The Mayor’s Column – June 2026

THIS month has been a powerful reminder of the importance of strong advocacy and genuine partnership in delivering outcomes for our community.

Together with our CEO, I recently had the opportunity to represent Golden Plains Shire at State Parliament as part of the Greater Ballarat Alliance of Councils (GBAC).

It was a valuable and productive day, allowing us to engage directly with both State and Opposition Ministers to advance the priorities that matter most to our region.

Our discussions focused on the issues that underpin the liveability and future of regional communities.

Chief among these was the urgent need for increased investment in road safety, as well as the upgrade and renewal of local roads and bridges.

For residents and businesses alike, safe and reliable infrastructure is essential to staying connected and thriving.

We also advocated strongly for the long-term financial sustainability of local government. Councils are being asked to do more than ever before, often with limited resources.

Ensuring we are adequately supported is critical to maintaining services and delivering the infrastructure our growing communities rely on.

Digital connectivity was another key focus. In a region like Golden Plains, access to fast, reliable connectivity is vital, not just for economic growth, but for education, healthcare access and everyday life.

Closing the digital gap between metropolitan and regional areas remains a priority.

Importantly, we also highlighted the opportunities for regional economic growth and the support needed to meet housing targets in a way that reflects the unique character and needs of our communities.

Growth must be carefully planned and supported so that it strengthens our region without compromising what makes it special.

While advocacy at the State level is essential, it is only part of the picture. This week, we took Golden Plains’ voice to the national stage in Canberra at the Australian Local Government Conference. This was another important opportunity to learn, collaborate and advocate for our community at a Federal level.

Amid this important advocacy work, we are also proud to celebrate a significant local achievement that reflects the strength of our community partnerships.

Golden Plains Shire Council has been named the winner of the Outstanding Small Rural Council Initiative award at the LGPro Awards for Excellence for the Inverleigh Active Youth Space.

This fantastic project has created a vibrant and inclusive space in the heart of Inverleigh where young people can be active, connect with friends and enjoy new recreational opportunities.

It is a space designed not just for activity, but for belonging and community connection.

This achievement would not have been possible without the passion and input of the Inverleigh community, who helped shape the vision and advocate for this important project.

I would also like to acknowledge Council’s Recreation and Community Infrastructure team for their dedication and hard work in bringing this space to life.

This award is a testament to what can be achieved when Council and community work together with a shared purpose.

It reflects our commitment to creating spaces that support wellbeing, foster connection and build community pride.

As we continue our advocacy at both State and Federal levels, achievements like the Inverleigh Active Youth Space remind us why this work matters.

By working together, we can ensure Golden Plains continues to grow in a way that supports our people, strengthens our communities and secures a bright future for generations to come.

Yours in community,

Cr Owen Sharkey

Mayor

Golden Plains Shire