Campaspe Times NEWSLETTER
SPRING 2026
Spotlight on Stanhope What’s On This Spring - page 8 - 9 Arts Alive Across Campaspe - page 6 Help Honour Our Community Heroes - page 14 Capture Campaspe - Photo Competition Now Open! - page 10
SEE BACK PAGE
Your Councillors Cr Daniel Mackrell - Mayor 0429 517 535 d.mackrell@campaspe.vic.gov.au Cr Tony Marwood - Deputy Mayor 0437 731 169 t.marwood@campaspe.vic.gov.au Echuca wins gold at the VTIC Top Tourism Towns Awards! (L-R) Festivals & Events Coordinator - Belinda Owen, Tourism Development Lead - Cheryl Hammer, Tourism Support Officer - Karen Colvin and Campaspe Shire Mayor - Cr Daniel Mackrell.
Cr Rob Amos 0437 042 170 r.amos@campaspe.vic.gov.au
Mayor’s Message
Cr Zoe Cook 0439 151 937 z.cook@campaspe.vic.gov.au
As the days grow longer and the weather warms, there’s plenty happening across Campaspe Shire. From community festivals and sporting events to arts, culture and tourism experiences, spring is shaping up to be another exciting season. You can explore what’s coming up on pages 10 and 11, or through the Events Directory on our website.
Cr Paul Jarman 0473 012 406 p.jarman@campaspe.vic.gov.au
One of the highlights is Retirees on the River, a new 12-day program running from 7-18 September. Delivered in partnership with Murray River Council and the Echuca Moama Accommodation Association, the initiative will showcase our region to senior visitors and locals alike, through special offers, tours, events and unique local experiences. Turn to page 15 to learn more.
Cr Jessica Mitchell 0439 189 534 j.mitchell@campaspe.vic.gov.au Cr Luke Sharrock 0439 232 438 l.sharrock@campaspe.vic.gov.au
We were also thrilled to see Echuca and Rochester named as finalists in the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards. Thank you to everyone who got behind the campaign and helped showcase what makes our communities such special places to visit. We’re delighted to share that Echuca was awarded Gold and crowned Victoria’s Top Tourism Town for 2026! This result not only a tremendous achievement for Echuca, but also a win for the entire region. Celebrating our people is something we value highly, which is why I was pleased to see the success of the inaugural Campaspe Youth Awards. Co-designed by Council’s Youth Action Group and Youth Community Development Team, the awards recognise the incredible achievements and contributions of young people across our shire. Their passion, creativity and leadership are helping shape a bright future for our communities. If these stories inspire you, now is the perfect time to recognise other local champions. Nominations for the Campaspe Citizen of the Year Awards are now open, providing an opportunity to celebrate the volunteers, leaders and community members who make a lasting difference. Find out more on page 14. There’s also still time to enter our annual #myCampaspe Photo Competition. Thirteen winners will each receive a $100 gift voucher and have their photographs featured in Council’s 2027 calendar. Winners will be announced in October, with the community invited to vote for the calendar cover image. Thank you for your continued support, enthusiasm and pride in our communities. I look forward to seeing many of you at events and activities across the shire this spring.
Cr Daniel Mackrell Mayor, Campaspe Shire Council
Cr Adrian Weston 0428 320 464 a.weston@campaspe.vic.gov.au Cr John Zobec 0418 213 413 j.zobec@campaspe.vic.gov.au
Contact Hours 8.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday Telephone 03 5481 2200 or 1300 666 535 Email shire@campaspe.vic.gov.au Website www.campaspe.vic.gov.au Social
Customer Service Centres Echuca, Corner Hare and Heygarth Streets Kyabram, 19 Lake Road Rochester, 43-45 Mackay Street Rushworth, 33 High Street Tongala, 37 Mangan Street
Acknowledgement of Country The Shire of Campaspe is the traditional lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung, and Yorta Yorta Peoples. We acknowledge all First Peoples and their deep and enduring connection to lands and waterways, upheld through their cultural responsibilities to Country. We pay our respect to Elders past and present for their resilience, sharing of cultural knowledge, and strength in sustaining community and Culture. With a shared commitment to mutual respect, we walk the path of reconciliation together.
