News

Meet your candidates
Sept 2, 2026 - The contest for the Bass electorate is becoming clearer with candidates now announced by the Liberal Party, Labor, Greens, One Nation and Victorian Socialists Party.
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Slash the tax: Monash MP
Aug 28, 2026 - As legal smokes hit $40 a packet, most tobacco consumed in Australia now comes from the black market. Mary Aldred says it’s time to reboot.
Full and plenty
Sept 3, 2026 - In June our reservoirs were a sad sight with rapidly receding waterlines. After bountiful winter rain, they are full to the brim. 
Living with bird flu
Aug 23, 2026 - A sombre gathering in Berninneit heard the latest from Victoria’s experts in the spread of avian flu to Victoria.
The final stretch
Aug 17, 2026 - As the great Inverloch dune project enters its final stages, Mick Green of Drift Media captured these stunning images of the dredge at work in Anderson Inlet.
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On the edge
Aug 17, 2026 - The costs of dealing with coastal erosion continue to mount for the council with emergency works to reroute part of the Bass Coast Rail Trail.

Viewpoint

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A new trail through old stories
Aug 16, 2026 - A Strzelecki heritage walking trail promises to open a bigger conversation about our landscape and history. By Ian McFarland
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The luck of the draw
Aug 18, 2026 - On a late-night visit to Wonthaggi’s emergency department Catherine Watson finds plenty to be grateful for in our public health system.
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The long way home
Aug 19, 2026 - A chance encounter reminds Etsuko Yasunaga that a journey’s not always about the destination.​
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A cook’s journal
Aug 18, 2026 - Everything tastes better with lemon, including this scrumptious meringue. By Liane Arno
Welcome to a magazine by and for residents of Bass Coast. The next edition will be published on September 5. Email submissions to editor@basscoastpost.com

Features

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Where lace monitors roam
Aug 17, 2026 - Marjorie Scott gave a little ground to gain a lot for the community and the wildlife that still lives in our midst. By Noel Maud
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Against the tide
Aug 17, 2026 - The battle to stop a sewage outfall at Eagles Nest was just the beginning for the South Gippsland Conservation Society, writes Rhonda Sutton.
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The fixer
Aug 16, 2026 - When the Friends of the State Coal Mine gathered last week, they were keenly aware of Danny Carr’s absence.

Local history

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The bridge to Phillip Island
Aug 16, 2026 - For earlier generations the journey to Phillip Island was a matter of tide, weather, courage and good fortune. By Pamela Rothfield.

Arts

The thread remains
Aug 29, 2026 - As local award-winning artists Ken Griffiths and Karin Murphy Ellis face their toughest challenge, art and creativity remain a constant in their lives.
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“I made that!”
Aug 17, 2026 - How Meg Viney is still changing lives. By Liane Arno
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Calling artists of Gippsland
Aug 17, 2026 - Artists of Gippsland revives a landmark exhibition for a new generation.​

Nature notes

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In aid of the Blue-winged Parrot
Aug 18, 2026 - It began as a project to observe one of Bass Coast's most elusive birds and morphed into a project to support them.

Environment

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World-first wastewater trial on Phillip Island 
Aug 28, 2026 - Floating wetlands a promising way to decrease wastewater emissions: new research
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Solar powers Cowes treatment plant
Aug 16, 2026 - How a $1.7 million solar array at the Cowes Wastewater Treatment Plant is cutting costs and emissions.

News

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A beach takes shape
Aug 1, 2026 - After weeks of dredging, Inverloch Surf Beach is beginning to look like a sandy surf beach again.
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The battle for Cowes
Aug 3, 2026 - Catherine Watson calls into McDonald’s to see what prompts so much fear and loathing.
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Prime site back in play
Aug 3, 2026 - Sale of the old Coles supermarket site will breathe fresh life into a forgotten corner of Wonthaggi CBD.
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Forward march 
July 31, 2026 - A touch of medieval pomp and pageantry comes to Cowes when the crew of HMAS Cape Woolamai exercises its Freedom of Entry.
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Wonthaggi shelter in the wings
July 28, 2026 - Bass Coast Winter Shelter Committee reveals plans to expand winter shelter for homeless people into Wonthaggi.

Viewpoint

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Community, one lunch at a time
Every Thursday, the smell of a home-cooked meal fills the Corinella and District Community Centre as volunteers prepare lunch for people from across the Waterline communities.
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No one volunteers for this
July 31, 2026 - Volunteers are the glue that holds our community together, but Liane Arno cautions that we need to protect them from the occasional tyrant.

