From the Mayor’s Desk – 15 September 2026
Published on 15 September 2026
Local Telstra service improvements planned following Council advocacy
Council met with Telstra leaders and network representatives over the last fortnight to continue advocating for improved mobile coverage in our region following the 3G network shutdown in 2024, and I took the opportunity to reinforce our community's ongoing frustrations.
Telstra advised that it has now completed an audit of coverage across our region, following Council's ongoing calls for further investigation into the impacts of the switch-off. We were informed that a number of network optimisations have already been implemented, resulting in improved service in some locations, but with further improvements still planned.
This work includes pursuing investment to address mobile coverage black spots that have emerged since the 3G shutdown - areas where residents previously had reliable service but now experience little to no connectivity, even when using signal boosters. This includes along the Cunningham and Gore Highways.
These improvements are essential, particularly given the assurances provided that service levels would be maintained or enhanced following the transition to newer network technology.
We will meet with Telstra again in December to receive a further update, and I will keep residents informed of the outcomes.
World’s Best Steak is fed in Goondiwindi – congratulations to Smithfield Cattle Company
A big congratulations to our local Smithfield Cattle Company on a tremendous achievement. Cattle from the company's Sapphire feedlot have helped produce the World's Best Steak, recognised at the prestigious World Steak Challenge awards ceremony in Amsterdam on 10 September.
The winning cut was the Senku Pure Wagyu Fillet from Paradigm Foods, which also took home awards for World's Best Grain-Fed Fillet and Oceania's Best Steak. Producers from more than 30 countries have competed in the World Steak Challenge since its launch in 2015, making this recognition a significant accomplishment for everyone involved in the production chain.
The achievement is also a testament to the investment and innovation happening right here in our region, including the expansion of the Sapphire feedlot between Goondiwindi and Yelarbon. It also highlights the importance of the growing agricultural industry in our region, including cattle, pork, chicken and feedlots, to our local economy and community.
It's fantastic to see a local operation contributing to a product recognised as the best in the world. Congratulations to everyone at Smithfield Cattle Company and all those involved in this outstanding achievement. You've put our region on the global stage and given our community another reason to be proud
Medical Muster puts Goondiwindi Region in spotlight
I was pleased to attend the 10th Gundy Medical Muster this fortnight. The event brings rural health professionals together in Goondiwindi for a weekend of education, collaboration and networking. It’s a uniquely rural medical community event, and it is fantastic to see it hosted in Goondiwindi. Events like this help showcase our region and reinforce its standing within the broader medical community, including to clinical trainees who ultimately hopefully make a decision to move to the region.
The theme for the 2026 event was particularly thought-provoking: ‘Rural Heart, Digital Mind’. It highlighted the balance between the relationships and community connections that are central to rural practice, and the rapidly evolving digital technologies that are transforming industries - including (rural) healthcare.
The event also provides an opportunity for out-of-region visitors to experience Gourmet in Gundy on the Sunday, in conjunction with the Muster, showcasing the lifestyle and community spirit that make rural practice so rewarding. Congratulations to all the team behind organising another successful event.
Reminder – community forum on Goondiwindi CBD car parking TONIGHT
A quick reminder that Council is hosting a community forum on parking restrictions in the Goondiwindi CBD tonight, Tuesday 15 September at the Goondiwindi Cinema from 5.30pm. All community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the current parking regulations and share any suggestions ahead of Council's upcoming review of local laws.
Inglewood Roosters score double premiership in Tenterfield
Congratulations to the Inglewood Rugby League Football Club, with both the Men's and Women's teams claiming their 2026 premiership titles at the Grand Final in Tenterfield last weekend.
The Women’s team capped off an extraordinary undefeated season by beating the Tenterfield Tigers 18-0. Their premiership victory is the culmination of six years of determination and hard work to fight their way to the finals – and they finished their best season yet in an unforgettable fashion.
The Men’s team secured a 30-22 win over Tenterfield to bring home the premiership trophy and complete a remarkable double success for the Roosters – a big congratulations to the players, coaches, volunteers and supporters who have contributed to a historic season and a premiership double that will be remembered for years to come.
Rotary Gourmet in Gundy serves up a winner
Congratulations to the Goondiwindi Rotary Club on another successful Gourmet in Gundy. From the ‘Glam at Gourmet’ fashion event to the Celebrity Chef Dinner with Alastair McLeod and Sunday’s family day, the event once again showcased the best of our region’s food, local businesses and community.
Sunday, for many, is the ‘main course’ – the family day at the Goondiwindi Cultural Centre brought together locals and visitors for children’s entertainment, the popular BBQ Cook-Off, and plenty of delicious food and drink.
Council is proud to support this event through our Community Grants program. For more information, please visit: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/News-and-Community/Donations-and-Grants
Congratulations to Coolmunda Cod Classic
Well done to the team behind last weekend’s Coolmunda Cod Classic, which returned following the success of its inaugural event last year. The catch-and-release competition once again attracted anglers to the region and showcased the outstanding recreational opportunities available at Lake Coolmunda.
Council is proud to support the Lions Club of Inglewood through our Community Grants Program, helping to deliver great events that benefit the community. For more information about Council’s Community Grants and Donations Program, visit: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/News-and-Community/Donations-and-Grants