“A noble concept executed very, very badly”: Inland Rail is a disappointment to many
In November 2001, I attended the inauguration of the Australian Inland Rail Expressway, Melbourne to Goondiwindi line, on the banks of the MacIntyre River at Goondiwindi. To mark this occasion, the then Deputy Prime Minister, John Anderson AC, planted a river gum and unveiled a commemorative plaque, while the Chairman of the Australian Transport and Energy Corridor, Everald Compton AO, drove a silver rail spike into a granite boulder to signify the commencement of the project.
Now, nearly 25 years later, and following the news last week that the Inland Rail project will halt at Parkes, I can say that this is one of the worst examples of delivery of a public infrastructure project I’ve ever seen. To clarify – it’s been a noble concept, but has been executed very, very badly.
I look at what our forebears achieved in the 1860s - building Queensland’s first rail line from Grandchester to Ipswich in a year - and then, a few decades later, pushing the Southwestern line from Inglewood through Yelarbon and on toward Goondiwindi – and I just shake my head. With picks and shovels and horses, they achieved a speed and certainty we can only marvel at today.
With all we’ve been through locally, I know that this announcement will be a disappointment to the many who have planned and invested on the assurances given for this project.
The intent of the inland rail was to improve the efficiency of logistics transport in Australia and take the growing number of heavy vehicles off the roads. As it stands the lack of investment in state and national highways in our region is a significant pain point, and this disappointing news means that there is no real plan for addressing this challenge.
We are now told that the government will move to preserve the corridor – Council is now trying to clarify what this means with state and federal agencies.
Have your say THIS WEEK – community workshops re. Town Planning Scheme Review
Council has begun a review of the Goondiwindi Region Town Planning Scheme and is now seeking community feedback. This review helps ensure our planning rules strike the right balance, enabling development to occur smoothly and responsibly.
The Planning Scheme guides how land can be used across the Goondiwindi Region, and covers how housing, businesses, agriculture and other activities sit alongside each other. While many rules come from state legislation, local feedback helps Council understand what’s working, what isn’t, and where we can advocate for better outcomes.
The current Town Planning Scheme was adopted in 2018 and must be reviewed approximately every 10 years per state government regulations. This first stage of the review will focus on gaining suggestions from the community - Council wants to hear your daytoday experiences with housing types and lot sizes, business growth and investment, building heights, parking, sheds and rural land uses.
Your input helps shape practical changes that support investment, housing and jobs.
Complete the online survey before 24 May 2026: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3CMD6TT.
Or request an in-person interview here: https://forms.office.com/r/s3RkcNZ4t3
Inglewood comes together to support local causes
Our region continues to shine with an impressive mix of events, and it’s wonderful to see just how active and engaged our communities are.
The Inglewood State School P&C Trail Ride once again brought families, riders and volunteers together for a fantastic weekend of riding celebrating their 20-year anniversary. I understand around 640 riders took part over the two days – a tremendous turnout and an even greater fundraising effort for the P-10 State School.
Events like this not only showcase our local sporting spirit but also highlight the dedication of parents and community members who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support their school – from generous local sponsors to the landholders enabling it all to happen. Well done to all.
I’d also like to give a shout-out to ManUp! Australia, and everyone who came along to the Inglewood Beers, Blokes and Bowls Charity Day on Saturday at the Inglewood Bowls Club. It was a fantastic afternoon on the green - great bowls, great food, great company, and all in support of a truly important cause. And a special highlight: a visit from Rugby League legend Shane Webcke, who genuinely connected with those in attendance with his talk about men’s health and his own rugby league career.
Funds raised on the day will go directly towards the delivery of a Prostate Cancer Educational Program for the Inglewood and Goondiwindi communities. This includes information sessions, early?detection resources, and materials that help spark meaningful conversations around men’s health. These programs lead to earlier awareness, increased screening, and ultimately better health outcomes for local men. A brilliant day for a brilliant cause.
Inglewood Memorial Park successfully Flying-Fox free for Anzac Day
In the leadup to Anzac Day, Council received a number of concerns from Inglewood residents about a flyingfox colony that had moved from its previous roost along Macintyre Brook into the Inglewood Memorial Park. In response, Council began dispersal efforts to encourage the colony to relocate its roosting area and ensure the park was ready for the Anzac service.
Working with wildlife is never predictable, and success is never guaranteed, but I’m very pleased to report that the dispersal efforts were successful and the roost relocated. I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Goondiwindi Regional Council staff who were out at very early hours during the flying foxes’ flyin period to make this possible. Many residents have since commented on how immaculate the Inglewood Memorial Park looked for Anzac Day, which is terrific feedback and a credit to the team.
Goondiwindi’s weekend of music supports local childhood literacy
We also had the pleasure of welcoming Queensland Opera back to the region for a special Mothers’ Day Performance of All Together Now! Adding to the vibrancy, Australia’s ‘irrepressible’ Celtic-rock band Murphy’s Pigs delivered a night of Celtic revelry with their trademark wit and theatrical flair - and were joined on stage by the Goondiwindi State Primary and State High School choirs. Both events also generously helped to fundraise for local Dolly Parton Imagination library program, supporting early literacy for local children. How lucky we are to have these kinds of experiences right here in our region, without having to travel far.
Congratulations to Goondiwindi P&A Society
Congratulations to the committee behind the Goondiwindi Show this fortnight. It was a fantastic turnout and a real showcase of everything we love about our country shows. From the energy of the opening Thursday night Aspects Art Show, to the action of the equestrian and livestock events, to the fun of sideshow alley, it was a wonderful atmosphere all weekend.
Impressive exhibits filled the pavilions, all reflecting the talent and pride of our local community. A huge well done to everyone involved, from volunteers and competitors to sponsors and families who came along. Another great show for the Goondiwindi Region.