Remembering 2025: our top stories

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December 23, 2025

AS it is our last edition of The North Central Review for the year, let’s go back and have a look at the stories that shaped the Mitchell Shire area in 2025.

JANUARY

The year started with the Mitchell Shire Council calling on the Federal Government to commit to road funding, with a dramatic truck fire on the Northern Highway causing chaos and gridlock in Wallan, leaving drivers in the lurch.

There was more frustration when it was revealed that there was no planning for construction of the Kilmore Bypass – which continues to be a talking point.

FEBRUARY

There was an enormous announcement from both the Mitchell Shire Council and Melbourne Victory, with the A-Leagues club committing to building a campus for youth and women’s players in Beveridge. The campus would act as the club’s new home, connecting the sport of football to Mitchell Shire.

Melbourne Victory Beveridge 5 — NEW PLANS: Melbourne Victory’s announcement that it would move into a new Beveridge campus was one of the big stories of the year.

MARCH

Mitchell Shire Council received its wish for more road funding, with the Federal Government contributing $45 million to upgrade and seal Old Sydney Road – an additional $5 million of funding than what Council had submitted.

The next week, Council backflipped on the restoration of the Old Goulburn River Bridge in full, overturning the decision made in September last year, costing the Council just over $850,000.

Council was again in the news at the end of the month, with rail funding secured from both parties ahead of the Federal election for potential electrification to Wallan, and potential station construction at Beveridge and Cloverton.

Wallan is promoted from the Gisborne District Cricket Association’s Johnstone Shield to McIntyre Cup courtesy of a convincing win in the grand final over Eastern Hill.

APRIL

Emotion was the word from the Seymour Historical Society as it passionately described the benefits of restoration of the Old Goulburn River Bridge.

Rob Mitchell and the Federal Government announced a road blitz would come to Wallan, hoping to solve black spot issues around the town.

The community got their wallets out to support the Children’s Hospital Good Friday effort, with the local area generating $153,500 towards a record-breaking total.

A week later, record crowds would attend numerous ANZAC Day ceremonies across town.

MAY

The Federal election is held, with Anthony Albanese’s Labor party winning the election. Rob Mitchell wins the seat of McEwen over Liberal’s Jason McClintock, while the Nationals’ Sam Birrell retains the seat of Nicholls.

The first month of the Mitchell Shire Council’s new bin system was completed, with residents torn on the new fortnightly collection, while Council itself recognises residents for doing its bit to adjust.

Controversy erupted in the middle of May when the State Government’s contentions Emergency Services and Volunteer Levy was announced ahead of the first Budget from Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes. Farmers and CFA volunteers were furious at the announcement, while Mitchell Shire Council voiced its opposition to the collection of the tax.

Screenshot 2025 12 15 170317 — FIRE FURY: The Emergency Services Volunteer Fund was a hot topic of debate throughout the year, with CFA volunteers furious with the proposed changes.

After the Mitchell Shire Council released its draft budget, the future of the Old Goulburn River Bridge was again put up for a vote, with the motion for a business case costing $80,000 carried unanimously.

JUNE

Wallan residents on Stanley Street score a victory when a childcare centre is rejected by Council.

Soon, fury emerges over the Seymour V/Line service and the lack of support it receives, with new services instead going to towns such as Ballarat and Bendigo. Overcrowding and reliable service concerns are common issues that emerge.

JULY

The proposed Northern Campus moves one step closer, with Mitchell Shire Council intending to grant Melbourne Victory a 29-year lease in Beveridge.

Mitchell Shire Council’s bin changes carry on, with households soon learning their bins would be inspected to check on whether they had met the new four-bin system threshold.

On top of the controversial Emergency Services and Volunteers Levy, farmers are again furious at the proposed Right of Entry Bill from the State Government.

The month ends with Council again split on the future of the Old Goulburn River Bridge, with the total demolition of the bridge opposed.

AUGUST

The future of the North Central Quarry is finally decided, with the State Government approving the Beveridge North West Precinct Structure Plan. It followed four years of fighting over whether to approve the quarry despite opposition from the Mitchell Shire Council.

An amusing story emerges with an early-morning V/Line service detaching with 10 passengers stranded in Tallarook, with the driver of the train unaware of the train splitting as it continued on towards Melbourne. The scare forces the shutdown of the Seymour and Shepparton lines, with replacement coaches deployed.

