Regional visits

From 25 – 28 February 2025, the Governor participated in an official visit to Wellington and East Gippsland.

The visit was a chance to meet some of the Victorians who call this region home and get a better understanding of what’s important to them.

Facilitated with the assistance of Wellington Shire Council and East Gippsland Shire Council, engagements across a range of sectors offered an insight into the local issues and priorities for these communities.

Key themes

Agriculture and manufacturing

In Wellington, the Governor paid a visit to Hussey & Co – Australia’s largest exporter of baby leaf salads – as well as a visit to Hillside Dairies which recently installed automated milking systems to improve operations.

The Governor also toured Australian Sustainable Hardwoods to get an understanding of how this local business operates and continues to innovate today.

In East Gippsland, the Governor met with representatives from the local agricultural sector, including Gippsland Agricultural Group and Food and Fibre Gippsland, at a roundtable to discuss ideas and challenges.

Education and infrastructure

The visit to Wellington commenced with briefing from the local council, before a visit to the Southerly Ten project office saw the Governor receive a briefing on the proposed offshore wind farm’s potential to supply a large portion of Victoria’s electricity, while also creating substantial local jobs and investment.

The Governor also visited the RAAF Base East Sale – home to the Air Academy, supporting a capacity of up to 700 personnel at any given time.

In East Gippsland, the Governor received a briefing from the Mayor and the CEO of the local council, before a tour of the TAFE Gippsland Seamec campus highlighted the importance of local education in the region.

A civic reception hosted by East Gippsland Shire Council brought together community members from a range of sectors to share stories and visions for the future.

A tour of Bairnsdale Neighbourhood House showcased the community spirit that thrives in this region, as the Governor spoke with volunteers to learn about their work to support others.

First Peoples

The Governor’s regional visit saw her travel to the lands of the Gunaikurnai People.

Visits to the Wulgunggo Ngalu Learning Place, Gegac Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place and the Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust provided insights into cultural heritage in the region, as well as the important work of community leaders today.

Background information

Wellington

Wellington is a large shire which includes a strong agricultural base and important secondary and tertiary industries, notably in the largest centre, Sale.

Wellington is home to a major prison, the Longford gas plant, an RAAF base and the Ninety Mile Beach.

The main industries include oil and gas extraction and agriculture.

For more information, visit Wellington Shire Council.

East Gippsland

East Gippsland Shire, in south-east Victoria, covers the second largest area in Victoria.

The Shire includes an extensive coastline, a major lakes and river system, rugged high country, extensive national parks and state forests.

The shire's economy is based on tourism, agriculture, horticulture, forestry and fishing. The main industries include oil and gas extraction, agriculture.

For more information, visit East Gippsland Shire Council.

From 12 – 13 December 2024, the Governor participated in an official visit to Mitchell Shire Council.

It marked the Governor’s second visit to the Shire, following a visit to flood affected regions earlier in the year.

Following a briefing with Mitchell Shire Council, the Governor visited Willowmavin Primary School where she was welcomed by the Principal and School Captains for a tour.

The Governor also visited Kilmore District Hospital, where she received a briefing, toured the hospital and met with nursing students on placement from Charles Sturt University, before visiting Dianella Nursing Home, where she met with staff and attended an afternoon tea with residents.

Concluding the Regional Visit, the Governor attended a bicentennial commemoration of the Hume and Hovell exploration party, where she delivered a speech and unveiled a new plaque at the same site where her predecessor, Colonel The Right Honourable George Edward John Mowbray Rous, Earl of Stradbroke, KCMG CB CVO CBE ADC, celebrated the centenary milestone in 1924.

Background information

Mitchell Shire

Located 40 kilometres north of Melbourne, Mitchell Shire is Victoria’s fastest growing municipality.

The Shire has an estimated population of 49,000, which is expected to grow to 170,000 people by 2041, with most of this growth anticipated to occur in and around the southern townships of Beveridge, Kilmore/Kilmore East and Wallan.

Agricultural, equine and tourism industries are important contributors to the local economy.

For more information, visit Mitchell Shire Council.

From 13 – 16 August 2024, the Governor participated in an official visit to Hindmarsh and West Wimmera.

This region and its people have always stood out in Victorian history as a place of unique character, ingenuity and resourcefulness.