Features

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The heart of the town
July 28, 2026 - Vi and Wally Taberner were the celebrated couple who ran the iconic Wonthaggi Hotel for 40 years. By Bruce Phillips
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A tale of two violins
Aug 1, 2026 - One survived war and exile, the other was made this year in Korumburra. Now both are part of Ellen Hubble’s family history.
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Why the thylacine still stalks our imagination
July 31, 2026 - The Wonthaggi monster lives on in newspaper clippings and local memories.
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The poemteller
Aug 2, 2026 - A poet, a lover of cemeteries, a storyteller, Malcolm Brodie mistrusted the orthodoxies of the modern world.
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A stage for young talent
Aug 5, 2026 - New festival gives Bass Coast's emerging musicians their chance to shine.

Nature notes

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In search of the Blue-winged Parrot
July 28, 2026 - Local birdwatchers are piecing together the secrets of one of Bass Coast's most elusive birds. 
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A cook’s journal
July 29, 2026 - The ancient Greeks considered pears a gift of the gods. There are times when you need to use up the ripe ones.

News

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Sand dredge back in action
July 17, 2026 - Breakdown puts dune project at least a month behind, but crews will remain on site to finish the job.
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Woodland protection gathers pace
July 17, 2026 - Another planning hurdle falls in long campaign to protect the Western Port Woodlands.
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Beyond BCAL
July 17, 2026 - Three weeks after the adult learning centre closed, students, staff and the community are still waiting for answers.

Environment

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The next chapter for Western Port
July 15, 2026 - Momentum is building to give Western Port the same recognition as Port Phillip, writes Greg Johnson
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Berninneit earns its
​green stripes

July 15, 2027 - Arts and cultural hub becomes just the second Passivhaus-certified public building of its type in the world.

Viewpoint

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The forgotten chapter
July 12, 2026 - Community’s fight to save the Western Port Woodlands started more than 30 years ago, writes Rob Parsons.
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An MP’s diary
July 16, 2026 - Mary Aldred reflects on a year since she was sworn into federal Parliament as the Member for Monash.

Nature notes

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Beware the buzz
July 9, 2026 - Matt Stone discovers what makes a tiny mosquito one of the world’s most efficient killers.
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on August 3. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Features

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One family at a time
July 16, 2026 - What does it take to help refugees start again? For one Bass Coast volunteer group, the answer is hard work and an open door.
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Walking with Eulie
July 8, 2026 - Eulie Brewster was a colossus of the local conservation scene for over 75 years. By Terri Allen

History

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Wonthaggi women
July 16, 2026 - Linda Cuttriss salutes the women who made Wonthaggi their home and gave the town its heart.
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Not forgotten
July 13, 3036 - A daughter's quest to honour her father became a mission to ensure that every veteran in the Wonthaggi Cemetery is remembered.

Arts

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Holding the line
July 11, 2026 - Lyndal Chambers followed in her grandmother’s footsteps when she took part in a project to celebrate the Wonthaggi Miners Women's Auxiliary.
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Come as you are
July 13, 3036 - Irene Bennett has spent a lifetime singing professionally. These days, she gets her biggest thrill from helping other people discover their voices.
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Up the creek together
July 9, 2026 - Find out what happens when a Hawaiian psycho surf-clad band joins forces with a community choir.

News

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Brief pause for surf beach works
July 9, 2026 - Pump failure halts sand renourishment but project team expects work to resume on Friday.
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Banking on biodiversity
July 2, 2026 - Drive to repair Bass Coast’s fragmented natural landscape picks up pace with launch of nature fund.
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Bass Coast braces for deadly bird flu
July 3, 2026 - Catastrophic losses in Antarctic penguin and seal colonies raise concerns for Phillip Island's wildlife icons.
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After BCAL, what next?
July 2, 2026 - Abrupt closure of learning centre leaves students in limbo.

Arts

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Going, going, gone
June 30, 2026 - You’d better get in quickly if you want to buy an artwork in this year’s NAIDOC exhibition, writes Liane Arno
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Lights, cameras, action
July 2, 2026 - Time to get out the cameras or phones and make your mini masterpiece for the Bass Coast Shorts film festival.
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Community diary
What's on and where​

Features

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The trip I didn’t take
July 2, 2026 - Ed Thexton’s friends got the Himalayas, he got a different adventure.
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The fox man
July 1, 2026 - Alan Cleeland hunted foxes on Phillip Island for 55 years and reckoned he still didn’t know what makes them tick.
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Notes from the hinterland
July 2, 2026 - Jillian Durance reflects on a Covid diary, six years on.