PAGE 2 | CAMPASPE TIMES NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2026
@CampaspeShireCouncil #campaspeshire campaspe-shire-council
You Said NO to a Costly Fourth Bin In April 2026, Campaspe Shire Council joined 35 other Victorian councils in the Let’s be Clear on Glass campaign, calling on the Victorian Government to reconsider the mandate for a fourth glass-only bin and explore more practical alternatives. In May, we took part in a statewide community survey to hear directly from residents. Nearly 25,000 Victorians responded, sending a clear message: they do not want a costly fourth bin for glass recycling. Across Victoria, 83% of respondents opposed the proposed purple-lidded glass-only bin, while 91% supported expanding the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to include glass wine and spirit bottles. In Campaspe Shire, opposition was even stronger. A total of 767 residents had their say, with 94% against introducing the glass-only bin and 96% supporting the inclusion of glass wine and spirit bottles in the CDS. The Victorian Government currently requires councils to introduce a separate glass-only kerbside collection by July 2027. Independent modelling estimates the change would cost a typical council around $4 million to implement, plus ongoing costs of about $27 per household each year. In response, the Let’s be Clear on Glass coalition has written to the Minister for Environment, urging the State Government to adopt a more practical, cost-effective approach and reconsider the July 2027 deadline. Read more about the campaign at www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/letsbeclearonglass
WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU | 03 5481 2200 | PAGE 3
Project Updates
Wilf Cox Pavilion, Kyabram Recreation Reserve In exciting news for the Kyabram community, the major redevelopment of the Wilf Cox Pavilion at Kyabram Recreation Reserve is nearing completion. Whilst delivery of the passenger lift was impacted by supply chain delays as a result of the conflict and fuel shortages in the Middle East (despite being ordered in October 2025) installation is now under way. With final compliance checks and finishing touches still to come, the project is expected to be completed soon. Keep an eye out for the Summer newsletter, where we’ll share a full project update and showcase the completed facility with more photos.
A step up for pedestrian safety in Ky
Kyabram service centre works
Pedestrian safety in Kyabram’s CBD has been boosted with three crossings upgraded in Bradley and Allan streets. Works included raised “wombat” crossings, improved lighting, clearer signage and line marking, and upgraded kerb and footpath connections to create safer, more accessible crossing points for everyone using the town centre. These improvements were possible thanks to a $290,000 investment from the Victorian Government’s Safe Local Roads and Streets Program, developed by the Department of Transport and Planning in partnership with the Transport Accident Commission.
Works are underway at the Kyabram Service Centre and Kyabram Community and Learning Centre (KCLC) as part of a $276,000 upgrade to improve accessibility and community facilities. The project will deliver upgraded accessible public toilets with baby-change facilities, a larger meeting room, office improvements, and enhancements to the KCLC reception and FoodShare areas. The planned works are expected to be completed by the September school holidays.
Stormwater upgrade supports Rochester’s future aquatic facility site Work is well underway on the Mary Street Stormwater Upgrade in Rochester, an important project that will improve drainage in the area and support the future Rochester aquatic facility. Following site preparation and tree removal, the works involve relocating a major stormwater pipe that previously ran beneath the former pool site and ensuring the network is ready to support the new facility. The $488,000 project is helping to deliver reliable infrastructure for the community for years to come.
PAGE 4 | CAMPASPE TIMES NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2026
EMERGENCY SERVICES EXPO 2026
SATURDAY, 24 OCTOBER | 10AM - 2PM | HOPWOOD GARDENS ECHUCA Campaspe Shire Council is bringing back the Emergency Services Expo, giving residents the chance to meet the people and organisations that help keep our community safe.
mergency vehicle and E equipment displays Interactive demonstrations and hands-on experiences
The free family-friendly event will feature emergency vehicle displays, interactive activities, preparedness information and opportunities to connect with local emergency responders and support agencies.
