The Parks and Open Space team have undertaken a detailed Tree Assessment Report at the Clunes Caravan Park in addition to a number of other sites across the shire. The Tree Assessment Report has identified 22 trees for removal and a further 2 requiring major dead wooding in order to address  immediate risks. Council is currently working with key stakeholders to discuss the proposed works and the reason the works are necessary. Works are expected to commence in the week beginning 27 March 2017 and more importantly our plan for replanting this area will be scheduled during winter.

Click here to download a map showing tree locations and  the tree assessment

Further details can be obtained by phoning Mitchell Hogg, Parks and Open Space Coordinator on 5321 6138.

The Victorian Small Business Commissioner (VSBC), Ms Judy O’Connell, will be visiting Daylesford and Creswick on Wednesday 1 March 2017. Ms O’Connell has a keen understanding of issues and challenges faced by small businesses. For more information about the VSBC go to www.vsbc.vic.gov.au.

Come along and meet Ms O’Connell, share experiences and ask questions, at the following business events:

• Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre is hosting ‘Creating Successful Business Workshop’ at 13 Camp Street, Daylesford between 10.00 am and 11.30 am. A $2 dollar donation would be appreciated. Discover the support that is available for new and existing small businesses. There will be a panel of speakers from business and government, including the VSBC. For further information, ring the Centre on 5348 3569.

• Daylesford & Hepburn Springs Business and Tourism Association is hosting an event at the Daylesford Cottage Directory, 82c Vincent Street, Daylesford, between 3.00 pm and 5.00 pm. Contact the President, Brett Rovere, on phippsandco@gmail.com or 0427 384 568 for further information.

• Business & Tourism Creswick Inc is hosting an evening with Ms O’Connell, at the American Hotel in Creswick. Dinner is optional and at your own cost from 6.30 pm. A meeting and presentation will commence at 7.30 pm and finish at 8.30 pm/9.00pm. The topics for discussion include the role of the VSBC, the Late Payments Inquiry, and staying mentally healthy while operating a small businesses. Contact the Secretary, Margaret Giles, on info@creswick.net or 0419 326 453 for further information.

For more information please call Nigel Fitzpatrick, Economic Development Officer, on 5321 6126.

In the coming months we will be working with the community to develop our new Council Plan 2017- 2021…and we want to hear from you.

The Council Plan sets our strategic direction and priorities for the next four years. Over the previous Council Plan process we heard what the community wanted and we have been working hard to deliver on our commitments. It’s now time to start thinking about the next four years and projects/initiatives that will deliver significant benefits for our community.

Council Plan drop-in sessions were held around the shire in February.  There will now be a community conference held on 22 March 2017 at the Daylesford Town Hall (76 Vincent Street) at 7pm.  The conference is an opportunity for the community to come together and discuss the top priorities.

What other ways can you have your say?

• Email to shire@hepburn.vic.gov.au
• Hard copy submission in the post
  (PO Box 21, Daylesford 3460)
• Council Customer Service Centres/Hubs (Creswick, Clunes and Daylesford).

Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates on getting involved in the Council Plan process.

Your ideas will help shape the Council Plan into a blueprint for the future.

Click here to download the Discussion Paper

Get excited for a very special mystery keynote speaker for this year’s International Women’s Day event. This high-profile guest of honour is a must-see and sure to provide insight and inspiration.

All will be revealed closer to the date!

• Date: Thursday 9 March 2017
• Time: 7pm
• Venue: Daylesford Town Hall – 76 Vincent Street, Daylesford

Please RSVP for catering purposes by Friday 24 February 2017 to Tenique on (03) 5321 6115 or email shire@hepburn.vic.gov.au