History

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Stories from the coalface
July 3, 2026 - Short films reveal the community spirit that built Wonthaggi.

Nature notes

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New hope for curlew comeback
July 2 2026 - After the first signs of breeding in the wild, 14 more bush stone-curlews have been released to join Phillip Island’s growing population.
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A cook's journal
June 30, 2026 - One of the “lost crops of the Incas”, tamarillos have found a happy home with Matt Stone. 

News

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BCAL calls in administrators
June 29, 2026 - Students and staff face uncertain future as insolvency specialists assess whether college can continue.
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Over to you, Minister
June 17, 2026 - Council presses Planning Minister for urgent woodland protections.
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Back to the drawing board – again
June 17, 2026 - Council dumps one-way proposal for Surf Parade.  

Point of view

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A few home truths
June 17, 2026 - Housing researcher Terry Burke says the debate over housing tax changes should focus on whether ordinary working people can still afford a place in their own community.

Arts

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All together, now!
June 17, 2026 - The fundamental rule remains: watch the conductor, writes Larry Hills as he celebrates the first 20 years of the Bass Coast Chorale.
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Alive and kicking
June 17, 2026 - Wonthaggi’s midwinter music festival returns with good tunes and warm vibes. By Ellen Hubble
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Community diary
What's on and where​
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on July 3. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Features

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Dear George …
June 19, 2026 - A large block of woodland will remain standing because people on opposite sides talked to one another. By Catherine Watson
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Walking with purpose
June 17, 2026 - Laura Brearley joined the final day of the National Walk for Truth as it arrived at Parliament.
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Ticket to ride
June 18, 2026 - Catherine Watson tests out the new Inverloch-Wonthaggi track and discovers something amazing.

Nature notes

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Happy landings, Maggie
June 18, 2026 - How a plucky little bird brought unexpected delight to Etsuko Yasunaga.

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Humpback Highway
June 18, 2026 - Each winter, humpback whales begin one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom, right along the Bass Coast. By Mika Peters

Local history

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Island Empire
June 18, 2026 - How a couple of Scottish brothers built an empire on Phillip Island and fought to keep it. By Pamela Rothfield

News

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Back to the drawing board – again
June 17, 2026 - Council dumps one-way proposal for Surf Parade.  
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Against the tide
June 5, 2026 - Inverloch’s $5 million dune rebuild is finally under way, but high tides and teething troubles slowed progress in the first week.
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Forged in Wonthaggi
June 5, 2026 - The wonder is not that Cyclone’s Wonthaggi factory is closing but that it lasted as long as it did.

Environment

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Clear as mud
At last – Neil Daly finds an ally in his quest for an audit of mangrove projects in Western Port.   
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Up for the count
June 4, 2026 - Hundreds of drone images and thousands of seals … now Nature Parks needs volunteers to help count them

Arts

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Cold comfort
June 3, 2026 - It started with two women meeting on a beach during Melbourne's lockdown. Now the extraordinary story of the Sea Wolves comes to Berninneit.
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The long view
Jun 4, 2026 - Entering Helen S. Tiernan’s new exhibition we are met by the powerful gaze of Maggie Arnott. By Rosemary Forde

Pride of place
June 3, 2026 - Dennis Leversha's drawing of the old mine brace finds a fitting home in the Rescue Station Arts Centre.
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on June 19. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Features

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They also serve who only sit and wait
June 4, 2026 - An open letter from Basil, who grew old waiting for his nibs to finish that damned orchid book.
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The show goes on
June 3, 2026 - Philippa Sibley has earned a reputation as one of Melbourne's finest chefs. So what’s she doing running a pizza and pasta restaurant in Wonthaggi?
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Down on the farm
June 6, 2026 - A visit to Annie’s farm prompts plenty of heart-felt discussion among English language students. By Daryl Pellizzer

Nature notes

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The bird next door
June 3, 2026 - They’re so common we barely notice them but Gayle Marien has a soft spot for the humble house sparrow.
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The happy snapper
June 4, 2026 - Kilcunda at sunset reminds Dyonn Dimmock that we are surrounded by beauty.
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A cook’s journal
June 3, 2026 - Liane Arno whips up a classic Yorkshire pud - easy, impressive and evil!
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Community diary
What's on and where​

News

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Don’t mention the ‘R’ word
May 21, 2026 - Councillors at odds over staged “retreat” for vulnerable coastal communities
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Fire team revives Bunurong tradition
May 20, 2026 - A cultural burn in the Gurdies last week is the first undertaken in the area for almost two centuries.
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Cars out, military drones in
May 15, 2026 - Defence tech boss buys former Holden proving ground
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Safety concerns sink childcare centre
May 20, 2026 - Councillors wasted little time in rejecting San Remo venture.
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Community rallies for winter shelter
May 19, 2026 - Cowes refuge prepares to lay out the welcome mat.

