Annual Report Highlights Year of Resilience, Advocacy and Community

Published on 28 October 2026

Horsham Rural City Council has formally adopted its 2025-26 Annual Report at this week's Council meeting, reflecting on a year marked by community resilience, strong advocacy and continued investment in the region's future.

The Annual Report details Council's performance and achievements over the past financial year, highlighting progress across community services, infrastructure, economic development, arts and culture, youth engagement and strategic advocacy on issues important to the municipality.

Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the report provides an important snapshot of the work undertaken by Council and the wider community during a significant year for the region.

"The Annual Report tells the story of a community that continued to support one another, embrace opportunities and face challenges together," Cr Klowss said.

"I'm incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the past year and grateful for the contributions of our Councillors, staff, volunteers, community groups, businesses and residents who all play a role in making Horsham Rural City such a great place to live, work and raise a family."

Cr Klowss said the report captured both the challenges faced and achievements experienced across the municipality.

"The Grass Flat fire was one of the most difficult events our community has faced in recent years. While the impact was significant, the recovery effort demonstrated the strength, generosity and resilience that defines our region."

"Alongside recovery efforts, Council continued to invest in essential services and infrastructure, support our arts and cultural facilities, create opportunities for young people and advocate strongly on behalf of our communities as the region navigates major renewable energy and mineral sands developments."

Key highlights from the year included $11.8 million invested in capital works, the completion of the Dadswells Bridge Pedestrian Bridge replacement, the new City Oval netball pavilion, the redevelopment of Lukin Court Park, and two new pedestrian bridges on Apex Island delivered in partnership with the Wimmera Catchment Management Authority. Council also adopted the Horsham Municipal Community Facilities Strategy and Active Horsham Strategy and Action Plan, progressed recovery initiatives following the Grass Flat fire, continued advocacy through the Resource Ready Strategy and Wimmera Southern Mallee Alliance, and established the Horsham Bypass Planning Community Reference Group to help shape the city's long-term transport future.

Cr Klowss said the report also demonstrated Council's commitment to ensuring the benefits of future growth are matched by investment in regional infrastructure and services.

"As our region continues to change, Council remains focused on ensuring local voices are heard and that growth delivers lasting benefits for our communities. Whether it's housing, roads, community services or economic opportunities, we will continue to advocate strongly for the investment our region needs."

"While the Annual Report reflects on the past year, it also highlights the foundations being laid for the future. I encourage residents to take a look at the report and see the broad range of work being delivered across our municipality."

The 2025-26 Annual Report is available on Council's website here.

For further information, contact Horsham Rural City Council on council@hrcc.vic.gov.au or 03 5382 9777.