Here is what is making news for March 11, 2026.===================================The Colac Otway Shire is seeking community feedback on a landmark proposal to lease the Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre to a private company.

Councillors met today to announce IVG Global as the preferred operator to manage the cinema, auditorium, and function spaces.======================================================================An extraordinary piece of Australian history is now on the market in Aireys Inlet as the iconic estate "Jumbunna" heads to expressions of interest.

The twenty-three-hectare property is famous for its Spanish-inspired residence, which was originally envisioned and created by the world-renowned opera soprano, Dame Joan Hammond.
======================================================================The Corangamite Rural Women’s Network is hosting an International Women’s Day workshop this Friday, March 13th.

Dynamic facilitator Helga Svendsen will lead the "Give to Gain" session at the Corangamite CMA office in Colac.
======================================================================The Colac Truck and Ute Show will hit the Colac Showgrounds this weekend with live entertainment, a show and shine, merchandise stalls and something for everyone.

Colac Fire Brigade's Dan Williams says they are expecting their biggest crowd yet with funds raised for local emergency services.
======================================================================Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin is calling on the State Government to ensure local residents receive "real benefits" from the newly announced Twelve Apostles entry fees. ======================================================================South West commuters are expressing growing frustration as V-Line continues to replace overcrowded trains with supplementary bus services.

The regional rail operator has confirmed that coaches are being deployed whenever seat reservations on the Warrnambool line are exhausted. 
======================================================================AND IN SPORTWinning ways continue for the Colac Bowls Club following their weekend victory against rival Warrnambool in the West Coast Bowls Region Weekend Pennant Final.

The team has officially qualified for the State Pennant Championships at Moama Bowling Club, starting April 25th.======================================================================The pathway from local footy to the big stage is wide open for South West talent this season as thirty-eight Barwon-region players secure V-F-L contracts.

Leading the charge for the C-D-F-N-L is Lorne standout Charlie McCartin, who has officially signed on for the 2026 state-league campaign.

Colac Tigers stars Ethan Liddle and Jack Skinner have also locked in spots at Geelong and Port Melbourne respectively.
======================================================================The Colac Imperials have bolstered their 2026 roster with the massive triple-signing of the Sanders brothers.

Nick Sanders makes a permanent move to the club from St Joseph’s in the G-F-L, bringing elite wing and half-back experience.

He is joined by brothers Will and Oliver, who both arrive from Newtown following successful stints in the Geelong junior and senior systems.
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