SEPTEMBER

A waste fire leaves Broadford and Tallarook residents on edge, with the Environmental Protection Authority, CFA District 12 and Mitchell Shire Council urging residents to stay calm at a time where Council has also asked for the Department of Transport and Planning to improve rubbish removal in the area.

Wallan secures a memorable reserves premiership with a hard-fought victory over Romsey in the Riddell District Football Netball League grand final.

IMG 5990 1068w WebRdy e1757915795362 — FLAG WINNERS: Wallan took a thrilling victory in the reserves’ Riddell District Football Netball League grand final.

Kirra Wright makes a memorable appearance in the Para World Championships, medalling up in shot put.

Mitchell Shire announces its Youth Council, with Nic Houghton the Youth Mayor.

OCTOBER

Jessica Synon makes an impression on national TV, competing well in the Great Australian Bake Off and finishing in the top three.

Another great achievement from Kilmore saw Nate Long becoming Australian champion in the Australian Schools Championships in boxing.

Local author Caroline Angel makes an impact with her novel The Dead Spot.

Council makes a shopping list for next year’s state election, including the Beveridge train station, Greenhill Recreation Precinct, Hilldene Employment Precinct, Kilmore Secondary School and Kilmore Bypass.

NOVEMBER

Winslow earns a contract to build the long-awaited Watson Street Interchange, a $175 million project which is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments.

Interchange09 pic2 — ON ITS WAY: The Wallan interchange has finally been mapped out, with the $175 million contract awarded.

Soon, the Mitchell Shire Council scores a win in its designs on getting a new train station into Beveridge, while the quest to duplicate the Upfield Line into the Shire also earns a win.

Mitchell Shire Council Mayor John Dougall is re-elected into the role, despite a challenge from Councillor Nathan Clark.

John Dougall and Timothy Hanson 1068w WebRdy — DOUGALL RE-ELECTED: Mitchell Shire Council mayor John Dougall was re-elected for a further 12 months, alongside deputy mayor Timothy Hanson.

DECEMBER

The Kilmore SES earns a new home, earning $6 million of funding to transform an old Powlett Street house which was owned by founding members Sam and Kerry De Gabrielle.

The first Seymour Scouts celebrates its 110^th anniversary.

In recent news, the Beveridge Intermodal Precinct finally has its first sod turn to mark what should be a mid-2028 start, with John Holland announced as the company behind the first stage.

Carols in the Gavan Hall Carpark

Jo Kubeil

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December 23, 2025

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TOGETHERNESS struck a chord with many friends and families sharing a joyful sing along to Christmas carols and meeting Santa last Friday evening in Broadford. However, it was the Fleming Family singers, who stole the show.

Emcee Paul Fleming introduced Christchurch Rev Father Andre and Assistant Rev, Cathy Turnbull to parishioners at the third magical year of carols in the carpark at Gavan Hall.

Nearby, residents of St Matthews Village also enjoyed the holy event from the comfort of their own homes.

Paul Fleming said: “It’s really great to have Cathy as the new Anglican Priest here to watch over us and to take care of us, this parish”.

The Mitchell Shire Salvation Army volunteers Lauren and Glenys Kirkham served up a free sausage sizzle complete with cool drinks and sweet cakes from its Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) catering truck Pearl.

In between carols dedicated to rejoicing the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, read by an anonymous narrator shared the holy Christmas story.

A cool change around 6.30pm was a welcome relief, especially for the Fleming Family Singers back by popular demand to entertain with live music.

A crowd favourite was a grand finale hard rock version of “We wish you a Merry Christmas”.

The Fleming family singers travelled from Melbourne while Santa travelled from the North pole and he recruited two young helpers to help him ring the jolly bell and hand out lollies to all the children.

Joan Grimwade also travelled to be at the carols.

Mrs Fred Grimwade said: “It was my [late] husband who established St Matthews Village a long time ago [1975]”.

“I would still call Glenaroua home, even though I have an apartment in Melbourne. I think what they are doing with the churches coming together is wonderful. The whole night has been brilliant,” she said.

The joy came at no expense to parishioners thanks to the collaboration between the Christian Churches of Broadford’s generosity.

Cathy Turnbull said: “If anyone is lonely or they need just a listening ear [over the holidays] they can definitely call me. We can go to a café and have coffee and just have a chat”.