The program, facilitated with Hindmarsh Shire Council and West Wimmera Shire Council, offered the opportunity to engage in discussions with community leaders and get a firsthand insight into local issues and visions for the future.

Key themes

Local business

Major businesses such as Luv-a-Duck, Ahrens and GrainFlow are integral to employment and economic output in the region.

The Governor visited these businesses in Hindmarsh to hear about their innovative operations.

A roundtable with local farmers also offered an insight into their work, its challenges and priorities for the future.

The theme of agriculture continued in West Wimmera with tours of Hannaton Poll Merinos & White Suffolks and Miga Lake Flowers, demonstrating how these two very different farms share a commitment to producing the highest quality products.

Service delivery

Following a briefing from the Hindmarsh Shire Council, the Governor met with community members at a civic reception in Nhill. A meeting with the Hindmarsh Shire Youth Council also offered the chance to discuss local priorities.

In Dimboola, the Governor met with student representatives from Dimboola Memorial Secondary College and unveiled a plaque to commemorate the school’s centenary year at the site.

The visit was also a chance to speak with teachers and hear about their experiences in education in regional Victoria.

In West Wimmera, the Governor received a briefing on local issues and opportunities from West Wimmera Shire Council.

Meetings with Harrow emergency services volunteers, as well as staff at the Harrow Bush Nursing Centre, were a chance to hear firsthand how communities work to overcome the barriers of regional life.

Tourism

Between engagements on the visit, the Governor viewed the silo art in Dimboola and Goroke, which form part of the Silo Art Trail - Australia’s largest outdoor gallery.

Visits to the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre and the Harrow Discovery Centre also offered an insight into the history of these communities and the volunteer spirit that thrives today.

The Governor concluded the regional tour with a ceremonial tree planting at the Kaniva Wetlands & Fauna Park, joined by the West Wimmera Shire Council and Lions Club volunteers.

Background information

Hindmarsh

Hindmarsh Shire is in the Wimmera-Mallee region, about 350 kms northwest of Melbourne.

It is bordered in the north by the Big Desert / Wyperfeld National Park, and in the south by the Little Desert National Park.

The economy of Hindmarsh is based largely on dryland, broadacre farming, especially grain (wheat, barley and oats) and sheep, but in recent years has diversified into the production of oilseeds and legumes. Agricultural manufacture and tourism are also important.

For more information, visit Hindmarsh Shire Council.

West Wimmera

West Wimmera lies in western Victoria on the South Australian border, about halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide.

The economy of the shire is dominated by agricultural production, particularly wheat, sheep and vegetables.

The area also boasts a large variety of natural environments, including the Big Desert Wilderness Park, the Little Desert National Park and about 3,000 wetlands.

For more information, visit West Wimmera Shire Council.

From 30 April – 3 May 2024, the Governor participated in an official visit to Mildura and Swan Hill.

Situated in the North-West corner of Victoria, the Mallee region is a unique environment that has provided opportunities and challenges for many generations.

This area has been defined by a rich history of innovation to work with the land in key sectors of agriculture, forestry and fishing.

The official visit with Mildura Rural City Council and Swan Hill Rural City Council was a chance to learn more about the region’s history, tour some innovative local businesses and engage with community members to understand issues and priorities.

Key themes

Local history

During the visit, the Governor toured the Psyche Bend Pumping Station and the Chaffey Trail in Mildura to gain a better understanding of the city's history.

The Governor also attended the Red Cliffs War Memorial, taking the opportunity to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of Victoria.

In Robinvale, the Governor toured the Robinswood Historic Homestead and planted a tree in Robinvale Memorial Park to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Sister City relationship with Villers-Bretonneux.

The regional tour concluded with a tour of the Lake Boga Silo Art and the Catalina Flying Boat Museum.

Industry and innovation

Tours of the Mildura Fruit Company and GTS Freight Management offered the chance to speak to employees about their work to support trade and exports.

A visit to the Australian Garlic Factory also provided an insight into how local farming has evolved over time, with the company now progressing innovative research into the anti-viral properties of its garlic.

As part of the visit to Ararat, the Governor toured local businesses AME Systems and Gason to meet with workers and hear about their innovative approaches, which are delivering significant benefits to the local community.

While in Swan Hill, the Governor also toured Cobram Estate to learn more about the agricultural strength of this region.

Community engagement

Civic receptions held at both Mildura and Swan Hill were opportunities to meet with community members and reflect on this region’s important role in our State.

