Find Your Future at Golden Plains Careers Expo
The Golden Plains Careers Expo will return in 2026, welcoming people of all ages from across the Shire and surrounding regions to explore future study, training and employment opportunities.
The event will be held at the YMCA in Bannockburn on Thursday 4 June, running from 10am to 5pm. The Expo offers a chance for community members to connect directly with industry leaders, local employers and education providers, while gaining insight into a wide range of career pathways.
Visitors can speak with representatives from sectors including education and training, emergency services, the Australian Defence Force, local government, agriculture and many others.
The Golden Plains Careers Expo is supported and funded by the Victorian State Government’s Engage initiative.
Food options will be available at the event. For more information, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/events
Further Feedback Sought on Draft Asset Policy
Golden Plains Shire Council endorsed the Draft Community Asset Policy (the Draft Policy) for a further round of public exhibition following its meeting on Tuesday 28 April.
The Draft Policy was first released for community feedback in March 2026, generating six submissions. Community feedback highlighted concerns about insurance and costs for volunteer groups, the impact on existing community assets, and the need for clearer guidance and supporting information.
As part of the next stage of consultation, Council is also hosting three community sessions on:
• Tuesday 12 May from 1 to 2pm, The Well, 19 Heales Street, Smythesdale
• Monday 18 May from 1 to 2pm, Golden Plains Civic Centre, 2 Pope Street, Bannockburn
• Tuesday 19 May from 6.30 to 7.30pm, online
Feedback on the Draft Policy is open until 5pm, Thursday 21 May 2026 and can be completed online at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations. Registrations for the community sessions are also available at this link.
Berrybank Wind Farm Grants Open Now
Applications for this year’s Berrybank Wind Farm Community Grants Program are open now.
Applicants are eligible to apply for grant funding in three categories:
• Tourism
• Economic Development
• Climate Change Applications close at 2pm on Monday 1 June 2026. For further information about the program, contact Council’s Community Development & Grants Officer at communitygrants@gplains.vic.gov.au or call 5220 7111.
Seniors Festival 2026 Expressions of Interest
Council is inviting community groups, businesses, and organisations to express their interest in hosting an event for the 2026 Victorian Seniors Festival.
The Victorian Seniors Festival will take place from 1 to 31 October, celebrating ageing and providing opportunities for older adults to connect and engage with others.
Ways to get involved:
• Host an open day.
• Host a "come and try" session for an existing activity offered by your business or community group.
• Provide a discounted or free activity. Express your interest by contacting Council’s Community Inclusion Team on 5220 7111 or email enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au