From the Mayor's Desk - 6th August 2024

Published on 06 August 2024

Texas Show Society Shines Again

Along with fellow Councillors, I recently attended the Texas Show. In the more than 30 Texas Show’s that I have attended over the years, 2024 was one of the largest crowds that I have seen. Well done to the Texas Show Society for another outstanding event. There was something for everyone and the water jet powered human flying display was a highlight for many people. The tireless dedication and volunteer spirit has once again worked to bring together great entertainment and exhibits. Thanks for bringing our community together and showcasing the very best of our region.

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Seeking Feedback on Cunningham Highway

The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) are seeking community feedback on the Cunningham Highway between Warwick and Inglewood. Council has been long advocating for improvements to all our state and national highways, and we encourage residents to actively provide feedback directly to TMR about the issues and improvements that would make a genuine difference to local residents and businesses. You can have your say by emailing DownsSWR.Office@tmr.qld.gov.au or by phoning 07 4639 0777.

Casa Mia Refurbishment Progresses

Council is pleased to announce the acceptance of a tender for the refurbishment of the Casa Mia site in Inglewood. This is a major step forward in providing much-needed supported housing options for our community. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with applications for tenancy opening in early 2025. Priority will be given to local seniors. The new design will feature five independent living units, catering to those who wish to downsize without requiring full-time care. Council extends its sincere thanks to the local steering committee for their invaluable contributions to this project.

Council Advocates for Changes to Aboriginal Land Applications

Last month Council endorsed a resolution to take a motion to this years Local Government Association Conference calling on the State Government to update procedures surrounding transfers of unallocated state land to indigenous people. The Qld Act that facilitates this process predated the High Courts recognition of Native Title in 1993 and requires some modernisation. I have already raised this with Qld government officials, as much overdue. The Act needs to ensure a legislated State led process for community consultation and information sharing relating to applications for land transfers. The current processes are unfair to everyone who is affected, whether they be the applicants, surrounding communities, or councils who are invariably trustees of the millions of hectares of State-owned land throughout Qld that can be subject to the state led transfer process.

2022 Flood Road Restoration Works Continues

Council recently awarded three contracts for road restoration works impacted by the October 2022 flood events relating to road remediation and repairs in the Yelarbon, Wyaga, Texas and Gore areas. A significant achievement is the awarding of two contracts to a local business, demonstrating Council’s commitment to supporting local economy while ensuring value for money. This investment, totalling over $3 million, is in addition to our broader road program for the region. The funding for these projects is from the Queensland Recovery Authority. These projects highlight the substantial timeframes councils often face in accessing disaster recovery funds.

Meditrans Volunteers Celebrate

It was a pleasure to attend the recent Meditrans luncheon. This invaluable service plays a crucial role in connecting our Goondiwindi, Inglewood and Yelarbon community with essential medical care in Toowoomba. Meditrans would not be possible without the generous support of local sponsors and the dedication of volunteer drivers. Their contributions make a significant difference in the lives of many. Congratulations to everyone involved in this initiative.

State and National Highway Maintenance Budget Confirmed

Council has commenced a new contract for maintenance on the state-controlled road network in our Council area. This approximately $3 million contract has allowed us to again recommence vital slashing and basic road maintenance along our region’s state and national highways. Given the consistent rainfall throughout the first half of this year, this investment is crucial for ensuring the safety of motorists and maintaining the region’s aesthetic appeal. Our Council team is dedicated and experienced in delivering this important maintenance work and the recent allocation of this funding will see this work delivered across the region, promptly and efficiently.

Trial of New Stanthorpe Inglewood Road Roadside Skip Bin Sites

Council will be trialling a new location for the roadside skip bins currently situated on the Stanthorpe Inglewood Road this week. Residents have consistently expressed concerns about the condition of this site, and despite increased bins and collections, illegal dumping remains a persistent problem. To address this issue, we are trialling relocating the bins approximately 4.5km down the Stanthorpe Inglewood Road. We hope this change will reduce illegal dumping. We appreciate the community’s patience and encourage residents to provide feedback on the new location.