Emergency preparedness information and resources
Visitors can explore emergency equipment, learn practical preparedness tips, discover volunteering opportunities and enjoy a fun and informative day out for all ages.
Family-friendly activities
The expo aims to build community awareness, strengthen local emergency preparedness and provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the services that support our region.
Meet emergency services personnel and support organisations
Save the date and join us for a day of discovery, learning and community connection at the Emergency Services Expo.
Information about volunteering and community resilience
Echuca Named Victoria’s Top Tourism Town Echuca has been crowned Victoria’s Top Tourism Town for 2026, taking out Gold at the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) Top Tourism Town Awards. The award recognises destinations that deliver outstanding visitor experiences and support a thriving tourism industry and community. Adding to the region’s success, Rochester was named a finalist in the Small Tourism Town category, highlighting the strength of destinations across Campaspe Shire.
WATCH THE VIDEO
Echuca’s award-winning submission showcased the town’s rich heritage, vibrant events calendar, strong visitor economy and collaborative tourism industry. Following its Victorian win, Echuca will now represent the state at the national Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra this September.
Win with The waste education survey – otherwise known as the WickED survey - gives residents the chance to win 1 of 5 $100 Visa gift cards by helping us to support our shire’s waste needs and deliver effective waste education.
WIN
1 OF 5 VISA GIFT CARDS
Closes Monday, 28 September Scan the QR code, grab a hard copy at a service centre or library, or head to www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/wicked WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU | 03 5481 2200 | PAGE 5
Creative Campaspe From art workshops and exhibitions to community projects and creative opportunities, our Arts & Culture Team has been busy bringing creativity to life across Campaspe. Discover what’s happening and find out how you can get involved.
The Lonely Hut – Exhibition
Unearthed Exhibition
4 - 30 September | Kyabram Town Hall Gallery
18 September - 25 October | The Foundry Arts Space
The Lonely Hut brings together David Frazer’s The Lonely Boy III and 13 paintings from Council’s Rathbone Art Collection. Using Frazer’s solitary timber hut as a starting point, the exhibition explores lonely settler dwellings across the Murray River landscape. These weathered structures speak of distance, silence and place. Through this collection, the exhibition reflects on loneliness, perspective and the stories we project onto regional landscapes. Join us for the exhibition opening on Friday, 4 September at 6pm.
Council is excited to welcome back the ‘Unearthed’ Youth Arts Program for 2026. The Unearthed Youth Arts Program is a creative initiative to support the artistic development of young local emerging artists.
Successful grant recipient ‘STELLA’
Celebrate the launch of this year’s exhibition and discover a new body of work created by these talented local artists at the exhibition opening on Friday, 18 September from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
2025 Artist in Residence ‘The Overlapping Collective’
SPARK – Arts and Cultural Grants Program
Campaspe Artist in Residence (CAIR) Program
Our SPARK – Arts and Cultural Grants Program supports creative projects, artistic practice and new ideas. Grants of $5,000 to $10,000 are available for successful applicants.
We’re excited to launch the new Campaspe Artist in Residence (CAIR) Program, offering artists, curators and creative researchers dedicated time to develop their practice while connecting with the Campaspe region. Open to all career stages and disciplines, the program encourages community engagement and place-based creative exploration.
Visit www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/spark or contact our Arts & Culture team arts@campaspe.vic.gov.au for more information. Applications will open from Monday, 19 October until Friday, 20 November.
PAGE 6 | CAMPASPE TIMES NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2026
Expressions of Interest open 25 September to 30 October. Visit our website and social media channels for updates and application details.
