Yarrawonga has been selected as the location for this year's Rural Councils Victoria annual forum. This event for Victoria's local government sector will bring together mayors, councillors, CEOs and other key leaders from across the state. Moira Shire has been under administration since March 2023 so is without any councillors or a mayor with elections not due to return until the general elections in October 2028. 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, Cr Rob Amos (Campaspe Shire), said it's a key time for rural Victoria. "Rural Victoria is a key engine room of economic activity for our state," he said. "When rural areas are doing well, the whole of Victoria prospers. "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." Moira Shire 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." The RCV Conference will be held at The Sebel (Yarrawonga) on 31 July - 1 August 1.
