrancy of our Shire.
As we pause to reflect on the year that has passed, we can truly say that it has been a year of resilience, growth and unity.
On behalf of council staff and my councillor colleagues, I’d like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. I look forward to working with our community, council and Loddon Shire staff in 2024.
Cr Gavan Holt
Mayor