A visit to Red Cliffs East Primary School was a chance to speak with students and hear about their plans for the future as the school celebrates its centenary. The Governor also attended a morning tea with students from Lake Boga Primary School.

In Swan Hill, the Governor officially opened Mully’s Place – an inspired repurposing of function space at the Swan Hill Town Hall, giving locals and visitors a place to share in the experience of food, drinks, and live music.

Named after community member and former Town Hall Manager, Daryl “Mully” Pearce, the space provides for community and creativity in Swan Hill.

Background information

Mildura

Situated in north west Victoria, Mildura Rural City covers almost ten per cent of the State.

The region’s landscape includes unique Mallee vegetation, broad acre grain properties, intensive horticultural farms and vibrant towns.

The beautiful Murray River winds its way through much of the municipality and is a focal point for visitors and about 57,156 people who call the region home.

For more information, visit Mildura Rural City Council.

Swan Hill

Swan Hill is principally an agricultural and horticultural region deriving its income from these industries and the businesses that service them.

The municipality is bordered by the Murray River for over 300 kilometres and is highly dependent on it for irrigation, domestic and industrial water supplies as well as active and passive recreational pursuits.

Swan Hill and Robinvale are the two largest service centres in the municipality, however a number of smaller towns such as Lake Boga, Manangatang, Nyah, Nyah West, Piangil, Ultima and Woorinen South offer a variety of lifestyles.

For more information, visit Swan Hill Rural City Council.

From 13 – 14 March 2024, the Governor participated in an official visit to flood affected regions in Murrindindi, Mitchell and Campaspe Shires.

The visit was an opportunity for the Governor to visit communities impacted by the mid-January 2024 Victorian storms and floods emergency and hear about the recovery process.

Following a briefing from the Murrindindi Shire Council, the Governor visited the Yea Caravan Park and a local property – both of which were affected by the flooding event.

The Governor also received a briefing from Mitchell Shire Council, followed by a tour of the town and a visit to the local SES Unit, before attending a dinner with flood-affected local business owners, where the Governor spoke with guests about their experiences.

In Rochester, the Governor met with the Rochester SES Unit to hear about the response to the floods and preparations for future threats, before attending a morning tea with the Campaspe Shire Council, flood recovery staff and community members.

Background information

Murrindindi Shire

Murrindindi Shire is situated on Melbourne's peri-urban fringe, spanning 3879 square kilometres and encompassing the rural townships of Alexandra, Eildon, Kinglake, Marysville and Yea.

The majority of the land in the Shire is classified as agricultural and agribusiness, encompassing beef production, forestry, fishing and horticulture form key industries, as does tourism.

The major industries of Murrindindi Shire include primary production, forestry, tourism, light manufacturing and engineering.

For more information, visit Murrindindi Shire Council.

Mitchell Shire

Located 40 kilometres north of Melbourne, Mitchell Shire is Victoria’s fastest growing municipality.

The Shire has an estimated population of 49,000, which is expected to grow to 170,000 people by 2041, with most of this growth anticipated to occur in and around the southern townships of Beveridge, Kilmore/Kilmore East and Wallan.

Agricultural, equine and tourism industries are important contributors to the local economy.

For more information, visit Mitchell Shire Council.

Campaspe Shire

The Shire of Campaspe is located in the northern part of the Victoria. It covers an area of 4,519 square kilometres and has a growing population of over 38,000 people.

Campaspe Shire is a predominantly rural area, but has significant residential areas in the townships of Echuca and Kyabram.

Land is used mainly for agriculture, particularly dairy farming, cereal and grain growing and sheep grazing. Tourism is also an important industry.

For more information, visit Campaspe Shire Council.

From 13 – 16 February 2024, the Governor participated in an official visit to Ararat, Moyne and Warrnambool.

With a busy program of engagements, the tour was a chance to gain an insight into the communities, businesses and institutions that are based in this part of the State.

Briefings with Ararat Rural City Council, Moyne Shire Council and Warrnambool City Council outlined local issues and opportunities, which were reinforced by engagements with community members.

The regional visit highlighted the impact of innovation, education, and volunteering in these communities.

