From The Mayor's Desk - 17 May 2024

Goondiwindi Show 2024 successfully showcases our region

Congratulations to the many dedicated volunteers of the Goondiwindi Show 2024. With thousands of attendees through the gates, delivering such an enormous event is no easy feat. Whilst the Goondiwindi P & A Committee may be the spine of the Show, it is evident that an event of this scale can only be achieved with an army of volunteers and sponsors behind the scenes. The Goondiwindi Show once again showcases the exceptional region we all live in, fostering a strong sense of belonging and pride for all who attend.   

Goondiwindi Hospital accepts a new Cuddle Bed

Last week, along with Councillors O’Shea and Kelly, I had the privilege of visiting the Goondiwindi Hospital as the Belinda McGowan Foundation donated a Cuddle Bed for the local palliative care unit. Cuddle Beds are purpose-built oversized beds designed to allow a patient and family members to be together during the difficult end-of-life time. The Belinda McGowan Foundation report that on many occasions, family members have felt disconnected with the traditional hospital bed options, and spending time in a Cuddle Bed with loved ones has been comforting and provides great solace. This is the second Cuddle Bed that the Belinda McGowan Foundation has donated to the region, with a bed also established in Inglewood earlier this year. I believe the Foundation is also looking to fundraise for a Cuddle Bed in Texas, which would result in a bed in every hospital in our region. I sincerely thank the Foundation for its generous donations and important work.

Walking your dogs on a leash is not optional

The number of complaints across the region regarding dogs being off-leash is rising. The laws in Queensland, which the Council enforces, are designed to maintain safety and harmony within our communities. They protect people and animals from harm and generally prevents dogs from getting into risky situations. Even a friendly dog can easily knock over an elderly resident or, if running towards another animal, result in an unexpected altercation. The easiest solution is to simply always have your dog on a leash.

Opera Queensland partners with Goondiwindi Regional Council

I’m looking forward to catching up with many local residents at the upcoming Opera Queensland performance of ‘Do We Need Another Hero?’ on Saturday, June 1st. Opera Queensland has been to the region a few times now, and I encourage residents to come along to this very affordable night out for a cultural experience at a fraction of the price you would pay in a metropolitan area. 

The performance is proudly sponsored by the Councillors who have agreed to undertake the roles of the bar staff, ushers, and chef, with all proceeds from the night going to the local Dolly Parton Imagination Library program. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library program enriches the lives of children in the region through the power of reading.

If you haven't booked your ticket yet, please do so via the online link or visit our Customer Service team, who can assist - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/opera-queensland-presents-do-we-need-another-hero-tickets-881119380787

Moree Plains Shire and Goondiwindi Regional Council continue their collaboration

I accepted an invitation to attend the Moree Plains Shire Council meeting in Boggabilla this week. With a shared community to serve, we must maintain a close working relationship. The discussion covered a range of cross-border issues, from joint advocacy opportunities to operational matters that could improve service delivery. This collaboration complements the Council staff, who have also been meeting regularly to cooperate further on joint challenges and opportunities.

Congratulations to Gateway to Training on 20 years of service

This coming week marks the 20th anniversary of Gateway to Training operating in the region. As a not-for-profit group, celebrating 20 years of dedication to providing training, employment, and education support, particularly to at-risk youth, is a significant achievement. Outstanding volunteers and staff have contributed to the success of this organisation throughout the years, and our community is better off because of them. Here's to many more years of Gateway to Training making a positive impact!