Cr Tracey Bell

15/09/2026

Here's the HER Network program for the next 6 weeks, which outlines all the exciting events, meetings, and activities in store for Phillip Island women (and surrounds). Check out the sessions coming up and pop them into your calendar so you don't miss the topics that interest you.
Get in touch with PICAL if you have any questions.

14/09/2026

One of the key messages I took from this video is the importance of approaching conversations with curiosity rather than certainty.

It's a timely reminder as we consider the Draft Community Engagement Policy at this week's Council Meeting.

In local government, people often hold very strong and varied views about the future of their community. Good engagement isn't about everyone getting the outcome they want. It's about ensuring people have a genuine opportunity to have their say, that their views are listened to, and that those views help inform decision-making.

Being heard and being agreed with are not always the same thing. A final decision may not reflect your preferred outcome, but that doesn't mean your perspective wasn't considered or valued.

In an increasingly divided world, perhaps one of the most important skills we can develop is the ability to listen respectfully to views we don't share, and to accept that disagreement is not the same as disregard. That's how stronger communities are built.

I'd love to hear your thoughts. What does meaningful community engagement look like to you? 👇

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

13/09/2026

A huge congratulations to our local CFA members who took part in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb 2026. 👏🚒

We are incredibly lucky to have such a dedicated bunch in our community. We see you volunteering at local events, educating residents, supporting community activities and, of course, answering the call when people need help most.

The commitment you show, both on the fireground and in our everyday community life, is something we should never take for granted. Thank you for everything you do, and well done on completing this remarkable challenge in support of a worthy cause. 💛🔥

🚒Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb 2026🚒

Today our very own Bec, Georgia, Alex and Anita took on the incredible challenge of the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb! 💪

This event sees firefighters and emergency service personnel from across the state climbing 28 floors, 700+ steps of the Crown Metropol, all while wearing 25kg of turnout gear and breathing apparatus.

But it’s not just about the climb. This event raises vital funds and awareness for causes that hit close to home. Supporting mental health, su***de prevention, and treatment for depression and PTSD among emergency service workers and our community.

We’re so proud of our crew for stepping up (literally!) for such an important cause, showing courage, strength, and support for those who need it most. ❤️👩‍🚒👨‍🚒

Well done crew and a special mention to the cheer squad who also attended today!
Well done legends!!!

30/08/2026

We're hosting a webinar for allies to hear directly from our elected Members about Gellung Warl, the body established through Australia's first Treaty!

Tune in to hear Co-chair Meriki Onus and Member for Metro Indi Clarke yarn about these exciting updates on the Treaty journey, Gellung Warl and you can get involved and support the Treaty Era.

There will be opportunities to share resources, ask questions and take action in support of Treaty.

This is a free webinar for mob and allies, but registrations are essential.

Go to https://gellungwarl.org/event/treaty-webinar-for-allies/ to register your attendance!

24/08/2026

Get ready to connect and learn from the best!

📅 Here is the program and further details for our upcoming HER network events, where you'll have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, attend insightful workshops, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. We've got an exciting lineup of events that you won't want to miss! 🎉

Stay ahead of the curve and mark your calendars for our upcoming HER network events - we can't wait to see you there!

22/08/2026

17/08/2026

Today is Vietnam Veterans Day

The Gippsland Chapter will be taking a moment to reflect and remember the service and sacrifices that our men and women undertook in the service of our nation in Vietnam all those years ago.

We will remember/ We will never forget

Sunday 23 August we will be conducting our commemoration service for the community at our clubhouse at 2 pm, located at 199 Princes Way Longwarry North for those wanting to join us.

17/08/2026

📣 Phillip Island's Jobs and Careers Expo is coming to Cowes next month!

If you're exploring career options, looking for training opportunities, or considering a future in local government, make sure you save the date.

This month, Bass Coast Shire Council hosted the Jobs and Careers Expo in Wonthaggi, bringing together students, job seekers, employers, training providers and support services to explore local career pathways and opportunities.

It was also a great to see some of Council's 2026 Trainees, who began their traineeship journey in March. People and Culture Trainee Caitlin joined former trainee Ruby, who has since secured a permanent role with Council, to share their experiences and inspire others considering a traineeship.

Now, the Jobs and Careers Expo is coming to Phillip Island!

📅 Friday 11 September 2026
🕤 9.30am to 1.30pm
📍 Berninneit, 91-97 Thompson Avenue, Cowes

Whether you're a student, job seeker, career changer or employer, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local organisations and discover what's possible right here in Bass Coast.

To learn more about Council's traineeship program and meet our 2026 trainees, visit:
🔗 https://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/about-council/news-listing/meet-our-2026-trainees

If you've ever wondered where a career at Bass Coast Shire Council could take you, a great place to start is with our trainees. Recently, some of our Trainees attended the Bass Coast Jobs and Careers Expo in Wonthaggi. Come along to the Phillip Island Jobs and Careers Expo.

16/08/2026

Please spread the word about this session to the parents in your circle who may want to find out what support is available. Parenting can be a tough gig at times and it's good to be aware of what support exists if you need it.