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Author: laura Brooker

Latrobe City launches investment campaign

Posted on by laura Brooker

Innovation, opportunity and transformation.

Latrobe City Council has officially launched a new investment campaign designed to showcase the strength, diversity and potential of businesses and industries across the region.

Told through the stories of local business owners, and operators – from long-established enterprises to emerging start-ups – the campaign highlights Latrobe City as more than a place to invest. It is a place to grow, evolve and transform.

Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Latrobe City is strategically positioned as the vibrant heart of Gippsland. With affordable land, a highly skilled workforce, and infrastructure built to connect, the region offers a unique environment for business to flourish.

Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Dale Harriman said the campaign reflects the energy and ambition of the region.

“Latrobe City has always been a place where ideas take root and industries grow. This campaign tells the real stories of our local businesses – from those who’ve been innovating here for generations, to new enterprises choosing Latrobe as the place to launch bold ideas,” the Mayor said.

“We are more than a place to invest. We’re a place to transform. With our strategic location, strong industry base, as skilled workforce and community that moves forward together, Latrobe City is where opportunities become reality.

“The static display installation adjacent to the Traralgon Library, is a powerful symbol of where Latrobe City is heading. As part of the Gippsland New Energy Conference, it not only showcases innovation and technology in action, it’s an invitation for businesses, investors, and the community to see first-hand the opportunities being created here in Latrobe.”

The campaign also shines a spotlight on the region’s competitive advantages, including:

  • Strategic location and unrivalled access positioned on the Princes Highway (M1), with direct freight and passenger rail access to Melbourne, and home to the Latrobe Regional Airport.
  • Affordable, investment-ready land with competitive land and rental prices make Latrobe a cost-efficient and attractive base for business.
  • Skilled workforce with nationally recognised strengths in engineering, manufacturing and energy generation.
  • Infrastructure for growth with High-voltage transmission lines, reliable water supply, and major industrial precincts ready to support energy, manufacturing, and logistics.
  • Culture of innovation anchored by Federation University, TAFE Gippsland, and the Gippsland Innovation Centre.

Among the highlights is the Gippsland Logistics and Manufacturing Precinct in Morwell – a newly established 40-hectare site designed to drive innovation, employment, and growth in advanced manufacturing, transport, and logistics. With fully serviced, affordable industrial land available now, it is anticipated to become a major hub for industry in the region.

Latrobe City is also positioning itself as a leader in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) through the diversification of the Latrobe Regional Airport.

The Airport, located between Morwell and Traralgon, is already home to the Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct and is attracting leading research and development partners, including Swinburne University of Technology’s AIR Hub and Nova Systems.

“Our vision for the Latrobe Regional Airport is bold – we are building a centre for aerospace innovation and advanced air mobility, right here in Latrobe,” said the Mayor.

“This precinct is about future industries, new jobs and exciting opportunities for the next generation. It’s a place where aviation, technology, and sustainability meet and where the future of aerospace is being developed.”

Council’s campaign underscores Latrobe City’s unique offering: space to grow, support to thrive, and a community that believes in what’s possible.

“Latrobe City is open for business – and open to new ideas,” said the Mayor.

“Whether you’re launching, expanding, or re-imagining your business, there’s no better place to do it than here.”

Invest in Latrobe City

GippsAero Recommencing Manufacturing in Latrobe City 

Posted on by laura Brooker


GippsAero is set to become the only Australian commercial aircraft manufacturer – operating right here in Latrobe City! 

GippsAero is locally owned by the Morgan family, who first started manufacturing aircraft over 30 years ago. What started as passion and interest in the aircraft industry has grown into a reliable manufacturer, delivering high quality, reliable aircraft to clients across Australia and around the world. 

The team has recommenced manufacturing the GA8 Airvan at Latrobe Regional Airport in Morwell. This will be the first time the Airvan has been manufactured in five years.  

The announcement in June 2025, is significant for Latrobe City and the rest of Australia. The team have already increased their revenue to $5.9 million, with over $1 million of this already invested back into the Victorian economy. 

So, what’s involved in manufacturing commercial aircraft? The team has a huge hangar at the Latrobe Regional Airport where they design, produce, and assemble the aircraft.  

