August was a month of advocacy, nostalgia and community spirit in East Gippsland, defined by a push for environmental accountability, a celebration of rail history, and a passionate defence of local assets.
On Friday, August 1, Orbost Community College celebrated 100 days of school for its prep, grade one and two students, with many coming up with some fun and creative costumes.
Early in the month, a significant petition calling for an independent environmental audit of the Gippsland Lakes was tabled in Federal Parliament.
Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, presented the petition on August 6.
Supported by the Friends of the Gippsland Lakes, the document attracted nearly 1000 signatures from concerned locals.
Mr Chester told Parliament the audit was “long overdue,” noting the last major CSIRO audit occurred in 1998.
Mr Chester highlighted the lack of detailed monitoring regarding water quality and pests, stating that while management is primarily a State Government responsibility, an independent audit is necessary when the state “continually fails to meet its responsibilities.”
The local circular economy received a boost on August 14 with the reopening of the Bairnsdale Salvos Store.
The Salvation Army, a long-standing pillar of the community, unveiled a fresh look and feel at its new location.
The store continues to offer quality second-hand goods including clothing, accessories and homewares, with profits going directly back into local community programs.
Bairnsdale stepped back in time later in the month when Steamrail Victoria rolled into town.
The classic steam engine and vintage carriages captivated the region, with crowds gathering at almost every intersection between Richmond and Bairnsdale to glimpse history
on the move.
Upon arrival, the 420 passengers – who travelled from across metropolitan Melbourne and country Victoria – were greeted by the sounds of the Bairnsdale Brass Band.
Gillick’s Bus Lines provided connections for those wanting to explore Paynesville and the Lakes.
The event highlighted the enduring appeal of rail heritage, with volunteers ensuring the day was a resounding success.
In local sport, the East Gippsland Junior Football Association held its grand final matches at Bairnsdale City Oval on Sunday, August 24, with Wy Yung crowned premiers in both the under 13s and under 15s.
Orbost Snowy Rovers was the runner-up in the under 13s, while Lakes Entrance came second in the under 15s.
Locally, the future of the Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool dominated council proceedings.
East Gippsland Shire Council resolved to commission an independent safety inspection of the facility and commence a new East Gippsland Aquatic Strategy.
The issue sparked significant public interest, with more than 70 concerned community members attending the council meeting to fight for the pool to remain open.
The new strategy aims to guide the future of the site and aquatic facilities across the shire.
