A State Government crackdown on violence in Melbourne has eaten into hotel profits and forced a Colac district pub to cut its opening hours. Beech Forest Hotel publicans Chris Grant and Nicole McKechnie have cut back the hotel’s serving hours after discovering a new fee structure would triple their liquor licensing fee. [...]

“I have been doing much at all actually, I have been taking it easy and relaxing for the weekend.” Ian Nicholls, Colac

“I’ve just been hanging around up the street and [...]

A Colac palliative care hospice project has received international help. A backpacker from Sweden is among people volunteering to help build Anam Cara House at Barongarook. Tony Mahoney, one of the site foremen on the project, said about 30 tradespeople and volunteers had worked [...]

“Peter Garrett should be sacked. He didn’t plan it enough. There needed to be more research.” Tim Rancic, Colac

“It’s bad workmanship. I don’t think it’s Peter Garrett’s fault. The whole government [...]

“I don’t really eat beef so it doesn’t worry me too much.” Flora Lestrange, Colac

“I am not impressed at all. We grow enough of our own, don’t we?” [...]

“I like maths because there are so many exciting patterns to explore.” Judy Walsh, Grade Four teacher

“I like teaching science because there are always great activities you can do.” [...]

“Eddie McGuire is good as a host but not as a commentator. I think James Brayshaw has been more annoying.” Cameron Thornton, Vermont [...]

We asked people if they thought a near-crash involving Liberal leader Tony Abbott highlighted the need for duplication of the Princes Highway.

“It needs to be done. It’s just scary driving on it because it’s too dangerous.” [...]

“Venues need to put in 24-hour security cameras, and monitor them all the time. The government should hold the venues responsible for the violence that occurs.” Michael Watts, Colac

“They could have earlier lock [...]

Colac’s Jane Russell is helping parents learn with their children in a unique education program. The PLAY and HIPPY programs, run by Colac’s Glastonbury Child and Family Services, educate parents about the emotional and physical health of their children through play-based activities. Ms [...]