How the region’s leaders are approaching 2026

As 2026 gets underway, the Times News Group has turned to leaders across the region to find out what resolutions they are carrying into the New Year.

Taken together, the responses paint a picture of a region at a pivotal moment, as its leaders grapple with growth, infrastructure needs and political change.

 

 

Michael Johnston

Chief executive, Committee for Geelong

For Johnston, the year ahead places renewed emphasis on regional advocacy and collaboration.

“We will see a state election [this] year that is critically important for the future of our region,” he said. “My New Year’s resolution is to work with other leaders across the region in providing a unified voice, to help ensure the Geelong region receives the investment it needs.”

He said he was most looking forward to seeing Nyaal Banyul, Geelong’s new convention centre on the waterfront, open its doors, describing it as a “symbolic moment” in the region’s “continued reinvention”.

 

 

Jeremy Crawford

Chief executive, Geelong Chamber of Commerce

Crawford has entered 2026 determined to turn potential into action.

“In 2026 I’ll be focusing on traction,” he said. “Geelong has so much potential but the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. 2026 is the year of action.”

 

 

Frances Diver

Chief executive, Barwon Health

Diver said the New Year reinforced the importance of equity and compassion in healthcare.

“I’m committed to working with colleagues across the Barwon South West region to improve health outcomes for everyone – no matter where they live, their income, background, language or beliefs,” she said. “My hope is for a more compassionate, inclusive community where everyone can be healthy.”

 

 

Libby Coker

Federal member for Corangamite

Coker is preparing for a big year, with investment in community facilities and the environment remaining a priority as she heads into 2026.

“We’re delivering aquatic centres, an urgent care clinic, major road upgrades, a headspace, a sports stadium and so much more,” she said. “Community connection underpins our wellbeing and that’s why we’re investing in sporting and community facilities right across our region.”

She said she was proud of the government’s recent investments in wetlands, water recycling and coastal restoration, and would continue working to get the best outcomes for the region.

 

 

Dan Tehan

Federal member for Wannon

Tehan, meanwhile, is taking a more relaxed approach to the New Year.

“In terms of a fun thing to do next year, I’ve made a commitment to go and make pizzas at my local pizza shop. I’m really looking forward to doing that,” he said. “For my New Year’s resolution, I want to run another half marathon in 2026.”

 

 

Sarah Henderson

Senator for Victoria

Henderson has the state poll firmly in view as she begins 2026.

“We are blessed to live in a magnificent part of the world, built by strong communities and hardworking families which deserve a future filled with confidence, opportunity and hope,” she said. “That’s why my new year’s resolution for 2026 is simple: that a Liberal state government is elected on 28 November.”

 

 

 

Libby Stapleton

Mayor, Surf Coast Shire

With a new mayor at the helm, the Surf Coast Shire is preparing for a year of progress on several major projects.

Stapleton is eager to see achievements across affordable housing, sustainable tourism and the embattled Karaaf Wetlands. The opening of the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Torquay, expected in early 2027, remains a key source of excitement.

“We’re lucky to live in a community full of passionate people who want to leave the Surf Coast better than we found it,” she said. “I’m eager to work with my fellow councillors in 2026 as we aim to fulfil this vision, and to get the best outcomes for our community.”

 

Stretch Kontelj

Mayor, City of Greater Geelong

Continuing his push to revive Geelong’s CBD, Kontelj is focused on unlocking development where it is most needed.

“Geelong is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, yet our CBD is stalled, with 15 approved developments not being built because the economics don’t stack up,” he said.

“My resolution in 2026 is to advocate and lobby both sides of politics in the lead up to the November 2026 state election to introduce a Special Economic Zone for Central Geelong and a $1b Regional Infrastructure Fund, to turn approvals into real projects and ensure Geelong continues to grow while protecting the quality of life our community values.”

 

 

Donnie Grigau

Mayor, Borough of Queenscliffe

Grigau’s focus as we usher in a new year is a personal one, centred on the moments that are most precious.

“This year, my resolution is simple yet deeply important: to spend more meaningful time with my parents and family,” he said. “As our loved ones grow older, we come to understand how vital it is to cherish every conversation, every shared laugh, and every quiet moment together.

“I’m also committing myself to better understanding the realities of dementia, so I can support my parents with greater compassion and care. In 2026, I’m choosing presence, gratitude, and connection — making the most of the time we are blessed to share.”

 

 

Alison Marchant

Bellarine MP

In 2026, Marchant has pledged to keep working alongside the organisations that “create places and projects that bring our community together”.

“I often say that we do community really well on the Bellarine, and that’s built through the generosity, and quiet hard work of so many local people,” she said. “Supporting practical projects that strengthen connection and belonging, and working alongside those who deliver them is a responsibility I’m proud to continue.”

 

 

Richard Riordan

Polwarth MP

Riordan said tragic recent events had only sharpened his resolve to serve the community with integrity.

“The recent atrocities in Sydney have shaken us all, reminding us that compassion, unity and vigilance must guide our response to hate and violence,” he said. “I remain committed to supporting local services, strengthening community safety and backing those affected.”

“At home, I’ll prioritise time with my grandsons and family, drawing strength from their optimism.”

He calls for kindness, resilience and hope as the region works together to “build a safer, fairer and more inclusive year ahead”.

 

 

Ella George

Lara MP

George said 2026 would bring a mix of community connection and local infrastructure delivery, including the female friendly change rooms at North Shore Football Netball Club and the new hockey facilities at Stead Park, while work continues at Serendip Sanctuary.

“My resolution for 2026 is to spend more time connecting – connecting with my family, my friends, and the incredible people I meet every day in Geelong’s North,” she said.

She also looking forward to getting out on the trails with her dog Blue, after tackling the Lara RSL’s 96km Kokoda Memorial Walk last year.

 

 

Bev McArthur

Member for Western Victoria

McArthur didn’t mince her words. She’s eager to see new Victorian Liberal Leader Jess Wilson make her mark and achieve success at the ballot box come November.

 

 

Christine Couzens

Geelong MP

And finally, Couzens said her government continues to deliver “on its promise to make life better for Geelong and beyond”, from “cost-of-living relief to renewable energy projects, free kinder and free TAFE, and world-class infrastructure”.

“My priorities remain clear: supporting families, investing in health and education and creating opportunities across our community,” she said.

Couzens is also looking forward to the opening of the Nyaal Banyul Convention and Events Centre, which she said would be a “game changer” for the region that will boost the local economy, create jobs and increase tourism.