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Cover photo: The festive season is here! Check out what's happening across the shire this Christmas.
Meet your new Mayor and Deputy Mayor
Cr Brett Owen has been elected Mayor of Cardinia Shire Council for the 2025–26 term, with Cr Liz Roberts elected Deputy Mayor.
Mayor Owen and Cr Roberts were elected by Council at the Annual Statutory Council Meeting on Monday 24 November.
Mayor Owen was first elected to Council in 2005 and represents Beacon Hills Ward. This is Cr Owen’s fourth term as Mayor, having previously served as Mayor in
2012–13, 2016–17 and 2020–21, and as Deputy Mayor in 2013–14 and 2017–18.
Deputy Mayor Roberts was first elected in 2024 and represents Henty Ward.
Mayor Owen said it was an immense privilege to be given the opportunity to represent Cardinia Shire as the Mayor, and that he’s looking forward to an exciting year ahead.
Latest news
Pakenham's transformation begins
Construction is underway on the Main Street Gateway precinct as part of Stage 1 of the Pakenham Revitalisation project.
Pakenham Golf Course update
Council will invite expressions of interest for the future management of the Pakenham Golf Course at Deep Creek Reserve, Pakenham. This process will test the market and invite proposals for the site’s future use, including golf and alternative proposals in line with the permitted zoning
Community Capital works Grants
Project proposal submissions for the 2026–27 Community Capital Works Grants are currently open. The CCWG program supports community-managed projects in Cardinia Shire, providing up to $35,000 in funding to help local groups enhance community facilities.
Fire Danger Period
The Fire Danger Period has been announced for Cardinia Shire. Fire restrictions are in force across the municipality.
Key plans adopted
Council has formally adopted its suite of key strategic documents to guide Council’s activities and decision making over the next four years, and beyond. Council has endorsed the Council Plan 2025–29, updated Liveability Plan
2017–29, Financial Plan 2025–35, and Asset Plan 2025–35.
Green waste drop-off
Clean your yard and reduce your fire fuel load at our FREE December green waste drop-off event at Future Recycling, Pakenham.
For the latest Council news, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/news
What's on
Carols by Candlelight
The countdown to the most magical time of the year has begun, and Cardinia Shire Council is thrilled to invite you to the 2025 Cardinia Shire Carols by Candlelight! Mark your calendars for Saturday 6 December from 4:30–9pm at Toomuc Recreation Reserve, Pakenham.
Cardinia fun run and walk
Registrations are open for the Cardinia fun run and walk in 2026. Take part in the 5km, 10km Fun Run or O'Connors 5km Walk on Sunday 1 March 2026 and help raise funds for a great local cause: the Cardinia Community Foundation.
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 Road Management Plan adopted
Following community consultation, the 2025–29 Road Management Plan has been finalised, outlining how we will maintain local roads, footpaths, bridges and shared paths over the next four years.
Your streets are getting an upgrade
Works are now underway across the shire as part of the 2025–26 Road Resurfacing and Road Pavement Renewal programs.
For more projects happening near you, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/bettercardinia
Have your say
Creating Cardinia is on the move!
Come along to our next pop-up event: Sunday, 30 November, 8:30am-1pm
Bunyip Market, Bunyip Recreation Reserve.
Our Engagement team is looking forward to chatting with you about how you can get involved.
Help shape Cardinia Shire's rating system
Express your interest in joining a panel that will help shape how rates are applied across the shire. 30 residents will be independently selected to form a representative panel of ratepayers from different property categories. The panel will play a vital role in Council’s review of its rating strategy. Applications close 9 December 2025.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategy Review
We’re reviewing the Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategy to improve how residents walk, cycle, and move throughout the shire. Share your experiences and ideas through
an online survey and an interactive map highlighting areas for improvement or showcasing great places to walk or ride.
Onsite Wastewater Management Plan
Share your thoughts on the draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan and help shape a healthy future for Cardinia Shire. The draft plan was developed using insights gathered during the first phase of community consultation in July-August.
Nar Nar Goon Township Strategy
We've developed a draft Nar Nar Goon Township Strategy, incorporating valuable community input gathered during the initial community consultation phase. The draft strategy focuses on preserving the unique character of Nar Nar Goon while reflecting the community’s aspirations to enhance the township.
Cardinia Planning Scheme Review 2026
We’re reviewing the Cardinia Planning scheme and we’re seeking your thoughts on how we can improve our planning scheme to help our shire thrive.
To help shape our shire, head to cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
Meet your Councillors
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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