Welcome to this week’s Mayor’s Update. Each week, I aim to keep you informed about the latest Council developments, events, and initiatives. Your engagement and feedback are always appreciated. Contact details are available at the end of this update if you would like to get in touch with myself or another divisional councillor.
Chief Executive Officer Appointment
On Thursday 26 September 2024, Council announced the appointment of Craig Matheson as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over 35 years of experience in public policy, strategic leadership, and corporate governance across both state and local governments, Mr Matheson brings extensive knowledge and expertise to this critical role.
Following a rigorous selection process and after interviewing other applicants who were highly recognised local government practitioners with similar qualifications and experiences in the local government sector, Council unanimously chose Mr Matheson for this role. He officially began his tenure on 25 September 2024, under a four-year contract.
Mr Matheson’s appointment is expected to advance Councils strategic goals, as he is committed to working with Council to foster growth and effectively address the needs of our community.
Community Engagement on Flood Resilience
The North Burnett region has experienced its fair share of flooding over the years, particularly due to the expansive catchment area of the Burnett River, which spans approximately 33,000 square kilometres. To help our communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from flood events, Council has secured funding to implement various projects aimed at enhancing flood risk awareness and preparedness.
To facilitate community engagement on this important issue, Council is hosting a series of engagement sessions throughout October. These sessions will coincide with the Big Map Exercises organised by the Red Earth Community Foundation and Disaster Relief Australia.
Engagement Sessions Schedule:
- Saturday 05 October 2024 – Biggenden Memorial Hall, 9.30am – 3.30pm
- Saturday 09 October 2024 – Gayndah Community Hall, 11.00am – 7.00pm
- Saturday 12 October 2024 – Mundubbera Community Hall, 9.30am – 3.30pm
- Sunday 13 October 2024 – Monto Community Hall, 9.30am – 3.30pm
- Saturday 19 October 2024 – Eidsvold Community Hall, 9.00am – 12.00pm
- Saturday 19 October 2024 – Mt Perry Community Hall, 2.00pm – 5.00pm
If you’re unable to attend, please visit Councils website or contact us for more information on how to share your experiences. Learn more at northburnett.qld.gov.au/flood-resilience-projects
Mundubbera Blueberry Festival
The Mundubbera Blueberry Festival on 27-28 September was a resounding success, attracting a large crowd which enjoyed a weekend filled with fine dining, artisan markets and great Australian music. Council would like to congratulate the organisers for their outstanding efforts in bringing this event to life and to the residents of Mundubbera for their warm hospitality in welcoming visitors to our region.
Monto 100 Year Festival
The Monto centenary celebrations will commence on Wednesday, 2 October 2024, kicking off with the Farmer’s Field Day, which I am looking forward to attending. From Friday to Sunday, a variety of activities will take place, celebrating Monto’s rich history, vibrant community and bright future. For a complete program of events, please visit: https://facebook.com/monto100yearfestival2024
Councillor Engagements
Our Councillors have been out and about in the community, participating in events, meeting with residents and advocating for the needs of our region. This week:
- On 23 September 2024, my fellow Councillors and I attended a Social Breakfast hosted by Bryson Head MP, Member for Callide in Mundubbera. The gathering provided an opportunity to advocate our region’s priorities and challenges in the lead up to the State Election. Out attendance at this event is intended to ensure that candidates in the state election are informed of our region’s needs and are well placed to respond – and we look forward to participation in similar engagements with other candidates over the coming weeks of the election campaign.
- On 24 September 2024, Councillors, Council staff and a community member met with representatives from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) in Biggenden to hear community concerns and questions regarding the proposed temporary Isis Highway detour. I am pleased that this opportunity took place as it enabled a number of matters to be discussed and worked through, while also demonstrating that DTMR has applied considerable thought into the proposed detour route. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback and ask questions directly to the DTMR, who oversee the road and this project.
- On 25 September 2024, Councillors, CEO and Acting General Manager of Works participated in a tour of Mt Rawdon Mine operations. With the mining operations ceasing, the Council team received updates on the mine’s future plans and opportunities, including the proposed Mt Rawdon Pumped Hydro project.
Civil Works Schedule
Maintenance Schedule for week commencing 30 September 2024 – weather permitting:
Maintenance Grading
- Zone 1: Pine Mountain Road and Monal Road
- Zone 2: Foleys Gully Road
- Zone 3: Plateau Road
- Zone 4: Harpurs Hill Road
- Zone 5: Redbank Road
- Zone 6: Nil (operator unavailable)
- Zone 7: Emergent Works – Scanlans Road and Linsketts Road
- Zone 8: Jankes Road, James Road and North Pattens Road
- Zone 9: Nil (operator unavailable)
Construction Crew
- North: Gladstone Monto Road, Pavement Repairs
- South: Gayndah Mt Perry Road – Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme Project
February Flood Event
- Hawkwood Road, Beeron Road, North Dallarnil Road, Gayndah-Mundubbera Road and Riverleigh School Bus Road
Councillor Contacts
As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me directly on 0458 696 272, or cr.les.hotz@northburnett.qld.gov.au or your Divisional Councillor, if you would like to address any concerns. Our contact details can be found on Council’s website: northburnett.qld.gov.au/meet-your-councillors.