Of course, there’s a lot of people involved in an operation like this. GippsAero began 18 months ago with seven people and now they’re at 43 employees and they only have about a third of the people they need for production. 

This will be a huge boost for local jobs, innovation and the local economy – putting Latrobe City on the map as a hub for advanced air manufacturing and regional aviation. 

What an achievement from GippsAero this is and proof that big things can come from small places. 

Production of the Airvan will start in June and the first customer deliveries are expected next year.  

Massaro Motors celebrating 50 years of business

Posted on by laura Brooker

50 years in business is no small feat! Massaro Motors recently celebrated this impressive milestone – and they’ve been operating in the same location since the beginning! 

Massaro Motors is owned by Ray Massaro, a generous community-minded person who has proudly served generations of families in Latrobe City and beyond. 

Over the years in business, Massaro Motors has had branches in Traralgon, Moe and Mirboo North, but has kept its home in Morwell, with Ray finding it the most central location for their customers. 

“The business is about people first. As you walk in the door you’re greeted by a receptionist, and we have a customer lounge and coffee machine in each of our showrooms. A lot of places you go today no one comes out and talks to you and you don’t know where to go,” said Ray. 

Massaro Motors is proud to offer friendly customer service for all your machinery and equipment needs, including sales, service and finance. They are Latrobe City’s premier dealer for an extensive range of Kubota tractors and machinery, Krone hay equipment and many more brands. 

“All our customers are real, local people. If you go through the records here, we’ve dealt with five generations of the same family. When I started in ’73, I sold to my parents and grandparents, and now people the same age as my kids and grandkids.” 

Owner, Ray Massaro

Ray has even sold cars to people in Tasmania back in the day when the Abel Tasman (now known as Spirit of Tasmania) used to dock in Port Welshpool, and people would travel through Latrobe City. There’s a fun fact you might not know! 

Ray started out his career as an apprentice motor mechanic, and through further night school and private study he became a Service Manager at just 23-years-old at Travalley Motors Chrysler in Morwell, looking after a team of mechanics. So, you could say that he is a natural leader.  

Ray is proud of his nearly 50 staff members. Kim who works in administration has been working for the business for 25 years! Ray’s son, Luke also joined the business as a trainee 22 years ago, working in all departments and now as the General Manager. At the time of peak employment, Massaro Motors had up to 50 local, loyal employees. 

“I love people – if I don’t come to work, I miss walking around and saying hello to the staff. I walk around in the morning and say g’day to everyone – I call it MBWA – Management by Walking Around. I have my first cup of coffee with the first customer who will have one with me.” 

Ray purchased the property where Massaro Motors is located in August 1973. What was once a site containing a derelict roadhouse and house with no windows, became their first home. Their first two children were born at the current site, and they went on to have six kids all which Ray is very proud of.

Visit Massaro Motors, browse their impressive range of machinery and if you run into Ray, be sure to have a chat and a Frangelico-laced coffee!  

Massaro Motors 
497 Princes Drive, Morwell   
5134 1422  

Read the latest edition of Connections here

Fresh on the Latrobe City scene

Posted on by laura Brooker
Store owner, Justine Scandrett

Elite Dancewear 

A new boutique dancewear store in Morwell is bringing style and convenience to local dancers, thanks to one mum’s passion and a simple suggestion from a dance teacher. 

Launched in mid-March this year, the store has been an exciting addition to the local dance scene – offering everything a dancer needs, all in one place! They stock all the essentials, including ballet flats, jazz shoes, tap shoes, tights, activewear, costumes, hair and shoe accessories. 

Open Wednesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday mornings from 9am to 12pm, the shop fills a much-needed gap for local dancers, saving families the trip to Melbourne for specialised gear. 

Owner Justine Scandrett shared that her daughter’s involvement in dance has helped her build strong local connections. “I’m lucky. My daughter is a dancer, and she is at one of the dance schools here in Morwell. I just love when the dancers come in and they’re super excited and tell me all about their upcoming performances.” 

Community and sustainability sit at the heart of Justine’s business. She proudly sponsored local dance competitions and supported productions like The Little Mermaid by Gippsland Youth Theatre. The store also champions eco-conscious choices, stocking Melbourne-made brand Energetiks – known for its high-quality activewear made from recycled plastics. 

