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News and Consultation

  • Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health Alert A community resource page with links to information supplied by the Australian Government's Department of Health and the State Government's Department of Health and Human Services...
  • Community Update Council produces a weekly Community Update for your local paper. This newsletter is your place to find Current Vacancies, Tenders and the latest weekly news from Buloke. You can also access newsletters from previous weeks.
  • Birchip Park and Civic Precinct Master Plan It takes great ideas to build a strong future and the Birchip Park and Civic Precinct Plan project has now reached the preferred option stage of an extensive consultation process
  • Cr David Vis Resigns Cr David Vis has written to CEO Wayne O’Toole informing him of his resignation from Council due to personal reasons, effective immediately.
  • Buloke Stands with BGLC on Racism Buloke Shire Council stands with Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (BGLC) in calling out racism after a racist attack with offensive graffiti on a Welcome to Wotjobaluk Country sign in our Shire.
  • Buloke Seniors Festival Hits A high Note Performing at the Charlton Park Community Bank Complex on May 10, South Australian band Me'N Me Mates' energy and good nature, drew rave reviews from attendees chatting over lunch, following the performance.
  • NBN Connection Boost for Sea Lake Announcement from the Federal Government that $3.55 million from the Regional Connectivity Program has been allocated to upgrade the National Broadband Network (NBN) connection in the town of Sea Lake to fibre to the premises (FTTP) technology.
  • June Meeting Wrap 2022 The June meeting included release of the Draft Asset Plan, the awarding of a Tourism Business Innovation grant, and the presentation of submissions from the Draft Annual Budget 2022/23.
  • May Meeting Wrap 2022 At Buloke Shire Council's May Meeting the Draft Annual Budget 2022-23 was adopted, along with the Social Media Policy. Proactive advocacy supporting the Murray Basin Rail Project was stepped up.
  • Buloke Adopts Draft Annual Budget 2022-2023 Buloke Shire Council’s Draft Annual Budget 2022-2023 has been adopted for consultation and proposes significant spending on roads, infrastructure and attracting tourism. The community is encouraged to provide feedback on the Draft Budget by completing an online feedback form by 12 noon Wednesday 8 June 2022.
  • Make A Change A new program raising awareness about active volunteering, introducing new ideas, expanding existing initiatives, creating new outcomes, and inviting broader participation in the Buloke region with FREE seminars online.
  • April Meeting Wrap 2022 At Buloke Shire Council's April Meeting moves to capture economic and tourism opportunities ensured the adoption of the Interim Economic Development and Tourism Strategy 2022-2023 and grant guidelines for a once-off $60,000 Tourism Business Innovation Pilot Program.
  • Small Towns Big Difference Grant Program The Small Towns Big Difference Program for smaller, community-based social projects. Applications close Tuesday 26 April 2022.
  • Culgoa Remembers WW1 The Culgoa community to officially unveil the WW1 Commemorative Board honouring those from the district who gave service and sacrifice.
  • March Meeting Wrap 2022 Buloke Shire Council’s March Meeting was highlighted by reviews of its Road Management Plan and Annual Plan as well as advocacy for rail safety.
  • February Meeting Wrap 2022 Buloke Shire Council’s February Meeting was highlighted by the adoption of the Wycheproof Recreation and Racecourse Reserve Master Plan 2021-2023, recognising a number of honourable awards bestowed upon community members and groups, adoption of two key policies, and the awarding of Community Grants.
  • O'Toole Appointed CEO Buloke Shire Council has its new Chief Executive Officer after Wayne O’Toole was appointed at a Council Meeting held on Tuesday 18 January 2022.
  • Buloke Celebrates Australia Day Winners 2022 The announcement of the Buloke Shire Council Australia Day Awards was made at Berriwillock on Tuesday 25 January 2022 at a community event. Len Storey was named Citizen of the Year. Read about all the winners.
  • Buloke Welcomes Newest Citizens Buloke welcomed three of its newest citizens in an Australian Citizenship Ceremony at Berriwillock on 25 January 2022.
  • December Meeting Wrap 2021 Buloke Shire Council’s December Meeting was highlighted by the presentation of the 2020/2021 Annual Report and the adoption of Council’s Domestic Animal Management Plan, two key policies and the waiving of swimming pool hire fees for this season.
  • Charlton Streetscape Project The Charlton community’s vision for their town’s Streetscape development is approaching the next phase.
  • Internet Of Things Trial Four Mallee councils have joined forces to trial Internet of Things (IoT) technology to inform decision-making and improve operational efficiencies. Mildura, Buloke, Gannawarra and Swan Hill councils are participating in the 12-month Smart Cities project, which runs until June 2022.
  • November Meeting Wrap 2021 Buloke Shire Council’s November Meeting was held directly following the re-election of Cr Daryl Warren as Mayor with the adoption of Council’s Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy and Plan and allocation of just under $3.2 million of funding under the Local Roads and Infrastructure Program the highlights.
  • Warren Returned as Mayor Cr Daryl Warren was returned unopposed as Mayor of Buloke Shire Council at a Council Meeting held on Wednesday 10 November 2021.
  • Small Towns Big Difference Launches in Buloke. It was an exciting day for Buloke on Thursday with the Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas launching the Small Towns Big Difference pilot program at Charlton Park.
  • Local Exposure Site Listed As the current COVID-19 exposure site list grow across Victoria, please note tremendous Buloke business the Donald Hotel is a Tier 1 exposure site for 14 October 2021 between 6.30pm and 9.00pm due to a case attending the venue.
  • October Meeting Wrap 2021 Buloke Shire Council again met virtually for their October Meeting, which was highlighted by the adoption of the Council’s Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy and Plan for community consultation and the Progress Report for the Annual Plan 2021/2022.
  • Funding for Wycheproof Saleyards Announced The Wycheproof Saleyards will receive a number of key upgrades thanks to the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
  • Advantage Sea Lake It was an exciting day in Sea Lake on Thursday 30 September, with the official opening of the new Visitor Information Hub as well as the sod-turning Ceremony at the new Sea Lake Housing Development site.
