Benalla Rural City Council was honoured to welcome Governor of Victoria, Margaret Gardner AC to Benalla this week as part of the Governor’s third regional visit for 2025.
The visit started with a briefing with Councillors, providing a valuable opportunity to share local priorities, challenges, and exciting plans shaping the future of Benalla Rural City.
Following the briefing, Mayor, Bernie Hearn and Deputy Mayor, Justin King, joined the Governor on a tour of Thales and other major local employers within the municipality, highlighting the strength and innovation of Benalla’s business community.
Mayor Hearn said it was a privilege to host the Governor of Victoria and showcase the many community’s strengths of the municipality.
“We discussed the projects and priorities that matter most to our community, along with our goals for the years ahead. The Governor showed genuine interest in our region and a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges we face,” she said.
Mayor Hearn said the Governor’s time in Benalla was a great way to reflect on the community’s resilience and forward momentum.
“Regional visits like this remind us of the incredible people and projects driving Benalla’s future,” she said.
“We look forward to continuing the conversation with the Governor and building on the positive relationship established during her visit.”
During the visit, the Governor spoke warmly of her time in Benalla and the opportunity to engage directly with local businesses and their staff.
“It was a pleasure to visit Benalla Rural City and tour some of its major local employers — a chance to see the impressive work they do here as well as meet the dedicated people who make it happen,” she said.
The Governor’s itinerary in Benalla formed part of a broader program of regional engagement, aimed at deepening connections with communities across Victoria.
