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MITCHELL-STRATHBOGIE EDITION
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 2025
H-G17
COUNCIL PUSH FOR DROUGHT SUPPORT
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■ Mitchell Shire Council has voted unanimously to push the State Gopvernment for more drought support. Councillors agreed to write a letter to the Agriculture Minister , Ros Spence, requesting that the drought support and eligibility for the $10,000 grants and fodder transport costs also be allowed in the Drought Funds Criteria and this be extended to the Mitchell Shire’s farmers operating in the Division of Nicholls who are suffering from the abnormal drought conditions. The motion was moved by Cr Timothy Hanson and seconded by Cr Nathan Clark. The State Government says that it is providing a further $75 million in vital drought support to farmers across the state. This new funding builds on the $69 million of existing support, bringing the total to $144 million to help farmers manage drought conditions. Statewide, the package includes continuation of statewide technical decision-making, mental health support and administration for farm debt mediation until June 2026 ($5.9 million), along with paused indexation and reduced duties, fees and charges ($6.3 million) and the on-farm Kangaroo Control Rebate program. In south west Victoria, which has been in drought fortwo years, targeted household relief payments ($2 million) and cashflow relief through Primary Producer Support Payments ($35.8 million) is being funded.
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● Cr Timothy Hanson
SHIRE CELEBRATES NAIDOC WEEK
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● Cr Laura Binks
■ Strathbogie Shire’s Cr Laura Binks has spoken at Council about local observances of NAIDOC Week. “July 6 to 13 is NAIDOC Week and marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience,” Cr binks told the latest meeting of Strathbogie Shire Council. “The 2025 theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’, celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of First Nations young leaders, the vision of Indigenous communities, and the legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander ancestors. “Council have provided funding to Avenel Active to Celebrate NAIDOC Week with a free screening of two short films and Welcome to Country from Taungurung Elder Aunty Jo Honeysett. “The event is happening on Friday July 18, at the Avenel Memorial Hall and I look forward to seeing my fellow Councillors and many community members at the event,” Cr Binks said. Mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy said that National Reconciliation Week was an important moment for reflection, respect and unity. She had attended a community celebration at Shadforth Reserve, alongside Cr Laura Binks and CEO Rachelle Quattrocchi. Local families joined in a celebration of culture and connection, the Mayor said.