  • O'Toole Appointed Interim CEO Wayne O’Toole has been appointed by Council as Interim Chief Executive Officer of Buloke Shire Council during the recruitment process for a new CEO.
  • Mayors Thank Residents for Taking Part in Vaccination Challenge A race between two councils to be the first to reach 80% fully vaccinated concluded on Monday, with the Borough of Queenscliffe reaching 80.1% of residents receiving both doses.
  • Vale Eddie Lee Former Buloke Shire Councillor and inaugural Mayor, Eddie Lee, passed away on Friday 17 September 2021. He served as the last President for the Shire of Birchip in 1995 and was one of the inaugural Councillors elected to the newly formed Buloke Shire in March of 1997.
  • It's Time To Celebrate Council is again looking to celebrate what is great in the region, our people, as we recognise outstanding contributions to the community with the annual Australia Day Awards. Nominations are to be received by close of business Friday 19 November 2021.
  • Birchip Planning Project Update The Birchip Park and Civic Precinct Planning Project consultation is ramping up. After some impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic on engagement options, the Project Advisory Group is now in place and listening posts have been scheduled for next week alongside an online survey which opened earlier this month.
  • Hardship Policy Is There If You Need It is a tough time, the likes of which we may not see again in our lifetimes. Ratepayers can apply to Council for assistance relating to any unpaid rates under Council's Rates and Charges Financial Hardship Policy. Council’s Rates and Charges Financial Hardship Policy provides a number of options for ratepayers who are in genuine financial hardship to help manage liability.
  • Sea Lake Streetscape Project Designs have been completed and Council is ready to seek prices from Contractors to complete the following works in Sea Lake, to be completed over the coming summer and autumn seasons:
  • September Meeting Wrap 2021 Council’s September Meeting was highlighted by the adoption of Council’s redeveloped Advocacy Strategy, Public Interest Disclosure Policy and the release of the Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan.
  • Buloke, Borough Mayors Launch Vaccination Challenge The Mayors of Buloke Shire and the Borough of Queenscliffe have launched a challenge to see which council area can be the first in the state to have 80% of their residents fully vaccinated. The two rural Councils are currently first and second in Victoria for the highest percentage of residents fully vaccinated against coronavirus.
  • CEO Judd Calls Time at Buloke Buloke Shire Council CEO Anthony Judd has given notice of his resignation. Anthony was appointed CEO in April 2018 after a long career at Buloke dating back to 2006 when he commenced as Recreation Officer. He also held the positions of Manager Assets and Infrastructure and Director Works and Technical Services for five years.
  • Buloke Makes Key Appointment Travis Fitzgibbon has been appointed as Buloke Shire Council’s new Director Community Development. Travis is an experienced and passionate member of Council’s Senior Leadership Team with a track record of delivering successful outcomes with Buloke communities at the centre.
  • Birchip Safer Cumming Avenue Streetscape Works Keep up to date with the latest information regarding the Birchip Safer Cumming Avenue Streetscape Works.
  • Working for Victoria Wraps Up The highly successful Working for Victoria Program has come to a close in Buloke with Council noting the high achievements of the initiative at its August Council Meeting.
  • August Meeting Wrap 2021 Council reverted to a virtual setting to deliver its August Meeting which was highlighted by the setting of this summer’s swimming pool season and a free green waste period, a report celebrating the successful Working for Victoria Program and key items to improve amenity in Birchip and at caravan parks.
  • Dedicated Support for Buloke Businesses Council has welcomed three new members to its staff to provide practical support to businesses and community to maintain COVIDSafe environments and compliance in accordance with State Government requirements.
  • Birchip Planning Project Commences An important planning project for Birchip is about to launch to develop a comprehensive Birchip Park and Civic Precinct Plan in close consultation with the Birchip community.
  • Results Are In Buloke Shire Council has noted excellent results in the 2021 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey at its July Ordinary Meeting.
  • July Meeting Wrap 2021 Opportunities to assess the previous year and to look ahead at the next twelve months highlighted Buloke Shire Council’s July Ordinary Meeting. Council reviewed its previous Annual Plan and adopted its new plan whilst also noting excellent results in the latest Community Satisfaction Survey.
  • Opening Round For Birchip-Watchem Bulls A midseason fixture against Charlton took on even greater significance for the Birchip-Watchem Bulls as key projects were officially opened at the Birchip Recreation Reserve. The home of the Bulls is now enhanced by updated female friendly changerooms, resurfaced oval and new netball courts.
  • Playspaces Trail Funded The Buloke Playspaces Trail is set to become a reality after a significant funding announcement late last week. The trail, which will see five new playspaces built across Buloke, is the latest of a string of important projects to materialise in the Shire.
  • Buloke Maps Financial Future Buloke Shire Council has adopted four key documents that will shape the direction of Council now and into the future at a Council Meeting held on 16 June 2021. Council’s Annual Budget 2021/22, Long-Term Community Vision and Council Plan 2021-25, Revenue and Rating Plan and Financial Plan have all been adopted and will play significant roles in planning and delivery over the next ten years.
  • Buloke's Vision and Plan Buloke Shire Council has adopted its Long-Term Community Vision and Council Plan 2021-2025 at an Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 16 June 2021. The Long-Term Community Vision and Council Plan 2021-2025 presents a range of strategies to guide Council over the next four years under the Council Plan as well as applying a ten-year lens to inform the Community Vision.
  • June Meeting Wrap 2021 Buloke Shire Council’s June Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the hearing of submissions to the draft Annual Budget 2021/22 and the Council Plan 2021-25 and Long-Term Community Vision.
  • It's All Happening In Wycheproof Things are heating up this winter in Wycheproof with key projects at various stages of their development. The Brightening Broadway Project, Wetlands and Walking Trail Project and development of the Wycheproof Recreation and Racecourse Reserve Masterplan are all underway.
