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Here is what is making news for July 1, 2025.============================Residents across the Colac-Otway Region have been reminded by Forest Fire Management Victoria that the Firewood Collection period for Autumn officially closed on Monday. (Thanks Evie and Lea)========================================================Corangamite Shire Council has committed $500,000 in its 2025–26 budget to help drought-affected communities.Mayor Kate Makin says the funding will support programs once state assistance is confirmed.========================================================From today, tobacco retailers and wholesalers across Victoria—including in Colac-Otway and Corangamite—can apply for a licence under the state’s new tobacco licensing scheme. (Thanks Blaise)========================================================Member for Wannon Dan Tehan has claimed millions of Australians will face higher electricity prices from a bill passed yesterday.Mr Tehan has called for ideologically driven renewables to be stopped.========================================================Drivers across Colac and Corangamite are being urged to stay off the road when impaired, following a spike in drug-driving offences.Over 8,400 drivers have been caught drug driving in the 2024–25 financial year — outnumbering drink driving offences.Victoria Police Superintendent Justin Goldsmith says driver impairment remains a major issue across the state.========================================================A grant from Surf Coast Shire Council has delivered lasting benefits to Winchelsea Playgroup, allowing the volunteer-run group to purchase new indoor play equipment.With limited fundraising capacity, the playgroup relied on a 2024 Quick Response Grant to provide soft play equipment, giving children the opportunity to stay active indoors.Applications for the 2025 Quick Response Grants open July 1.========================================================AND IN SPORTThe regions football governing body AFL Barwon, is joining forces with 20 additional Metopolitan and regional bodies, under a newly unified strategic plan from AFL Victoria.AFL Victoria says its a major step forward for grassroots Footy, with player pathways, umpiring programs, female participation and club sustainability listed as priority.Dubbed the Future State Project, the move aims to build a stronger, more inclusive game across Victoria.It's also the first time community football bodies have signed onto a shared charter. (Thanks Blaise)========================================================The Cobden Bombers are preparing to acknowledge the hardships felt by farmers across the South West region with its 'Farmers Day Out' event on July 12.Bombers president Wayne Robertson says the event which will feature Carlton star Sam Walsh as a guest speaker hopes to put a smile on the face of those doing it tough.========================================================This Friday AFL Barwon is celebrating, recognising and empowering female athletes of the Barwon region.Following the announcement of their 2025 Female Festival of Sport breakfast, former Australian Diamond netballer Madi Browne, will host the event and bring together local sport clubs, leaders of the community and many more.The event will also feature Colac export and Geelong VFLW coach Taylah Hassett, and aims to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of females in sport at all levels. (Thanks Blaise).========================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
