Livestock exchange strategic review
COUNCIL is reviewing information from more than 450 contributions from the community regarding the Swan Hill Regional Livestock Exchange.
I extend my thanks to all those who have participated and provided their feedback via the appropriate channels.
Council is now preparing the next steps, which will include a council-led community briefing or similar event at a date to be confirmed.
Next Tuesday, May 6, I will present to a Swan Hill Residents and Ratepayers Association forum.
While council will have limited capacity to respond to questions on the night, I will be speaking to provide background on the strategic review and outline the process currently underway.
It’s important to highlight, once again, that no decisions have been made at this stage.
The strategic review report remains available on council’s website, and it offers a detailed snapshot of the saleyards’ operations and outlines several management options – from continuing current operations to exploring leasing models or ceasing operations entirely.
Council welcomes innovative ideas and values community input as we continue to work through this important review and we remain committed to keeping the community informed as the process continues.
Council plan and community vision community workshops
THIS week, a number of community workshops were held across the municipality as part of council’s work to develop a new council plan and review our community vision.
It was pleasing to see so many residents get involved, sharing ideas, raising local priorities and engaging in thoughtful discussions about the future of our region.
These sessions provided an important opportunity for community members to speak directly with councillors and council staff, helping to shape the long-term direction of our municipality.
Council sincerely thanks everyone who participated – we value your input and look forward to continuing the conversation as the planning process progresses.
Another way to get involved is by completing our online survey.
The survey is open until 5pm on Friday, May 16, and is a great opportunity to share your thoughts if you were unable to attend a workshop.
Every voice counts, and your feedback will help shape the future of our council plan and ultimately your community.
To complete the survey, please visit letstalk.swanhill.vic.gov.au or pop into one of our offices for a hard copy.
Don’t forget – have your say on council’s draft budget
THERE is still time to share your feedback on Swan Hill Rural City Council’s 2025/26 draft budget.
The draft budget outlines a $42.07 million investment in key projects across our municipality – from road and drainage upgrades to revitalisation works in Swan Hill, and essential infrastructure in our smaller towns.
It also ensures the continued delivery of more than 70 essential services, all within the State Government’s 3 per cent rate cap.
Submissions close at 4pm on Friday, May 16 and will be considered at a special council meeting on Tuesday, June 3, ahead of final adoption on Tuesday, June 17.
Your input helps shape the priorities that matter most – don’t miss the chance to have your say.
Make your vote count
THE Federal Election is currently underway with election day tomorrow.
I encourage everyone to consider not just what you want personally but also reflect on the importance of fair and sustainable funding for regional communities like ours.
Your vote plays a critical role in shaping the level of support our municipality receives for the key projects that matter to you and your family.
Our council has big ambitions for communities in our municipality – projects that will shape the future of our region for generations to come.
From infrastructure upgrades to community facilities, we are committed to building a stronger, more vibrant municipality.
When you head to the polls tomorrow, I urge you to think about the future you want to see and support the candidates and policies that will deliver the funding our
community deserves.
Regardless of the election outcome, council remains firmly committed to advocating for our fair share.
We will continue to champion the needs of our municipality and push for the resources and recognition our region deserves to grow and prosper.