  • Building A Better Buloke Together Buloke Shire Council have adopted its Council Plan 2021-25 and Long-Term Community Vision for and placed it on exhibition for further consultation with the community. Now is the time to view the proposed document and be involved in shaping the future.
  • Draft Annual Budget Adopted Buloke Shire Council has adopted its draft Annual Budget 2021/22 and placed it on exhibition for public submission. The proposed Budget will deliver on key priorities identified in the Council Plan 2021-25 and Long-Term Community Vision as well as the Financial Plan.
  • May Meeting Wrap 2021 Held in front of a public gallery for the first time since April 2020, Buloke Shire Council’s May Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the adoption of key draft documents that will inform the medium and long term future of Council.
  • Victorian Energy Collaboration Buloke Shire Council is proud to be one of 46 Victorian Councils to join together and form VECO, the Victorian Energy Collaboration. VECO is the largest emissions reduction project ever undertaken by the local government sector in Australia.
  • Buloke Beyond 2030 What do you think Buloke will look like beyond 2030? More importantly, what do you want it to look like? Buloke Shire Council is undertaking a large scale community engagement project to help shape its community vision, Buloke Beyond 2030.
  • Down By The River Town attraction is set to grow in the south of the Shire as construction continues on two key projects, the Charlton and Donald Riverfronts.
  • Buloke Teams Up With VicHealth To Drive Health Change Buloke Shire Council is putting young Victorians in the driver's seat to help create a healthier future as part of a new VicHealth initiative.
  • Council Meetings Reopen To The Public Buloke Shire Council will welcome a public gallery back for the first time in over a year at its May Ordinary Meeting of Council. Ordinary Meetings had been closed to public in-person attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic since Council’s meeting back in April 2020.
  • April Meeting Wrap 2021 Buloke Shire Council’s April Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the adoption of the Councillor Gift Policy, authorisation to negotiate on the lease of the Wycheproof Golf Club, endorsement of the Wimmera Southern Mallee Housing Study as well as green lighting some advocacy items.
  • Buloke Bounce Back Activates Buloke Shire Council with the Victorian Government’s COVID-19 Community Activation and Social Isolation (CASI) initiative has established a new temporary community activation grant to assist community groups with the recovery from COVID-19.
  • Buloke Bounce Back Grants of up to $2,000 are available through a straightforward application process and are open to groups or organisations and designed to fund activities that will help our community adapt to, and recover from, the changes caused by the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).
  • Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy and Plan Council is developing its Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy and Plan through to 2030. We are conducting this survey to gather information from our residents, businesses and other key groups about what Council can do to support you to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
  • We're Listening Buloke Shire Council is listening to its community as it undertakes a large scale community engagement project to help shape both its four year Council Plan and ten year Community Vision, Buloke Beyond 2030.
  • March Meeting Wrap 2021 Council’s March Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by items supporting youth and families as well as a progress update on the implementation of the Local Government Act 2020.
  • Wycheproof Early Learning Centre Officially Opens The Wycheproof Early Learning Centre has officially opened, marking a new dawn for the community. The addition of the Early Learning Centre compliments the Wycheproof P-12 College, giving the town an education precinct that can take its children on a long and rewarding developmental journey.
  • Buloke Beyond 2030 Begins Over the coming months, Council is developing its new Community Vision as well as a new four year Council Plan and a looking for your input to make both documents reflective of its community’s goals and needs. The engagement process will be centred on access, with a wide range of ways to be involved in the project including surveys, listening posts and meetings with community groups and key stakeholders.
  • February Meeting Wrap 2021 Council’s February Ordinary Meeting was punctuated with the acceptance of a range of policies, the Councillor Code of Conduct, Rates and Charges Financial Hardship Policy, Community Engagement Policy and the Governance Rules 2021 all being adopted.
  • Community Satisfaction Survey 2021 Buloke Shire Council would like to inform residents that from the Tuesday 2 February for the period of up to three weeks, your household may receive a call from an independent market research agency, National Field Services.
  • Get Involved in the MEMPC Buloke Shire Council are seeking community members to be involved in the planning and development of the Municipal Emergency Management Plan through the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee (MEMPC).
  • Wycheproof Early Learning Centre Completed The completion of the Wycheproof Early Learning Centre marks the beginning of a new era for the town’s youngest citizens and their families. The $1.22 million project is ready for operation as the new school year begins.
  • Buloke Celebrates Australia Day Winners The announcement of the Buloke Shire Council Australia Day Awards was made in Nullawil on Monday 25 January 2021 at a community event. Margaret Pollington was named Citizen of the Year. Read about all the winners.
  • 2021 Australia Day Celebrations In 2021 Buloke Shire Council will again hold a stand alone Australia Day event prior to 26 January to compliment the many community celebrations Shire wide. Find your nearest celebration.
  • Celebrate Australia Day Buloke Shire Council will invite members of the Buloke community to come together to reflect, respect and celebrate – because we’re all part of the story.
  • Making A Splash Fancy a summer by the pool? For the Buloke Shire Council’s Lifeguards, “poolside” is a vocation rather than just a summertime job. Return seasons are the norm for some young attendants, with the outdoor environment and a passion for meeting people high on the list of attractions.
  • Come and See Lake Tyrrell The highly anticipated Lake Tyrrell Infrastructure Project is now open. Encompassing the construction of a viewing platform, shelter area, car parking, boardwalk and all access amenities, the delivered infrastructure also extends to providing protection to the lake environment.
  • Step Up To Summer Activity It’s time to get off the couch and factor in some fitness this summer as holiday festivities unfold! We’ve moved from lockdown to liberation, so now is the time to slip on the sunnies, embrace the warmth and engage in some health based self-reclamation.
