Wallington grandfather, retired oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and SES volunteer Councillor Rowan Story loves life on the Bellarine. He enjoys the open spaces, big skies and wetlands.

The Bellarine’s much-loved performing arts precinct has stepped into a bold new era, with the Potato Shed officially unveiling its refreshed identity as the Bellarine Arts Centre (BAC) at the 2026 season launch on Friday 6 February.

The community is invited to share their thoughts on the newly completed Rippleside Inclusive Playspace, a Livvi’s Place.

Funding totalling $772,131 has been awarded to 78 applicants in the latest round of community grants endorsed by Council.

The 50m outdoor pool at the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre (NBAC) is set to close temporarily to allow for works to progress on the indoor swimming pools and recreation facility.  

Applications are now open for the Community Events Quick Response Grants, providing support for public events with external bidding deadlines, needing early funding approval, or responding to emerging community needs.

The City of Greater Geelong is activating the lawns of its Civic Precinct on Thursdays in summer to bring the community together.

The Roslyn Road/Thornhill Road intersection in Highton is being upgraded with a new roundabout and raised pedestrian crossings to improve traffic flow and make the area safer for all road users.

Council has voted to award $25,000 in funding to Godfrey Hirst and Deakin University to support a joint research project.

Clublinks has been announced as the preferred operator for the management of Queens Park Golf Club.

Four hundred community members have become Australian citizens and publicly pledged their commitment to Australia in front of friends and family. 

Local artists and creatives interested in building their skills can now apply for an Artists & Creatives Professional Development Grant.

Mahjong meet ups, fitness classes for over 50s, tai chi, yoga, local artist presentations, adult and youth art lessons, crafternoons, a repair café and jobseeker and counselling services are just some of what’s on offer at the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House next month.

Eleven people aged 13-17 were formally inducted into the 2026 Youth Council at a City Hall ceremony this week.

Vessel operators are encouraged not to attempt a traverse across the harbour entrance over the Australia Day weekend except at high tide levels.