Governor of Victoria visits West Wimmera Shire
Published on 16 August 2024
West Wimmera Shire Council was honoured to host the Governor of Victoria for a comprehensive two-day tour of the shire.
The visit, which spanned across Kaniva, Goroke, and Harrow, provided Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, with an in-depth look at the region’s unique community initiatives, innovative businesses, and vital services.
The tour began in Kaniva on Thursday, where the Governor attended a Council briefing at the West Wimmera Shire offices.
This was followed by a visit to Hannaton Poll Merinos and White Suffolks, showcasing the advanced agricultural practices of a family-run business at the forefront of the industry.
In Goroke, the Governor participated in a round table discussion with local emergency services, where critical topics on community safety and resilience were discussed.
The Governor also visited the Goroke Silo Art and toured the Goroke CFA/SES shed, gaining insight into the region’s emergency preparedness.
Later in the day, the Governor toured Miga Lake Flowers, a local flower farm renowned for its beautiful blooms and sustainable practices.
The tour concluded in Harrow with a visit to the Harrow Bush Nursing Centre, where the Governor was briefed on the essential health services provided to the community.
The day ended with a tour of the Harrow Discovery Centre, where the Governor got an insight into the region’s rich Indigenous cricket history and a preview of the Harrow Sound and Light Show.
On Friday, the Governor concluded her tour of West Wimmera Shire with a visit to the Kaniva Wetlands and Fauna Park, where she planted a tree to mark the occasion and met with dedicated volunteers from the Kaniva Lions Club and the fauna park.
Mayor Tim Meyer expressed his gratitude for the Governor's visit.
"We are deeply appreciative of the Governor’s time and interest in our community,” he said.
“Her visit has highlighted the incredible work being done here, both in our local businesses and through the tireless efforts of our volunteers.”
During the visit, Cr Meyer raised several important issues with the Governor, including the critical state of the shire's roads, as well as the pressing need for more housing and childcare services in the region.
“The Governor's support is invaluable as we continue to advocate for the needs of West Wimmera Shire," Cr Meyer said.
While addressing councillors and volunteers in Kaniva on Friday, the Governor expressed her admiration for the community spirit and innovation she witnessed during her tour.
"It has been a really enjoyable tour to see different parts of the Wimmera and visit quite a range of organisations," she said.
"We've had a wonderful opportunity to see businesses that are truly cutting-edge, often family-run, and it's really amazing to witness the scale and sophistication of what they are doing.
“Beyond that, what will stay with me is the beauty of the area, and the community spirit.
“Time and time again I’ve seen the pride people have in where they are and what they are doing. It was really wonderful to see."
The Governor also acknowledged the concerns raised by the community regarding local infrastructure, particularly road maintenance.
“I will certainly encourage people to visit this beautiful region," she said.
The Governor's tour was an invaluable opportunity to showcase the region’s assets and bring attention to the challenges faced by rural communities.