Whether you’re after a first pair of tights or gearing up for a big stage show, this local business is stepping up to support the region’s vibrant performing arts community and making dance dreams come true for every customer. 
 
Elite Dancewear 
213 Commercial Road, Morwell 
elite.dancewear@outlook.com 
@elitedancewear213 

Moe Thai

Moe has welcomed its very first Thai restaurant – an authentic addition that’s already delighting locals with its vibrant dishes and warm hospitality. 

Run by three passionate co-owners and chefs – Usanee (U-Sa) Bowornratanakhun, Pawantree Laothong (Kae), and Rattana Sawangdao (May) – the restaurant is the second venture for the team, who also run the popular Thai @Sale in the Wellington region. 

The team chose Moe for their latest location because of the welcoming community and the sense of opportunity the growing town offers. 

“When searching for a location, we discovered Moe is the best place – everyone here is really nice and there wasn’t another Thai restaurant to compete with, so it felt like the perfect fit,” shares U-Sa. 

Since opening just before Christmas last year, the restaurant has received overwhelming support from locals and raving reviews online. With a 4.8-star rating on Google, it’s clear the community has embraced this cuisine. 

“Wow. What an amazing new gem in Moe. The staff are fantastic!” one reviewer wrote. 

“At first, we were a bit worried – would people like it? But everyone has been so supportive. We’ve had so many compliments – it makes us really happy,” says U-Sa proudly. 

The menu offers Thai classics like Pad Thai and Tom Yum, alongside creative dishes such as coconut prawns and fragrant curries. The best bit? Everything is made fresh to order.  

“We cook everything fresh when the customer orders. We also cater to dietary needs, with gluten-free and dairy-free options available, and offer special banquet-style dishes for larger groups.” 

Open for dinner from 5 –9pm daily except Tuesdays, the restaurant promises a welcoming experience for all. 

As Moe continues to grow, this new restaurant brings a fresh experience to town – offering a taste of Thailand right on the main street. 

Moe Thai Restaurant 
38 George Street, Moe 
(03) 5126 1717 

Places Bar and Tapas  

Inspired by a love of travel and European food and wine, Places Bar and Tapas is a stylish yet intimate venue that offers the perfect setting for a date night, dinner or celebration.  

The hole-in-the-wall bar is in the Traralgon CBD, offering European influenced cocktails, wine and tapas. 

“We offer a beautiful venue with delicious drinks and snacks with a personable service. But be sure to keep an eye out for different experiences we are going to offer,” says owner Jenni Onkamo. 

“So far, the highlight without a doubt is getting to contribute to people’s special occasions and celebrations, big or small,” said Jenni, who brings years of hospitality experience – and a genuine passion for food, drinks and vibrant venues – to the table. 

Looking ahead, Jenni says, “what you see now is only the beginning. We have many ideas for sweeteners we’re going to add to improve the experience even more.” 

With a focus on service and a welcoming atmosphere, Places is quickly becoming a local favourite. “The people are the best thing about running a business in Latrobe City,” Jenni adds. “Locals, passers-by, business travellers or visitors, everyone has a story and we love to hear them.” 

Open Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm to late and Friday and Saturday from 3pm, Places invites locals and visitors alike to unwind and enjoy something a little different in Latrobe City. 

Drop in and discover your new favourite place! 

Places Bar and Tapas 

58 Franklin St, Traralgon 

@placesbar 

Read the latest edition of Connections here

Get sweaty at Studio Seventy Two

Posted on by laura Brooker

What began as a personal quest to support her mother’s health has become one of Gippsland’s most inspiring wellness businesses. For Casey Bird, founder of Studio Seventy Two in Traralgon, wellness is not a trend – it’s a lifelong commitment. 

Casey’s journey began in 2015, when her mum faced health challenges and they discovered the benefits of infrared saunas. “The healing was undeniable, and I knew Gippsland needed access to this kind of wellness,” shares Casey. 

That vision came to life in 2020, when she transformed part of her family home into a humble infrared sauna studio during the height of a global pandemic. 

