AS COUNCIL’s Transport and Infrastructure portfolio councillor, I’m beyond proud that we have taken out two major titles at the 2025 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland and Northern Territory Excellence Awards.

Our Beaudesert Town Centre Revitalisation Project won both the Road Safety Award and Public Works Project of the Year.

This achievement shows that regional councils can not only match but surpass the results of large city projects with much bigger budgets and teams.

Winning these top awards is a remarkable accomplishment for our region and a true reflection of the innovation, skill, and pride of our staff and community.

Kalbar Country Day drew a fantastic crowd last weekend, with live music, great food, and the ever-popular carrot-throwing competition.

The Fassifern Lions Club once again delivered a brilliant day, raising funds for local causes that make a real difference.

The Boonah Bookfest is coming up on Saturday and Sunday, November 1 and 2 at the Boonah Cultural Centre.

There will be more than 20,000 used books for sale, so book lovers are expected to come from near and far.

This is an important fundraiser for the Boonah and District Cultural Foundation, and every dollar supports local arts and cultural programs that enrich our region.

While you’re there, drop by the Boonah Community Clothes Swap, hosted by BOSS. Bring along your good quality clothes, shoes, and accessories. It’s free to swap and only a gold coin to buy.

Amid all this good news, I also want to acknowledge a less cheerful reality: workplace violence and aggression are on the rise across Queensland, including here in the Scenic Rim. Council has a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of bullying or harassment.

Our staff are part of the community - they might serve you today and stand beside you at the local footy game tomorrow.

Let’s treat each other with the same respect we’d want for ourselves, and ensure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.