Mayoral Matters - April 2026
Published on 23 April 2026
Over the last month there have been several exciting activities occurring which l am pleased to report.
Warracknabeal enjoyed another successful year with Easter in the 'Beal, featuring a wide variety of events, including the popular street parade that attracted many tourists and visitors.
It was wonderful to see people enjoying themselves during the Easter holiday, despite the ongoing fuel difficulties. The region was bustling with activity for Easter, especially thanks to our waterways and silo art, which attracted many visitors.
It was a privilege to officially open the Hopetoun Recreation Reserve Netball Sports Lighting Upgrade Project on 16 April. This project was prioritised through local masterplans and strategies to improve inadequate netball court lighting. Led by the Reserve Committee with support from Southern Mallee Thunder Football Netball Club, the project aimed to enhance safety, accessibility, and participation. Council submitted a successful funding application to the 2024–25 Country Football and Netball Program, securing $132,402 from the Victorian Government and $45,000 from the Reserve Committee for a total cost of $177,402. Council managed delivery, which included installing six new 200 LUX LED lighting poles, dimmer controls, and an electrical upgrade to meet Australian standards. The upgraded lighting now offers safer, more inclusive facilities, supports increased participation, and improves match-day experiences for the community.
I am delighted to report that the Murtoa Netball and Tennis Court Project has been substantially completed, with the Minyip–Murtoa Football Netball Club holding its first training session on the new courts on 09 April 2026. Minor outstanding works remain, including the installation of safety bollards and asphalt works in the car park area, which will be finalised in the near future. We look forward to attending the official opening event which is being planned for May 2026.
The Hopetoun Swimming Pool and Changeroom Project is taking shape. The changeroom component is under construction and will be completed prior to 30 June 2026. The Swimming Pool Upgrades component is nearing commencement from 20 April 2026 and is expected to be completed prior to the start of the upcoming pool season.
We also look forward to works commencing in the coming months at the Minyip Recreation Reserve for the installation of their new football oval lighting towers.
Finally, we extend our congratulations to Yarriambiack Shire resident Ryan Milgate for his appointment as President of the Victorian Farmers Federation. Ryan is a dedicated champion for farming, highly regarded throughout both the region and the industry. We wish him every success as he represents and supports a significant part of our community.
Cr Andrew McLean
Mayor