  • Brightening Broadway Picks Up Pace The make-over of Wycheproof’s iconic main street of Broadway is picking up pace as transformation of the highway precinct edges closer. The $600,000 project, co-funded by Regional Development Victoria (State Government, $450,000), and the Buloke Shire Council ($150,000) is set to deliver a suite of improvements aimed at boosting accessibility, enhancing appearance and driving positive economic outcomes.
  • Buy Buloke-Start The Conversation Come on Buloke – let’s talk business! With Christmas and holidays on our doorstep Buloke Shire Council is launching an initiative to give our businesses a boost. And everyone can lend a helping hand through the “Buy Buloke – To Do List”. Buloke residents and businesses will be receiving the colourful flyer in the mailbox which offers a fun approach to supporting retailers across all our communities.
  • It's Cumming Along Upgrades to Birchip’s Cumming Avenue are progressing with the southern section of the centre median reaching completion. New drainage, kerb and channels, plus a pedestrian crossing between the butchers and the hardware stores make up the completed improvements.
  • December Meeting Wrap A packed agenda for Buloke Shire Council’s December Ordinary Meeting highlighted a range of governance, reportage and community outreach items.
  • Nullawil To Host Australia Day Eve Event Let’s say “Well done!” as Buloke celebrates local achievements this coming Australia Day Eve. Following on from the successful Australia Day Eve events held previously at Wycheproof and Birchip, Council is planning an occasion to remember with Nullawil’s historic Auchmore Museum playing host in 2021.
  • Draft Revised Governance Rules The Draft Revised Governance Rules have been placed on exhibition for community submission. Submission closes on Friday 22 January 2021.
  • Warren Mayor in Buloke Buloke Shire Council has a new Mayor with the election of Cr Daryl Warren to the role at a Meeting of Council held on Monday night. Cr Warren, commencing his second term as Councillor, was appointed for a one year term.
  • Draft Community Engagement Policy Council's Community Engagement Policy has been adopted in draft form for further consultation. Community engagement and participation is an important element of the democratic process. An empowered community is one that actively participates to influence decisions that affect their lives. View the draft and have your say.
  • Notification of Annual Report Notice is given that in accordance with the Local Government Act (2020) that Council will receive the Buloke Shire Council Annual Report 2019/20 at its Ordinary Meeting to be held at 7.00pm on Wednesday 9 December 2020 in the Wycheproof Supper Room.
  • Buloke Supports 16 Days of Activism Buloke Shire Council is proud to support Respect Victoria to deliver its Respect Women: ‘Call It Out’ campaign. The campaign is part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, which runs from 25 November to 10 December 2020.
  • Heading Back to the Shed The doors are open and we’re ready for business! Buloke Men’s Sheds are picking up the tools and re-starting the conversations as re-openings gather pace following the COVID-19 closures. A bastion for men of all ages, the iconic “shed” has been the male domain where things are fixed, made, skills learnt and the problems of the world dissected.
  • Buloke Councillors Take Oath Councillors elected to the new Buloke Shire Council took the Oath of Office on Monday 16 November 2020 at a ceremony held in the Wycheproof Supper Room.
  • Buloke Shire Council Election Results The new Buloke Shire Council has been set with Alan Getley the sole new incoming Councillor declared by the Victoria Electoral Commission (VEC) this afternoon. The well-known Charltonian is set to join David Vis, who is returning for a second term, in the Mallee Ward.
  • Regional Connectivity Progam Survey Council is supporting Bendigo Telco in a grant submission to the Federal Government’s Regional Connectivity Progam through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.
  • Vale John Colbert Former Donald Shire Councillor John Colbert passed away on 27 October 2020. A former St. Patrick’s College student, John gave dedicated community service as a Councillor in the Donald Shire from 1960- 1981, including holding the role of Shire President on three occasions.
  • Working for Victoria Boosts Buloke The Buloke Shire has received a major boost thanks to the employment of an additional 50 people through the Victorian Government’s Working for Victoria Program. The initiative was established in response to the impacts of COVID-19 and matches jobseekers with employers who are seeking staff and is of six months duration.
  • Buloke Streetscape Renewal Begins Birchip was this week the scene for the official commencement of the Buloke Streetscape Renewal Project, which will transform the streets to Birchip, Charlton, Donald, Wycheproof and Sea Lake. Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes visited Birchip to inspect the commencement of works at the Cumming Avenue.
  • Notice of Council Meeting Notice is hereby given that the Chief Executive Officer has used his delegation to call a Council Meeting in accordance the Local Government Act 2020 to call a Council Meeting for 5.00pm, Thursday 22 October 2020.
  • Safer Cumming Avenue Works Begin A new era for the Birchip community has begun with the commencement of the Safer Cumming Avenue Project. The $2.2 million project, which will address multiple road safety issues, improve footpath access, attend to drainage hotspots and beautify the area, has been a high priority for both Council and the Birchip community.
  • October Meeting Wrap 2020 Council’s October Meeting carried a light agenda due to the caretaker period of the up-coming Local Government elections. The key agenda item was the Progress Report on the Year 4 Annual Plan.
  • Safer Outcomes for Berriwillock-Birchip Road The Berriwillock – Birchip Road will undergo a much-needed upgrade thanks to the recent announcement of $1.5 million funding from the Federal Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.
  • Your Council, Your Vote The Buloke Shire Council election will be held this October. Elections are to be conducted entirely by post – a safe and completely secret method of voting. Parts of this website have been altered to comply with Election (caretaker) Period Policy.
  • Vale Oliver Guthrie Former Buloke Shire Councillor, Oliver Guthrie, who was one of the inaugural councillors elected to the newly formed Buloke Shire in March of 1997, has passed away on 21 September 2020
  • Spring Into Managing Waste Council is encouraging residents to jump-start their post-winter clean-ups and beat the heat by having an early spring makeover and tidy. To ensure properties and surrounds are in peak condition before summer’s blast, let’s all make waste management and fire safety top of the Spring “to-do” lists.
