General News
26 January, 2026
Three share honour's for shire's event of the year
THE Loddon Shire’s two oldest and biggest annual events have been recognised in this year’s Australia Day Awards.
Rheola Charity Carnival and Boort Show have been announced among joint winners of the community group/event of the year.
More than just a fundraiser, the award citation said the Rheola carnival was a highlight of community life, bringing people together across generations, with some attendees in their 90s never having missed a year, while also attracting families and visitors discovering the event for the first time.
Innovation and engagement were highlighted for the Boort Show. “an amazing event for the visitors from all over Loddon Shire and beyond”.
“However, what makes it truly remarkable is the galvanising of the number of volunteers needed to run such a large and multi-faceted event – more than 150 volunteers in 2025,” said the agricultural show’s citation.
The honour has also been awarded for the the 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour visit organised by Bridgewater on Loddon Development.
Mayor Dan Straub congratulated the three groups and residents recognised with shire and ward awards when announcing recipients yesterday.
“We rely so heavily in our shire on volunteers to make things tick, and yet again we have an outstanding list of recipients for our awards,” he said.
“I’d like to congratulate each and every one of the winners – and everyone nominated – for their part in making Loddon Shire such a great place to live and thank them for what has been decades of selfless and tireless service – the essence of great Australians,” Cr Straub said.