Council achieves impressive results in four-year Council Plan

Published on 28 August 2025

A report closing off the achievements of the 2021-2025 Council Plan was received by Council at its August meeting, showing an impressive 97% completion rate.

Mayor Sophie Price said the results demonstrated the previous Council's strong commitment to delivering for the community across diverse areas including infrastructure, tourism, heritage, and community services.

"Over the past four years, we've seen remarkable achievements that have made a real difference to our communities," Cr Price said. "From the much-loved Chiltern Community Hub to creating the Kiewa River Community Park, that provides river access for the first time, the previous Council delivered on its promises to residents."

Major achievements include:

• Completion of the Chiltern Community Hub, now a key community asset
• Development of the Kiewa River Community Park, providing river access for the first time
• New pump tracks and facilities at Tangambalanga and Wahgunyah
• Expanded footpath and cycle path networks across multiple towns
• Vigorous advocacy for improved ambulance response times, resulting in extra resources being allocated
• Strong advocacy for a new greenfield hospital for Albury Wodonga, including a historic Tri-Council meeting
• National Heritage Listing secured for Beechworth's historic administrative precinct
• Progress toward UNESCO World Heritage status by late 2027
• Completion of the Courthouse Kelly Trial Experience
• Transition to 100% renewable energy
• Fleet conversion to electric vehicles with charging stations across the Shire
• Implementation of Climate Emergency Strategic Action Plan
• Delivery of Council's first Reconciliation Action Plan
• Expanded LGBTQIA+ support through Rainbow Balls, Pride Fair Day, and IDAHOBIT events
• Technology connection programs for older adults
• Priority projects delivered from the Indigo Destination Game Changer Tourism strategy despite the significant impact of the COVID pandemic. Including Digital Excellence and Industry support program, completion of Rutherglen Loops Trail, Caravan Park Masterplans x 4, Rutherglen Silo Arts Precinct, and Chiltern Destination Playground concept design completed
• Completed and opened the Beechworth to Yackandandah rail trail project.

The Council also strengthened regional collaboration through Memorandums of Understanding with neighbouring shires and secured a $750,000 grant for shared software systems.

"These achievements reflect the hard work of our staff, the support of our community, and effective partnerships achieved during the previous Council term," Mayor Price said.

“With a new Council elected in 2024, including four new Councillors, and the 2025-2029 Council Plan adopted in June 2025, the current Council is committed to building on this strong foundation while delivering the next phase of community improvements.”

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