From the Mayor's Desk - 26 November 2024
Published on 26 November 2024
Relocation of Free RV Camping Site in Inglewood Progresses- With Community Consultation Open Now
The flood of 2021 underscored a need to relocate the existing free RV campsite near the Inglewood Macintyre Brook bridge. The current location, which is highly susceptible to flooding with limited notice, only increases the strains on our emergency services during flood events. In addition, the existing site is Crown land owned by the Queensland government, and RV camping is not an acceptable land use under Council’s lease conditions.
Council has explored various options, including partnering with community groups to establish a new free campsite. Unfortunately, these efforts have not yielded a suitable solution.
At the August community forums, the proposal for an alternative site within the olive trees adjacent to the Inglewood Bowls Club, was met with strong community support from around 40 locals. The economic benefits of the new location and the proposed site's improved safety from flooding were identified as advantages that outweigh the removal of some trees. This feedback encouraged Council to proceed with a formal Development Application (DA) process.
To this end, Council has progressed to the DA phase. Council needs to comply with the same rules as others regarding DA approvals for this type of activity. Community members are welcome to submit a response during this DA public consultation period. The consultation period is open until 13th December. Further information about the proposed site and how to submit a response can be found on Council's website - https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/Business/Planning-Development/Public-Notification
Celebrating Student Success in Texas
It was a pleasure to attend the Texas State School awards ceremony with my fellow councillors this fortnight. The Texas community should be incredibly proud of the school and its students' individual accomplishments, which reflect the hard work and dedication of both students, staff and families.
Swinging for a Cause - Lowe's Golf Day Supports our Local Community
Lowe's Petroleum has once again demonstrated its commitment to the Goondiwindi community through its generous contribution to the Meditrans program. Their annual charity golf day, held in September, was highly successful, thanks to the support of Lowe’s and other local businesses. While the lion’s share of the funds raised went to the Ronald McDonald House, local initiatives Meditrans and the Goondiwindi PCYC Break the Cycle (learn to drive) program, were fortunate to both receive $2,500 donations.
Meditrans is an invaluable service connecting Goondiwindi, Inglewood, and Yelarbon residents with essential specialist medical care in Toowoomba. The program relies heavily on the generous support of local sponsors and volunteer drivers.
Despite being a national company with a wide-reaching network of service centres from Tasmania to the Atherton Tablelands, Lowe’s Petroleum remains an extraordinary corporate citizen in the Goondiwindi community, and I thank them for their generosity.
Yelarbon Community Comes Together for Pig Races
The Yelarbon Pig Races, held on the weekend, was a resounding success, drawing a crowd of hundreds. It was a fantastic day filled with laughter and a strong community spirit. The event showcased the immense pride and support for Yelarbon State School, with the P&C committee volunteering to organise this fun-filled day. The significant funds raised will directly benefit the school, providing much-needed resources to enhance the learning environment for the students. Being part of such a vibrant and supportive family-orientated community is a privilege.