Kyle Barnes

The Game Management Authority will begin its annual Victorian game duck abundance survey on Monday, October 5. The survey will be conducted by wildlife biologists who will record the presence, species and number of game ducks at more than 860 waterbodies across Victoria, including wetlands, farm dams, sewage treatment plants, streams and rivers. Most sites will be surveyed by helicopter. Ground counts will be used where the helicopter is unable to operate.

The state government has opened the $10 million Creating Safer Places grants program. Councils can apply for up to $250,000 to buy practical upgrades such as CCTV and improved lighting. This will help councils protect local businesses, workers and customers by making shopping strips and community spaces safer. Applications for the grants close on October 26. Link: www.crimeprevention.vic.gov.au.

The Victorian Government has published the 2026-27 schedule for its popular Detox Your Home program, giving more opportunities to safely dispose of household chemicals and other hazardous waste free of charge. The program helps keep dangerous materials out of landfill and waterways, reducing the risk to community health and the environment while making it easier for households to do the right thing. Events will be held at locations across metropolitan and regional Victoria. Bookings are essential.