Environment

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Home delivery, minus the diesel
May 19, 2025 - Prefab nine-star home trucked to The Cape in Australia’s first carbon-free housing journey.
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Rental remedies
May 18, 2026 - Helping renters to share in the energy transition to warmer homes and lower power bills.
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Community diary
What's on and where​
Viewpoint
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Mind the gaps
May 20, 2026 - Catching the V/Line bus to the city can be a lottery. Here’s our chance to fix it.

Nature notes

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Long live the olive!
May 20, 2026 - Love `em or hate `em, olives have earned their place in Wonthaggi, writes Matt Stone.
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A photo journal
May 20, 2026 – Our native flora marks the change of season in a subtle way. By Julie Paterson

Local history

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The sinking of the Eagle Star
May 21, 2026 - How a fleet of sailors, paddleboarders and swimmers saved the day.  By Pamela Rothfield
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Just add water
May 18, 2026 - All going well, we hardly notice the Candowie Reservoir, writes Rob Parsons 

Arts

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Sea Country
May 19, 2026 – The next best thing to sharing the water with a whale, writes Colin McHenry of Helen S Tiernan’s new exhibition.

Gardens

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The great feijoa divide
May 21, 2026 - Kiwis go weak at the knees for them. Australians mostly say “Uuuugh no”. By Catherine Watson

News

War of words over woodlands
May 2, 2026 - MP and Mayor clash over interim overlay and funding
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Thinking big on old school site
May 1, 2026 - From arts to housing, locals ponder town’s prime site.
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New mayor gives up the day job 
May 1, 2026 - Cr Brett Tessari says big election year needs a full-time mayor.

Nature notes

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The final journey
May 1, 2026 - At the Mouth of the Powlett, a secret migration unfolds each autumn.
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The secret life of figs
April 30, 2026 - Matt Stone will never look at a ripe fig in quite the same way

Environment

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Ready to buy an EV?
May 1, 2026 - Talk to the experts. No sales pitch, just honest answers from local EV owners at Phillip Island session
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Partnering for plovers
April 30, 2026 - Plover lovers gather at Kilcunda to talk progress on plover protection.
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on May 21. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​
Viewpoint
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How Inverloch was led down a one-way street
May 1, 2026 - Residents were only ever told half the story, writes Michelle Gardiner, but it’s not too late to get it right.
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An MP’s Diary
April 30, 2026 - Mary Aldred on juggling politics in Canberra and community work at home.
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On church going
May 1, 2026 - Nikki Nicols only got involved with her local church because she didn’t want it to close. Along the way, she found respite in a troubled world.

Local history

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Home-grown history wins state recognition
April 29, 2026 - Wonthaggi talks take out major museum award.

Arts

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A touch of stardust
April 30, 2026 - Meet Leigh Rowles, a disciplined artist with a mischievous soul. Be Liane Arno
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A cook’s journal
May 1, 2026 - While you’re making quince jelly, get two for the price of one by making this delicious paste.
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Community diary
What's on and where​

News

Back to basics
April 16, 2026 - No-frills council budget sticks to core services and maintenance in uncertain times
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How about it, Woodside?
April 15, 2026 - Bass Coast joins chorus of councils calling for fossil fuel companies to pay for the impacts of climate change.
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New leash on life for dog rules
April 16, 2026 - More dog parks, more no-go areas as council seeks balance between dogs and wildlife
Viewpoint
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To be or
not to be

April 17, 2026 - Catherine Watson's three friends had all lived rich, fulfilling lives. Then they were ready ​to depart. 

Local history

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Saltwater sanctuary
April 15, 2026 - How a bunch of locals with sledge hammers and  gut-buster drills carved Victoria’s only man-made ocean rock pool. By Mike Tesch
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The Scots and Red Wonthaggi
April 16, 2026 - Scottish miners were a driving force in the militant unionism for which Wonthaggi became known. By Linda Cuttriss​

Nature notes

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Beetle vs spider
April 16, 2026 - Gayle Marien scores a ringside view of an epic drama in our local wetlands. 