  • September Meeting Wrap 2020 In continuation of its support of the community during the ongoing health crisis, Buloke Shire Council adopted a revision of the COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy at its September Ordinary Meeting.
  • EV Chargers for Regional Victoria Buloke Shire Council is pleased to partner with 11 other councils and the Victorian Government to roll out a public network of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Delivered through the ‘Charging the Regions’ project, approximately 20-24 DC chargers will be installed across 17 sites.
  • Buy Buloke Site Launched Council has established a new online resource to continue the support of its local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Buy Buloke website has been launched to provide the community with an easy to navigate website to browse local businesses and services as well as current trading terms and social media links.
  • Celebrating Buloke In a year like no other, recognising achievement is even more reason for celebration. With this in mind Council is again calling on Buloke residents to recognise their finest, and nominate individual and community endeavour for the annual Australia Day Awards. While nominations may look a little different this year, here is the chance to reward the input and service which fuels our rural communities.
  • Funding Keeps Buloke Engaged Buloke is one of six rural councils to receive assistance from the Victorian State Government’s $3.8 million 2020 Rural Councils ICT Infrastructure Support Program, having adopted new work practices to keep the day-to-day running of local government on track during the pandemic’s disruption.
  • Lighting Up Buloke Sporting Hubs The Lighting Up Buloke Project will benefit eight local sporting organisations from across four towns with upgrades to happen at the Wycheproof Recreation Reserve Project, Nullawil Recreation Reserve, Donald Tennis Club and Charlton Park.
  • Progress on Charlton Beautification The second stage of the Charlton Street Beautification Project is complete. The collaborative project, funded by the community and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal has been the initiative of the North Central Garden Club, which has worked in tandem with Buloke Shire Council throughout the phased project.
  • August Meeting Wrap 2020 Policy adoption, compliance requirements and committee establishments were the focus of the Buloke Shire Council’s August Ordinary Meeting.
  • Walks and Wetlands for Wycheproof A $350,000 State Government grant will create a major recreational boost for the Wycheproof community with the planned development of local walking trails and a featured wetlands precinct.
  • Great Court Coverage More great news for the Birchip sporting precinct with the announcement of $200,000 of funding from the Victorian Government’s 2020-21 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund – Female Friendly Facilities program.
  • State Funding Request to Fix Region’s Narrow Roads The unsafe and perilous condition of many roads across Western Victoria is putting lives at risk and there needs to be a major injection of funds to rectify them quickly, the Wimmera Southern Mallee Regional Transport Group says.
  • Buloke Gets Working for Victoria Buloke Shire Council has commenced placing people in positions across the organisation as part of the State Government’s Working for Victoria initiative.
  • July Meeting Wrap 2020 Buloke Shire Council’s July Ordinary Meeting was a case of looking forward and looking back as Council adopted its Year 4 Annual Plan and noted the progress made against the Year 3 Annual Plan as well as adopting two key strategies.
  • Buloke Budget Adopted Buloke Shire Council has adopted its Annual Budget 2020/21 at a Meeting of Council held on 1 July 2020. The compilation of the budget was informed by Council’s strategic plans, in particular the Council Plan, Buloke 2030 Community Plan and the Long Term Financial Plan.
  • EDATAC Update Buloke Shire Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee conducted its latest meeting earlier this month, linking up virtually to adhere with coronavirus measures. There was much to discuss and review on the agenda, including long term visions as well as items in relation to the current health crisis.
  • Survey Says, Satisfaction Growing Council has noted a further rise in satisfaction from the results in the 2020 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey for a majority of measures at its June Ordinary Meeting.
  • June Meeting Wrap Council’s June Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the noting of the results of 2020 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey and the hearing of submissions to the proposed Annual Budget 2020/21.
  • State Initiative to Get Buloke Working Buloke Shire Council will employ up to 50 new staff for up to six months in various roles across the organisation as part of the State Government’s Working for Victoria initiative.
  • Draft Governance Rules 2020 The Draft Governance Rules are designed to ensure good governance by Council through the performance of its role in accordance with the overarching governance principles and supporting principles of the Act. Members of the public are invited to make written submissions on the Draft Governance Rules by 4.00pm 8 July 2020.
  • Streets of Your Town Council’s lists of intergenerational projects continues to grow with the announcement of $4.3 million of funding as part of the State Government’s recently announced $2.7 billion Building Works package to fund the development of the streetscapes in each of its five major towns and establish a Visitor Centre at Sea Lake to service the burgeoning tourism trade in the area, in particular Lake Tyrrell.
  • Proposed Budget Open for Submission Buloke Shire Council has adopted its draft Annual Budget 2020/21 and placed it on exhibition for public submission. The proposed Budget been informed by Council’s suite of plans developed and updated throughout this term of Council, in particular the Council Plan, Buloke 2030 Community Plan and the Long Term Financial Plan.
  • Broadway Showstopper It has been announced that the Wycheproof streetscape has received a funding boost from the State Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund of $450,000 for Brightening Broadway Project. The project, worth $600,000 is also funded by Council ($150,000) and will give the iconic Broadway a huge lift in attraction, amenity and accessibility.
  • May Meeting Wrap Council’s May Ordinary Meeting was its first held virtually and was highlighted by the adoption of the draft Annual Budget 2020/21 for public submission, the adoption of its Advocacy Strategy and the noting of progress against the Year 3 Annual Plan 2019/20.
  • On the Roads Again It is very much business as usual for some parts of Council business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Council staff and contractors have been working tirelessly to progress the $9 million of road infrastructure works that are underway, or about to commence.
  • April Meeting Wrap 2020 Buloke Shire Council’s April Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by awarding of the Birchip Safer Cumming Avenue Streetscape Project and the adoption of a COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy.
  • Buloke Playspaces Project Council is seeking feedback from the community on the Buloke Playspaces Project. Council is undertaking the project to improve our parks and develop a variety of play options. The project focuses on the future of five playgrounds within the Shire.