For those wishing to mark Christmas with Christianity, the following services are scheduled:

Father Andre is holding a service at Christchurch, 11 Union Street, Kilmore on Wednesday, December 24 at 5pm and a midnight mass at St Matthews, 72 High Street in Broadford at 11pm.

A Christmas Day service will be held at Christchurch, Kilmore at 9am and another at St Stephen’s Church, Hedleys Lane, Tallarook at 11am.

The Anglican Parish of Hume is holding a Christmas Eve Service at St John’s Church, 37 Wandong Avenue, Wandong with carols followed by mince pies and drinks commencing at 7.30pm and also at St Peters Hume Anglican Grammar, 100 Mt Ridley Road, Mickleham for a midnight Eucharist commencing at 11pm.

Reuse shops on Council agenda

The North Central Review

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December 23, 2025

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THE future operation of Mitchell Shire Council reuse shops was on the agenda last Monday night as the final council meeting of the year was held.

The agenda of the movement was to award a two-year contract to Resource Recovery Australia for $939,338.40, which was also designed to authorise Chief Executive Officer Mary Agostino power to extend the contract for a further two-year term, depending on the contractor’s performance and Council needs.

The contract is designed to transform the two reuse shops in operation in the Mitchell Shire, with the Seymour reuse shop currently not operational, while Wallan’s is open every second Saturday to the public.

Councillor Claudia James outlined her support for the proposal at the meeting.

“I’d like to support this recommendation. As an example of reusing goods that can be repaired and stored, it’s also an opportunity to teach people how to repair and restore second-hand goods and to bring them back to new or nearly new,” she said.

“It’s an opportunity to employ people who may find it difficult to get jobs, and I know that, for instance, in Wallan, the reuse shops are always extremely popular. It’s where a lot of people do find a bargain.

“There are a lot of people who go searching for great bargains, and believe me, with a little bit of spit and polish, you can do a lot of things. I’ve repaired a lot of children’s toys that I’ve found in op-shops, and you just give them a good clean and they are like brand new.”

However, Cr Ned Jeffrey had a different opinion, saying the costs did not add up to the amount of landfill, particularly in Seymour.

“I would like to speak against this motion, on the basis purely of expense,” he said.

“While I acknowledge the previous councillors who have spoken about the fact that it is great to see items being recycled and reused in the community, the sheer expense of nearly $1 million dollars, some of which to be recouped hopefully through potential sales, would be a real crazy waste of ratepayers money.

“It is not the responsibility of ratepayers to manage our recycling, and it is also not their responsibility to pay for employment, be it a good cause or not.”

Cr Jeffrey said the economics of how much landfill would be used did not meet community expectations.

“I’ve done some quick numbers here, recently we supported a motion of $175,000 to divert two to three thousand tons of landfill to the Hanson landfill, which means we know that landfill is around that sort of 50 to 100 dollar mark for a ton of landfill,” he said.

“We know that on top of that, there’s the freight costs, and in Seymour, the freight would literally be from the recycle centre, 200 metres to the landfill.

“Considering we only take 576 tons of refuse per month, we would actually need to divert 22 per cent of that, so someone has to sort through all the rubbish that goes to the tip and find 22 per cent of it to divert to this project to make it pay for itself.

“Now, I think everyone acknowledges the economics of this project is miles out, but I think if I can give you some idea of how far out it is, the numbers that are indicated in the file here are very optimistic for a town like Seymour, that doesn’t have the nice items being thrown out.

“If we were in the centre of Toorak, with rich mahogany sideboards being thrown out, you might be able to recoup your funds, but the stuff being thrown out at Seymour will not be able to be recycled to the value of 22 per cent of the stuff.

“For that reason, on economics alone, this proposal should not be supported.”

Cr James replied, saying funding and sales would be enough to offset the cost of the project.

“I think Cr Jeffrey has left out a couple of things in the story,” she said.

“Because it’s a social enterprise model, there will be government funding for this to support disadvantaged people to help in the workshop, so we can subtract that amount of money from the total.

“You can also subtract sales from the shop from the total as well. Then you can subtract the landfill, what you’re paying there, so there’s three aspects that may not sound as dire as you are making out.”

The proposal was carried narrowly with a vote of five to three, with Councillors John Dougall, Riley Evans, James, Bob Humm and Bob Cornish voting for and Councillors Andrea Pace, Timothy Hanson and Jeffrey voting against. Councillor Nathan Clark was absent and therefore did not vote.

