2026 Annual Report celebrates Council's successes

Published on 26 October 2026

Major community projects, improved infrastructure, strong advocacy and continued support for local organisations are among the achievements highlighted in the Gannawarra Shire Council Annual Report 2026.

Presented at the October 2026 Council Meeting, the report showcases the projects, services and initiatives delivered across the Gannawarra during the 2025/26 financial year, along with Council's support for community groups and organisations.

"Throughout 2025/26, Council remained focused on delivering projects, services and advocacy that make a real difference to the people who live, work and visit our region," Mayor Ross Stanton said.

"Whether it was improving local infrastructure, supporting community initiatives or advocating for greater investment in the Gannawarra, our priority was ensuring the needs and aspirations of our community remained front and centre."

Council delivered two landmark capital works projects during 2025/26. These included The Glasshouse, a $3.07 million project jointly funded by Council and the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, and the Sustainable Recreational Water in Quambatook project, which has transformed the Quambatook Weir precinct and strengthened its connection to the township.

"These projects highlight what can be achieved when communities, Council and government work together towards a shared vision," Mayor Stanton said.

"Both projects have delivered lasting benefits for their communities and demonstrate the value of investing in places that bring people together, support local activity and enhance quality of life."

Another major milestone during the year was the adoption of the Gannawarra Shire 2025-2029 Council Plan and Community Vision 2040.

"Developed through extensive community consultation, the Council Plan provides a clear roadmap for the future of our municipality and reflects the priorities and values of our community," Mayor Stanton said.

"I would like to thank everyone who contributed their ideas, feedback and perspectives throughout the process. Their input has helped shape a plan that will guide Council's work over the coming years."

Other highlights featured in the Gannawarra Shire Council Annual Report 2026 include:

• Delivering safer streets in Kerang through a new pedestrian crossing at Boundary Street and traffic-calming works on Wyndham Street, funded through the Victorian Government's Safer Local Roads and Streets Program.
• Establishing the Gannawarra Roads Focus Group, giving residents and road users a stronger voice in discussions about local and state road priorities.
• Successfully delivering 93 per cent of Council's annual Capital Works program, with a focus on renewing footpaths, kerb and channel, and local road infrastructure.
• Securing $200,000 through VicHealth's Partners in Place Program for the Stronger Together Gannawarra Children and Youth project.

The Gannawarra Shire Council Annual Report 2026 also outlines Council's progress in delivering the first year of the Gannawarra Shire 2025-2029 Council Plan, its performance under the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework and achievements through its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan.

The report includes Council's Audited Financial Statements and Audited Performance Statement for the 2025/26 financial year.

To view the Gannawarra Shire Council Annual Report 2026, visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/Annual_Reports. Hard copies will also be available from Council's Customer Service Centres in Cohuna and Kerang.