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Cover photo: Lake Treganowan at Emerald Lake Park. Explore Emerald Lake Park and Nobelius Heritage Park!
Message from your Mayor
March has been a busy and rewarding month for Council.
I was pleased to recently join fellow south-east Melbourne’s mayors in Canberra to discuss our shared advocacy priorities and challenges that our communities are facing.
These discussions are vital to ensure that Cardinia Shire secures additional funding to support our rapidly growing communities, and I remain committed to working with all levels of government to achieve the best outcomes for our community now and into the future.
Closer to home, it’s been wonderful to connect with residents at community events such as the Pakenham Show and the International Women’s Day celebration, which highlighted the inspiring contributions of women across our shire. I’ve also enjoyed welcoming local students to the Civic Centre and hearing directly from young people about what matters most to them.
To catch quick highlights from our recent Council Meeting, you can watch the video above, or visit our website to view the full meeting and read the minutes.
Warm regards,
Cr Brett Owen
Mayor
Latest news
Nominations now open for annual volunteer awards
Do you know someone who is making a positive difference in our community? Nominate them for the Stan Henwood Award and help celebrate the everyday people who go above and beyond for our community through their dedication and service.
Don’t fur-get to register your pet!
Pet registrations are more than just ticking a box – they help fund better support and vital services for the animals within our community.
Registrations are due by 10 April.
Helping shape the future of food and agribusiness
Council has appointed a new Food and Agribusiness Advisory Committee, bringing together local experts and community representatives to help guide the future of this vital sector and inform a new shire‑wide strategy.
Upgrading our systems to better serve the community
Council has awarded a contract to upgrade its core business systems, replacing outdated technology with a modern, secure and integrated platform.
This upgrade will improve efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity and support better customer service as our community continues to grow.
For the latest Council news, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/news
What's on
Grab your jumper and step outside - Cardinia Shire is coming alive this Autumn!
From live music to nature walks, and moments of quiet reflection, this Autumn is all about stepping outside, trying something new and celebrating the places and people that make our shire special.
Take control of your bills
Bring your Bills Day is returning to Pakenham this April!
Get access to free, confidential guidance and support to help navigate household bills and other financial pressures with dedicated financial counsellors.
Coffee with Community
As part of our Safer Communities Partnership Committee, Victoria Police and Council are hosting our upcoming ‘Coffee with Community and Safe Plate Day’ pop-up event in Koo Wee Rup!
Come down for a free coffee and talk to us about how we can all work together to make a safer community.
Did you know you can promote your not-for-profit or low-cost community event on Council’s website? Events or activities must be held in Cardinia Shire and be open and relevant to the broader community.
Head to our events page for submission guidelines and to submit your event.
Building a Better Cardinia
Main Street works continue
The Main Street Gateway upgrades are an important first step in reimagining Pakenham’s town centre, laying the groundwork for future stages of streetscape improvements.
Upgrades are continuing along Main Street, near the Railway Hotel, with works expected to start on the other side of the road shortly.
Ron Andrews Park playground renewal underway
A refreshed playground is on the way for families in Pakenham, with construction underway at Ron Andrews Park.
Pup-grade in progress
Construction is now underway on the Alma Treloar Reserve dog park in Cockatoo.
These upgrades will transform the beloved open space to significantly improve safety, accessibility and enjoyment for local dogs and their owners.
On the ball: New courts coming to Koo Wee Rup
Construction is underway to upgrade the netball courts and lighting at Koo Wee Rup Recreation Reserve. These upgrades will provide smoother play, safer evening training, and better conditions for the many girls and women who rely on these courts to develop skills, build confidence, and stay active.
Bessie Creek Road upgrades continue
Stage 2 works are underway on Bessie Creek Rd in Nar Nar Goon North.
Upgrades will include sealing the 3.1km unsealed section from Halifax Road to the Gembrook Road intersection.
New play on the way for Lauriston Estate Park
We’re upgrading the existing playground at Lauriston Estate Park in Koo Wee Rup. As part of the renewal works, the park will be transformed into a more engaging and accessible space for local families.
To see what projects we're delivering, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/majorprojects
Find out more
Business Support Grants now open
Applications are open for our Business Support Grant Program, helping local business groups and trader associations bring great ideas to life.
Funding is available for projects that support local business growth, boost visitor experiences, strengthen partnerships and increase economic activity across our community.
Proposed renaming of Greenland Court Reserve
Residents can now have their say on a proposal to name a reserve in Garfield as a tribute to the late Lesley Harvey, a respected local volunteer who made significant contributions to the community during the 1990s.
Wellbeing Support Grants closing soon
If you’re a community or not-for-profit group and you want help to get a new program, project or initiative off the ground, then consider applying for one of our grants.
Applications close 10 April 2026.
Applications now open for 2026 Cardinia Community Leadership Program
Are you looking to strengthen your leadership skills and make a real impact in Cardinia Shire? Apply now for the Cardinia Community Leadership Program!
Share your feedback and help shape our shire: cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
Contact your Councillor
Cardinia Shire has nine Councillors who represent nine wards. Learn more about your local councillor or access their contact details on Council's website.
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Questions? Feedback?
We'd love to hear from you! Send an email to mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au,
call 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au
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