  • Lake Tyrrell Closed Lake Tyrrell has been closed to visitors in line with COVID-19 restrictions around non-essential travel. The popular tourist attraction, where a multi-million-dollar tourism infrastructure project is underway, will be closed until further notice to minimise traffic travelling to the site along the Calder Highway.
  • March Meeting Wrap 2020 Buloke Shire Council’s March Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the advocacy to improve an important intersection on the Calder Highway and the awarding of a contract to improve another within the Shire.
  • Economic Development and Tourism Committee Have 2020 Vision Buloke Shire Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee has held its first meeting for the year, with achievements of last year inspiring what can be achieved in 2020.
  • Wycheproof Early Years Funded Great news for Wycheproof families with the State Government announcing they will partner with Council to deliver a brand new integrated Early Years Learning Centre.
  • February Meeting Wrap 2020 Council’s February Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the finalisation of funding applications to the Drought Communities Programme Extension, an update against the Annual Plan and the adoption of two important policies.
  • Stewart Named on Advisory Panel Mayor Cr Carolyn Stewart has been appointed to the 2020 Local Government Mayoral Advisory Panel alongside Mayors from 14 other Local Government Areas.
  • Australia Day Award Winners Buloke Shire Council has announced its Australia Day Award winners at its community Australia Day celebration held in Birchip on Friday 24 January 2020. John McConville (Citizen of the Year), Angel Grylls (Young Citizen of the Year) and the Birchip B&S Ball (Community Event of the Year) had their amazing contributions to the Buloke community acknowledged winning the prestigious awards.
  • Load Limit Reduction A load limit reduction was recommended for the Glenloth Bridge following a Level 3 Bridge Inspection.
  • Community Satisfaction Survey Council would like to inform residents that from 30 January 2020, for the period of up to three weeks, your household may receive a call from an independent market research agency, National Field Services.
  • Livestock Owner Preparation for High-Risk Fire Days Information provided by Agriculture Victoria on Livestock Owner Preparation for High-Risk Fire Days.
  • Let's Celebrate Buloke Shire Council’s will celebrate a year of community achievement when it hosts an event to mark Australia Day on Friday 24 January 2020 in Birchip. On the back of highly successful Australia Day Eve event held in Wycheproof last year, Council will stage its 2020 event at the Birchip Leisure Centre.
  • Notice of Urgent Special Meeting Notice is given that Council will hold an Urgent Special Meeting on Thursday 19 December 2019 at 9.00am in the Wycheproof Supper Room.
  • Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee Vacancy Council is looking for expressions of interest from people from the industrial business or the agricultural or retail sector to join its Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee to fill a vacancy. Applications close at 5.00pm Friday 17 January 2020.
  • December Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council’s December Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by important funding application decisions that will help shape many of its towns for years to come, awarding of tenders for the Lake Tyrrell Tourism Infrastructure Project and the Local Roads Rehabilitation Program as well as the adoption of key policies.
  • Taking Stock of Library Service Buloke Shire Council is collecting some detailed feedback on the Buloke Library Service. With a full twelve months now in operation, it is a great time to take stock and understand what works, what doesn’t and how we can lift the Library to the next level.
  • November Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council’s November Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by a report on progress against the Local Government Women’s Charter, the appointment of new Audit Committee Members and the adoption of an Audit Committee Charter.
  • Code Red Day Thursday 21 November 2019 The EMC has determined Thursday 21 November 2019 is a Code Red Day because a combination of high temperatures overnight, little relief followed up with predicted high temperatures and high wind speeds which meets the criteria for the declaration of a Code Red Day.
  • Rural Land Use and Settlement Strategy Council has engaged PLN Planning Pty. Ltd. to prepare a Rural Land Use and Settlements Strategy (RLUSS). A draft RLUSS has been prepared and Council invites submissions and comments on the draft RLUSS.
  • Wycheproof Amenity Upgrade Construction of the new amenities block at Centenary Park Wycheproof will commence on Monday 25 November 2019.
  • Stewart Returned As Mayor Cr Carolyn Stewart has been elected unopposed as Mayor of Buloke Shire Council at a Statutory Meeting of Council held in Wycheproof. Cr Stewart has been returned for her second term as Mayor.
  • Contributions Celebrated Two Buloke Shire Councillors have had their incredible contributions to Buloke honoured. Cr David Pollard and Cr Ellen White have each received 10 Year Councillor Service Awards from the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV).
  • Buloke Repays Loan Buloke Shire Council earlier this month repaid the $7 million loan that was taken out in 2014. Council resolved at a Special Meeting in May 2014 to participate in the first Local Government Funding Vehicle bond issuance for an interest only loan of $7 million dollars. The five-year term of the loan applied a fixed interest rate and repayment of interest only over that term.
  • Charlton Levee Bank Community Consultation After the 2011 and 2016 flood events in Charlton during which a significant number of properties were affected, a levee bank is being considered as one option to protect the township from inundation in any future flood events.
  • Open For Business Buloke Shire Council has underlined its commitment to small business as it launched its Better Approvals Process as well as signing the Small Business Charter at an event held in Charlton.
  • Three Walls Set To Go Creativity is set to come alive on the streets of Charlton later this month with the ‘Three Walls’ project to activate three public art spaces. Funded by the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme, the project aims to increase tourism activity and provide more opportunities for a socially inclusive environment through visual art.
  • Sea Lake Kinder Funding Announced The state government has announced a major refurbishment and extension at Tyrrell College for the Sea Lake Kindergarten worth $1.152 million dollars.
  • Birchip Oval Upgrade Fully Funded A key priority for many sporting groups in Birchip is set to be realised after the announcement of $100,000 in funding from the State Government’s Country Football and Netball Program.
  • New Silo Art Stop Turns Heads The second Silo Art installation in Buloke Shire is complete and already creating a huge impression. The GrainCorp silos in Sea Lake have undergone a breathtaking reinvigoration in colours synonymous with the districts famous night sky.
