From the Mayor’s Desk – 25 June 2025

Published on 25 June 2025

Telstra satellite messaging is now live for iPhone users

I welcome Telstra’s announcement that satellite messaging is now live for iPhone users (iPhone 13 or newer), marking a step forward in addressing mobile black spots in regional areas like ours. This complements the earlier satellite messaging activation for some Android handsets.

While this new service will hopefully offer supported iPhone users an additional layer of connectivity, it is not a long-term substitute for reliable mobile coverage on the ground - especially as the 3G network shutdown continues to impact communities across the Goondiwindi Region and elsewhere.

This development highlights the growing need for further investment in mobile infrastructure. Our region needs consistent, everyday mobile coverage. I continue to call on the federal government, funding bodies, national regulators and TELCOs to act urgently and deliver lasting solutions to the ongoing mobile service challenges our residents and businesses face.

Transport Minister gets firsthand glimpse of state and federal highway conditions in Goondiwindi Region

Last week, we welcomed the Honourable Brent Mickelberg MP, Minister for Transport and Main Roads to the Goondiwindi Region for a firsthand look at the conditions of our state and federal highways. The visit gave us a valuable opportunity to highlight the challenges our communities face with regional road infrastructure. We had constructive discussions about the state of our roads and the importance of continued investment – particularly on the Leichhardt Highway towards Yarrill Creek and the Gore Highway.

I am hopeful this level of attention signals stronger support for long-overdue investment, but will continue to advocate strongly to ensure regional roads remain a state and federal priority.

Council adopts 2025-26 Budget

Goondiwindi Regional Council adopted its 2025-26 Budget at the Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June. This budget prioritises responsible financial management, focused on the core responsibilities of local government and keeping cost increases minimal. Our commitment to serving every resident across the region equitably drives our budget investments.

The average general rate increase for 2025–26 is 4% (after discount). The operational budget is $53.89 million, and the capital budget is $24.74 million. Importantly, we’ve secured $28.09 million in external funds to reduce the burden on ratepayers and fund essential projects.

My fellow Councillors and I firmly believe in a balanced approach. By focusing on core business and delivering these services well, we make our region a better place for families to live, visitors to enjoy and an easier place to do business.

Collaboration is key to fire and emergency management

I recently met with the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) Commissioner as well as senior officers from across the region for both the QFD and the Rural Fire Service (RFS) in Goondiwindi to discuss our region’s disaster preparedness and response efforts. We spoke about the importance of maintaining strong, collaborative relationships, and the critical work the QFD provides - particularly when it comes to responding to local emergencies such as bushfires, structural fires and accidents. I reinforced the critical need for proactive measures like fuel reduction, which help keep our communities safe.

I also acknowledged the vital role the RFS and our local auxiliary brigades play as first responders. These volunteers are often on the front-line during crises, and their dedication to protecting lives and property is deeply valued – as is the outstanding work of our Swift Water Rescue teams during flood events. Their skill, professionalism, and commitment save lives, and it's essential that they continue to receive the resources and support they need.

Texas Bowls Club celebrates 70 years

This fortnight marked a special occasion for the Texas and District Bowls Club as it celebrated its 70th anniversary. I was honoured to be part of the celebrations and to present a number of awards on the night – including presenting Bowls Queensland Patriarch, Matriarch, Super Veteran and Veteran badges to a number of the club’s members. Clubs like these are at the heart of local communities, and the Texas Bowls Club boasts a proud history of sporting and social spirit.

I was also gently encouraged to have a go on the green myself. While my bowling performance certainly won’t be earning any trophies, it was great fun - and my sincere thanks go to the club for such a warm welcome. Congratulations to all those who received their badges, and here’s to another 70 years of success and community spirit.

Athletics Day brings small schools together

It was a pleasure to attend the Small Schools Athletics Day this fortnight, hosted by the Talwood State School at Gilbert Oval. Events like these are more than just a chance for students to compete - they bring families, teachers, and the wider community together in support of our young people. I was honoured to present trophies to students from Kindon, Kioma, St Maria Goretti Inglewood, Talwood and Yelarbon. A big thank you to the staff, volunteers, and parents who made the day such a success - it’s this spirit of community that continues to make the Goondiwindi Region such a great place to live.

Raising community concerns with the Clean Energy Council

This fortnight, I had a productive conversation with representatives from the Clean Energy Council, where I raised concerns shared by many in our community about the cumulative impact of large-scale renewable projects in our region. These projects must not come at the expense of those living closest to these developments. I made it clear that if our region is hosting these developments, we must also see meaningful, long-term investment that delivers real value for local communities - not just during construction, but well into the future.