Here is what is making news for December 11, 2025.=====================================A group of Zimbabwean dairy farmers recently toured South West Victoria to learn about boosting herd numbers and productivity.

Hosted by Genetics Australia, the week-long visit included stops at local farms such as Chris Place's Tesbury farm to expand international connections.
==========================================================================This festive season, Corangamite Shire Council urges residents to keep waste under control by reducing, reusing, and recycling.
==========================================================================The State Government is investing in emergency service volunteers across Victoria, such as those across the South West rolling out nearly $1.4 million through the Valuing Volunteers Program. 

It comes after Colac SES received funding through the VESEP Grants, purchasing a medium rescue truck.
==========================================================================Member for Western Victoria, Bev McArthur is calling for urgent maintenance along the Great Ocean Road.
==========================================================================The Australian Platypus Conservancy has confirmed for the first time in 20 years that a platypus has been sighted in the Curdies River.

Platypuses were thought to be locally extinct here, with the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority saying this is a huge win for biodiversity and a reason to celebrate.
==========================================================================Colac Otway and Corangamite farmers are welcoming a two-year freeze on the Emergency Services Volunteer Levy, along with an increase to the property value exemption threshold.

The Victorian Farmers Federation says the changes provide immediate financial relief during a tough period for the industry. 
==========================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Hampden League's 2026 fixture has been released... with the first round scheduled for April 11

League President Shane Threllfall... says the fixture also see's the return to a Saturday Grand Final... after a Friday decider was trialed this season 
==========================================================================Otway Districts have announced another signing ahead of season 2026.

Daniel Carr crosses over after stints with Belmont Lions and Kolora-Noorat.

Carr joins the recent addition of Rhys Scott, and Josh and Lachie Bone.
==========================================================================In the regions representative cricket results South West went down to Warrnambool Moyne by 5 wickets in a 50 over competition.

The Western Waves defeated the Central Highlands in an under 16s fixture played out at Warrion on Sunday.

Cobden's Campbell and Parker Walsh represented the Western Waves under 18s in its win against the Gippsland Pride. Parker made 90 not out from 122 balls.

The Barwon Rockets featuring Irrewarra's Ollie Melville and Xavier Cooknell also defeated the South East Sharks.
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