03/04/2025
Hepburn Shire Council has issued a statement condemning what it describes as “harmful commentary and misinformation” spreading on social media.
However, many shire residents believe that instead of addressing specific concerns raised by the community, the Council appears more focused on silencing criticism.
“Recently, both commentary on social media along with emails directed to Council have escalated in volume and offensive and threatening language,” the statement reads, framing public discourse as problematic rather than engaging with potential grievances.
“These attacks on Council as a whole, and attacks on staff personally are nothing short of intimidating, abusive and unacceptable,” they added, drawing a firm line between criticism and what they perceive as harassment.
Mayor Don Henderson also weighed in, expressing disappointment over “baseless rumours” circulating both online and offline. “Myself and the Councillor group are incredibly disheartened,” he stated, reinforcing the Council’s stance that much of the public backlash is unwarranted.
“We are here to listen to and advocate for the community,” added Council. “But we will not sit idly by while some individuals attack Council Officers online. We will now be referring such incidents to the police and relevant authorities.”
Despite acknowledging the importance of discussion, the Council’s actions suggest a reluctance to engage in meaningful debate through platforms where public frustration is most visible.
While their statement asserts, “We welcome frank, fearless and respectful conversations,” social media – a primary avenue for modern civic engagement – is notably absent from their list of preferred feedback channels.
“Offensive, inappropriate or hateful language will not be tolerated. Threats made to staff will not be taken lightly,” they reiterated, making it clear that they are prepared to escalate matters.
Though the Council has provided alternative methods for feedback, their statement may leave some residents questioning whether their voices are truly welcome – especially if their concerns challenge the status quo.
“I’m a ratepayer and just furious with this,” expressed one local resident on Daylesford's Community Grapevine Notice Board. “Council needs to answer the hard questions”
“Hostile?” wonders another. “Since when was open conversation about atrocious behaviour hostile?”
“Unbelievable!” added another. “How dare they. They treat the community like sh** and threaten community members with police action should they say something or pull them up on their behaviour?”
“More gaslighting and blame shifting,” added another. “Typical behaviour of a narcissistic cult.”
“One rumour that isn't baseless is the total incompetence of the Hepburn Shire Council executive team,” added another. “This council and its councillors are deluded if they think it's ok to ask for a handout at my expense…”
“Just maybe if they actually did their jobs, they would have nothing to worry about…” added another.
“If Council is not prepared to be 100% transparent and communicate clearly, Council has to deal with misinformation that gets invented and spread as a result,” added another. “Perhaps Council would consider a better mode of communicating with residents.”
“How dare the council disable comments on their post,” added another. “So much for free speech and democracy.”
