Ms Hodgins' husband, Hepburn Shire councillor Rod May, and their daughters, Carla and Stephanie Hodgins-May, requested privacy from their Blampied home yesterday as they mourned the loss of their beloved wife and mother.

Mr Brumby said the thoughts of all Victorians were with them.

"I want to convey our condolences to the family of Vivien Hodgins and the Mount Clear College community at this very difficult time," he said.

"To the families of other Australians who have so tragically lost their lives or been injured, and the many people in these communities who have lost their lives, our thoughts and prayers are with you."

Hepburn Shire mayor Bill McClenaghan said the news of Ms Hodgins' death had sent shockwaves around Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, where she was well known in council circles due to her support of her husband's role as

councillor.

"News is just getting around and people are shocked. She's not an old person and when someone of that age from your community or neighbourhood dies, naturally people are shocked," he said.

"Blampied is a small farming community and Rod and Viv had been there for a long time.

"A lot of people who know them are devastated."

Cr McClenaghan said he had spoken to Cr May, an organic farmer, and would give him as long as he needed before returning to his duties.

He reiterated the family's need for privacy as they came to terms with their loss.

"Rod himself appears okay but, of course, he is entering a very, very hard time in his life. I'd say the full impact is yet to hit," Cr McClenaghan said.

"The family is in mourning and they just want a little bit of time and space to come to grips with what has happened."