Community Rallies to Save Vital Service: A Shire United in the Face of Adversity
In a powerful yet heartfelt display of unity, our community has made one thing clear: we will not stand by quietly while vital services are put at risk.
Last Wednesday evening, Council presented a formal report acknowledging the critical importance of VicRoads — a service that does more than simply serve our local needs. It supports our economy, attracts people from surrounding areas, and keeps our shire connected and thriving.
The community's support has been nothing short of inspiring. A petition with 1,397 signatures — and growing each day — was submitted to Central Goldfields Shire, demonstrating the shared belief that this service is not just important, but essential to our way of life.
As Mayor, on behalf of Council, I have personally written to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Hon. Melissa Horne, Shadow Minister Danny O'Brien, Martha Haylett MP, and Members for Western Victoria across all parties, seeking urgent intervention and support.
We are a small shire, still feeling the effects of a 1.75% rate cap against a 7.8% inflation rate in 2022. We cannot absorb the financial pressures of the new model — nor can we afford to lose a service that underpins so much of our local structure.
The proposed 30-kilometre zone raises significant concerns, bordering on coercive control: it feels unjust, especially for a community already doing its best to recover and grow.
Council chambers were filled beyond capacity, while online attendance ballooned — a powerful show of solidarity.
In another deeply moving moment at last Wednesday Council Meeting, a motion acknowledging and honouring our police force, following recent tragic events, was passed with heartfelt support from all councillors.
We are united — for our community, our future, and for all who call this Shire home.
Mayor Cr Grace La Vella
