Here is what is making news for December 16, 2025.===============================With many locals planning trips over the Christmas–New Year break, the RACV is encouraging Victorians to explore closer to home.

New Tourism and Transport Forum data shows a strong rise in domestic travel intentions.
==============================================================Horse owners across Colac Otway regions are being urged to include their animals in farm and household fire plans.

Agriculture Victoria says horses should have access to a “safer” area with secure fencing, minimal vegetation, and a reliable water source.
==============================================================A 47-year-old man has been taken to Colac Hospital following a collision at the McDonald’s drive-through.

Emergency services were called to the scene, with Colac Police, Ambulance Victoria and MICA paramedics attending.
==============================================================A Birregurra dad is set to make Christmas extra special after winning $900,000 in the weekend’s TattsLotto draw.

The Birregurra man held one of seven division one winning entries nationally in draw 4633, each worth $919,794.14.
==============================================================Planning for Corangamite Shire Council’s 2026–27 Budget is now underway, and the community is being invited to have their say.

Residents, businesses and community groups can share priorities and project ideas online.==============================================================With Summer finally upon us and many heading away for the Christmas break, many areas across the state such as the Otways continue to be a heightened fire risk area
 
The CFA is urging anyone hitting the roads this festive season to be aware of conditions.
==============================================================AND IN SPORTIn the CDCA's women's weekend matches - Carlisle River won against West Warrion.

Pomborneit Gold was too strong for Tomahawk Creek.

Birregurra defeated Pomborneit Maroon.

Simpson beat Apollo Bay.

It was a close match with Irrewarra beating Colac by 7 runs.
==============================================================In the weekends Corangamite Pennant Bowls results - City was too strong for Central.

Colac defeated Apollo Bay.

Winchelsea 1 continued its winning ways against Simpson.

AND Camperdown Magpies were too good for Winchelsea 2.
==============================================================Otway Districts have rolled out another signing with Jackson Holmes-Henley signing on.

A utility, Holmes-Henley started his career with the Grovedale Tigers and Geelong Ammos before playing at Kolora-Noorat.
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