From the Mayor's Desk - 14 May 2020

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This week, I write my column in light of the clearest timeline we’ve received so far of the Goondiwindi regions path out of COVID-19 restrictions. The Queensland Governments Roadmap to Easing Restrictions, released last week, will allow local businesses to get ready for each stage of eased restrictions over the coming months, and will allow us as a region to begin to plan for getting back to a new normality.

The new Council is meeting frequently to ensure that the Goondiwindi region is well positioned for economic recovery. Preparations for the upcoming 2020-21 Budget include planning for how we can best support local businesses, industries and jobs and community groups that have been most impacted by the pandemic.

As we enter this recovery phase and beyond, one thing is clear: this Council will be taking a very REGIONAL approach to the pursuit of its outcomes. Keeping our communities connected and vibrant in a post-coronavirus world will be a priority.

I have said before that domestic tourism and agriculture will be the Goondiwindi regions shining lights in the coronavirus recovery. As the portfolio holder for Economic Development, Tourism and Events, I have already commenced discussions with local industry body Texas Queensland Inc. about identifying priorities going forward for living and working in our region.

Before becoming Mayor, I gave a commitment that I would work once a month from Council’s Inglewood and Texas offices. As advertised in the Macintyre Gazette, I visited Texas on Tuesday [12 May] to meet with local residents to hear their ideas about how to enhance our region and to address Council matters they have identified as requiring attention. I will continue to hold these visits and I encourage all residents who wish to meet to discuss their ideas - or challenges - to get in touch. My next dates are Inglewood on Friday 22 May and Texas again on Tuesday 9 June – please phone 07 4671 7437 if you’d like to meet while I’m in town.

I am extremely pleased to report that Council has been able to add the Bonshaw Weir Road Crossing to the border crossing trial in partnership with the Queensland Police Service. This is due to the success of the initial crossings trialed, and that technology is now in the works to be adopted elsewhere along the Queensland border. I thank all those who have participated in the trial responsibly.

Finally, it is critical to remember that COVID-19 presents a public health emergency. The crucial message remains: continue to practice social distancing and good hygiene and if you are sick, stay home and arrange to be tested. I encourage all residents to stay up to date with the latest advice and guidelines around COVID-19 at www.covid19.qld.gov.au.

Hon. Lawrence Springborg
Mayor
Goondiwindi Regional Council

14th May 2020 at 12:00 AM