The town of Yarrawonga in Victoria’s Shire of Moira local government area has been selected as the location to host this year’s Rural Councils Victoria annual forum.
This flagship event for Victoria’s local government sector will bring together Mayors, Councillors, CEOs and other key leaders from across the state.
The event includes discussion sessions exploring how rural councils can continue to manage the complex challenges of housing, childcare, maternal and child health, infrastructure needs and financial sustainability.
Navigating the drought and sustained economic development are also expected to be key topics for discussion.
The two-day conference also features a cruise on Lake Mulwala aboard the paddle steamer P.S. Cumberoona, where attendees will hear from local agri-business and tourism operators.
Rural Councils Victoria Chair and Campaspe Shire Councillor, Rob Amos (pictured, centre, at the 2023 forum) said it was a key time for rural Victoria.
“Rural Victoria is a key engine room of economic activity for our state. When rural areas are doing well, the whole of Victoria prospers,” said Cr Amos.
“Right now we’re are facing numerous headwinds, with housing shortages, drought, the imposition of unfair state government taxes and the ongoing challenges of meeting infrastructure and service expectations while keeping rates low.
“Our residents expect us to be working collaboratively and searching for new ways to meet these challenges.
“This conference is a key planning and coordination event, to make sure rural councils are aligned in their ambitions and advocacy.”
Yarrawonga sits within the Moira Shire. Council CEO, Matthew Morgan said the forum will deliver a boost to the region.
“This event will be a fantastic showcase for Yarrawonga, Moira Shire and the broader north-east.”
“Visitors from other councils will engage with regional attractions and talk to business operators, while also pumping money into our local economy,” he said.
The RCV Conference will be held at The Sebel (Yarrawonga) on July 31 – August 1st.
This event is supported by Maddocks, Hunt and Hunt Lawyers, nbn, Grantus and AEC Group.
For more information, contact event organisers at secretariat@ruralcouncilsvictoria.org.au.
