Council News - January to February 2026 Edition

EQUINE PRECINCT Design Chosen __ PARK UPGRADES In Laidley and Gatton __ HAVE YOUR SAY Animal Management Consultation EVENT SUCCESS Laidley Spring Festival

Award Winners

Australia Day 2026

Acknowledgement of Country

Lockyer Valley Regional Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the region, the Ugarapul and Yuggera people and pays our respects to their Elders, past and present, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of other communities who may live here. Lockyer Valley Regional Council is committed to cultivating inclusive environments for all staff, customers, residents and visitors.

2026 AUSTRALIA DAY Award Winners

Ron Johnstone has been named the 2026 Lockyer Valley Citizen of the Year.

The beloved community ambassador wears many hats across the Lockyer Valley, namely as the Town Crier, and is a deeply involved and longstanding member of the Laidley Pioneer Village & Museum and the Gatton & District Historical Society.

Mayor Tanya Milligan said that through Ron’s efforts in historical preservation and tourism promotion, he has contributed directly to the cultural and economic vibrancy of the Lockyer Valley.

“Ron is passionate about preserving and promoting local history. His tireless community contributions and volunteering spans decades, and he leads by example, showing what it means to serve with humility and dedication.

“He performs his role as Town Crier with gusto, literally shouting with great pride, about how wonderful it is to live in the Lockyer Valley.

“He really is an icon of the Lockyer Valley and I’m thrilled to see his passion and years of service formally recognised as our 2026 Citizen of the Year,” she said.

Mayor Milligan described the Mayoral Award recipient, Gayle Daetz, as a generous and passionate community member.

“Gayle is known by so many in our community. She genuinely believes the Lockyer Valley is the best place to live.

“It was the loss of Gayle’s son Jody to Leukemia in 1999 that began her volunteering journey with the Leukemia Foundation.

“Gayle went on to become president of the Leukemia Foundation’s Lockyer and Brisbane Valley Branch from 2005 to 2014, where she worked tirelessly to support patients and families through fundraisers and awareness programs.

“Gayle also founded the Team Jody Foundation, where she tirelessly organises two markets every year at Forest Hill, high teas and a bus trip for 20-30 participants every six weeks, highlighting different tourism activities in not only the Lockyer Valley, but also surrounding regions.

“You will find Gayle volunteering everywhere – from Das Neumann Haus to the Heritage Festival and Laidley Spring Festival.

“She really is the epitome of resilience, perseverance and strength and it is wonderful to publicly recognise her today,” Mayor Milligan said.

Mayor Milligan said all award winners were to be congratulated.

“This is our way of saying thanks for all they’ve done to make a positive impact on our community.

“Our region wouldn’t be what it is without their efforts and we applaud all the award winners and commend them for a job well done,” she said.

To see more photos from the event, visit Council’s Facebook page.

Animal Management Consultation

Council is proposing changes to the number of animals that can be kept on certain properties and is encouraging residents to have their say by 6 February 2026.

The changes are being proposed in response to the increasing number of complaints about animals, particularly complaints about dogs and dog attacks, and to offer greater flexibility for livestock on smaller lots.

At a glance, the changes would:

• Reduce the number of dogs allowed on lots less than 4,000m2

• Include provisions for keeping dogs and cats on caravan sites or at multi-residential dwellings

• Increase the number of livestock allowed (in some cases) on lots less than 4ha

• Allow a limited number of pigs on lots between 1ha and 4ha

• Allow bee hives on lots less than 4,000m2

• Changes are also proposed in relation to animal noise and the standards for keeping birds.

If adopted, the proposed changes will not apply retrospectively.

Council DOES NOT expect people to get rid of their existing animals if they are already complying with the current rules.

To view the full list of proposed changes and find out how to lodge a submission, scan the QR code below or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/local-laws

Submissions close 6 February 2026.

WANT TO HAVE YOUR SAY?

Scan the QR code for more information.

COUNCIL APPOINTS Interim CEO

Council has appointed an Interim CEO following the retirement of longstanding CEO Ian Church.

Councillors approved the appointment of Scott Greensill at the December Ordinary Meeting of Council, with Mr Greensill stepping into the role on 18 December 2025.

“It is my pleasure to announce that Scott has commenced as Interim CEO,” Mayor Tanya Milligan said.

“Scott comes to us with more than 40 years’ experience in local government in Queensland and News South Wales, predominantly in CEO, General Manager and senior management roles, and will ensure our transition is as smooth as possible.”

