Business & Council
7 February, 2026
From the Mayor's Desk - 3 February 2026
January is likely to have set the scene for the rest of 2026 by being a very busy month, with many projects progressing across the region. From announcing a new Pelican Pool Hoist at the Texas Aquatic Centre, to the underground pop-up irrigation system at the MacIntyre Sports Complex in Inglewood, and the rollout of locals-only fob access at the Yelarbon Transfer Station, there’s lots in the works.
Alongside these on-the-ground improvements in our region, I will continue to keep you updated on Council’s advocacy efforts and some of the work happening more behind the scenes on behalf of our community:
Broken commitments leave regional communities without in-person banking
In January, I wrote to the CEO of Heritage Bank after learning that its Goondiwindi agency will close in March. I outlined the real and ongoing impacts that bank closures have on regional communities and asked that the decision to close our local outlet be reconsidered.
I am disappointed to say that the response I have since received reflects an increasingly common corporate focus over community commitment. This closure is particularly concerning given assurances made during the Heritage Bank-People’s Choice merger in 2023 that no branches would close.
While Goondiwindi, unlike some of our smaller towns, is fortunate to have other banking services available, the continued removal of face-to-face services remains deeply concerning for all regional communities. I will take every opportunity to continue to advocate on this matter, and share the impact of these closures.
Call for stronger animal welfare support in our region
At the start of this fortnight, I wrote to the Director-General of the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) on behalf of residents and our local animal rescue group, MAPR, following a serious case of animal cruelty and neglect in our region.
Council has previously raised concerns about the lack of a visible DPI animal welfare presence in regional communities. While it is important to note that Council’s authority is limited to pet registration and roaming animals - not investigating cruelty or neglect - I share residents’ concerns about the lack of trained local resources to respond to, or proactively address, animal welfare issues before they escalate – and to successfully prosecute those responsible.
I have again requested a review of the current service delivery model and regulations to ensure they meet community expectations and support timely and effective responses to animal welfare concerns.
Finally, if you suspect animal cruelty or neglect, please report it to Biosecurity Queensland or the RSPCA.
From Goondiwindi to the NT: welcoming Queensland’s new Cross-Border Commissioner
Two weeks ago, Council welcomed the permanent appointment of Mr Bob Gee APM as Queensland’s new Cross-Border Commissioner. Mr Gee brings extensive experience to the role, having served as a police officer and as Director-General across several Queensland Government departments.
As a reminder, the Cross-Border Commissioner’s role spans the entire Queensland border - not just the approximately 250 kilometres within our region - extending to borders with the Northern Territory and South Australia.
Importantly for our region, Council is confident that Mr Gee’s background provides a strong understanding of the cross-border issues affecting us locally, including policing, inter-agency coordination, and cross-border crime prevention, informed by his time as Director-General of Youth Justice and Victim Support. His appointment provides confidence that the issues facing border communities and businesses will continue to be understood and addressed at the highest levels.
Mr Gee visited the region last week to meet with Councillors and key stakeholders, including youth service providers in Goondiwindi, and we discussed challenges for businesses such as different state border rules, the need for multiple licences, and unnecessary red tape.
I once again wish to thank Mr Gee for visiting so early in his appointment, and I look forward to working together to address cross-border challenges.
TMR to install Township Entry Treatments in Toobeah to improve safety
I’m pleased to share that the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will soon install Township Entry Treatments in Toobeah. The works will include red-painted pavement in both traffic lanes, aiming to improve safety by encouraging drivers to slow down, increasing awareness of pedestrians and local traffic, and clearly marking the entrance to the township.
Residents are likely already familiar with these treatments from other towns, and it’s been long requested from TMR by Toobeah residents, with strong Council advocacy. Council will this week undertake preparatory works at the township entry to assist TMR with the installation in the near future.
Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony
I had the honour of speaking at the Australia Day Ceremony in Goondiwindi, joined by Australia Day Ambassador Dr Bob McGregor, as we came together to reflect, respect and celebrate. The eastern ceremony was held in Inglewood this year, with Gail Ker OAM attending as Ambassador for Inglewood and Texas.
Thank you to the Goondiwindi Rotary Club for hosting a fantastic breakfast, and to Sing Australia for providing wonderful entertainment at the Inglewood ceremony.
I extend my congratulations to all Australia Day Award nominees. It was heartening to see so many individuals and community groups, of all ages, nominated by friends and neighbours in recognition of their service.
A special further congratulations to this year’s award recipients, especially our Citizens of the Year Citizens of the Year David Batterham and Kimble Mayers, as well as Young Citizen of the Year Zane Nonol. You can find the full list of nominees and winners on the GRC website: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/News-and-Community/Events-in-Our-Region/Australia-Day
The day also included a Citizenship Ceremony, where we proudly welcomed six new citizens to our community. Congratulations to Andrea, Christine, Ed, Elizabeth, Nadin and Zuroon, who join us from a range of different nations. A very warm welcome to you all.