From the Mayor’s Desk

Anzac Day

Thank you to everyone from across our region who turned out to commemorate Anzac Day at one of our many local services. Thousands of locals stood in solemn appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served and defended Australia. My fellow councillors and I, between us, were privileged to attend all community services throughout the region. For my part, as always, I was moved by the way members of our communities, young and old, commemorated the Day and remembered those who have served and are still serving our great country.

Gunsynd Dinner and Goondiwindi Show

I joined with more than 150 others, for the Gunsynd 50 year Celebration Dinner on Friday 28 April, as part of the Back to Goondiwindi weekend. This date marked the day 50 years ago, when Gunsynd ran his last race. The success of our Goondiwindi Grey made him a beloved icon and it was such a pleasure to listen to and be with so many who were an intrinsic part of the life of this equestrian legend. The night’s entertainment was capped off by the remarkable presence and voice of racing icon Johnny Tapp, who called many of Gunsynd’s races.

Well done to the Goondiwindi Show Society and the countless volunteers who gave their time to once again pull off a spectacular Show last weekend with thousands in attendance. It was great to see so many residents and visitors to Goondiwindi enjoying all the region has to offer with displays, exhibitions, competitions animal husbandry and of course food and entertainment.

Traprock Group Meeting

Last Friday afternoon, I was at the Traprock Group meeting at the Terrica Woolshed, which was attended by around 40 members. I updated them on progress in repairing flood- damaged road and other upgrade projects and development proposals within the Goondiwindi region. Those present were vitally interested in the impact of the major renewable energy projects across our region, most notably the nearby Acciona Macintyre Wind Farm, which will be one of the largest in the world. I outlined to the group about how Council’s across the State are virtually unanimous in their opinions that these multi-billion dollar projects, need to be better conditioned before approval and to guarantee ongoing economic benefits and opportunities to the community after the flurry and impact of construction has dissipated.

Goondiwindi Rotary Club

Councillors recently had the pleasure of catching up with the Goondiwindi Rotary Club who have confirmed Sunday 10 for their popular Gourmet in Gundy day. Due to Covid, it has been three years since we have had our taste buds tantalised with Gourmets delicious foods, making this much anticipated return a date to put in the diary.

Waste Management

Last week, I focussed on the state government priorities that form the context and regulatory environment in which Council must now operate.

The state is reaching for a 25% reduction in household waste, 90% of waste to be recovered and not go to landfill and 75% recycling rates across all waste types.

These ambitious targets set to be obligatory by 2050 are challenging, particularly given consumer and manufacturing trends that continue to drive ever-increasing volumes of waste.

Throughout the region, our general waste into landfill is approximately 450-500 tonne per month. One way for ratepayers to reduce the likelihood of further waste management fees is to recycle. We have five waste facilities and transfer stations in our region, located at Goondiwindi, Inglewood, Texas, Yelarbon and Talwood.

These facilities do not all offer the same waste disposal options however, Council has compiled a table of services at each facility to help when it comes to disposing of waste products. You can find this on the Council website under waste management.

https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/residents/waste-management/waste-and-transfer-tip-services