Cr Dougall said the move will deliver community benefits.

“Reuse shops give household goods and materials a second life helping to cut down on waste and support sustainable living,” he said.

“They are a simple, practical way to support a local circular economy right here in Mitchell Shire.”

Final round of Seymour cricket

Michael Thompson

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December 23, 2025

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THE final round of the Seymour District Cricket Association was held over the weekend, with big scoring the order of the day.

In Seymour Club A grade, Tallarook had a positive finish to 2025 with a nine-wicket victory over Alexandra at Tallarook Recreation Reserve, keeping it on pace with Seymour on top of the ladder.

Samuel Manchester dominated with the ball, taking 4/25 off nine overs, while Matthew Archibald took 3/21 off nine, as Alexandra could only muster 9/96 off its 45 overs.

In response, Tallarook only needed 19 overs to finish the job, scoring 1/100, with Joshua Rudge unbeaten on 28 and Lachlan Watts desperately close to a half-century on 48.

Puckapunyal was no match for Yea, losing by 73 runs at home.

Yea was well served by five batsmen scoring over 25 runs in making 6/217, led by Cameron Armstrong’s unbeaten 53.

Charles Davies and Danny Fountain provided some resistance for Pucka, taking two wickets apiece, with Davies taking 2/15, and Fountain 2/29.

Puckapunyal never truly recovered from sitting 4/40 when it was its time to bat, although Davies continued his superb individual match with a run-a-ball 73.

In the end, however, Pucka was bowled out for 144.

At the time of production, no result was entered for Pyalong’s match against Avenel at Pyalong Recreation Reserve.

It was also a similar case for the B grade game at Avenel Recreation Reserve.

Puckapunyal’s B grade team will sit atop the ladder at Christmas, courtesy of a six-wicket win over Yea.

Jacob Nipperess was all over Yea’s batting order, and took 6/19 off 8.2 overs, making a mess of the Tigers’ top order. Only Tayte Hoefchen’s 63 provided resistance as Yea was bowled out for 111.

In response, Shane Chisholm scored 57 to help Pucka chase down the target in 24 overs.

Tallarook narrowly missed out on scoring a win over Alexandra, falling short by four runs.

Tallarook looked to be in a good position as it bowled Alexandra out for 118, with Ben Trezise taking 2/10 and Finn Melville taking 2/14.

With the bat, Tallarook did not have a great start, but key middle-order runs from Brendan O’Donnell (20), Aiden Winnell (20) and Pasquale Schipano (24) helped Tallarook close in. However, it was bowled out for 114, just four runs short.

Last roll for 2025

Michael Thompson

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December 23, 2025

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THE final round of bowls for 2025’s calendar year was completed, with big results shaping both the division one and division three ladder.

Kilmore was the big beneficiary, jumping up to third on the ladder courtesy of a convincing win over Gisborne in an impressive performance.

Lance Whitnall’s team scored a 23-15 victory over Alan Higgins, while Daniel Noonan’s team was equally impressive in a 26-12 win over Braidon Johnson. While Daniel Carroll’s team lost 21-22 to Russell Walker’s team, it wasn’t enough to prevent Kilmore from a big win.

Romsey sits second at the break, taking a 62-41 win over Broadford.

Daryl Kelly gave Broadford good impetus with a 17-15 win over Cameron Austin, but it was all Romsey on the other two rinks, with Damien Ely taking a 29-12 win over David Ellis and Aaron Young taking an 18-12 win over Robert Chapman.

Lancefield fell just two shots short of Diggers Rest, losing 55-57.

Andrew Brandolin took an impressive 26-14 win over Kylie Stafford, but Diggers Rest rebounded on the other two rinks, with a 20-14 win for Phil Robinson over Jeff Holmes and a 23-15 win for Rodney Davies over Aaron Andrews.

In division three, Kilmore fell to Gisborne, 53-56.

Ken Campbell took a 19-16 win over Chris Butterley, but that was Kilmore’s only success of the day, with Emma Burnham losing to Ted Shearson 17-21 and Derrick Boyd losing to Shelley Fallowfield 17-19.

Romsey took care of Kyneton, winning 68-52 on the back of John Fryer’s 25-13 win over Michael Plowman and David Culpan’s 24-18 win over Ellie Kennedy, nullifying Mick Gilligan’s 19-21 loss to Susan Fenton.

