Gas blocked
Geelong’s council will seek a permanent ban on tapping the region’s reserves of onshore gas after receiving 447 submissions against it, particularly though hydraulic “fracking”.
Councillors voted this week to instead seek state and federal support for renewable energy to replace fossil fuels for heating, cooling and power.
Firefighters honoured
More than 100 Barwon South West region firefighters have received National Emergency Medals for fighting Victoria’s devastating 2009 bushfires.
MP David Koch said the CFA members “worked hard and fought bravely to protect lives and property during an extremely difficult campaign”.
Schools closer
Two new schools are on the way to Torquay and North Geelong, Liberal party figures announced this week.
South Barwon MP Andrew Katos and Lara candidate Tony McManus said the Napthine Government had sought expressions of interest to build the Torquay North Primary and North Geelong Special Development schools.
Blocks free
Geelong’s council will proceed with giving away Ocean Grove blocks worth around $1 million after a councillor lost his bid to have the decision reversed.
Councillors voted against Stretch Kontelj’s proposal to sell the four residential lots, instead recommitting to give the land to a disabled-accommodation provider.
Barbie thanks
THE ISLAMIC Society of Geelong has thanked local religious and community groups for sharing a barbecue it hosted last weekend.
“They all gave a message of harmony, living together and standing together with each other in this difficult time,” said Imam Mohammad Ramzan and society president Mohamed Mansour in a joint statement.
Sea money
State Government has granted $500,000 to protect local coastlines against the sea and climate change.
Queenscliff Mayor Helene Cameron said the money would put the Bellarine Peninsula on “the front foot” against “the impact from the sea as well as (in) considering future climate change”.
