Here is what is making news for July 15, 2026.===========================A new pledge has been revealed from the Liberals and Nationals Government following its $5 billion dollar road announcement.

Opposition Leader Jess Wilson says the speed limit on the Princes Freeway will be increased between Melbourne and Colac from 100-kilometres-per-hour to 110-kilometres-per-hour.
======================================================A proposed telecommunications facility in Terang could be expanded to improve services across the South West and beyond.

Telstra has partnered with the Corangamite Shire Council to construct a new ground station in the local township.

However, recent planning documents reviewing the project's technical assessment suggest that expanding the proposal would benefit a much larger portion of southern Australia.
======================================================Angling clubs across the Colac Otway region can now apply for funding through the Victorian Fisheries Authority's Stronger Fishing Clubs Grants program.

VFA CEA Travis Dowling says the final round offers up to ten-thousand dollars per club for facility upgrades or community programs.
======================================================Residents across the Colac Otway region will have access to a free mobile health service later this month following an announcement by the Lions Club of Colac.
======================================================Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin says the State Opposition's five-billion-dollar road repair plan is what regional Victoria needs.

Speaking as Deputy Chair of Rural Councils Victoria, Councillor Makin highlighted that deteriorating roads increase freight costs and damage vehicles.

The coalition has promised the infrastructure funding over the next parliamentary term. 
======================================================Farmers and agricultural professionals across the South West are invited to submit nominations for the inaugural Australian Agriculture Awards.

Editorial Director at ACM Agri, Penelope Arthur, SAYS the new program, run by A-C-M Agri and the National Farmers' Federation, recognizes individuals demonstrating leadership and innovation within the sector.
======================================================AND IN SPORTThe Cobden Bombers under 16s footballers broke through for their first win of the 2026 season over the weekend.

The Bombers had a thrilling 3 point win to beat Terang-Mortlake.
======================================================New and and emerging Swimmers will meet this Saturday for the Colac Swim Clubs Qualifying and Encouragement Meet.

Held at Bluewater Leisure Centre, Warm ups begin at 12.30pm with competition beginning at 1pm.
======================================================The Colac and District Football Netball League Under Seventeen representative team has claimed victory at the twenty-twenty-six Female Festival of Sport.

Hosted by AFL Barwon and the Geelong Netball Club, the local side played an exhibition match against the Bellarine Football Netball League, securing a forty-six to twenty win.
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