Here is what is making news for September 08, 2026.=======================================Recent spending data reveals locals and visitors are boosting the Colac Otway economy compared to previous years.

Shire Chief Executive Officer Andrew Tenni says the trend is a positive sign for regional businesses.
==============================================================================Four students from Colac Secondary College have recently travelled to Parliament House, representing the Victorian Schools Garden Program and Greenlife Industry Victoria.

During the visit, the students showcased their agricultural knowledge and practical skills, teaching guests how to craft newspaper pots and plant lettuce seedlings.

The group also discussed the educational benefits of having the Farm My School initiative located on their school grounds. 
==============================================================================An innovative South West Healthcare initiative designed to keep older people out of hospital has been named a finalist in the twenty twenty-six Victorian Public Healthcare Awards.
==============================================================================Nominations are now open for the twenty twenty-six Wannon Sport and Volunteer Awards.

Member for Wannon Dan Tehan is calling on the community to acknowledge local sporting achievements and the generous groups who donate their time.
==============================================================================Colac and Corangamite livestock producers are being urged to remain vigilant for cattle bloat, with spring pasture growth accelerating across the region.
==============================================================================Corangamite Shire is calling on residents to complete a five-minute survey to help redesign its website.

The site has not had a major refresh since twenty eighteen, and Manager of Governance Gabrielle Henry says user habits have changed significantly since then.

The upgrade aims to make the platform more accessible for people with disabilities, meeting international digital standards. ==============================================================================Lorne Sea Baths is set for a massive transformation into a premium wellness destination, supported by a Victorian Government grant of almost five hundred thousand dollars.

Opening in January twenty twenty-seven, Wildsoul Wellness will launch a new venue at the refreshed precinct. 
==============================================================================AND IN SPORTTwo Colac football products have helped lock in a Grand Final berth for Peel Thunder.
Colac exports Dustin Walters and Tobyn Murray helped Peel Thunder secure a 28 point win over Claremont.

Murray kicked two goals and had 17 disposals in the win.

In other state league action Micah Robb's season with Werribee is over after its straight sets finals exit - going down by 16 to Port Melbourne over the weekend.
==============================================================================Award winners for the CDFNL's junior competitions have been named after ceremonies last night.

EMBARGOED==============================================================================The Colac Otway Rovers senior side is bound for the finals, securing second spot on the ladder following a three to one win over the Deakin Ducks.

It was a tougher weekend for the rest of the club, with the women's side falling to Corio S-C one nil, and the reserves suffering a five nil loss.

Meanwhile, the Corangamite Lions women's team is celebrating finals success, progressing to the next stage after claiming a four to one victory against Ballarat S-C.
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