The new Council was sworn in recently with a difference this time due to Covid-19. It was done remotely.

Congratulations go to my fellow councillors and mayor for being elected. We should also say thanks to those who stood and were unsuccessful. Democracy is alive and well when we have people who are prepared to give the community choice in their elected officials.

Thanks to former councillors Nigel Waistell, Nadia O’Carroll and Rick Stanfield for their contribution in the previous Council.

At the first Council Meeting I was elected Deputy Mayor and I thank my fellow councillors for their confidence in me to fulfill this role.

Over the coming weeks we will be contemplating the upcoming budget.

With the effect of Covid-19 on government at all levels as well as individuals it will be a harder task than usual in delivering a fair and equitable budget in these difficult times.

Local businesses have had to deal with the effects of bushfires, drought and now Covid-19 and they need the help of fellow local residents to ensure they survive and are viable moving forward.

My information is that we have had only four cases of Covid-19 in the Scenic Rim Regional Council area and all persons have recovered. 

Council are at present putting the finishing touches on updating playgrounds at Kalbar and Harrisville and I know locals will be pleased when these facilities are available to use.

Also, it’s great to see the refurbishment of the Kalbar Civic Centre and surrounds.

Thanks to the Fassifern Lions Club in securing grant money and others who were involved in this project. A credit to the Kalbar community.

At last week’s Council Meeting the latest Community Grants were approved.

Amongst the beneficiaries were the Harrisville & District Historical Society, Hayes Oval, Kalbar Progress Association and the Peak Crossing Hall Committee.

People travelling on Munbilla Road will notice the work being undertaken on the corner at Milora.  Council is undertaking this project with financial help from the Federal Government.

This work was announced last year and thanks must go to our local Federal member Scott Buchholz’s representation on this matter.

Please ensure that you obey the speed limits.

If you need to contact me I’m available on … 

Mobile 0429689192

Email duncan.m@scenicrim.qld.gov.au