Macedon was too strong for Lancefield, winning 59-48.

Lancefield’s sole point came from Peter Shannon’s 18-18 draw with Mick Pjekne, but was otherwise outclassed on the remaining two rinks, with Frederick Shipcott losing 16-22 to Brian Smith and David Safstrom losing 14-19 to Allan Cameron.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council CEO reappointed

The North Central Review

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December 23, 2025

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Macedon Ranges Shire Council CEO reappointed

MACEDON Ranges Shire Council has reappointed Chief Executive Bernie O’Sullivan for a further three-and-a-half-year term. The decision was made during the Confidential (Closed) section of Wednesday night’s scheduled council meeting.

In its public meeting, key items considered and endorsed included a decision to extend Draft Biodiversity Strategy for consultation period to February 15, considering the upcoming festive season and school holidays. Have your say by visiting, yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/biodiversity-strategy-refresh

Council also noted its recent community consultation on Draft Open Space Strategy outcomes received 30 written submissions and 51 online survey responses including majority support for the draft plan overall.

A report will be presented at the March 2026 Council Meeting for final draft Open Space Strategy consideration for adoption.

Council adopted its Onsite Wastewater Management Plan 2025 – 2030 Plan and also endorsed a suite of projects to prioritise external advocacy with its On Advocacy Projects Prospectus 2026. When fully designed, this Prospectus will be available to view, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Advocacy

Planning permits:

Council considered and made decisions on several planning-related matters, including refusing a permit for the use and development of a freeway service centre at Romsey Road in Woodend.

The reasonings and discussions behind these decisions can be found in the meeting Agenda and via the meeting recording on Council’s website: mrsc.vic.gov.au/meetings

Petitions were received in relation to the Riddells Creek Men’s Shed obtaining a lease on a small area of land within the Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve.

Reports in response to these petitions will be tabled at the March 2026 Council Meeting.

A Notice of Motion was also carried in relation to Council’s stance on resource recovery – specifically to write to the Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos MP, the Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos MP, Local Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas MP, and Head of Recycling Victoria Tony Circelli, to highlight Council’s in-principle support for the introduction of standardised bin contents across Victoria, but to also outline a number of requests to support sensible FOGO use and the ongoing higher diversion of waste to landfill.

In a press release Mayor Kate Kendall said the reappointment provides confidence, continuity and stability for the organisation as it progresses through the next Council term.

“Council looks forward to continuing to work positively with Bernie and the organisation to deliver on the priorities of the new Council term and positive outcomes for the Macedon Ranges community.”

Op-Shop channels good vibes

The North Central Review

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December 23, 2025

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THE Kilmore Op-Shop is a cornerstone of community generosity, a place where second-hand treasures find new homes, friendships are formed, and every sale makes a real difference to local healthcare.

The Kilmore Op-Shop story began over 20 years ago, when residents Ian and Denise Lee decided to make good use of leftover donations from a garden party fundraiser they had organised for Kilmore District Hospital.

What started as a simple pop-up, quickly grew into something much bigger.

Thanks to the incredible support from the local community the temporary shop became a permanent fixture. Over the years, Kilmore Op-Shop has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to fund vital hospital equipment and improvements as every purchase has directly contributed to better care for patients at Kilmore District Hospital.

In the last financial year alone, the Op-Shop raised an incredible $44,000, despite operating only 2.5 days a week. Those funds helped purchase an ultrasound machine, a life-changing piece of equipment that supports faster, safer diagnosis and treatment for patients.

The Op-Shop has always been powered by the energy and kindness of its volunteers.

Current coordinators Elizabeth Stewart and Annie Brooks, along with their small but
mighty team, have been the heart of its operation, sorting donations, managing sales, and
welcoming every customer with warmth and good humour. Their tireless work has built more than a successful retail outlet, it has created a true community hub.

As the Op-Shop enters a new chapter, with both Mrs Stewart and Mrs Brooks stepping down as coordinators, there is an exciting opportunity for new volunteers to take the reins to continue this proud legacy of giving.

If you are interested in volunteering your time to help with the coordination of the Kilmore Op-shop, please email volunteer@nh.org.au

New crossing for Wandong

The North Central Review

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December 23, 2025

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A NEW raised pedestrian crossing will be installed in Wandong which is designed to improve safety in time for the new school year.