Mr Greensill, who had been employed with Council in a senior advisory position since 1 December 2025, said he was looking forward to providing guidance during this transition period.

“Ian provided nine years of stable and trusted leadership, and I am committed to following in his footsteps,” he said.

“I’ve already had a chance to get the lay of the land and look forward to ensuring Council’s good governance continues.”

Mayor Milligan said there would be no disruptions to Council’s operations as it enters this new chapter.

“We are thankful to Scott for accepting the role and for helping fill the void over the next few months while we recruit a permanent CEO,” she said.

“Ian will be sorely missed and we thank him for his significant contributions to the organisation and the Lockyer Valley, and we look forward to sending him off with a proper staff farewell this month.”

Mr Church, who officially retires at the end of January 2026, has been on leave for personal and private matters since late November 2025.

Council will announce its permanent CEO once recruitment processes are finalised.“

MOST SUCCESSFUL EVENT TO DATE

Laidley Spring Festival

The numbers for Council’s premier event, the Laidley Spring Festival, are now in and they’re looking better than ever.

Mayor Tanya Milligan said the community buy-in continues to strengthen each year, contributing to the Festival’s huge success.

“Our local businesses, schools and community groups continue to showcase their pride in the Grand Street Parade, with increased entries in 2025, while the event couldn’t succeed without the teamwork from the various community group committees that run individual elements of the Festival, such as the Laidley Garden Club’s organisation of the Spring Garden Fair and the Lockyer Valley Orchid Society’s Orchid Show.

“Other Festival events are championed by organisations like the Laidley Uniting and Redeemer Lutheran Churches, Gatton Lapidary Club, Under 5s and the

Laidley Community Centre, Marburg & District Art Society, Das Neumann Haus and Laidley Pioneer Village and Museum, with the Laidley & Districts Netball Association running the bar in the Festival Entertainment Precinct.

“The Spring Gardening Fair welcomed almost 5000 attendees through the pavilion, allowing the Laidley Garden Club to donate $6000 to the Laidley Ambulance Committee.

“The Spring Gem Show, brought together by the Gatton Lapidary Club, were thrilled with the outcome of their event and are looking forward to collaborating with the Laidley Garden Club for future site plans.

“The Spring Orchid Show experienced a five per cent increase in attendance and 15 per cent rise in sales from 2024, while the Under 5’s Day experienced a significant increase with more than 970 ticket registrations.

“The Uniting Church Op Shop experienced their biggest year ever for visitors, while Kelli’s Diner sold more than 300 milkshakes and Grace Eats’ High Tea was sold out!

“Community enthusiasm grows every year.

“It really goes a long way towards shaping the event as a whole – which has priorities of the community at its core,” Mayor Milligan said.

At its recent Ordinary Meeting of Council, Councillors gave the green light to the 2026 Budget, with Council staff to once again seek out a range of sponsorship opportunities to further bring the event to life.

“As Council gains even greater local and visitor attendance, sponsors understand the Festival offers the chance to meaningfully engage with both locals and visitors, be it by supporting the stage entertainment program, children’s activities, the parade

or the new Producers’ Patch, which was a resounding success in 2025.

“Council currently applies to Tourism Events Queensland (TEQ) each year and is awaiting final advice on the success of this funding round, having secured $15,000 in TEQ Qld Destination Events Program (QDEP) funding last year,” Mayor Milligan said.

WORKS STARTING SOON Park Upgrades at Laidley and Gatton

Littleton Park, Gatton and Lions Park, Laidley are gearing up for a makeover, all thanks to a funding injection from the State Government.

Council’s Parks and Gardens Portfolio Councillor

Anthony Wilson said works would get underway on the upgrades in the coming weeks.

“We’re looking to kick off in March with a full replacement of the current playgrounds.

“Thanks to the all Australian-made equipment, the playgrounds will encourage physical, cognitive, social, and emotional play opportunities for all ages and abilities, while both playgrounds will also feature new shade sails,” he said.

Cr Wilson said Council was constantly planning ahead and seeking additional funding to ensure they could create even more to see and do.

“Delivering improvements to Council’s suite of playgrounds is one of the ways we’re working towards

building an active and healthy region.

“We’re working hard to improve our lifestyle and want to see our youngest residents enjoying all the Lockyer Valley has to offer.

“Play is a vital part of childhood.

“Children need green spaces, and we’re pleased to announce these upgrades because we want our community to have access to high-quality, innovative playgrounds,” Cr Wilson said.

Council thanks the community for its patience and cooperation throughout the construction period.

Weather pending, works are expected to be completed mid-year.

