Here is what is making news for August 18, 2026.==================================Concerned parents in Apollo Bay are rallying for support after their local childcare centre was denied federal funding.

The service, which has run for twenty years, was reportedly rejected by the Community Child Care Fund without explanation.

Locals warn the centre is at risk of closure unless the decision is overturned, and are urging their local MPs to urgently intervene.====================================================================Farmers across the Colac Otway and Corangamite shires are being urged to prepare for the upcoming bushfire season.

Agriculture Victoria is hosting a farm fire preparedness webinar on Wednesday, September second, at seven p-m.

Land Management Extension Officer Kylie Macreadie says early planning is essential to reduce stress and protect property, livestock, and staff. 
====================================================================A premier south-west Victorian dairy operation south of Colac has been listed for sale with a twenty million dollar price tag.

Located at Carlisle River, the six hundred and fifty-one hectare Otway Milk enterprise is being offered on a walk-in, walk-out basis.

The farm currently milks seven hundred Holstein-Friesian cows, producing over five million litres of milk annually. 
====================================================================The latest August release of Dairy News Australia's August ABVs report has highlighted the strength of South West Victoria’s dairy industry.

Terang's Emu Banks Holstein herd, owned by Bryan and Jo Dickson, retained the number one position. Breeders in Noorat, Terang, and Bambra were also recognised.

Bryan Dickson credits the region's strong performance to the large quantity of dedicated local dairy producers.
====================================================================Corangamite Shire Council is calling on residents, businesses, and community groups to provide feedback on a proposed planning scheme amendment aimed at improving the Timboon town centre.
====================================================================Christmas by the Lake is searching for businesses to sponsor the event for its fifth instalment.

Ace Radio Colac General Manager Nick Hay says those interested in sponsoring the event which raises money for the Colac Area Health Foundation should reach out to the station.
====================================================================AND IN SPORTColac Tigers Premiership player Zara Walters is set to leave the Melbourne Vixens prior to the twenty twenty-seven Super Netball season.

Having debuted in twenty twenty-four, Walters featured in thirty-nine games across three seasons.

During her tenure with the club, she won Rookie of the Year honours and helped secure the Vixens' twenty twenty-five premiership.
====================================================================It wasn't a great weekend for the Corangamite Lions Football Club as the seniors had a 2-nil lost to the Forest Rangers.

The Lions women's team played out a 2-2 draw.
====================================================================Colac football exports starred at state league level over the weekend.

Brisbane Lions Will McLachlan kicked 4 goals 4, in the Lions 103 point demolition of Gold Coast.

Micah Robb had 15 touches and kicked 1 goal 4 in Werribee's 59 point win against Sandringham.

In the WAFL Tobyn Murray had 15 disposals and kicked 2 goals 1 in Peel Thunder's loss to West Coast.
====================================================================The Colac Otway Rovers had a mixed weekend on the soccer pitch with the Seniors winning 1-nil against Corio Bay.

The reserves lost 4-nil to Bell Park SC.
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