Residents, visitors encouraged to be heat health aware

Published on 23 January 2026

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Residents and visitors are encouraged to be aware of above-average forecast maximum temperatures and their impact on people’s health as the Gannawarra prepares for a second period of severe heat this month.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting eight consecutive days of 40-plus degree maximum temperatures for the Gannawarra from tomorrow through to Saturday, 31 January, with minimum temperatures in the low to mid-20s also forecast for this period.

“Although summers in the Gannawarra usually feature hot days, extended periods of days above 40 degrees Celsius can be detrimental to people’s health, especially young children and our senior residents,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“There are some simple steps you can take to beat the heat. These include drinking plenty of water and staying cool by seeking out air-conditioned buildings.

“If you need to head out, schedule activities to the coolest part of the day. However, if you are heading outdoors, seek shade, when possible, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen and avoid exercising in the heat.”

Residents and visitors who are struggling to keep cool at home or where they are staying are encouraged to visit any of the following venues:

  • The Cohuna Library, which is open 10am-12 noon Saturdays and 10am-4pm Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
  • Kerang’s Sir John Gorton Library, which is open 10am-12 noon Saturdays and 10am-5pm Tuesday to Thursday.
  • The Leitchville Library, which will be open 1.30pm-4.30pm Tuesday.
  • Council-managed swimming pools at Cohuna and Kerang, which will be open 11am-7pm tomorrow, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday, as well as 12 noon-7pm on Australia Day, 26 January. These locations will revert to their school term opening hours of 3pm-7pm weekdays and 11am-7pm weekends on Thursday.
  • Community-managed swimming pools at Koondrook, Leitchville and Quambatook. Details regarding these locations are available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/pools
  • Northern District Community Health’s offices will be open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday for people looking for a cool and comfortable space.
  • Northaven Kerang, which will be open from 10am-6pm tomorrow through to Saturday, 31 January for people looking for a cool and comfortable space.
  • Local neighbourhood houses and community centres:
    • The Cohuna Neighbourhood House will be open 9am-3pm Tuesday to Friday.
    • The Kerang Neighbourhood House will be open 9am-4pm Tuesday and Wednesday, as well as 9am-3pm Thursday. This site will be closed for lunch 12.30pm-1pm on each of these days.
    • The Quambatook Community Resource Centre will be open 9am-2pm Wednesday and Friday.

Northern District Community Health will also conduct welfare checks for its vulnerable clients on high temperature days.

Council’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/gannawarra will feature up to date information relating to the heatwave, including Total Fire Ban declarations and promotion of key regional service changes.

“Residents and visitors are encouraged to not only look out for themselves during this period of hot weather, but also to check on the welfare of family, friends and neighbours, particularly those who may be unwell or living alone,” Rollinson said.

If residents feel unwell in the heat or are concerned about others, contact your doctor, hospital or phone NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24. For life-threatening emergencies dial Triple Zero (000).

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