From the Mayor's Desk - 19 August 2025
Published on 19 August 2025
Council of Mayors meeting drives regional priorities forward
Earlier this month, I attended the Darling Downs South West Queensland Council of Mayors (DDSWQCoM) meeting in Dalby, accompanied by CEO Carl Manton, where we discussed key issues affecting our region.
One of the key agenda items was the Queensland Government’s decision to require major renewable energy project proponents to establish formal community benefit funds. This is a positive step that reflects our ongoing advocacy to protect the interests of those communities impacted by large-scale projects and provide lasting outcomes.
The agenda also provided an opportunity for the DDSWQCoM to work towards pushing for critical freight road upgrades, improved water security, fairer insurance for rural residents, and investment in services that strengthen our region’s future.
Showcasing innovation and collaboration for the Murray-Darling Basin
The Goondiwindi Region is proud to host the 2025 One Basin CRC Annual Partner Event on August 20 – 21. This key event will connect researchers, industry leaders, government representatives, and our regional community to share the latest industry-led, research-based initiatives for the Murray-Darling Basin.
On a separate note, as the region prepares for the 2026 Basin Plan Review, Council remains steadfast in advocating for water policies that reflect the unique needs of the Northern Basin and safeguard the industries, jobs, and communities that depend on this vital resource.
2025-26 Budget highlight – Investing in our future while addressing today's realities
Budget conversations are an ongoing part of our work, and as we continue to share key highlights from the 2025-26 budget, I’d like to address both the opportunities and challenges ahead for Council.
I raised in my Mayor’s address at the 2025 June Special Budget meeting the challenges associated with the advance payment of external grants. While this advance payment may appear generous, it creates significant planning challenges and distorts our financial records by creating an artificial surplus, only to worsen the deficit the year when projects are delivered and the associated costs are realised. Council’s view is that these grants should be received and accounted for in the financial year to which they relate. This ensures accurate planning and provides rate payers, along with other levels of government, a clearer picture of the genuine financial pressures facing councils. Council will continue to advocate for greater transparency on this matter.
I’ve also raised in previous years the challenge of increasing depreciation costs for Council due to the cost of renewing ageing infrastructure. Infrastructure like water and sewerage pipes, or community playgrounds, are crucial assets for our community, and whilst extending the life or replacing the asset is critical, the accounting process for the treatment of depreciation causes significant reporting and budget issues for local governments across the State. The establishment of a new Depreciation Taskforce by the Queensland Government is a welcome step in addressing this. The taskforce will explore ways to reduce the financial burden on ratepayers while ensuring councils remain sustainable.
By working in partnership with all levels of government, and with the support of this taskforce, we can better manage the rising costs tied to infrastructure renewal and secure the long-term delivery of vital services across the Goondiwindi region.
Celebrating excellence and dedication in our community
I take the opportunity when I can to give a shout out to the people that go above and beyond to make our community so great.
It was my great honour to present a medal on behalf of the Queensland Fire Service to Kieren (Choppy) Bosnjak in recognition of his three decades of dedicated service. The presentation took place in Inglewood, in the presence of his family and friends, a fitting setting to acknowledge his unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe. Kieren’s dedication has been instrumental in establishing a new Whetstone Fire Brigade facility, and this medal is a well-deserved tribute to his contributions.
Congratulations to Kaloma Home for the Aged for winning the Innovative Award in the 2025 Ageing Australia You are ACE awards. This award showcases Kaloma’s dedication to improving the quality of life for our older residents and setting a strong example for the sector.
I also want to congratulate Grace Griffiths on being named the Chris Lehman Young Cotton Grower of the Year. As a dedicated cotton grower, agronomist, and valued member of the Goondiwindi community, Grace’s achievement is a testament to her hard work and passion for agriculture. Our region’s strong agricultural roots and thriving cotton industry make this recognition all the more meaningful. Her achievements highlight the talent of the next generation of our farming community.
Bringing Council to the community
Upon becoming Mayor, I committed to holding at least one of our monthly meetings in both Texas and Inglewood each year. The upcoming Council Ordinary Meeting will be held at the Inglewood Civic Centre on Wednesday, 27 August.
These meetings play a key role in our local democracy by giving residents the chance to hear firsthand key decisions that affect our community. Staying informed through these meetings is a great way to understand Council’s work and the future direction of our region.
The meeting will commence at 9 am, followed by morning tea at 10 am. Please contact Debbie Elliott on (07) 4652 0216 to confirm attendance for catering purposes.
Sharing stories and strengthening community bonds
Last week, I attended the Yelarbon Men’s Shed community breakfast alongside several fellow Councillors. It was a great morning of connection and conversation, with local lifetime resident Jeff Yeo sharing his deeply personal journey with prostate cancer. Jeff delivered his moving story to the 20-plus men present, and it was a powerful reminder that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. Following his talk, I was astounded by the number of men who felt confident to open up and share their own experiences with the disease. I commend the Yelarbon Men’s Shed for the important work they do in fostering such a supportive and open community.