Councillor Column - 23 April 2026 - Cr Tim Drylie

Published on 23 April 2026

Many people across Hepburn Shire are feeling the strain right now. The sudden rise in fuel costs has landed on top of already high grocery, rent, mortgage and power bills. I am also very aware that more people are turning to food relief and other support just to get by.

I have just read up on the practical ways people are trying to help themselves through this pressure. A recent Climate Council guide, Top Tips for Taking Back Control of Your Energy, shares examples of people combining trips, walking more, cycling, using public transport, travelling less where they can, or using a smaller car. Just as importantly, many said these changes helped them feel fitter, less stressed, more connected to their community, and more in control.

But we also need to be honest: not everyone has the same choices. For many rural and regional people, the barriers are real. Distance, patchy public transport, disability, caring responsibilities, illness, low income and isolation can make these changes much harder.

That is why support matters, and why compassion matters too. If you or someone you know needs help, Council’s Access Support Services page is a good place to start. It includes Ask Izzy, a free service that can help connect people with food, housing, money help and other essentials.

I am always interested to hear your stories and to discuss Council-related matters. You can contact me at tdrylie@hepburn.vic.gov.au or 0427 503 258.

Picture: I'm demonstrating the Sustainable Home Kit with the Creswick Repair and Share Café crew and Creswick Neighbourhood Centre Manager Chrissy Austin. The project was supported by Transition Creswick in partnership with Creswick Neighbourhood Centre through a Hepburn Shire Council community grant and is coming to a library near you.