Council welcomes Governor of Victoria to Mount Alexander Shire
Published on 22 July 2025
Mount Alexander Shire Council was pleased to welcome Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner, Governor of Victoria to Central Victoria.
The Governor visited Mount Alexander Shire over two days to tour local businesses, key industries and cultural landmarks.
The visit was also an opportunity to get to know the community and better understand the breadth of issues and priorities affecting this region.
“It’s been a privilege to host the Governor”, said Cr Rosie Annear, Mayor of Mount Alexander Shire.
“We had a wonderful time sharing some of the many wonderful things that make our shire so unique, including local businesses, community groups and friendly residents.”
The first day of Her Excellency’s visit included a welcome and presentation by Council staff and Councillors, a roundtable featuring local business owners, a visit to Tarrengower Prison and a tour of Harcourt Cider.
The second day included a tour of Don KR, a visit to Victoria Goldfields Railway and Buda Historic Home & Garden, and a civic event at Castlemaine Art Museum.
The Governor said: “During my time in Mount Alexander Shire I have met with people who are contributing in so many ways to this community, looking ahead with purpose and ingenuity, achieving great things together.
“It is clear this community continues to transform itself. It was a great pleasure to meet with so many people from different organisations and to hear their stories, in all their forms.”
“I’d like to thank the Governor for taking the time to visit our shire and learn about our community,” said Mayor Annear.
“We appreciate your time, interest and enthusiasm, and we hope you’ll visit again soon.
“Thank you also to all the businesses, community groups and residents who welcomed the Governor, to Castlemaine Art Museum for hosting the civic event and to Uncle Rick Nelson for his moving Welcome to Country.”
Image: Mayor of Mount Alexander Shire Rosie Annear and Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner, Governor of Victoria