Reflecting on a year of growth and opportunity

As the festive season approaches, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible year we have had here in The Middle of Everywhere and share my excitement for the road ahead. With a new Council now in place, we are embracing a fresh outlook, strengthened by our shared commitment to delivering a thriving future for Wellington Shire.

This year has been one of transformation and progress. A key highlight was completing the first stage of the $23 million redevelopment of the Aqua Energy Leisure Centre. This major project has already brought benefits to our community, including 24-hour gym access, upgraded changerooms, and improved accessibility. It’s an achievement we can all take pride in, and stage two, set to begin in 2025 will deliver even more state-of-the-art facilities to promote health, connection and improve accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.

We have also focused on the critical infrastructure that keeps our municipality moving forward. Investment in roads, early years, and emergency planning are ensuring that Wellington is not only prepared for the challenges of today but positioned to embrace the opportunities of tomorrow.

Our popular Community Assistance Grants continue to make an incredible impact. In 2024, nearly $230,000 in funding has supported initiatives that align with our community vision, Council Plan, and Healthy Wellington plan.

These grants have helped grow participation and inclusion, build community partnerships, provide learning opportunities, and strengthen social connections. They’ve also brought life to our parks, halls, and other community spaces, creating exciting and welcoming places for everyone. This is a testament to the fantastic work happening across our Shire to enhance the lives of our residents.

This year, Wellington Shire strengthened its position as a renewable energy leader. The Gippsland New Energy Conference, held in September brought together industry leaders and community members to showcase local innovation in wind, solar, and hydrogen. Proudly supported by Wellington Shire Council, the event highlighted our region’s bright future in sustainable growth and collaboration.

Looking to the future, we are continuing our efforts to address housing demand by moving forward with the rezoning of land in and around the municipality. More than 150 new housing allotments will be released in Longford, Heyfield, Stratford and North Sale for future home buyers.

Expressions of Interest for the future of the West Sale Airport is one of the most exciting opportunities on the horizon. The 190-hectare West Sale Airport site is an amazing opportunity to shape the future of our region. With its prime location in Australia’s first offshore wind zone -it’s a chance to welcome new industries, to drive sustainable growth and create jobs.

Local tourism has gone from strength to strength, with The Middle of Everywhere hosting and supporting events every week of the year. The ANZAC Airshow, True Grit and The Middle of Everywhere Gippsland Rally drew thousands of visitors to experience the unique attributes of Wellington Shire.

These events not only celebrated our history and natural beauty but also brought significant economic benefits, supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of community pride. The completion of the Great Southern Rail Trail from Welshpool to Alberton has added to this momentum, offering an inviting destination for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, while encouraging visitors to explore and enjoy the many hidden gems across our region.

As we look ahead to 2025, I am excited about getting the community involved in Future Wellington. Next year, we will be setting our priorities for the next four years. This includes our Community Vision, Council Plan, Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, 10-year asset and financial plan.

I feel an immense sense of pride in what we as a community have achieved together and optimism for the future. The unity and fresh perspectives within our new Council bring an energy and determination to continue making Wellington Shire the best it can be.

On behalf of Wellington Shire Council, I wish everyone a joyful, safe, and peaceful festive season.

Together, we continue to build a Shire that is vibrant, inclusive, and full of possibility.

Cr Scott Rossetti

Mayor, Wellington Shire Council