From the Mayor's Desk - 1 April 2025
Published on 01 April 2025
Rain brings relief, repairs – and elsewhere, record-breaking floods
After disappointing local rainfall from TC Alfred, many in our region have received some much-needed good rain in the past week, with more forecast. You may have seen our Council crews out patching the roads over the weekend, as the recent rain caused quite some damage to roads across the region. This work will continue over the coming weeks, with Council crews also busy mowing where possible. I want to thank residents for their patience as we wait for some areas to dry out before crews can access them to undertake the required maintenance.
I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge the many people and communities across the state where the recent rain has caused widespread flooding. We are no strangers to flood events in the Goondiwindi Region, so I know everyone will be thinking of those affected and the impacts on their homes, families, livestock, and fences – as well as all the unseen effects of a flood.
Whetstone is a worthy recipient of the Rural Fire Brigade vehicle donation
I am delighted to share that the Whetstone Rural Fire Brigade (RFB) was selected as the recipient of a Ford Ranger donated by the state government’s QFleet and the Rural Fire Brigade Association of Queensland. The Inglewood SES kindly hosted a great barbecue for the handover. I was honoured, alongside our local state MP James Lister, to speak about the critical importance of equipping our RFBs, the first line of defence for rural communities. The Whetstone brigade covers more than 600 km2, much of which borders the State Forest, making them especially deserving of this donation. Congratulations to the brigade and to all the local residents who will benefit from this much-needed resource.
Hell of the West ignites the region
It was fantastic to once again welcome so many athletes and supporters from across the country to our region for the iconic Hell of the West (HOTW) weekend. A reminder that HOTW generates nearly $400,000 in direct and incremental expenditure for our community – its value to our local economy is immense. The entire town comes together to make this event a success, and it’s a powerful reminder of what makes our community so special. It’s incredible to see such an outpouring of local support – from the competitors who push themselves to their limits to their passionate support teams, hardworking vendors and generous sponsors. And, of course, the tireless volunteers who underpin it all. It is a privilege to host this event in Goondiwindi.
‘The ripple in the wave’ – Texas hosts the Unbreakable Farmer
Along with Cr O’Shea and Cr Kelly, I attended ‘The Ripple in the Wave’ – one of a series of workshops and events held in Texas featuring the Unbreakable Farmer, aka Warren Davies. The talks, organised by Texas and District Drought Support (TADDS), focused on breaking down the stigma of mental health and sparking meaningful conversations within our community. Shanna Whan, founder of Sober in the Country, also shared the stage with Warren for the Friday evening. They engrossed those in attendance with their deeply personal stories and shared their learnings around mental health and coping in unpredictable environments and changing circumstances. Congratulations to TADDS on this truly insightful and impactful event.
Inglewood Show
I want to congratulate the Inglewood Show Society for the resounding success of the show earlier in March. The show truly serves as a cornerstone of what makes our region unique, bringing people together and highlighting the best of our agricultural and cultural traditions. I was privileged to present the trophies for the prime lambs and sheep.
The show would not go ahead without the generosity of local sponsors and volunteers. Thank you for your dedication and support.
I encourage everyone to mark their calendars for the upcoming Goondiwindi Show on 2-3 May, followed by the Texas Show on 26-27 July.
Future of Business on the menu at Goondiwindi Chamber breakfast
Last week, I was able to attend the Goondiwindi Chamber of Commerce's latest Business Breakfast, which brought together a range of industry professionals to discuss the evolving business landscape. We heard insights on automation, future workforce training and the future of digital connectivity. The Queensland Small Business Commissioner's Office also encouraged attendees to submit examples of government ‘Red tape’ that is increasingly affecting small business across the state. The event was well attended, and I congratulate the Chamber on providing opportunities for local businesses to learn and engage in conversations supporting our local economy's success.