  • Tapping in to Apex Park Visitors to Apex Park, Sea Lake will now have easy access to drinking water whilst enjoying the great new play space and street art the precinct has to offer after GWM Water recently installed a brand new Choose Tap water fountain.
  • Notice of Statutory Meeting Notice is given that in accordance with section 84 of the Local Government Act a Special Meeting of Buloke Shire Council is to be held from 6.30pm on Wednesday 13 November 2019 in the Wycheproof Supper Room, 367 Broadway, Wycheproof.
  • Come In, We Are Open Buloke Shire Council is open for, and importantly now, open to business! Council will mark the launch of the Better Approvals Project and the formalisation of its commitment to the Small Business Charter with an event to be held at the newly completed Charlton Park.
  • October Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council’s October Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the induction of Cr Bronwyn Simpson. Council also endorsed its submission to the Victorian Local Government Rating System Review and noted the Annual Report 2018/19 and the progress of the Year 3 Annual Plan.
  • Public Art is Coming to Charlton Stage 1 of the Charlton Arts Trail will be implemented in November of this year with public art spaces to be activated. The public art project known as ‘3 walls’, was identified as one of the 13 projects to be completed as part of the $1 million in funding received under the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme.
  • Notice of Special Meeting Notice is hereby given that in accordance with section 89 of the Local Government Act (1989) Council will hold a Special Meeting at 7.00pm on Wednesday, 2 October 2019 at the Culgoa Public Hall.
  • Sea Lake Silo Art The GrainCorp silos in Sea Lake are set to be the next instalment of Silo Art in Buloke, with painting commencing this week. Council has been working closely with GrainCorp and members of the Sea Lake community to deliver this project, which was identified as one of the 13 projects to be funded as part of the $1 million Federal Government Drought Communities Programme announced in March of this year.
  • Cr Simpson Sworn In Buloke Shire’s newest Councillor, Cr Bronwyn Simpson was sworn in at a ceremony held in Wycheproof on Monday 23 September2019. Cr Simpson was elected in a countback last week to replace Cr John Shaw who resigned in August, creating a vacancy in the Lower Avoca Ward.
  • Simpson Councillor Elect Bronwyn Simpson is the Councillor elect for the vacant Lower Avoca Ward seat within Buloke Shire after winning the countback to replace Cr John Shaw. Bronwyn has accepted the role of Councillor and will be sworn in at a ceremony on Monday 23 September 2019.
  • Buloke Countback Conducted Bronwyn Simpson is the Councillor elect for the vacant Lower Avoca Ward seat with Buloke Shire after winning this morning’s countback to replace Cr John Shaw.
  • Free Green Waste Month To help make Buloke Fire Ready for the upcoming season, Council is accepting green waste FREE OF CHARGE through the month of October at all Buloke landfills and transfer stations.
  • Green Lake Amenities Block Replacement Buloke Shire Council are currently undertaking the redevelopment of the boat ramp amenities block at Green Lake, which will include the demolition and construction of a brand new facility. The new structure will include an accessible toilet and shower, shower and toilet cubicles, exterior open-air showers and baby change facilities to improve visitor experience at the site.
  • September Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council at its September Ordinary Meeting approved its Financial and Performance Statements for 2018/19, endorsed a free month of green waste disposal and adopted its Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Policy.
  • Recycling Update Council is urging residents to continue to use their kerbside recycling and waste bins appropriately during the current recycling crisis. Recycling materials collected by Council’s waste contractor, Four Seasons Waste, are currently being transported to a metropolitan landfill as a result of the SKM closure.
  • Nominate Now for Australia Day Awards Council is once again looking to recognise outstanding contributions to the community by presenting the following awards for the whole of Buloke Shire.
  • Bridging the Gap Buloke Shire Council is undertaking an Industry Product and Services Gap Analysis project, another key action of the recently adopted Economic Development and Tourism Strategy.
  • Better Get Ready Council has teamed up with Small Business Victoria and the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions to design a more streamlined and simplified permit approval approvals process for businesses.
  • August Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council at its August Ordinary Meeting awarded the contract to supply a series of toilets across the Shire, endorsed the revised Community Grants and Sponsorship Guidelines, set the dates for upcoming swimming pool season and moved a motion to advocate for increased social housing in the Shire.
  • Cr Shaw Resigns Cr John Shaw has today written to Mayor Cr Carolyn Stewart and CEO Anthony Judd informing them of his resignation from Council, effective 19 August 2019.
  • Workforce Development and Training Needs in Buloke Buloke Shire Council is pleased to release a report on ‘Workforce Development and Training Needs - Buloke Shire’ (2019).
  • Sea Lake Hotel Update Council took the lead on negotiating the clearing of the site of the former Sea Lake Hotel site following a Community Meeting held in April 2019.
  • Council Supports RFA Save Our Tracks Campaign Buloke Shire Council is supporting the Rail Freight Alliance Save our Tracks Campaign because the completion of the Murray Basin Rail Project to its original scope and that the Victoria Rail Freight Network must remain in State ownership and control.
  • Rise of Satisfaction Continues Buloke Shire Council has noted positive results from the 2019 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey at its July Ordinary Meeting. The survey report demonstrates an overall improvement for Council from 2018 and continues the upward trend back to the peak result of 2012. Council is also bridging the gap for the state-wide average for Small Rural Councils.
  • July Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council at its July Ordinary Meeting noted the progress against the Year 2 Annual Plan whilst also adopting the Year 3 Annual Plan, formalised submissions to both the Local Government Bill reforms and the Buloke Shire Representation Review as well noting the results from the 2019 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey.
  • Transformation Fund Success for Buloke Buloke Shire Council will share in $5 million funding with five other local government areas to improve the quality, effectiveness and affordability of services to our communities as part of the Rural Councils Transformation Program.
