Mayoral Matters March 2026

Published on 26 March 2026

Over the past month or so we have delivered the Coffee with a Councillor session. Our final session concluded on Monday 23 March. It was valuable to visit the various townships across the Shire and engage directly with residents.

This month, I participated in several productive meetings focused primarily on housing. We convened with stakeholders to assess progress at the Hopetoun Former School site, organised a drop-in session with E2E Growth Consultants to discuss Warracknabeal Housing initiatives, and attended the Murtoa Community Meeting, where recent housing developments and advancements were highlighted.

While challenges persist and at times the work feels formidable, we remain confident that our continued efforts and advocacy will yield positive results.

We were pleased to welcome Emma Kealy, Member of Parliament for Lowan, who joined us in visiting Q&A Hay. The establishment of this latest hay exporting enterprise in the Wimmera, locally owned by two local farmers, is a promising development for our Shire.

We look forward to new employment opportunities and the prospect of welcoming new residents to join our vibrant communities.

Additionally, I met with Jade Benham, Member of Parliament for Mallee, to address the significant renewal gap of $63 million projected over the next decade

should additional intervention and funding not be secured for the maintenance of our roadways and infrastructure assets.

With the Easter holiday period approaching before the next Council meeting, I would like to extend my best wishes for a safe and restful break. For those travelling, please take care on the roads and enjoy your holiday.

Cr Andrew McLean

Mayor, Yarriambiack Shire Council