These works are proudly funded by the Queensland Government.

DESIGN CHOSEN Equine Precinct

Council has endorsed a revised Masterplan Design Report for the proposed Lockyer Valley Racing Precinct to inform future consideration of potential development options at the Gatton site.

It comes after Racing Queensland and Council commissioned a revision of the 2021 Masterplan to deliver a refined scheme with renewed focus on racing, training, community, educational activities, racing-related hospitality and commercial opportunities.

Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Lockyer Valley Equine Collaborative Chris Wilson said the work is intended to support informed discussion with stakeholders on the potential staged development of the site for racing and other uses.

“While endorsement of the report is a positive step, it does not constitute a commitment to proceed,” he said. “Any progression of the precinct would be subject to alignment with the recently completed Queensland Racing Review 2025, external funding availability and agreement between all parties.

“The preferred masterplan allows room for future staged expansion and provides more space for community and patron facilities into the future, such as parking, a parkland/walking track and training and educational synergies like a vet room.

“Council is playing a key role as facilitator with land available for the precinct and would be looking for external funding to make this a reality.”

Read more here: www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/equine-masterplan-endorsed

FAIRWAYS DRIVE

Footpath Works

The new footpath works will connect to existing footpaths at Scotts Place and at the Hannant Road intersection.

Construction of approximately 470 metres of walkway along Fairways Drive, Kensington Grove will soon commence, improving connectivity, safety and accessibility in the area.

Starting in early February, the works are expected to be completed by midApril, weather permitting.

Throughout the construction period, minor impacts to traffic flow are anticipated, with traffic control in place occasionally.

These works have been made possible thanks to funding from the Australian Government’s Active Transport Fund.

Bitumen Reseal Program Update

To enhance safety and reliability, Council is undertaking asphalt resurfacing and bitumen reseal works across the region.

Stage 1 and Stage 2 prep works at Withcott, Murphys Creek, Helidon Spa, Helidon, Lake Clarendon, Morton Vale and Lockyer Waters have recently been completed.

Crews are currently working on Stage 3 in Upper Lockyer, Gatton and Laidley on the roads listed below:

• Dugandan Road, Upper Lockyer

• Macaranga Court, Laidley

• South Street, Laidley

• Byrne Street, Gatton

• Beavan Street, Gatton

• Murry Street, Gatton

• Cochrane Street, Gatton

• Logan Street, Gatton

• Dionysius Street, Gatton

• Dennis Minson Drive, Gatton

• Gassman Street, Gatton

• Tew Court, Gatton

• Falconer Court, Gatton

• McNeil Street, Gatton

• Wilsons Lane, Gatton

• Mckay Street, Gatton

• Crowley’s Lane, Gatton

• Edwards Road, Gatton

• Woodlands Road, Gatton

• Spencer Street, Gatton

Traffic management measures will be in place during this period.

Remaining roads in Helidon Spa and Helidon will be completed by the end of January 2026.

The 2025-26 Bitumen Reseal Program is expected to be completed in full by Friday, 27 March 2026, weather permitting.

To stay up to date with the progress of the program, visit Council’s Engagement Hub by scanning the QR code below or heading to https://lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au

The 2025-26 Bitumen Reseal Program has been jointly funded by Lockyer Valley Regional Council and the Australian Government through its Roads to Recovery (RTR) Program.

STAY UP TO DATE

Scan the QR code for more information.

Over 50s Village Approved

Council has given development approval for an over 50s lifestyle village in Gatton, boosting housing stock for the aging population.

Located on Golf Links Drive, Gatton, the over 50s land lease community will offer 267 dwellings and a range of communal amenities.

Planning and Development Portfolio Councillor

David Neuendorf said the high quality residential development would contribute positively to Gatton’s streetscape and increase housing diversity.

“This development will provide an alternative housing type to support our aging population which is greatly needed here in the Lockyer Valley and elsewhere,” he said.

“It features resort-type facilities, plenty of on-site parking for vehicles, caravans, bicycles and visitors, and everything you would want in your golden years close to urban amenities.”

Councillors unanimously approved the proposed development, submitted by Bocina Group Pty Ltd, subject to conditions at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 28 January.

Boasting substantial indoor and outdoor communal facilities, the proposed development includes a pool, gym, bar, cinema, games room, library, hobby shop, croquet lawn, pickleball courts, bowling green and more.

Dwellings will feature a maximum of two bedrooms and be a maximum of two storeys in height, and the site will be accessed through a new intersection on Golf Links Drive via a site entrance and security gates.

