Council
6 August, 2026
Community feedback invited on retirement units
Residents are encouraged to provide input on the future of the Woomelang Retirement Units.
Residents are encouraged to provide input on the future of the Woomelang Retirement Units.
The Yarriambiack Shire Council seeks community feedback on a proposed Deed of Variation to its lease with Dunmunkle Lodge.
Currently, Dunmunkle Lodge leases seven council-owned independent living unit sites in Warracknabeal, Murtoa, Hopetoun, and Rupanyup under a 50-year agreement.
The proposed variation would include the seven Woomelang Retirement Units located on Dettman Lane and Gloucester Street.
This measure follows the Woomelang Retirement Units Committee entering recess after it was unable to fill executive positions at its Annual General Meeting.
The council explored alternative management options to ensure the continued operation of the units.
Dunmunkle Lodge Inc, a not-for-profit aged care provider with extensive experience in independent living and residential aged care, has formally expressed interest in managing the Woomelang Retirement Units.
An advisory committee will be created to provide guidance to the council.
However, any variation to a lease of 10 years or more requires the council to conduct community engagement, in accordance with Section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020.
To provide feedback, visit www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au/Engage-With-Us/Have-Your-Say or send a written submission to Yarriambiack Shire Council, PO Box 243, Warracknabeal VIC 3393.
Feedback closes at 5pm on Friday, August 21, 2026.
The news follows significant progress by the council on its affordable housing initiative, with the successful completion of seven units.
In July, seven units were completed, including one in Hopetoun and two in Woomelang, following $2.8 million in funding from the Victorian government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund.
“The funding has allowed the realisation of the council’s vision to offer alternative housing options for our older residents,” mayor Andrew McLean said.
“The primary goal is to provide downsizing opportunities into smaller, energy-efficient houses that require less maintenance, catering specifically to the needs of the ageing population.”
Dunmunkle Lodge manages the units, a partnership mayor McLean described as proactive.
“We recognise that there is considerable demand for worker accommodation and a current shortage,” he said.
“Therefore, some units may also be allocated for this purpose as needed and determined by Dunmunkle Lodge”.
The council is also advancing a nine-lot housing subdivision and a planning scheme amendment at the former school site in Hopetoun to support further housing growth.