From The Mayor's Desk - 16 September 2025
Published on 16 September 2025
Talwood shines bright thanks to TCCC partnership
Along with my fellow Councillors, I recently attended the Talwood Community Consultative Committee (TCCC) meeting and discussed the exciting progress of the Talwood Lighting Project. The newly installed tree lights have already made a big impression, and the community is now looking at ways to build on further community-identified projects.
Council is proud to support this initiative in partnership with the TCCC - their ongoing efforts to improving the township are a credit to the community, and they play a valuable role in building local pride and visitor appeal.
Council also continues to advocate on key issues affecting Talwood, including ongoing discussions with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) around community-identified priorities for state roads. Importantly, we also remain committed to securing the appointment of a permanent police officer for the town.
Inland Rail EIS response expected early next year
I recently met with members of the Inland Rail project team, including interim CEO Mike Zambelli, to hear the progress of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) following the public consultation phase. I welcomed the progress made to date and was pleased to hear that the EIS is now expected to be finalised by the Queensland Coordinator-General early next year, with a subsequent assessment by the Commonwealth Government.
This is a long-awaited and critical infrastructure project, first proposed more than 25 years ago, and I acknowledge the community’s understandable scepticism about its delivery. I appreciate the efforts being made across all levels of government to maintain the recent momentum and move the project forward.
Texas Apex Park toilets - advocacy update
Following community concerns about the condition of the Apex Park toilets on the main highway in Texas, Council escalated the matter with a formal submission to the Director-General and TMR Minister Brent Mickelberg, following their recent visit to the Goondiwindi region and is currently awaiting a response. We will inform the community as soon as one is received.
Local Disaster Management Group puts best foot forward in Texas
Earlier this fortnight, I joined members of our Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) in Texas. The session provided an important opportunity to share updates between agencies and identify upcoming community engagement opportunities ahead of our higher risk time of the year.
We also showcased our regional disaster floor map (pictured), which will be used at events like Under 8s Day at Texas School to help explain how our local services work together during emergencies.
Looking ahead, Council is also preparing for Get Ready Queensland Week from 6–12 October 2025. This is an annual statewide initiative designed to help communities prepare for extreme weather events such as flooding and fires.
Council’s Community Grants Program supports the Talwood Races – apply now!
To Talwood again, and I’m pleased to confirm the Talwood Races are among the latest recipients of Council’s Community Grants Program, supporting preparations for this Saturday’s 94th annual race day. The event will feature five races, Fashions on the Field, children’s entertainment, and live music from Split Image. Bus services will run from Goondiwindi and Toobeah.
A reminder that Council’s Community Grants Program runs three rounds each financial year. Round 2 is currently open until 31 October. For more information, visit: grc.qld.gov.au/News-and-Community/Donations-and-Grants
A feast of food – and fashion – at Rotary’s Gourmet in Gundy
It’s been a busy few weeks of events across the Goondiwindi region, and Gourmet in Gundy was a standout. Proudly delivered by the Goondiwindi Rotary Club, the weekend kicked off with the debut of ‘Glam at Gourmet’ on the Friday night. The newly opened Goondiwindi Cotton building provided a fitting venue, with gourmet local catering and a spring fashion parade from our vibrant main street retailers. It was mentioned by many on the night how fortunate we are to live in a town where businesses understand the value of supporting each other and working collaboratively, with seven local fashion businesses jointly participating in the parade.
At Sunday’s main event, it was a perfect spring day for the festivities with celebrity chef Clarissa Feildel, exceptional food, and kids’ entertainment. Congratulations to the organising committee on yet another successful year. A fantastic family event for over 20 years, Gourmet in Gundy continues to be a cornerstone of our regional calendar.
Malgarai Bell rings out at the Goondiwindi Races
I was honoured to attend the Vern Kleinschmidt Community Trust Goondiwindi Cup - always a special occasion in our community calendar. Held in memory of Vern, the ‘barefoot vet’ who devoted a lifetime to this community, the event continues to honour his legacy in a meaningful way. It’s especially moving to hear the historic Malgarai Bell, dated 1834, ring out - bringing the community together for a much-loved local race day.
Local clubs collaborate for Wings and Wheels
It was great to also join many locals at the annual Breakfast Fly-in at the Goondiwindi Airport. Hosted by the McIntyre Aero Club in conjunction with the Goondiwindi & District Vehicle Restorers Association, the ‘Wings & Wheels’ event brought together an impressive collection of aircraft and classic vehicles, offering something for aviation and motoring enthusiasts alike. It was a terrific morning and a wonderful example of local clubs working together to create a vibrant community event.
Goondiwindi region welcomes seven new citizens
Finally, last Wednesday I had the honour of welcoming seven new citizens to our region and our nation during a citizenship ceremony in Goondiwindi. It’s always a privilege to officiate at these conferrals, marking a new chapter in the lives of individuals and families taking the important step of becoming Australian citizens.
This ceremony welcomed people from New Zealand, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and the UK - some brand new to our community, while others have called our region home for many years. We are richer for their presence and proud to have them officially join our Australian and region’s family.