  • Charlton Levee Update In 2017, a detailed design was completed for flood mitigation levees to protect Charlton from flooding, however without the additional work proposed by this project, the community, Council and the state government are not yet equipped to make an informed decision whether to proceed with construction.
  • New Local Law Takes Effect Council has made a new Community Local Law. The purpose of the community local law is to secure community safety, protect public assets and enhance community amenity.
  • Funds Available to Encourage Older People to Keep Moving Expressions of interest open in Buloke Shire on 1 July 2019 for a share of $1.2 million in federal funding to help get older residents in the Loddon Mallee region up and moving.
  • Birchip Flood Restoration Program Update Council’s progression with the Birchip Flood Restoration Program continues in the wake of the flood event in December last year. Council has completed all field inspections and identified around 500 defects that need varying degrees of restoration. Apart from areas in and around Birchip, some of these issues are as far away as Charlton and districts.
  • Defining Budget Adopted Buloke Shire Council adopted its Annual Budget 2019/20 at a Special Meeting of Council held on 19 June 2019. The budget, which reflects Council’s commitment to long term financial sustainability, includes the repayment of the $7 million loan taken out in 2014.
  • June Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council’s June Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the hearing of submissions to its draft Annual Budget 2019/20, agreement to commence formal discussions with the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation to explore opportunities for a local level treaty, and reporting against outcomes from grant applications and progress against the Economic Development and Tourism Strategy.
  • Draft Annual Budget 2019/20 Council has prepared its draft Annual Budget 2019/20 and has placed it on public exhibition and called for submissions. The draft 2019/20 Budget is a continuation of a detailed review of Council’s financial position and services. It proposes a range of initiatives which provide for Council to return to operating surpluses and long term sustainability. Submissions close at 4.00pm 7 June 2019.
  • Vale Ron Summerhayes Former Buloke Shire and Shire of Wycheproof Councillor Ron Summerhayes passed away last week. Ron’s commitment to local government was extensive, serving on the Shire of Wycheproof between 1984 and 1995 and then Buloke Shire Council between 2000 and 2003.
  • A Better Way is Coming Buloke Shire Council is teaming up with Small Business Victoria and the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions to design a more streamlined and simplified permit approval process.
  • Drought Applications Finalised Council will be making applications for $1 million worth of projects across the Shire under the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme. The applications include a project in each of Buloke’s ten townships as well as a small halls and fire sheds program and an event to be held in partnership with the Birchip Cropping Group.
  • Further Funding for Key Roads Further good news for Buloke Shire came this week when another $1.8 million of funding was announced from the State Government’s Fixing Country Roads Program. The funding will see upgrade works completed on the Culgoa-Ultima Road as well as the next stage of the Watchem- Warracknabeal Road upgrade.
  • May Meeting Wrap Council’s May Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the release of the draft Annual Budget 2019/20 for submission, applications for projects under the Drought Communities Programme, the making of the Meeting Procedure and Common Seal Local Law 2019 and the adoption of the Revenue and Rating Strategy 2019-23 and Rating Policy.
  • Have Your Say on Draft Annual Budget Buloke Shire Council has placed its draft Annual Budget 2019/20 on exhibition and called for written submissions. The draft Annual Budget 2019/20 reflects Council’s commitment to long term financial sustainability and continued support for the community with a range of initiatives.
  • Boost for Cumming Avenue Stage 1 of the Birchip Streetscape Improvements Project is now fully funded following an announcement of $320,000 from the State Government.
  • April Meeting Wrap Council’s April Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by the making of the Buloke Community Local Law 2019, the inviting of submissions to the draft Revenue and Rating Strategy and Policy and the adoption of Council’s Customer Service Charter.
  • Draft Revenue and Rating Strategy and Draft Rating Policy Council is currently seeking submissions on the draft Revenue and Rating Strategy, and draft Rating policy from the Buloke community. Submissions must be provided to Council by 12.00pm Friday, 3 May 2019.
  • Notice of Making of a Local Law Notice is given pursuant to sections 119 of the Local Government Act 1989 that Buloke Shire Council, at its meeting held on the 10 April 2019, resolved to make Community Local Law 2019. The Community Local Law 2019 will come into effect on the 1 July 2019.
  • Draft Meetings Procedure and Common Seal Local Law 2018 Notice is given that the Buloke Shire Council proposes to make a new local law titled the Meetings Procedure and Common Seal Local Law 2018. The proposed Local Law is to replace the existing Meeting Procedures and Common Seal Law No.15 (2015).
  • Construction of the Camp Street Temporary Levee Council will be undertaking temporary levee works in Camp Street Donald in late April.
  • Our Region Our Rivers Now Our Reality Buloke Shire Council is one of seven Councils across northern Victoria and southern New South Wales to receive funding from the Federal Government’s Regional Growth Fund for foreshore redevelopments and upgrades.
  • Economic Development and Tourism in the Spotlight Buloke Shire Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee has met for the first time. The committee, a recommendation of Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Strategy, contains members who were selected from a strong number of applications received last year after an Expression of Interest process.
  • March Meeting Wrap Buloke Shire Council’s March Ordinary Meeting was highlighted by applications to the Fixing Country Roads Program and the tracking of progress of Council’s Capital Works Program.
  • Drought Funding Flows The good funding news has continued for Buloke Shire as Senator Bridget McKenzie Minister for Regional Services, Sport, Local Government and Decentralisation announced $1 million of drought funding for the Shire in Charlton on Thursday 21 March 2019.
  • National Relay Service A phone solution for people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment.
  • Stories of the Flood 2010 - 2011 Stories of the Flood and Examining the Buloke Shire’s Largest Ever Flood Publications
  • News Archive A comprehensive archive of previous Buloke Shire Council Media Releases.
  • Donald Streetscape Project Keep up to date with the latest information regarding the Donald Streetscape Works.
  • Brightening Broadway Project Keep up to date with the latest information regarding the Wycheproof Streetscape Works.

Copyright (c) 2015 Buloke Shire Council

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