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Welcome to our 'Your Council Update' monthly newsletter. Keeping you informed about Council’s key activities and initiatives that may matter to you.
March 'Council Meeting in Summary'
Your 'Council Meeting in Summary' is aimed at keeping residents informed of Council’s key projects and strategic decisions made at the recent meeting that may affect our local communities. The update includes a summary of community deputations or petitions, key projects and key decisions that were made.
BBQ and Chat with Council and Elected Members in Mt Burr
Mt Burr- this is your chance to chat with Council and Elected Members on matters important to you. From the Millicent Shop Trading Hours to plans for the Mt Burr area, come along and share your views.
Tuesday, 24 March 2026
Mt Burr Football Club
Free BBQ from 6pm • Event starts 6.30pm
Open Tenders
Council currently has two tenders open for the provision of services;
- Line marking roads in the Wattle Range Council area
- Millicent Library facade upgrade.
This project includes refreshing and extending the fascia edging and adjusting the trim colours to align with the recently upgraded Civic and Arts Centre. Works also include replacing damaged eaves, updating the clear curved roof at the entrance.
Have Your Say on Cat Management in Wattle Range
Wattle Range Council is inviting community members to share their views on the future of cat management across the Council area through a short online survey.
The survey will aim to build a clearer picture of local experiences with cats and assist the Council to determine if a by-law should be introduced with increased cat controls.
Employment Opportunities
Council currently has vacancies for the following roles;
- Environmental Services Officer
- Mechanic
- Planning Officer
Millicent Shop Trading Hours - Get the facts and inform your vote
In November 2026, Wattle Range Council electors will vote on whether to abolish Millicent’s Proclaimed Shopping District — also known as deregulating shop trading hours.
Millicent Lions Park
The Millicent Lions Park has received a $59,000 grant from the 2025-26 Community Recreation and Sport Facilities Program to install a new accessible multi‑sports half court. This upgrade forms part of the ongoing revitalisation of the Park, which also includes the development of a Community Garden, updated play equipment, and improved toilet facilities.
This project is a strong example of community working together, involving Council, the Millicent Lions Clubs, the Millicent Men’s Shed, and local residents. Unity Housing tenants, Millicent High School, and the Gladys Smith Early Learning Centre have also played an important role in bringing this shared community vision to life.
Millicent MET Gala - Open for Entries
The Wearable Art Competition is back as part of the 2026 Re-A-Range Festival and the closing date for entries is Monday, 4 May.
Show off your creativity and sustainability skills by transforming recycled, waste, or leftover materials into bold, one-of-a-kind wearable art. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the fashion show with a twist, opening the festival on Friday 29 May at the Civic and Arts Centre.
Unfolding Nature exhibition at the Millicent Art Gallery
The Millicent Library and Gallery proudly present Unfolding Nature, an exhibition that weaves together the artistic visions of Jane McCumstie, Chris Hollingsworth, and Margaret (Marge) Hage.
The exhibition will be opened at 2pm on Sunday, 22 March at the Millicent Art Gallery.
Beachport Art Gallery to Open
Beachport is set to welcome a new community art gallery with a group of residents working in partnership with Wattle Range Council to transform part of the Beachport Visitor Information Centre into a dedicated exhibition space.
Rivoli Jetties Fishing Competition
Registrations are now open for the Full Throttle in Wattle: Rivoli Bay Jetties Junior Fishing Competition. This year’s event will run from Monday, 13 April to Tuesday, 21 April at the Beachport Jetty. Due to works on the Southend Jetty, this year’s competition will be held exclusively at the Beachport Jetty, with safety remaining a top priority.
Participants are urged to register now to secure their spot in the competition to ensure they receive their free fishing kit.
Youth Week and Full Throttle in Wattle School Holiday Program
Our popular Full Throttle in Wattle School Holiday Program is returning these autumn school holidays, and it’s running alongside Youth Week 2026. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up:
What’s on the way:
• Bush Buddies adventures across Wattle Range
• Fun library activities for all ages
• Wacky Wednesdays at the Penola and Beachport Visitor Information Centres
• Youth Week 2026 events for ages up to 25 (9–17 April), including a movie night in Penola.
Penola Septic Tank Maintenance
Council’s contractor will be in Penola from 23 – 27 March to desludge septic tanks on Petticoat Lane and Gardiner, Gordon, John, Julian, McPherson and Portland Streets.
The tanks on Arthur, Cameron, Church and Elizabeth Streets that missed out on having their septics cleaned in February will receive another letter to be sure not to miss out this time.
If your property is in this area, keep an eye on your letterbox or post box for a notice with instructions to confirm your tank is exposed, access is clear, and you’re ready for desludging.
Southern Ports Highway road closure with detour in place
Works on the Southern Ports Highway between the Southend and Robe turn-offs continue. When crews are working between 7am and 5pm, Monday to Friday the road is closed to the public with a detour via Hatherleigh.
The road is open to all road users outside these hours, including weekends, public holidays and weekdays from 5pm to 7am. Updated signage and speed limits is in place to alert road users.
Let's talk development in Beachport or Penola
Council's Development Team is offering you the opportunity to speak with us face-to-face to ask any planning related questions you may have. Simply drop in - No appointments are necessary.
- Beachport Visitor Information Centre on Wednesday 25 March from 9am to 12 noon.
- Penola Visitor Information Centre on Wednesday 8 April from 9am to 12 noon.
Help us improve how we share information and listen to our community
Council is inviting residents, businesses and visitors to our region to complete a short survey. Your feedback will help us improve how we share information, listen to our community, and create better opportunities for participation and feedback
The survey will only take a few minutes to complete. Your responses help us better understand the needs and priorities of the Wattle Range community and improve how we share information and gather feedback.
What's on in Wattle Range
What’s On in Wattle Range is a monthly update that highlights and celebrates community events across Wattle Range.
These events play a vital role in strengthening community connections, supporting local organisations, and enhancing the cultural and social fabric of the region. You can sign up to receive the update direct to your inbox.
BBQ and Chat with Council and Elected Members in Penola
Penola- this is your chance to chat with Council on matters important to you. Come along and share your views and ideas for the Penola and Coonawarra area.
Tuesday, 28 April 2026
Penola RSL
Free BBQ from 6pm • Event starts 6.30pm
