Council Meeting Wrap up – September 2026
Last updated on 24 September 2026
Council considered a range of matters at its meeting on 23 September 2026, with key outcomes including:
Supporting Local Communities
Council noted the recipients of the 2027 Anzac Day Commemorative Services Fund, allocating $20,000 to support traffic management costs for community-led commemorations in Mount Macedon, Lancefield, Woodend, Gisborne, Malmsbury and Kyneton. Funding requests exceeded the available budget, with allocations adjusted to ensure all eligible services received support.
Council also approved a new agreement with Central Victorian Public Libraries Ltd, securing the ongoing delivery of library services through a contemporary governance arrangement shared by Macedon Ranges, Mount Alexander, Loddon Shire and Greater Bendigo councils.
In Riddells Creek, Council endorsed the release of the draft Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve Master Plan for public exhibition from 5 October to 2 November 2026. The draft plan provides a long-term vision for improving recreation infrastructure, accessibility and community facilities at the township's primary recreation reserve.
Roads and Infrastructure
Council considered a community petition seeking road safety improvements on Grahams Road, Lancefield. Council supported advocacy for a reduction in the speed limit from 100 km/h to 80 km/h and noted recent safety improvements at key intersections, including upgraded warning signage, Give Way infrastructure and vegetation management works. The petition will be referred to the relevant road authority as part of Council's ongoing advocacy for improved road safety outcomes.
Council adopted an updated Public Road Procedure and a new Infrastructure Permit Policy, creating clearer and more consistent processes for managing public roads, works within road reserves, traffic management and asset protection.
Governance and Reporting
Council adopted a revised Related Party Disclosure Policy to strengthen transparency and accountability around transactions involving key Council personnel and their close family members.
Council also received its quarterly financial report for the period ending 30 June 2026, which reported an operating surplus of $16.3 million before other adjustments and noted that several grant-funded capital projects will continue into the current financial year. Council delivered $34.75 million in capital works during 2025-26.
Councillor Leave of Absences
Council approved a Notice of Motion granting a leave of absence to Cr Kate Kendall from 1 October 2026 until the declaration of the result for the District of Macedon in the 2026 Victorian State Election. Council also approved a leave of absence for Cr Dom Bonanno from 24 September to 30 November 2026. Neither councillor will receive a Councillor allowance during the period of leave.
Council also delegated authority to award a contract establishing a panel of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning service providers for Council facilities.