Volunteer Corner A chance to contribute to community
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, whether for Council or elsewhere in our community, read on to find out why one of ours – Echuca Library volunteer Marika Szendroe – enjoys giving her time. Marika is a retired librarian, but you don’t need to have experience to volunteer with Council – just a willingness to help others. “I love volunteering,” Marika said. “I also volunteer at the hospital’s Cancer and Wellness Centre and I am the charity coordinator for the Rich River Quilters and Friends; we make items for local community groups.” What inspired you to start volunteering at the library? “I am a qualified librarian, now retired. Before moving to Echuca in August 2022, I knew Council Library Services Coordinator Jenny Mustey professionally through our shared library work. It was an obvious choice to get to know the library service in Campaspe and to use my library skills.” What does your role involve? What does a typical day look like? “I select written and audio books for residents at BUPA and Tongala on a fortnightly roster. We have a list of their interests and favourite authors. I usually spend a couple of hours gathering the items.” What do you enjoy most about volunteering at the library? “I love being back in the library and information space, using my skills to select items for avid readers.” Is there a moment or experience from your time volunteering that really stands out? “Recently I met the lady who takes the books I select to BUPA and Tongala; we had a lovely chat. I also received feedback from Council’s Community Outreach Coordinator Nerida Dye to say one of my ladies really enjoyed the books I had selected for her. That is lovely to hear.”
How has volunteering at the library impacted you personally? “Having worked in the library industry for 45 years, it is like going home. It makes me feel great to see the community using the space for many different activities.” What do you think makes your local library special in the community? “Jenny and her team offer an excellent service to the community; there is something for everyone. The author talks are great, and of course the weekly children’s activities.” What skills or experiences have you gained through volunteering? “Volunteering at the library has allowed me to learn about my new local community and I have participated in the Discovery Days.” What keeps you coming back and staying involved? “Given my background, I am passionate about public libraries and their role in the community. The Echuca library is such a welcoming place, with resources for everyone.” What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering? “Go for it, there are so many different ways to volunteer where you can use existing skills and knowledge, and there’s also the opportunity to learn. It’s a great way to meet new people, contribute to the community, and have fun.” If you could describe your volunteering experience in three words, what would they be? “Rewarding, fun, community.” For more information about volunteering with Council, visit www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/volunteer WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU | 03 5481 2200 | PAGE 7
Upcoming Events Date Fri, 4 Sep - Wed, 30 Sep Sun, 2 Aug - Wed, 30 Sep Sun, 9 Aug - Wed, 30 Sep Sun, 2 Aug - Sat, 26 Sep Mon, 7 Sep - Fri, 18 Sep Sat, 12 & Sun, 13 Sep Sun, 13 Sep Sun, 13 Sep Mon, 14 Sep Tue, 15 Sep Fri, 18 Sep Sat, 19 Sep - Tue, 22 Sep Fri, 25 - Sun, 27 Sep Sat, 3 Oct Sat, 3 Oct Sat, 3 Oct Sat, 3 Oct Sun, 4 Oct Mon, 5 Oct - Mon, 30 Nov Mon, 5 Oct - Mon, 30 Nov Tue, 6 - Thu, 8 Oct Sat, 10 Oct Fri, 16 & Sat, 17 Oct Sat, 17 Oct Sun, 18 Oct Sun, 18 Oct Tue, 20 - Fri, 23 Oct Fri, 23 Oct Fri, 23 Oct Sat, 24 Oct Sat, 24 Oct Fri, 23 - Sun, 25 Oct Sat, 24 Oct Fri, 30 Oct Sat, 31 Oct Tue, 3 Nov Thu, 5 Nov Sat, 7 & Sun, 8 Nov Wed, 11 Nov Sun, 15 Nov Sun, 15 Nov Mon, 16 - Fri, 20 Nov Wed, 18 Nov - Tue, 19 Jan Sat, 28 Nov
Please note that events may be cancelled or amended at short notice.
