Christmas is my favourite time of the year in Gippsland, but this festive season will be tinged with sadness. The loss of 15 innocent lives in the Bondi Beach terrorist attack has cast a dark shadow over our nation. As we gather with loved ones, it’s important to be...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is encouraging Gippslanders to support local growers and family-owned businesses this Christmas, highlighting Traralgon-based business Get Fresh Gippsland as a great example of local produce being grown, packed and sold in...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester joined the Yarram Secondary College community to celebrate student achievements at the school’s 2025 Awards Presentation. Mr Chester attended the 74th annual ceremony, praising the diversity of talents and achievements...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is encouraging local workers and families affected by the closure of Dicky Bill, to attend the Support & Services Expo in Maffra next week. The expo, hosted by Workforce Australia Local Jobs Program Gippsland, will bring...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has celebrated the achievements of Lakes Entrance-born musician and broadcaster Dr Megan Burslem, who is bringing a fresh perspective to classical music through her work with ABC Classic and ABC TV. Mr Chester met Megan at...
Australia's world-leading rates of melanoma and skin cancer serve as a stark reminder to stay vigilant about sun protection as ultraviolet (UV) levels rise heading into summer, according to Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester. Mr Chester, who co-chairs the...
Residents at Crossley House in Yarram are among the first Gippslanders to receive their copy of Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester’s free 2026 #lovegippsland calendar, with the aged care facility one of several to receive a direct delivery this week. Mr...
The native hardwood and plantation timber industry are both facing 'deaths by a thousand cuts' after a Labor-Greens deal to pass reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act (EPBC), according to local MP Darren Chester. The Federal Member for Gippsland...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is urging Gippslanders to support local businesses this holiday season, including the many artisans, creators and small producers who contribute so much to the region's economy and community spirit. During a visit to...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has accused the Victorian Labor Government of gambling with the safety and lives of Gippslanders and visitors by failing to act on long-overdue upgrades to the Mallacoota–Genoa Road, despite $10 million in federal funding...
Kurnai College is helping young Gippslanders complete their Year 12 VPC, alongside VET modules and other qualifications, through a dynamic educational program designed specifically for young parents balancing study and the challenges of raising children. Federal...
Gippsland National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants and providers are being disproportionately affected by the Albanese Government's recent decision to freeze allied health pay rates and halve travel allowances. Federal Member for Gippsland Darren...
The Albanese Government has been forced to withdraw legislation that would undermine the integrity of the defence honours and awards appeals system after failing to consult with veterans and Australian Defence Force personnel. Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs...
Coalition and crossbench Senators have joined forces to reject the Albanese Government’s plan to undermine the defence honours and awards system, which veterans groups have described as ‘disgraceful’. The Defence Amendment (Defence Honours and Awards Appeal Tribunal)...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is urging eligible young athletes across the region to apply for Round Three of the 2025–26 Local Sporting Champions grant program, which provides financial support to help junior sportspeople compete at elite levels. Mr...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has paid tribute to the region’s farmers, producers and agricultural workers as part of National Agriculture Day, recognising their vital role in sustaining local communities and contributing to Australia’s food security. Mr...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has announced the winners of his 2026 #lovegippsland calendar competition, following another outstanding collection of photographs showcasing the beauty of the region. This year’s theme, ‘Iconic Gippsland’, challenged...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he has been assured that AKD Yarram Sawmill workers will receive their full entitlements and additional assistance to manage yesterday’s shock announcement of major job losses. Mr Chester said he had met with a senior...
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says employees at a Yarram sawmill are owed an explanation from senior management after losing their jobs without warning. Mr Chester said the loss of more than 70 direct jobs was devastating for the community, with the...
Mallacoota residents requiring respite care can now access high-quality support close to home with the opening of the new purpose-built Mallacoota Respite Care Centre, delivered by Mallacoota District Health and Support Service (MDHSS). The facility has been designed...