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Community diary
What's on and where​
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on May 2. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Feature stories

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One ordinary morning
April 15, 2026 - In an instant Etsuko Yasunaga’s world tilts and reminds her of the fragility of all that she holds dear.
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Changing of the guard at Glen Forbes
April 13, 2026 - The names may change but the purpose and community spirit remain the same. By Rob Parsons.
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War and peace, one street at a time
April 13, 2026 - Eighty years after our fathers and uncles did their best to kill one another, our lives are woven together by friendship. By Catherine Watson

Environment

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Floating wetlands take root
April 16, 2026 - RMIT-led trial shows improved water quality and biodiversity in farm dams across Bass Coast.

Arts

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Coming to a screen near you
April 16, 2026 - The world comes to Bass Coast with the 14th Wonthaggi International Film Festival this weekend.
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Not fighting, dancing
April 16, 2026 - From happy accidents to AI anxiety, Gonzalo Varela finds poetry and light in uncertain times
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A cook’s journal
April 13, 2026 - This quiche is so rich that even macho types will enjoy it. By Liane Arno

News

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Thanks a million
April 3, 2026 – Peter Hawkins narrowly survived drowning on Inverloch beach. He returned to Wonthaggi Hospital to thank  staff who helped to save his life. 
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Mission accomplished for Friends
March 30, 2026 - It’s been a long haul for Friends of the State Coal Mine but they’ve finally got the news they'd hoped for.
Viewpoint
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Rethinking Surf Parade
March 31, 2026 - Four locals take on the challenge. Have they cracked it? By Glenn Morris
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Trials and tribulations
March 31, 2026 - When does a job trial turn into unpaid labour, asks Liane Arno

Environment

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The power trip speeds up… again
April 3, 2026 - Are we there yet? Getting closer, writes Werner Theinert

Arts

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Many voices, one community
April 3, 2026 - A day of music, dance and food celebrates the rich cultural diversity of Bass Coast. By Laura Brearley
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The art of illusion
April 1, 2026 - Step into Pat Wishart's garden and nothing is quite what it seems.
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Send her packing, again
March 31, 2026 - Pauline Hanson didn’t get far with Victorians in the late `90s, writes former MP Susan Davies. Now she’s back for a second go.
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on April 17. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Feature stories

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King of the underground
April 2, 2026 - Lou Storti loved drilling tunnels and digging coal. Along the way he also saved our mining history. By John Bordignon and Moz Wilson
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The other Norm Smith
April 1, 2026 - Our Norm Smith was a footballer with one eye and a banged-up body. He made up for it with guts and determination, writes Bruce Phillips

Nature notes

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The world in miniature
April 2, 2026 - Dick Wettenhall’s monumental study of orchids in the Gurdies uncovers a complex web of life.
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Bruce, Scabby and Bob
April 2, 2026 - Matt Stone observes an unfolding family drama from his front deck. 
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Autumn nature notes
April 3, 2026 - As the nights draw in, Lisa Gilbert tells us what to watch for on Phillip Island.  
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The Happy Snapper
April 2, 2026 - Dyonn Dimmock's first visit to Harmers Haven gave her plenty to think about and photograph.

Gardens

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Welcome back, old friend
April 1, 2026 - Catherine Watson hails the annual return of a plant that is celebrated around the world in many guises. 
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Community diary
What's on and where​

News

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Counting down to beach rebuild
March 20, 2026 - Anticipation builds as crews prepare to reshape Inverloch’s Surf Beach
Holding the line
March 20, 2026 - Silverleaves residents brace for winter storm surges with their own coastal works delayed.
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Dust-up ahead
March 19, 2026 - Pay $4000 or lose the seal – road plan set to test neighbourhood unity.
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Port plans deserve scrutiny
March 19, 2026 - Phillip Islanders have a natural interest in what happens across the bay, writes Maurice Schinkel.
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Cold nights bring a warm response
March 19, 2026 - The Bass Coast Winter Shelter is set to reopen in June after a successful pilot season last year.
Viewpoint
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Googled 
March 19, 2026 - How many steps in the Buchan Caves? Don’t Google it, mate. By Geoff Ellis​

Arts

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Where art meets Country
March 19, 2026 - Two local artists take a leap of faith with their new studio gallery. By Laura Brearley
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on April 3. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Feature stories

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My great big adventure
March 19, 2026 -  Lesley Kool shuts the door of her lab and immerses herself in a world that’s long gone.
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The show goes on
March 21, 2026 - Gwen Derrick was the creative, tireless heartbeat of the Wonthaggi Theatrical Group. By Karen Milkins-Hendry
Of triangles and points
March 20, 2026 - Phillip Island and its people have their own a way of doing things, writes Tim Shannon in the second extract from An Architect’s Story.

