On February 19, I drove to Minyip to meet with Danielle Green MP, the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism and Special Events. Danielle was at Minyip to announce the completion of the landscaping at Minyip and Brim and the refurbishing of the travellers’ rest amenities block. The projects at both towns were driven by the respective action and progress groups and are a tribute to the tireless work these residents put in to enhance the physical attraction of their community. It was only fitting that Minyip was hosting its second Show and Shine that day. The town was buzzing. Over 100 vehicles lined both sides of the main street, the footpaths were packed with onlookers and food stalls were flat out coping with demand. No question. Minyip was vibrant and thriving that day.

Brim’s silo continues to draw visitors to the town. On February 22, the residents hosted the filming of an episode of Masterchef. A crew and cast of 90 arrived, with a multitude of support vehicles and buses and set up in front of the silos. Passing traffic slowed to a crawl. The town’s only hotel battled to keep up with demand. Again, an example of how the initiative and drive of a town’s action group has boosted the local economy and reinvigorated town pride.

I returned to Brim in March to celebrate the turning on of the new lights at the Memorial Bowling Club. An enthusiastic group of about 30 bowlers enjoyed their first game of night bowls on the rink. The efforts of the members to obtain facilities that are taken for granted at larger centres is to be commended.

On March 19, I went to Beulah to open the CFA-VFBV District 18 annual rural championships. It was the first time for a number of years that Beulah hosted this event. Beulah provided a magnificent venue on the football oval adjacent to the grassed weir pool. Another small town with the drive to create facilities and amenities for its residents that are the equal of those anywhere.

This week it will be Rupanyup’s turn, as the town hosts a community barbecue to welcome international artist, Julia Volchkova. Julia has been engaged to paint the fourth silo in our shire’s silo art trail. Life and action in our small towns continues to flourish.