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Cover photo: The 2026 Cardinia Shire Australia Day Award winners with Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Brett Owen.
Message from your Mayor
On behalf of my fellow Councillors and Council staff, I’d like to wish you a very happy New Year!
Thank you for your continued support and community spirit. We look forward to continuing to work together in 2026 to make our shire an even better place to live.
This month has been all about recognising and celebrating the wonderful people that make up our vibrant and diverse communities. Through our 2026 Australia Day Awards, we celebrated the outstanding contributions of volunteers whose dedication and passion make a positive difference to the local community.
This year’s Cardinia Shire Australia Day Award winners are:
- 2026 Citizen of the Year: Robb Evans
- 2026 Senior Citizen of the Year: Maureen Timms
- 2026 Young Citizen of the Year: Eliza Owen
- 2026 Event of the Year: Emerald Arts Society Annual Art Exhibition
I’m optimistic about the year ahead and excited about what we can achieve together in 2026.
Warm regards,
Cr Brett Owen
Mayor
Latest news
Celebrating our 2026 Australia Day Award winners
We celebrated the outstanding locals shaping our community at the 2026 Australia Day Awards—congratulations to this year’s winners across Citizen, Senior, Young Citizen and Event of the Year categories!
Share her story
Do you know an inspiring woman who is making a difference in the local community?
If so, share her story. This International Women’s Day, we’re honouring the extraordinary women who help shape and uplift our community.
2026 immunisation bookings are now open
Free public immunisation sessions are available for infants, children, adolescents and adults as part of the National Immunisation Program.
Explore jobs, skills and career pathway opportunities at the 2026 Jobs and Skills Showcase
Held on Wednesday 18 March at the Cardinia Cultural Centre from 9:15am to 12pm, the 2026 Jobs and Skills Showcase will feature a range of exhibitors and activities to assist job seekers with information on current vacancies and career pathways.
For the latest Council news, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/news
What's on
‘Leaf’ your green waste with us!
No more room in your green bin? No problem – we can help you dispose of your extra residential green waste! From 7–14 February 2026, you can drop off extra green waste for FREE at the Pakenham transfer station.
Boost your business in 2026
Kickstart your business in 2026 with Cardinia’s Lean Business Series. Our practical workshops are designed to help local businesses boost productivity, work smarter and grow sustainably.
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
New year, new Pakenham: Works underway
Works are progressing on Drake Place as part of Stage 1 of the Pakenham Revitalisation project.
Drake Place is currently closed and is expected to reopen in February, once this section is complete.
Resurfacing program rolling ahead!
Works are being completed across the shire as part of our annual Sealed Road Resurfacing program, which helps keep our local road network safe, reliable and well-maintained.
Pakenham Lakeside works
Several upgrade projects are currently underway around Pakenham Lakeside including a pedestrian crossing and seawall works.
From early February, the Lakeside fountain will also be temporarily turned off due to low water levels in the lake.
For more projects happening near you, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/majorprojects
Have your say
Plans to reimagine Officer’s iconic kiln site are now on public exhibition
Amendment C282card and the proposed redevelopment plans for the historic James Hicks pottery site are now open for public exhibition. Share your feedback before 5 March 2026.
Swing into action to help shape Lauriston Estate Park
Let's shape the future of Lauriston Estate Park Playground in Koo Wee Rup together!
Let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions to help us create a vibrant and inclusive space for children of all ages and abilities.
Help shape the future of agribusiness
You’re invited to get involved as we work to strengthen the shire’s food and agribusiness sector. There are a number of ways to get involved, head to Creating Cardinia to find out more!
To help shape our shire, head to 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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