Loddon Shire Mayoral Column 27 April
Published on 27 April 2022
Anzac Day 2022
It was an honour earlier this week to attend the Anzac Day ceremonies at Pyramid Hill and Mologa.
I’d like to recognise and thank everyone involved in organising Anzac Day commemorations across the Shire.
These commemorations enable us as a community to come together, pay tribute to and remember the sacrifice of men and women who have served or are currently serving our country during wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Victoria Learn Local Awards – nominations open
Nominations are now open for the Victorian Learn Local Awards.
The awards are held annually by the Adult, Community and Further Education Board and celebrate the success of individuals, programs and training providers across Victoria.
All finalists and winners will be eligible to receive prize money, while free nomination assistance is also available to all nominators.
The awards include eight general categories. This includes categories for learner awards, for trainers and leaders and Learn Local programs.
Nominations close Friday 10 June 2022. Nomination assistance is also available until Monday 6 June 2022.
For more information visit www.vic.gov.au/learn-local-awards
Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program applications
Applications are now open for the 2022-23 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).
The VESEP is an ongoing, annual program that provides emergency services volunteer groups with grants to help fund operational equipment, including the purchase of new vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft and trailers.
Volunteer groups can also put the money towards minor facility improvements, including refurbishments and amenities, such as kitchens and change rooms.
The 2022-23 VESEP applications close 26 May 2022. For more information and to find out how to apply for a grant visit www.emv.vic.gov.au/vesep
Business services and support programs for small business
If you work for yourself or have 1 to 2 employees and an annual turnover of less than $75,000, and need information on business services and support programs, the concierge service offered by Business Victoria is able to support you.
Speak to a concierge agent who can guide you through Victorian Government programs and services that may be able to assist your growing business.
If you require support, call 13 22 15 and select Microbusiness Concierge Service to speak directly to a customer service agent, or book a 30-minute phone appointment with a dedicated concierge agent for a more detailed consultation based on your specific circumstances.
Dedicated support includes information on planning, starting, growing or exiting your business.
Workshops, mentoring and learning opportunities are also on offer, as well as referrals to Victorian Government business support programs and services.
Citizenship ceremony congratulations
Yesterday, I also had the honour of presenting citizenship certificates to our newest Australian citizens, Ms Neethu Aamed who is formerly from India, Mr Filippo Daddelli formerly from Italy, Mrs Kate Wheatley, formerly from South Africa and Ms Helenita Garchitorena, Ms Emma Dotollo, Ms Abigail Umali, Ms Maria Umali and Mr Raphael Umali, who are formerly from the Philippines.
I’d like to congratulate our new citizens, who made the Australian Citizenship Pledge during a ceremony at the Council Chambers last Tuesday.