Event Location The Lonely Hut Exhibition Kyabram Town Hall Tatura Art Group Exhibition Kyabram Town Hall Amira Stark Exhibition Kyabram Town Hall Kyabram Art Group Kyabram Town Hall Retirees on the River Various locations - See page 15 American Iron Echuca Heritage Truck Display Rotary Park, Echuca Echuca Moama Mini Canoe Marathon Echuca Boat Ramp, Scenic Drive River of Secrets - Author Talk Echuca Library Australian Poetry Slam Workshop Echuca Library Australian Poetry Slam Campaspe Heat Echuca Library Unearthed Youth Arts Launch The Foundry Art Space Basketball Victoria Country Junior Jamboree Echuca Stadium, High Street Echuca Basketball Junior Tournament Echuca Stadium, High Street Gunbower Gold Cup Gunbower Race Course, 257 Dormoyle Rd Native Flower Showcase Masonic Lodge Hall, 426 High Street Tongala Town Wide Garage Sale Tongala - various Echuca Moama Doll and Bear Show Echuca Moama Uniting Church Celebrate Stanhope Food & Wine Festival Birdwood Ave, Stanhope Lois Evans - Textile Art Kyabram Town Hall Lockington Art Group Exhibition Kyabram Town Hall Elmore Field Days Elmore Events Centre Gunbower Spring Market Gunbower Butter Factory Festival of Stories Echuca Moama Echuca Library and various locations Kyabram Agricultural Spring Show Kyabram Showgrounds, Allan Street Celebrating 30 Years of Community Broadcasting Echuca East Recreation Reserve Campaspe Carp Catch - 13th Annual Rochester River Reserve Drachen Fest Elmore Events Centre, Rosaia Road 3rd Cavalry Regiment (Vietnam) Annual Service of Tongala Village Green & the Soundshell Commemoration of the Fallen Kyabram's 150th Birthday Celebration Wilf Cox Oval, Kyabram Rochester Motoring Club Show n Shine Rochester Racecourse Recreation Reserve The 4S Legacy - Doggy Day Out Echuca East Recreation Reserve/Dog Park Moama Motorama Moama Soundshell, Meninya Street Emergency Management Expo Hopwood Gardens, Echuca Kyabram Blue Light Halloween Disco Kyabram P-12 College Hall V8 Superboats Elmore Elmore Events Centre Echuca Races - Melbourne Cup Meeting Echuca Race Course, Scott Road Oaks Day Fundraising Luncheon - We are Vivid Moama Bowling Club Echuca Moama Show Echuca Show Grounds, Simmie Street Remembrance Day Services Various Celebrating 170 Years of Banding in Echuca Hopwood Gardens, Echuca Sweat vs Steam Hopwood Gardens, Echuca Massive Murray Paddle Echuca U3A University of the Third Age Shepparton Art Exhibition Kyabram Town Hall Perricoota Pop & Pour Festival Perricoota Road, Moama
Regular Events Markets
Get all the details at www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/eventsdirectory
chuca Farmers’ Market E Girgarre Farmers’ Produce and Craft Market Moama Market Hopwood Gardens Market Rushworth Market Kyabram Moonlit Market Makers Market & Repair Cafe
PAGE 8 | CAMPASPE TIMES NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2026
Get all the details at www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/eventsdirectory
5 SEP | 19 SEP | 3 OCT | 17 OCT | 7 NOV | 21 NOV 13 SEP | 11 OCT | 8 NOV 13 SEP | 27 SEP | 4 OCT | 18 OCT | 1 NOV | 15 NOV 12 SEP | 10 OCT | 14 NOV 19 SEP | 17 OCT | 21 NOV 26 SEP | 24 OCT | 28 NOV 12 SEP | 10 OCT | 14 NOV
Gunbower Spring Market
Festival of Stories
Saturday, 10 October | Gunbower Butter Factory Celebrate the arrival of Spring at this family-friendly afternoon in Gunbower. Cast a fishing line, sip cocktails, enjoy the tunes and browse local wares, gifts and produce.
Friday, 16 - Sunday, 18 October | Various locations A curated weekend of storytelling events across Echuca Moama, featuring author talks, live music, creative workshops and cultural experiences in the region’s historic venues and river landscapes. Visit www.festivalofstories.com.au for full details.
Featured Events
’re really Here’s four events we looking forward to!
Kyabram 150th Birthday Celebrations Friday, 23 October | Kyabram Recreation Reserve Featuring live local music, food trucks and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere, the celebrations mark 150 years of Kyabram’s history, people and community spirit and honour the town’s rich heritage. For other events happening across the month, visit www.visitkyabram.com.au.