Nature notes

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My hoodie season
March 18, 2026 – Every volunteer has a special story. This is Paula Street’s.
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Special spiders
March 18 2026 - The clever leaf curling spider has plenty of fans, including Matt Stone.
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A cook’s journal
March 18, 2026 - A glut of home-grown bananas turns Liane Arno's mind to puddings.
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Community diary
What's on and where​

News

Kernot bridge on track
March 4, 2026 - The council awarded the tender for the project at today’s additional council meeting.
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Desal dodge back in spotlight
March 4, 2026 - Wellington’s rates push revives old questions about AquaSure’s exemption
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Think you can spot a rip? Think again.
March 4, 2026 - We may be better than our city cousins at spotting dangerous surf, but most of us are still guessing.
Viewpoint
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An MP’s diary
March 6, 2026 - Cracking a whip outside Parliament House wasn’t on Mary Aldred’s bingo card at the start of 2026.
From protest to participation
March 4, 2026 - Rob Parsons takes us inside the Grantville Quarries Reference Group.
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The MotoGP’s gone. What now?
March 6, 2026 - From golf links and a motorsports festival to sweet revenge, there are plenty of ideas.
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Small shop with a big heart
March 6, 2026 - Toni Cooper introduces us to the people and pup of Hadden House Op Shop
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on March 20. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Feature stories

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Light Sand Wind Water Tide
March 5, 2026 The sinking sun transforms the everyday into something magical. By Julie Paterson
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After 12 years in limbo, a place to call home
March 5, 2026 - Syrian family relishes new life in Bass Coast.
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A foot soldier for the cause
March 6, 2026 - American Sandy Shively fell in love with the Australian bush, and joined the ranks of those working to protect it.
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Sink or swim
March 4, 2026 - Harry Freeman throws himself in at the deep end of stand-up comedy. 
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Finding my island
Feb 3, 2026 - A long relationship with Phillip Island has provided the balance in a sometimes stressful architectural life, writes Tim Shannon.
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Surprise turns
March 6, 2026 - The Bass Coast Post sometimes works in mysterious ways, writes editor Catherine Watson.
Community diary
What's on and where​

News

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Council wish list
Feb 18, 2026 - The Wonthaggi pool and old high school site, a new sports precinct in Phillip Island, protection of the Western Port Woodlands and coastal erosion top the council’s new advocacy list.
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Farmers win in rates shake-up
Feb 18, 2026 - Council cuts farm rates and lifts vacant land charges.
Park upgrade approved despite tree loss
Feb 19, 2026 - Councillors say they have no power to stop the felling of 44 mature trees as part of a major redevelopment of a Phillip Island holiday park.
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Inverloch path back on track
Feb 18, 2026 – Long-awaited path closer as council moves to make a section of Surf Parade one way.
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New nurses join the team
Feb 16, 2026 - Twelve graduates start their careers at Wonthaggi Hospital and San Remo District Nursing.
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Green targets the youth vote
Feb 17, 2026 - Sophie Thorn, a 34-year-old youth mental health worker, has been selected as the Greens candidate for Bass in the November state election.
Viewpoint
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Here we go again
Feb 18, 2026 - Revelations of massive corruption in Melbourne’s Big Build come as no surprise to Mark Robertson, who says it started during construction of the Wonthaggi desalination plant.
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I’m not racist but …
Feb 15, 2026 - Recent events remind Blue Barlow that most racists think they’re just being reasonable.
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A cook’s journal
Feb 16, 2026 - When the nectarines re falling faster than you can eat them, it's time for a sumptuous slice. By Liane Arno
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​Love your work
Feb 16, 2026 - Glenn Arnold talks to Cathie Agg about his beloved Inverloch beach and the people who make a surf lifesaving club. Listen online. 
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on March 6. Email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Feature stories

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Meeting Itsuku
Feb 17, 2026 - A newborn baby brings joy and healing to Etsuko Yasunaga’s family.
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The long view from Hurricane Hill
Feb 19, 2026 - How Bob Davie reshaped farming and community life on Phillip Island. By Catherine Watson
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Playing close to home
Feb 16, 2026 - Bass Coast’s young musos are ready – and you might want to listen, writes Anabelle Bremner
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The unforgettable Laurie Chizzoniti
Feb 16, 2026 – The genial fruiterer lifted the belligerent drunk and gently danced him out of the pub. Bruce Phillips tells the tale of one of nature’s gentlemen.
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Warrior woman
Feb 17, 2026 - There was nothing in Phyllis Papps’ mild demeanour to suggest the courageous feminist who faced down homophobia and discrimination, writes Jan Bourne.
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How we Learn English
Feb 18, 2026 - In a speedy world, slow learning gives students a chance to go much deeper, writes Daryl Pellizzer

Local history

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From Italy to Wonthaggi
Feb 16, 2026 - By the mid 1930s a thriving Italian community of around 800 people was living in the district, writes Linda Cuttriss.