The new pedestrian crossing will be installed on Rail Street, near Wandong Primary School.

Works are set to begin on Monday, January 5 and, weather permitting, should be completed by the end of January.

During these works, Rail Street will be closed between Dry Creek Crescent and Affleck Street throughout. Drivers will get detours via Dry Creek Crescent, Wandong Avenue and Affleck Street. Those who need access to homes, businesses and surrounding streets will be granted access, albeit with short delays.

Drivers will need to factor in extra traffic time and are expected to follow all signage and instructions from traffic controllers.

Zambrero opens and gives back locally

Milla Webster

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December 23, 2025

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WELLINGTON Square Shopping Centre in Wallan was filled with excitement this week as Zambrero officially opened its doors, bringing fresh Mexican flavours and a strong community focus to the centre.

The opening celebrations continued into Wednesday, when Zambrero gave away an impressive 400 free burritos to customers. The demand was so high that staff served well beyond the usual closing time, finally finishing up at 9.50pm instead of the standard 9pm.

As Zambrero celebrates 20 years in business it also marks a major milestone of over one million meals donated worldwide.

Founder Dr Sam Prince started Zambrero in 2005 as a 21-year-old medical student; the idea came while he was working at a Mexican restaurant.

Zambrero’s Plate 4 Plate initiative is a core part of the brand’s identity. For every meal purchased, a meal is donated to charities including Foodbank Australia, Rise Against Hunger and Love Mercy.

Wallan Franchisee Mrs Urja Patel said: “Sam has a passion for Mexican food. It’s great, each burrito, each bowl and each kid’s meal [sold] we donate a meal to the developing country”.

The generous giveaway helped introduce locals to the brand’s well-known burritos, bowls, tacos and nachos.

The new outlet has been especially popular with students from nearby schools. VCE student Jared Petricola said: “Zambrero’s they do it well, I just love the ingredients. It’s my favourite out of all the Mexican fast-food joints”.

KEEN FOR A FEED: Jared Petricola was one of the first to wait in line at Zambrero for a free burrito on Wednesday.

Staff confirmed the store will be open whenever the shopping centre is open, making it a healthy and convenient choice for lunch or dinner.

With strong community ties, generous opening celebrations and a commitment to giving back, Zambrero at Wellington Square has quickly made a memorable first impression in Wallan.

Time to apply for bank scholarship

The North Central Review

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December 23, 2025

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APPLICATIONS are now open for Bendigo Bank’s scholarship program for students for the 2026 academic year.

The program consists of more than 70 Community Bank scholarships supporting local students, along with Bendigo Bank-funded scholarships aimed at supporting rural, regional, agricultural and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

In 2025, $1.7 million was awarded to 348 first-year scholars and 141 continuing scholars.

Six students from the Mitchell Shire have won scholarships in recent years.

Since 2006, Bendigo Bank and its Community Bank partners have assisted more than 2300 students with scholarships valued at more than $15 million, supporting their academic, professional and personal growth. The program, celebrating 19 years of providing education opportunities for students, is overseen by the bank’s charitable arm, the Community Enterprise Foundation.

Bendigo Bank Chair Vicki Carter said the program was an important example of how the bank delivers on its purpose to feed into the prosperity of its customers and the community.

“Bendigo Bank’s scholarship program helps students overcome significant barriers to further education such as travel, accommodation costs and the rising cost of living, which are among several important considerations for students planning the next stage of their education journey.”

The 2026 scholarships include:

• Bendigo Bank Regional and Rural Scholarship: Fifteen university scholarships of $6500 per student, each year for two years. Up to six TAFE scholarships of $5000 per student per year for up to two years.

• Bendigo Bank – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship: Four scholarships of $6500 per student per year for two years for those studying at either university or TAFE.

• Bendigo Bank – Agribusiness Scholarship: Two university scholarships, $6000 per student, per year for two years, and one TAFE scholarship, $3000 per year for one year.

• Robert Johanson Bendigo Bank Board Scholarship: A total of $8000 per year for two years.

• Community Bank Scholarships: About 70 Community Banks are participating in Bendigo Bank’s scholarship program offering scholarships for university, agricultural colleges, TAFE, and secondary school study.

Applications close January 31 next year. For more information about the scholarship program, visit www.bendigobank.com.au/community/foundation/scholarships/