Mayor, CEO champion Shire interests in Canberra

Published on 22 September 2026

Mayor Kate Makin and Chief Executive Officer David Rae recently championed Corangamite Shire's interests in the nation's corridors of power.

Cr Makin said they had two very full and productive days in Canberra advocating for Corangamite Shire.

They met with representatives from across the Government and Opposition including Regional Development, Local Government and Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain, Leader of the Nationals in the Senate Bridget McKenzie, Shadow Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Resources Jamie Chaffey, and Member for Wannon Dan Tehan.

They also had discussions to advisers for Communications Minister Anika Wells, Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King and Trade and Tourism Minister Senator Don Farrell.

“Across every meeting, our message was consistent,” Cr Makin said.

“Corangamite is a nationally significant food-producing and tourism region, but we need productive infrastructure, predictable council funding, improved connectivity and support for housing and childcare to reach our full potential.

“We also discussed the Theatre Royal and Camperdown Production Precinct, agricultural freight roads, workforce and visa pressures, the Australia–EU trade agreement.

“We arrived with clear priorities and are leaving with important follow-up actions around future grant rounds and advocacy initiates.”

Cr Makin said Council appreciated the politicians’ and advisers’ time, and the opportunity to make new relationships and valuable contacts.