Environment

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Welcome, stranger
Feb 16, 2026 - Spotted on Reef Island, the Eastern Yellow Wagtail is a long way from home, writes Dave Newman.
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Eco made easy
Feb 16, 2026 - Caring for the environment is a serious business but there’s room for a little fun as well at the Bass Coast Sustainability Festival.
Community diary
What's on and where​

Features

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The final curtain
Jan 16, 2026 - Gill Heal has left the theatre but a touch of magic remains. By Catherine Watson

Viewpoint
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Lost in Bunnings
Jan 15, 2026 - All Liane Arno wanted was a garden tap, and she got a reminder of why our snap judgements are so often wrong. 
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Waiting for the shot
Jan 15, 2026 - Dyonn Dimmock timed her visit to Twin Reefs to capture the turning of the tide.
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I had a dream
Jan 14, 2026 - Matt Stone delves into the mysterious world on the other side of sleep.

Environment

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A touch of home
Jan 15, 2026 - The Victorian Acclimatisation Society worked hard to introduce a host of plants and animals that would be useful to new settlers. By Anne Paul
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Community diary
What's on and where​
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published in late February. Contributions are welcome at editor@basscoastpost.com​

Arts

So real you can almost smell them
Jan 16, 2026 - Jam Jerrup fibre artist Jennie-maree Tempest is forging a growing reputation with her extraordinary botanical works.
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Where words grow wild
Jan 15, 2026 - Normally quietly spoken, poet Kathy Wiltshire finds her voice on stage.

Local history

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Annual vigil continues to grow
Jan 15, 2026 - This year’s commemoration of the hanging of two Aboriginal men in Melbourne in 1842 has added significance.
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A cook’s journal
Jan 14, 2026 - Liane Arno offers a delicious fresh take on the apple tarte tatin during a bumper year for stone fruit.

News

$12.7m social housing project unveiled
Dec 12, 2025 - The State Government will fast track a 30-unit social housing development on the edge of the Wonthaggi CBD.
Beach works take shape
Dec 11, 2025 - Contractors are working against the clock to extend the sandbag wall on the Inverloch foreshore before the start of the holidays.
Fossil-free is small change
Dec 11, 2025 - Despite the outrage, council’s ‘woke’ investment policy cost just 0.03%.

Features

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Just mucking around
Dec 9, 2025 - Retirement and the freedom of her own patch of earth combined at just the right moment for Barbara McNulty.
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Are we there yet?
Dec 9, 2025 - No gears, no lycra – kids’ epic ride to Inverloch amazes six decades on.
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Keep your koel, ed
Dec 12, 2025 - A noisy intruder sparks Matt Stone’s musings on a word with many tangents.
Viewpoint
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​An MP's diary
Dec 15, 2025 - Monash federal MP Mary Aldred looks back on her first six months in the job. 
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MICROSOFT™ versus me
Dec 14, 2025 - Catherine Watson just wanted a functioning computer. Microsoft had bigger plans.

Arts

The summer canvas
Dec 11, 2025 - As 50 artists descended on Berninneit Art Gallery carrying around 130 artworks it was bedlam … and curator Warren Nichols loved it.
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The back story
Dec 13, 2025 - Will the author get lost? Will the punters come? Will they enjoy the talk? Organising an author talk can be fraught, writes Julie Statkus
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End of the journey
A year of hard work for EAL students ended with a joyous party. Words by Daryl Pellizzer. Photostory by Laura Brearley

Community diary
What's on and where​
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published in late January. ​Please email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Environment

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Return of the wild
Dec 3, 2025 - Trees and animals are returning to a windswept coastal patch near Wonthaggi that was grazed for decades.
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Eye to eye
Dec 5, 2025 - Andrew Keir's birds look straight down the barrel of the lens as if they’re letting him into their world.
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The gardener’s friend
Dec 12, 2025 - Gayle Marien welcomes the return of the not-so-humble hover fly.
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Rhyll leads the charge
Dec 13, 2025 - Up to 60 Rhyll households will have their electric hot water systems switched to daytime operation to sop us excess solar power.
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A nose for trouble
Dec 4, 2025 - Dogs and humans alike are being trained to keep Phillip Island fox-free.