Sports & Leisure Events
Community Events
chuca Races E Echuca Country Music Club - Monthly Concert Jigarre Jammin Echuca Harness Racing Club Rushworth Speedway Race Meet r Perfect Echuca - Free Monthly BBQ M Rochester Rotary Community Chat Mr Perfect Echuca - Free Monthly Coffee Meet Up Tough Guy Book Club
Remembrance Day Services Wednesday, 11 November | Various locations Local RSLs across Echuca, Girgarre, Kyabram, Tongala and Stanhope will host commemorative services honouring the service and sacrifice of Australian Defence Force personnel and offering communities the opportunity to gather and pay their respects on Remembrance Day. Visit www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/eventsdirectory for full details.
30 AUG | 19 OCT | 119 SEP | 13 NOV 20 SEP | 18 OCT | 15 NOV 26 SEP | 24 OCT | 28 NOV 22 SEP | 24 NOV 17 OCT | 7 NOV 6 SEP | 4 OCT | 1 NOV 17 SEP | 15 OCT | 19 NOV 18 SEP | 16 OCT | 20 NOV 2 SEP | 7 OCT | 4 NOV WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU | 03 5481 2200 | PAGE 9
Overview Situated on Yorta Yorta Country on the Midland Highway between Bendigo and Shepparton, Stanhope is a welcoming farming community with a proud agricultural history and strong community spirit. The town grew following World War I when returned soldiers settled farms in the area, and today continues to serve surrounding farming families and businesses.
Spotlight on
Stanhope
Known as the “LegenDairy Capital”, Stanhope is surrounded by some of Victoria’s most productive dairy country and is home to one of the state’s largest milk processing facilities. Despite its modest size, the town boasts a primary school, recreation facilities, local businesses, thriving football and netball teams and active community groups. With a population of around 826 people, Stanhope proves that small towns can make a big impact.
Keep your finger on the pulse of the Stanhope community with the Stanhope Business Centre’s About Town newsletter. To subscribe, email stanhopebc@gmail.com
Find out more about community groups, local businesses and events via www.stanhopevic.org.au.
Stanhope Pool Midland Highway, Stanhope. Open November to March. Three pools, with the smaller pool and rows of seating under shade.
Stanhope Library Depot and Business Centre 25 Birdwood Avenue, Stanhope. Opening Hours 11am - 3pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday.
Shine Bright Central Kindergarten Registrations for Shine Bright Stanhope Kindergarten open on 1 May annually.
Send us your Snaps! The 2026 #MyCampaspe Calendar Photo Competition is officially underway and there’s just under four weeks left to get your entries in! This is your chance to showcase the beauty, spirit and people of Campaspe, with the winning photographers taking home $100 per photo that’s chosen to feature in the calendar! Entrants can submit up to five high-quality photos captured right here in Campaspe Shire, and we’re especially looking for images that tell a story and celebrate our community - so don’t forget to include people where you can. Whether it’s laughter at a local event, a quiet moment with loved ones or your fur baby, or a snapshot of everyday life, these are the images that truly bring Campaspe Shire to life. PAGE 10 | CAMPASPE TIMES NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2026
Investing in Local Roads
Celebrate Stanhope One of the town’s biggest annual events is the Stanhope Food and Wine Festival, held in Birdwood Avenue each October. The popular street festival showcases local food and wine producers, live music, family activities and children’s entertainment, attracting visitors from across the region to celebrate everything that makes Stanhope special.
A significant infrastructure project near Stanhope is set to improve safety and accessibility for residents and visitors alike. A 5km section of Two Tree Road at Carag Carag will be upgraded from gravel to a sealed all-weather road following the announcement of $3,782,112 in Australian Government funding through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.
Mark your calendars: Sunday, 4 October | 11AM - 4PM
The upgrade will improve access to Biomix, an important waste facility serving Campaspe Shire as well as neighbouring municipalities, and help ensure reliable access year round, particularly during wet weather.
Watch this video from the 2024 festival.
