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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.
February '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.
Penola Septic Tank Maintenance
Council’s contractor will be in Penola from 16 – 20 February to de sludge septic tanks on Arthur, Bowden, Cameron, Church and Elizabeth Streets as part of their maintenance schedule.
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.
Community Conversations in Beachport
Beachport- this is your chance to chat with Council on matters important to you. From the Southern Ports Highway reconstruction to Millicent Shop Trading Hours, and plans for the Beachport area, come along and share your views.
Tuesday, 24 February 2026
Beachport Bowling Club
Free BBQ from 6pm • Event starts 6.30pm
No RSVP required - come along, grab a free sausage, and have a chat with Council staff and your Elected Members about the issues that matter most to you.
Demolition to begin for former Council Office
Temporary fencing is now in place around the former Council Office building on George Street in readiness for its demolition. The staged demolition is expected to take around three months, weather permitting.
There will be no changes to public access around the site. The demolition approach has been carefully planned to minimise disruption to the community.
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.
Join the Wattle Range Youth Advisory Council
Young people across the Wattle Range Council area are being encouraged to put their hands up, with Expressions of Interest now open for the 2026 Wattle Range Youth Advisory Council (YAC).
If you are between the ages of 12 and 24 and passionate about representing the voices of your peers and advocating for youth priorities within Council, nominate today.
Rivoli Jetties Fishing Competition
SAVE THE DATE! The annual Rivoli Bay Jetties Junior Fishing Competition is back. Last year, a record breaking 338 young anglers cast their lines.
Please note: With upgrades happening at Southend Jetty, it will only be open for Easter and not for the Fishing Competition. The safety of our young anglers is our top priority.
Southern Ports Highway road closure with detour in place
Works on the Southern Ports Highway between the Southend and Robe turn-offs has resumed. When crews are working between 7am and 5pm, Monday to Friday the road is closed to the public with a detour in place via Hatherleigh.
The road is open to all road users outside these hours, including weekends and weekdays from 5pm to 7am. Updated signage and speed limits is in place to alert road users.
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.
New Enclosed Off‑Leash Dog Park at McLaughlin Park
The new enclosed off leash dog park at McLaughlin Park, located alongside the Soccer Club is now open. The park includes a dedicated dog water tank, park bench and two secure dog entry gates at each end of the park to improve accessibility and safety.
Consultation with McLaughlin Park Sports Incorporated confirmed that community access to the dog park will remain available during sporting events. Dog owners simply need to let gatekeepers know they are entering the dog park only, and free access will be provided.
Free inflatable obstacle course at Wattle Range swimming facilities
During the swim season, Council’s Inflatable Obstacle Course will be available free of charge at the Nangwarry and Penola swimming pools and the Millicent Swimming Lake.
Subject to weather, the Inflatables will operate between 1pm – 4pm. Upcoming dates are available on Council's website.
Round two of Community Financial Assistance Grants Awards
Congratulations to the following groups who were awarded in the second round of Council’s annual Community Financial Assistant Grant Programs:
Community Sport and Recreation Grants
- Millicent Cricket Club
- Glencoe Football Club
- Hatherleigh Sport & Recreation
- Kalangadoo War Memorial Park & Community Sports Club
- Penola Bowling Club
- Millicent United Soccer Club
- Mount Burr United Football Club
- Millicent Golf Club
Community Financial Assistance Grants
- Beachport Rivoli Bay Lions Club
- Penola National Trust Branch
- Wattle Range Suicide Prevention Network
- Orphan Lamb Rescue
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 February from 9am to 12 noon.
- Penola Visitor Information Centre on Wednesday 11 March from 9am to 12 noon.
Remember to Dream exhibition opening
There’s always something happening at the Millicent Library and Gallery.
The opening of Remember to Dream exhibition at the Millicent Gallery recently attracted over 150 attendees. The event was an exceptional afternoon celebrating the work of five artists: Peter Dunn, Loreto Cataldi, Dale Bishop, Kelvin Freer, and Collin Tenney.
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.
What's on in Wattle Range
Mt Burr- this is your chance to chat with Council on matters important to you.
Tuesday, 24 March 2026
Mt Burr Football Club
Free BBQ from 6pm • Event starts 6.30pm
No RSVP required - come along, grab a free sausage, and have a chat with Council staff and your Elected Members about the issues that matter most to you.
