Please note that our offices will be closed for the King's Birthday Public Holiday on Monday, June 8, 2026. If your matter is urgent, please call (03) 5358 8700.
Twelve groups and not-for-profit organisations have received a share of almost $56,000 in funding through council’s 2026 Community Grant and Arts & Culture Grant programs. Four schools also received $500 each as part of council's 2026 Creative Education Fund initiative.
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Following on from the success of our Northern Gramps Girls Can campaign last year where council lit up exercise spaces in the early mornings, several of the shire’s sporting facilities are due to light up again in 2026. Between May 4 and September 30, spaces in Stawell and St Arnaud will light up from 6pm to 7.30pm on Monday and Wednesday evenings, and from 6am and 7am on Wednesday mornings.
Shirlei Barnes is a Stawell-based artist who creates whimsical, emotive watercolour artworks that spark curiosity. Originally from the vibrant, high-energy city of São Paulo, Shirlei now draws inspiration from the serene Australian landscape she calls home, blending South American warmth with a playful local perspective.
Her style has a unique mix of botanical elements, original characters, withdistinctively lighthearted "weird situations" created just for the fun of it.
Based in the Northern Grampians region, Shirlei manages her creative practice from her Stawell studio. To see some of her work, enquire about commissions or collaborations throughout the Northern Grampians and Wimmera region visit her website.
Tap here and explore her playful side of art
Shirlei Barnes Artist, Stawell 3380