Fast forward to today, Studio Seventy Two has expanded to a larger space on Dunbar Road, welcoming over 110 clients weekly and offering a full spectrum of healing experiences, including infrared saunas, red light therapy, magnesium wraps, recovery boots and more. 

Casey’s mission is clear: to make wellness accessible, affordable and truly life changing. 

“I want to open people’s minds to alternative ways of healing and make it so impactful that it creates long-lasting change in their life.”  

While one sauna session can be enough to make a customer obsessed, Casey encourages new clients to start with three sessions to really feel the impact. “With three sessions, you start to notice shifts – in your mood, sleep, recovery. That’s when people realise how powerful it can be.” 

The ‘Big Daddy’ sauna at Studio Seventy Two

Among the studio’s most popular offerings is her signature magnesium wrap, a deeply therapeutic treatment that combines magnesium oil, an osmotic body wrap and an infrared sauna session. 

“Magnesium is a powerful mineral known to support restful sleep, reduce stress, calm the nervous system and aid digestion,” Casey explains. 

 “This treatment is an incredible way to replenish magnesium levels through the skin. Clients leave feeling lighter, deeply relaxed and often experience reduced muscle tension, less bloating and visible toning results.” 

Studio Seventy Two also prides themselves on offering state-of-the-art infrared technology, using Clearlight Saunas – known for their full-spectrum infrared heat, low EMF and non-toxic materials. 

“We’ve invested in quality, so our clients get the very best,” 

Beyond the services and technology, Casey lives the lifestyle she advocates, prioritising  
self-care and red-light therapy as a non-negotiable part of her own wellness routine. 

“Healing is one of the most powerful forms of self-love – and it’s something I’m passionate about helping others embrace. Once you experience the benefits, it naturally becomes part of your lifestyle,” says Casey. 

Her advice for anyone starting their wellness journey? “Stay open-minded and don’t expect a quick fix. The key to transformation is consistency – that’s when the magic happens.” 

Studio Seventy Two offers a range of introductory packages, flexible memberships and special offers to make wellness more attainable. Visit www.studio72infraredsaunas.com to book your session or follow along on social media for the latest updates. 

Read the latest edition of Connections here

Studio Seventy Two 
54 Dunbar Road, Traralgon 
@studioseventytwo_ 

 

Skin and Tonic – where science meets self-care

Posted on by laura Brooker

Looking for skin and beauty treatments that combine real results with relaxation? Meet Skin & Tonic – Moe’s first advanced dermal clinic, where science meets self-care. 

Located in a light-filled space on Lloyd Street, Skin & Tonic offers feel-good treatments that deliver glowing results, using cutting-edge industry standards to provide the highest quality of care. From bespoke facials and clinical peels to full-body massages, every treatment is grounded in evidence-based practice and delivered with care. 

The woman behind the magic is Jen Felici, a qualified Dermal Clinician with over 15 years of industry experience. Driven by a genuine passion for the science of skin health and fuelled by a personal journey of resilience, Jen brings both expertise and empathy to her work. 

In 2021, while juggling full-time work, study and raising two young children, Jen’s life was forever changed when she tragically lost her husband in a car accident.  

“I had to quit my job and basically start life from scratch,” shares Jen. 

Despite the grief, Jen found strength in her passion and a renewed purpose to honour her career goals and inspire her children. 

“I was driven to show my kids that no matter what we go through in life, there is always light after darkness, and we have to pave our own way to joy.” 

Jen describes her business as “a rainbow after the storm.” 

“It was the community of Moe who rallied together to care for us, and at this point, I knew I had to give back and breathe some life and light back into our incredible town.” 

With a clear vision to offer safe, ethical and effective skin treatments in what can be an unregulated industry, Jen set out to raise the bar. 

“I wanted to become a trusted person in our community who works in line with the high standards I believe our industry should uphold,” says Jen. 

With quality at the forefront of everything they do, Skin & Tonic’s offerings include clinical facials, acne management, scar revision, massage and a range of beauty treatments. Each service is tailored to address individual concerns such as ageing, rosacea, inflammation, pigmentation and more. 

“All our treatments have an element of wellness, even our most clinical treatments still feel luxurious.” 

