General News
5 July, 2026
Rural visit voices grow
THE state’s political leaders must visit country towns to have an understanding of challenges being faced in small communities.
THE state’s political leaders must visit country towns to have an understanding of challenges being faced in small communities.
That was the message last week from Wedderburn Community House co-ordinator Louise Cook to the office of Opposition leader Jess Wilson who has started a Fresh Start campaign blitz to the state’s 88 electorates.
Louise echoed last week’s call from Loddon Mayor Dan Straub to have rural areas included in the tour. She said issues in rural communities were different to larger population centres.
“In Wedderburn, we are still trying to get a commitment for an ambulance station after a previous pledge from the State Government fell over,” she said. “There’s a host of challenges in our area and we deserve to be on the itinerary of any political party leader coming to country Victoria ahead of the election.”
Loddon Shire is split across four electorates - Ripon, Murray Plains, Bendigo East and Bendigo West.
Ms Wilson last week ticked the box for the seat of Mildura with a visit to the Sunraysia city. Parts of the Buloke and Yarriambiack Shires, including Charlton and Donald, are within the seat’s boundary. The tour was launched in Bendigo.
Cr Straub said: “A visit to the seat of Bendigo East might be good for Bendigo but means nothing for people in Serpentine and Dingee,” he said.
An Opposition spokesperson said on Monday: “Jess Wilson’s Fresh Start Tour will visit every one of Victoria’s 88 Legislative Assembly districts to meet directly with Victorians and discuss our positive plan for our state’s future.
“Our comprehensive plan will benefit all Victorians by strengthening our economy, restoring community safety, cleaning up corruption and improving housing affordability. “The only way to change the government, deliver a fresh start for Victoria and a fair share for our regions is by voting for the Liberals and Nationals this November.”
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