Key themes

Industry and innovation

• As part of the visit to Ararat, the Governor toured local businesses AME Systems and Gason to meet with workers and hear about their innovative approaches, which are delivering significant benefits to the local community.
• A tour of the Ararat Jobs & Technology Precinct at the Federation University campus offered an insight into what opportunities lie ahead for the region in terms of research and future industries.
• Similarly, a visit to the Hycel Technology Hub at the Deakin University Warrnambool campus demonstrated how hydrogen research is advancing a clean energy transition.

Education

• A visit to South West TAFE showcased the breadth of educational opportunities on offer – with everything from a hair beauty and wellness academy, to nursing training facilities, and even model cattle for students to learn agricultural skills to equip them for work in the industry.
• With Woodford Primary School set to celebrate its 170th Anniversary in the coming months, the Governor was honoured to unveil a plaque to commemorate this significant milestone.
• Furthermore, a visit to the Hopkins Correctional Centre was also a chance to see the facilities and learn more about the educational initiatives available to people involved in the justice system.

Community organisations

• Civic receptions and roundtables held in all three of the areas were a chance to hear about current issues and visions for the future, as well as to seek insights into the challenges and rewards of leading an organisation in the local community.
• Additional visits to the Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club, Warrnambool Art Gallery and the Warrnambool RSL Veterans Support Centre showed the enterprise and energy that continues to thrive in this region.

Background information

Ararat

Ararat Rural City has a population of over 11,000 and is situated 198km west of Melbourne on the Western Highway which connects the region to Adelaide.

It is the gateway to the world-renowned Grampians Region and is characterised by huge horizons, spectacular mountain scapes and a vibrant sense of community health and wellbeing.

Advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food and wine production, construction, healthcare and tourism experiences underpin the economy.

For more information, visit Ararat Rural City Council.

Moyne

Moyne Shire is located in South West Victoria and stretches along the Shipwreck Coast in the south to the pastoral areas in the north.

The shire is characterised by agriculture, fresh seafood, manufacturing and a healthy tourism industry.

The dairy industry is the dominant form of agriculture, however sheep production and cereal crops are growing in size. manufacturing, health, retail and education are other important sectors.

For more information, visit Moyne Shire Council.

Warrnambool

Warrnambool is the principal service centre for south-western Victoria, as well as being a popular retirement and tourist destination.

The city boasts a campus of Deakin University and contains a significant health-care sector.

Major industries and services include retail, tourism, education, health, dairy, meat processing and construction.

For more information, visit Warrnambool City Council.

From 3 – 5 October 2024, the Governor participated in an official visit to Central Goldfields Shire.

The Central Goldfields has a rich history and now plays an important role in contemporary Victoria as a unique destination for tourists and as the home of innovative Victorian businesses.

The trip was a chance to gain insights into the local community as well as the depth and variety of talent and enterprise in the region.

Key themes

Local history

• A walking tour of the Bull Gully Aboriginal Rock Wells offered the chance to learn more about the First Nations history of the area, prior to the Gold Rush era.
• The Dunolly Goldfields Museum provided a fantastic overview of the Gold Rush history of the area, which had a profound impact on our state.
• A tour of the Dunolly Historic Precinct offered an incredibly well-preserved look into our state’s history and the social, cultural and economic impacts of the Gold Rush era – forming a key part of the Central Goldfield’s bid to obtain World Heritage listing.

Education

• A Maryborough Library Storytime Session was an opportunity to engage with some of the Shire’s youngest members and see the importance of early education in the community.
• A tour of Talbot Primary School, which opened in 1869, provided an opportunity to meet with the students.

Service Delivery

• Attendance at a Go Goldfields meeting, a Climate Action Stewarding Group roundtable, and a meeting with the Central Goldfields Youth Council enabled a deeper understanding of local priorities and processes of community engagement.
• A meeting with frontline health workers at the Maryborough District Health Service was also a chance to hear about some of the challenges faced by regional healthcare providers and the important role they play in looking after the local community.

Background information

Located at the geographical centre of Victoria, Central Goldfields Shire Council is within one hour’s drive of the regional centres of Ballarat and Bendigo and just two hours from Melbourne.

The municipality covers an area of 1,532 square kilometres and has an estimated population of almost 13,000 people.

Central Goldfields Shire is bounded by Northern Grampians Shire in the north-west, Pyrenees Shire in the west, Hepburn Shire in the south, Mount Alexander Shire in the east and Loddon Shire in the north-east.

For more information, visit Central Goldfields Shire Council.