Rail doubt
The state opposition has ridiculed an Andrews Government rail promise which is crucial to the delivery of proposed faster trains between Geelong and Melbourne.
The opposition said the previous Labor State Government first promised the airport “rapid transit link” in 1999, which Premier Daniel Andrews this week linked with “untangling” regional lines to allow faster trains for Geelong.
Body found
The Coroner’s Court is forensically investigating a body found floating off Portarlinton.
Police said officers first heard reports of “human remains” at Bennets Head just after 6am on Tuesday before launching investigation and recovery missions.
Earthquake strikes
An earthquake has shaken towns and rural areas near Geelong, according to emergency services.
Geoscience Australia recorded the 3.0-magnitude quake 25km to 30km west of Geelong, affecting an area including Inverleigh, Winchelsea, Bannockburn and Teesdale.
Yachties funded
The Andrews Government has committed $7.5 million for upgraded facilities at Geelong’s waterfront Royal Geelong Yacht Club.
The government this week announced an additional $3.5 million for a sailing school component of yacht club improvements, with Education Minister James Merlino (pictured) saying the funding would benefit “students and adults” from across the state.
Fire fight
A grassfire has prompted emergency services to alert residents living in areas north of Geelong.
Firefighters battled the Bacchus Marsh Rd blaze as the Indy went to press on Thursday afternoon, with the CFA warning residents of Lara, Anakie and Little River to monitor weather conditions as the fire travelled west.
Poison project
A poisoning project will seek to kill foxes preying on rare native animals between Anglesea and Cape Otway, Parks Victoria has announced.
The red fox was a “significant threat” to endangered local animals including the long-nosed potoroo, southern brown bandicoot and spot-tailed quoll, Parks Victoria said.
Youth focus
Young Surf Coast residents want their council to focus on sports facilities, job creation and “improved transport”, according to a survey with 700 respondents.
More youth spaces and events along with encouraging volunteerism were also among suggested priorities on Surf Coast Shire’s survey of residents aged 12 to 25, the shire said.
