From the Mayor's Desk - 31 May 2024

Goondiwindi RSL Sub-Branch 105th Anniversary

On Saturday, 18th May, I attended the important 105th anniversary milestone for the local Goondiwindi Sub-Branch. Opening in 1919, the Goondiwindi branch is one of Queensland's oldest. Council was proud to support the development of the anniversary booklet through our Community Grants program. Congratulations to all involved on an excellent day, including a celebration lunch and school performances. The local support for this branch demonstrates the region's strong connections and the exceptional work the veterans do to recognise those with unmarked graves, historical displays and assistance for their fellow servicemen and women.

Gateway to Training 20th Anniversary

This year marks a momentous occasion for Gateway to Training, a volunteer-run organisation celebrating two decades of success. The volunteer board and staff have supported over 2,000 individuals through training courses in their journey towards personal and professional development. It was wonderful to be part of this celebration with several of my fellow Councillors and inaugural committee members, including Catherine O'Sullivan, Bruce McCollum, and Betsy Turner, who is still on the board. The committee also unveiled a special memorial chair in honour of the talented and passionate Mrs Esme Cairns. Esme is synonymous with the achievements at Gateway to Training and has left an enormous legacy for our community.

Inglewood State School – Ready Youth Program

I was fortunate to attend the Inglewood Ready Youth Program this week. Almost twenty youngsters from grade 7 and 8 presented to myself and their parents/ guardians on the importance of team building, sharing their experiences in sporting activities and the program itself. This initiative, previously run by the police as "Blue Edge" is now championed through the Inglewood Community Welfare group and has successfully fostered teamwork and togetherness among the participants. The growth of these young people is a testament to the program; it not only equips youth with valuable life skills but also prepares them to be the community leaders of tomorrow.

Texas Ordinary Meeting

May's Ordinary Council meeting, held in Texas, was supported by a turnout of residents and the local Texas State School leaders. Council works for the entire Goondiwindi Region, and my fellow Councillors and I are proud to represent residents across the whole of our local government area. Holding these annual meetings in Texas and Inglewood allows the Council to showcase to locals how their Council operates and provides a formal occasion for residents to engage with Councillors and senior leaders. I appreciate the efforts of all who attended and the Council staff that make these meetings happen.

Road Incidents in the Region

It was a reminder this past week about the importance of road safety around train crossings. Fortunately, the train and vehicle collision at Gooray Road, west of Goondiwindi, did not result in fatalities. Reports to Council are that the wreckage will take several weeks to be cleared.

I'd also like to advise that Council, the Queensland Police Service, and Queensland Transport and Main Roads are advocating for the urgent removal of the burnt-out truck body in Yelarbon. The truck owner is responsible for removing the unsightly remnants. Whilst we appreciate the removal will require specialist equipment, it must be removed as a priority for safety to allow residents and travellers reasonable access to the truck stop. It is an eyesore for the community.

Carbon Capture and Storage in the Great Artesian Basin Rejected

I welcome last week's announcement that the Queensland government rejected a mining company's carbon capture and storage proposal in the Great Artesian Basin. The proposed site was in our backyard just north of the Goondiwindi Region border near Moonie. This risky proposal posed a significant threat of long-term, irreversible environmental damage, impacting both residents and our vital primary producers.