Wrapping up 2023

By Lachlan Ellis

‘Twas the week before Christmas, and all through the Shire…quite a lot is happening actually, with two project unveilings, and many festive events occurring last week.

The Nelson family popped into Ballan and Bacchus Marsh last week to bring some fantastic tunes, not to mention jolly old Santa visiting the Village Green, Christmas Craft workshops, carols, and more.

As we get closer to Christmas and the New Year, late December is a time of both reflection on the year that was, and looking ahead to what the new year will bring.

And while 2023 has had its highs and lows, Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Ally Munari, now a month into the role, said the year had been an exciting one, and she’s optimistic about 2024 too.

“It’s been a big year, with lots of things coming to fruition. We’ve had lots of openings in terms of big builds, some have had frustrating delays, but have finally gotten to the point where the communities can access those wonderful facilities,” Cr Munari told the Moorabool News.

“It’s been a big-ticket year, and we’re really thankful to the State Government especially, because without them we wouldn’t have been able to have these amazing facilities for our growing community. To have these wonderful facilities in our Shire, we feel very lucky.”

The year has of course brought difficulties, but Cr Munari said Council is taking that into account.

“The challenges that we’re all facing in terms of cost of living pressures, has made us rethink in Council the way we use ratepayers’ money, and where we spread that money. We’re being very particular, and having robust conversations in terms of the budget moving forward,” she said.

“I want the community to know that we’re mindful of spending, and tightening up Council’s belt, and making sure we’re getting the most bang for our buck when we look at building projects and where we spend money across Moorabool.

“We’ve ticked so many boxes in our advocacy basket, and so I’m really excited over the next month or two to be working really hard on what that next year looks like for Moorabool.”

Cr Munari concluded by wishing every Moorabool resident a safe and merry Christmas, and a happy New Year.

“Enjoy your time with your family – this is probably the first Christmas [since COVID] where we feel fully back to normal, and I think we’re all ready for a rest. So I hope people enjoy some time with family and friends. Enjoy the special moments that this time brings.” she said.