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Who’s in charge of tidal matters?     
Dec 10, 2025 - The two major parties show little interest in helping Victorian communities adapt to coastal erosion, writes Neil Daly. 

Local history

Kernot Bridge: the vital link
Dec 12, 2025 - Current closure is latest chapter in a century of collapses, repairs and community perseverance, writes Rob Parsons.
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Sun, surf … and a dash of history
Dec 11, 2025 - Wonthaggi Historical Society’s mini history talks have become a highlight of the Bass Coast summer.
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Happy 200th Birthday, Baron von Mueller
Dec 10, 2025 - Reminders of the renowned botanist abound on Phillip and Churchill Islands, writes Christine Grayden
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Lost and found
Dec 10, 2025 - Despite the peaceful beauty of the Phillip Island Cemetery, finding a loved one’s resting place was a challenge, writes Pamela Rothfield.
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A cook’s journal
Dec 12, 2025 - When you’ve done everything else with your bread beans, think falafels, Egyptian style. By Liane Arno

Bass Coast Post, November, 2025

News

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Kernot bridge works funded
The Kernot bridge is set for a $2.2 million upgrade, with the Federal Government today confirming $1.7 million in funding for the project. 
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It’s good night, BURT
Most council strategies are entirely un-noticed by the community. BURT was different. It raised hackles before, during and after its short life.
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Pommytown residents celebrate
Nov 19, 2025 - Wonthaggi earthmoving business fails to gain retrospective approval for a depot in a rural residential zone.
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Mayoral team back in business
Nove 19, 2025 - Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead declared herself ready for action after being re-elected unanimously at today’s council meeting.
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Sandbag works to start
Nov 18, 2025 - Council to begin emergency repair works on sandbag wall near Inverloch Surf Lifesaving Club.
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Buckingham back for round two
Nov 10, 2025 - Labor confirms its first candidate as the battle begins for Victoria’s most marginal seat.
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Here’s to you, Comrade 
Nov 12, 2025 - Fifty years since the Dismissal, a gathering of the faithful started as a wake and turned into a celebration.
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Irreconcilable differences
Nov 11, 2025 - Catherine Watson digs deep looking for the seeds of the Great Wonthaggi Garden War of 2025.
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Picnic with a purpose
Nov 12, 2025 - Tired of waiting for action on the Wonthaggi high school site, locals are planning a subversive action.

Local history

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From the Old Country to Wonthaggi
Nov 9, 2025 - Thousands of people crossed the oceans to work in the State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi. One of them was Linda Cuttriss’s grandfather.

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A cook’s journal
Nov 12, 2025 - While the coriander's in season, do yourself a favour and try some pani puri, writes Liane Arno
Community diary
What's on and where​
​The next issue of the Bass Coast Post will be published on December 12. ​Please email contributions to editor@basscoastpost.com​

Environment

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Two parts science, one part magic
Nov 8, 2025 - With a scientist’s mind and a gardener’s heart, Miriam Ford is turning a modest Wonthaggi block into a showpiece of Australian plants.​
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Call of the wild
Nov 13, 2025 – Long days, sleepless nights and endless dedication … Julie Paterson meets the team behind Bunurong Wildlife Care. 
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Penguin secrets of success
Nov 10, 2025 - Just like humans, penguin chicks that get a good start tend to prosper in later life.​
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The happy snapper
Nov 9, 2025 - Dyonn Dimmock photographs the natural beauty of Bass Coast and the passionate, dedicated, resilient and committed people who live here.

Features

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Meet the ologists
Nov 10, 2025 - Matt Stone’s crash course in the world of medical specialists.

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Life, luck and long journeys
Nov 11, 2025 - Laura Brearley is still dancing, still singing, still marvelling at the journey with friends old and new.
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After we are gone
Nov 10, 2025 - Somewhere between joy and silence, Etsuko Yasunaga catches a glimpse of eternity.
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Stories of home
Nov 10, 2025 - When Win Kyi thinks of growing up in Myanmar, he recalls the bamboo house he built with his father. Story by Daryl Pellizzer
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The class of `76
Nov 10, 2025 - Meeting old school mates after a 50-year gap prompts some profound questions for Geoff Ellis.
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All in a day’s work
Nov 9, 2025 - Sick of the daily grind? Then get a job that aligns with your personal values, advises local podcaster Cathie Agg.

Arts

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Into the music
Nov 8, 2025 - After the long quiet of lockdown, Anne Olsen found her voice again in singing with others.
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Millowl comes alive
Nov 12, 2025 - Vegas Fitzmaurice turned to nature for a moving artistic tribute to his late mother.