Stanhope’s Must-See Locations
A piece of political history
Montevideo Maru Memorial Mural
The LegenDairy Stanhope Mural
Right in the heart of Stanhope on Birdwood Avenue stands a bust of Sir John McEwen. Sir John was a local farmer and resident before entering federal politics and later became Australia’s 19th Prime Minister, serving briefly following the disappearance of Harold Holt in 1967.
Located in McEwen Place, the Montevideo Maru Memorial Mural commemorates the 1942 sinking of the Montevideo Maru, Australia’s worst maritime disaster and honours three Stanhope servicemen who lost their lives. Created by the Stanhope RSL Sub-Branch and Stanhope and District Development Committee, it is a tribute to local service and sacrifice.
Located on the Lactalis dairy processing factory in Stanhope, this large mosaic mural is made from more than 11,000 community photos depicting the town’s early days, local events, farming history, the evolution of the dairy industry and the people who continue to shape Stanhope’s dairy farming community.
Need some inspiration? You could capture:
Selected photos won’t just feature in the
•L ocal events and festivals
2027 Campaspe Shire calendar — they’ll
•C ommunity spirit in action •S port and recreation •W aterways, countryside and farmlands
also become part of Council’s official image library, helping promote our region in publications, reports and on social media. Your photo could help tell
•A rts, culture and creativity
the story of Campaspe far and wide.
•S pecial moments with family, friends or pets
So don’t wait - grab your camera,
•F lora and fauna •H olidays and festive times in Campaspe
start snapping, and show us what makes Campaspe special to you.
To enter, scan the QR code, or head to our website
WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU | 03 5481 2200 | PAGE 11
Campaspe’s Arts and Culture Team were the recipients of the Special Projects award for Ripple Fest at the LG Pro Awards for Excellence in June. Photo: LGPro.
Out+ About
Njernda CEO John Mitchell, Deputy Mayor Cr Marwood, Debra Cowley, Judy Atkinson and Sen Sgt Justin McAuley of Victoria Police joined together in a flag raising ceremony at the NAIDOC morning tea in July.
Campaspe Shire officers and Councillors have been out and about over the past few months attending events, meetings and engaging with the community. Here’s a few snaps!
Cr Jess Mitchell on-air at EMFM during Campaspe’s monthly appearance with Ron Wood on his Out & About show.
Campaspe welcomed 30 new citizens at the July citizenship ceremony. PAGE 12 | CAMPASPE TIMES NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2026
Mayor Daniel Mackrell and Cr Paul Jarman with the updated aquatic funding thermometer in Rochester following the Victorian Government’s commitment of $3.95m to the project in addition to Council’s $5m.
Council’s Tourism Team Karen Colvin and Cheryl Hammer with Despina Karatzias (middle) hosted a free Visitor Experience Workshop to support tourism businesses.
Mayor Daniel Mackrell, Council’s Arts and Culture team Pia Bonzi and Kris Tito, and artists Ellen Lee and Anne Churches celebrate the opening of the Here + There art exhibition in Kyabram.
Council officers Kristy Adams and Kyle Hodgkinson attended the St Joseph’s College VCE careers expo to share information about career pathways in July.
Council’s Events Team Nicole Anderson and Belinda Owen, together with workshop facilitator Cathy Treasure, hosted a free Event Management Bootcamp for local businesses and organisations in May. (L-R) Moyne Shire Deputy Mayor, Cr Myra Murrihy; Chief Operating Officer, Royal Life Saving Australia, RJ Houston; Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Mackrell; Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari; and Yass Valley Mayor, Cr Jasmin Jones at the ALGA National General Assembly in Canberra.
Aunty Denise Morgan-Bulled (far right) and community members at the unveiling of the Weaving Waterways public artwork at Aquatic Reserve, Echuca.
Cr Tony Marwood, Cr Jessica Mitchell, Council officers Randal Mathieson and Astrid O’Farrell attended the meet and greet session with Victoria Opposition Leader Jess Wilson MP and Danny O’Brien MP who visited Campaspe on their Fresh Start Tour.
Mayor Daniel Mackrell and Cr Zoe Cook and attended the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) National General Assembly in Canberra in June to advocate for Campaspe to Federal Government representatives.
WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU | 03 5481 2200 | PAGE 13
NOMINATE A LOCAL LEGEND FOR THE
2027
Citizen of the Year Categories
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for their community? Nominations are open for the 2027 Campaspe Citizen of the Year Awards, and Council is encouraging residents to put forward local people and groups who make Campaspe stronger, kinder and more connected.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR
The awards celebrate volunteers, leaders, community groups and everyday locals whose time, care and commitment make a real difference across the shire. To view the selection criteria or submit a nomination, visit www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/nowopen.
Campaspe celebrates inspiring young people
Nominations close Sunday, 1 November.
CAMPASPE
YOUTH AWARDS 2026
Congratulations to:
In August we recognised the outstanding achievements of local young people at the inaugural Campaspe Youth Awards. The program celebrates young people aged 12 to 25 who are making a positive impact through leadership, community service, sustainability, creativity, inclusion and innovation. Award recipients were honoured at a celebration event at the Echuca Racecourse, featuring dinner and performances by the Njernda Dance Group, Matilda Altoft and local band Unnamed. A huge thank you to the Victorian Government’s Engage! Program and to our generous sponsors for making these awards possible. PAGE 14 | CAMPASPE TIMES NEWSLETTER | SPRING 2026
Charley Schwencke Excellence in Leadership (12-17 years)
Rylie Stewart - Excellence in Innovation and Enterprise (12-17 years)
Eden Beaumont - Excellence in Leadership (18-25 years)
Lily Horton - Excellence in Arts and Culture (12-17 years)
Malik Day-Kennedy - Excellence in Community Impact (12-17 years)
Luca Micalizzi - Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion (12-17 years)
Belinda Threlfall - Excellence in Community Impact (18-25 years) Beau Shotton Worlley Excellence in Environmental Sustainability (12-17 years)
Rylie Stewart - Youth Peer Recognition Award
Retirees on the River - Seniors’ Celebrations Coming to Echuca Moama from Monday, 7 September to Friday, 18 September, offering 12 days of experiences designed for seniors and retirees. Enjoy accommodation packages, guided tours, workshops, dining specials, entertainment, exclusive offers and unique local experiences. Whether you’re looking to relax by the river, socialise or explore somewhere new, there’s something for everyone. Delivered in partnership by the Echuca Moama Accommodation Association, Campaspe Shire Council and Murray River Council, the program showcases the best of the region’s hospitality, history and natural beauty. Start planning your visit at www.visitechucamoama.com.au/retirees-on-the-river
Seniors Concert returns to Lockington in 2026 Come along to Lockington to The Stiletto Groove, a talented four-piece act who deliver the hits that’ll have you hitting the dance floor, even after you’ve retired your heels!
THE STILETTO GROOVE
Join the fun and enjoy your favourite tunes of the 60s and 70s as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival.
Thursday, 15 October | doors open 12:30pm Concert at 1.30pm then afternoon tea Lockington Community Centre
Disability toilet, wheelchair access and streetside parking. Tickets are FREE and include afternoon tea! Book via www.trybooking.com/DMFPK or call Council on 1300 666 535 or scan the QR code.
Proudly presented by Campaspe Shire Council in partnership with the Victoria Government celebrating the 2026 Victorian Seniors Festival
WWW.CAMPASPE.VIC.GOV.AU | 03 5481 2200 | PAGE 15
Campaspe Times
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Council Service Centre
Council Service Centre & Library
Council Service Centre & Library
Council Service Centre & Library
Council Service Centre & Library
Colbinabbin General Store
Girgarre
Gunbower
Lockington
Nanneella
Stanhope
Toolleen
Girgarre Community Cottage
Gunbower Post Office
Lockington Business Centre
Nanneella General Stanhope Store & Post Office Business Centre
Echuca Library Echuca War Memorial Aquatic Centre
Toolleen Pub & Post Office
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Request a mailed copy If you’d like the Campaspe Times posted to you, complete this form and return it to a Council service centre, or mail to: Campaspe Shire Council PO Box 35 Echuca VIC 3564 You can also call 1300 666 535 for assistance.
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