Mitchell Shire recently hosted a Rural Councils Victoria Forum (RCV), welcoming chief executives and councillors from across rural Victoria for the two-day event held at Trawool Estate in early August.
Key topics included RCV advocacy for the upcoming Federal election, sharing experiences on the impact of artificial intelligence on rural councils, and exploring big ideas for the future of rural Victoria.
A panel of experts leading discussions included Kos Samaras from Redbridge Group, President of the National Farmers Federation David Jochinke, and Chief Executive of the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal Natalie Egleton.
Members from Northern Victoria, the Municipal Association of Victoria, and leaders including Parliamentary Secretary Regional Development Michaela Settle, Leader of the Nationals Peter Walsh, and Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland also attended.
RCV Chair Councillor Mary-Ann Brown greeted more than 120 representatives of rural councils and said she appreciated the support that Mitchell Shire has provided.
“The Forum is one of the most important dates in the calendar for rural Victoria, where mayors, councillors, local government CEOs and staff come together to learn from each other as well as subject experts, and to decide on the priorities that rural Victorian communities must see tackled in the next 12 months, both at a state and federal level,” she said.
Mitchell Shire Council Acting Mayor Nathan Clark said the event created a platform for discussions and networking, and also highlighted the efforts of Mitchell Shire Council, Greater Shepparton City Council, Strathbogie Shire Council, and the Victorian Government in supporting the Visitor Economy Partnership through Goulburn Region Tourism.
“This forum provides a crucial platform for rural councils to come together, share insights, and collaborate on key issues affecting our communities,” he said.
“The discussions and ideas generated here will play a vital role in shaping the future of rural Victoria, especially as we approach the Federal election. We are particularly excited to showcase our $8 million Seymour Resource Recovery Centre and highlight the collaborative efforts driving the Visitor Economy Partnership through Goulburn Region Tourism. Together, we can make a significant impact on the development and sustainability of our region.”