If you’re not sure where to start, Jen recommends the Signature Bespoke facial – a popular pick for newcomers or anyone looking to treat themselves without the pressure of choosing. 

Whether you’re after targeted skin solutions, time-out for self-care or just a warm and welcoming experience, Skin & Tonic is setting a new standard for skincare in Latrobe City. 

Follow Skin & Tonic on social media and book your appointment to experience the care, calm, and clinical excellence that’s changing lives! 

Skin and Tonic
23/25 Lloyd St, Moe 
@skinandtonic.gippsland 

Read the latest edition of Connections here

Henselite Victorian Open 2024

Posted on by laura Brooker

If you’re a lover of bowls or interested in watching the sport, the Henselite Victorian Open is your answer!  

Even if you don’t know much about bowls, the event will provide a fun community atmosphere for all to enjoy.  

 The Henselite Victorian Open is Bowls Victoria’s premier state event. It’s the largest bowls event in Victoria and second largest in the country.   

  Since its inception in 2011, the event has become hugely popular for both professional and grassroots bowlers.  

 The Gippsland region will offer bowlers a range of different surfaces to bowl on, at a time of year when the greens will be at their best.  

 Events are played at various venues throughout Gippsland, with Traralgon and Morwell Bowling Clubs acting as the major hubs and finals venues.  

 Competition categories include mixed pairs, pairs, and men’s and women’s singles and triples. The finals will take place on 27 and 28 March.  

Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Darren Howe, said Council is looking forward to welcoming competitors to the region and hope that they have time to explore all Latrobe City has to offer.   

 “Major events like these also offer a great boost to the local economy and are an important tourism-driver for the region. The economic impact this event brings to Latrobe City is up to 3.1 million,” said the Mayor.  

“We are excited to showcase the state-of-the-art bowls venues in Latrobe City during the event. Traralgon and Morwell Bowls clubs are impressive venues with impeccable greens and newly refurbished function spaces. 

“The Henselite Victorian Open is open to bowlers of all ages and abilities. We look forward to welcoming participants from right across Australia and internationally, to participate in this iconic event.” 

The Henselite Victorian Open is the perfect opportunity to watch some good-quality bowls. The best part is spectator entry is free!   

For more information, visit the Henselite Victorian Open website: vicopen.com.au 

International Rose Garden Festival Morwell a blooming spectacle

Posted on by laura Brooker

The International Rose Garden Festival Morwell returned for 2023, with a full program of events taking place between the 11-12 November.

This year’s program showcased the roses and garden in full bloom while offering family-friendly activities and entertainment across the weekend.

New event times saw the Festival commencing at 12pm and running through to 9.30pm each night where locals and visitors alike explored the rose gardens and participate in a wide range of stalls and free activities.

ABC Gardening Australia Host and crowd favourite Costa Georgiadis returned to the Festival once again, hosting and judging the cut the rose competition as well as chatting about his gardening knowledge at multiple events across the weekend.

Visitors also travelled to and from the Festival in style via the Heritage Steam Train, a fully booked out event. The Morwell CBD was bustling with train travellers and many shops in Commercial Road reported great sales.

Mayor of Latrobe City Council Darren Howe was pleased to see the evolved range of experiences on offer for community members and visitors to enjoy.

“It was fantastic to witness the Rose Garden colourfully illuminated each evening by the much-loved AGL Night Lights Installation, with roving performers, local musicians and pop-up food trucks to add to the overall Festival vibe,” said the Mayor.

“On Sunday, our youngest festival goers were treated to live stage shows, a disco and a diverse range of free activities.”

The Mayor thanked the sponsors, local businesses, volunteers, community members, volunteers and Council staff who contributed to bringing the Festival to life for another year, as well as acknowledging the Mayor of the Day, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan who played a significant role over the weekend long event attending and participating in many of the festivals offerings.

“The International Rose Garden Festival is a pivotal event to not only bring the community together, but also support our wonderful local businesses and highlight our City as a great place to live, work and visit.”

Over the weekend, the Festival also featured a rose flower crown workshop, yoga, nature printing, creating your own native pantry, botanical arts and crafts, and the ever-popular Devonshire teas.