Cr Neuendorf said Councillors relied on engineering, hydraulic and stormwater reports when approving the development.

“Reports were submitted with the application that showed the development will not cause adverse stormwater or flooding impacts to the development or those in the surrounding areas, and these have been thoroughly examined by Council,” he said.

“Stormwater runoff will be captured via stormwater pipes underneath the internal roads to stormwater basins and treated and discharged to avoid increasing peak flows, and the two existing overland flow paths will be maintained.”

The proposed development is surrounded by rural properties to the north, east and south and residential properties to the west.

Six submissions were received during consultation, all in support of the proposed development.

Grantham Structure Plan

Council has endorsed a strategic document to guide the future development of Grantham.

The Grantham Structure Plan (Plan) provides a strategic framework and long-term vision for growth in the Grantham Structure Planning Area (GSPA) and will be used as an advocacy tool to seek funding for critical infrastructure.

Planning and Development Portfolio Councillor David Neuendorf said about 417 hectares of flood-free land in the GSPA, which sits south of the Warrego Highway, has been identified as potentially suitable for development.

“This Plan aims to deliver a complete, flood-resilient community with diverse housing and lot sizes, job creation through dedicated employment land, and new and upgraded infrastructure,” he said.

“We held community workshops commencing 12 months ago to seek input from the Grantham community, and their feedback and aspirations have shaped the Plan. We also engaged with key stakeholders, including the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Urban Utilities.”

A preliminary estimate based on the land area suggests the GSPA could accommodate 2,600 to more than 3,100 homes in the next 50-plus years, supporting a future population of 7,000 to 8,400 people. This is in addition to the existing township, which has a current population of 890.

Cr Neuendorf stressed that any future development would be subject to essential infrastructure being provided.

“Development of the GSPA relies on the timely delivery of critical infrastructure to kickstart and support future growth,” he said.

“The Plan recommends advocacy for flood-resilient transport links, water and sewerage upgrades, and planning for a future flood-free local town centre.”

The Plan was developed with funding from the Australian Government’s Housing Support Program Stream 1, which aims to increase future housing supply through improved long-term planning.

Councillors unanimously endorsed the Plan at the November 2025 Council meeting.

Cr Neuendorf said Grantham residents were invited to several consultation sessions that focused on both preferred levels of growth and possible layouts of Grantham in the future.

“Community priorities included flood-free access, infrastructure capacity, housing diversity and preservation of local character and the environment,” he said.

“The feedback we received has informed the final growth scenarios, identification of emergency access routes and infrastructure planning.

“It is important to note that this is a long-term plan subject to investment from all levels of government.”

Infrastructure capacity, detailed planning and evolving community needs will guide final housing densities, Cr Neuendorf said.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

New Flood Cameras

Council continues to improve community safety and disaster preparedness by recently installing two new flood cameras at high-risk locations.

Boosting the region’s network to 18, the new flood cameras are located at:

• Sandy Creek, Gatton-Helidon Road, Grantham

• Ma Ma Creek, Grantham-Winwill Road, Winwill

These cameras capture new images every 15 minutes, providing accurate, real-time information to help motorists make safe, informed decisions during severe weather.

To view Council’s network of flood cameras visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/flood-cameras.

The installation of the Grantham-Winwill Road, Winwill flood camera was proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program in association with Lockyer Valley Regional Council. The Gatton-Helidon Road, Grantham camera, was solely funded by Council.

SEVERE WEATHER Are You Prepared for Isolation?

Weather in the Lockyer Valley can shift in an instant, so whether you’re in town or on a remote property, being ready for isolation during severe weather is essential. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

Know your neighbours – They’re often the first ones who can lend a hand in an emergency. Have a chat with them about how you can help each other.

Be safe - Follow your emergency plan and listen to advice from emergency services. Don’t wait until the last minute to act.

Know your isolation risk – Could flooding, bushfire or storms block travel, damage roads, or disrupt power, communication, or essential services in your area? Put a plan in place so you’re prepared for any circumstance.

Prepare early - Think ahead about how you would manage extended periods of isolation, long power, internet, or communication outages, and interruptions to your water supply.

For more, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/ get-ready-guide.

PROJECT UPDATE

Forest Hill Silos

The Forest Hill Silos Mural Project has reached another milestone, with Council recently calling for expressions of interest (EOI) from experienced mural artists to paint the silos.

The EOI process closed in mid-December 2025, with Council receiving 14 applicants. A request for tender was subsequently issued to three shortlisted artists. These artists will present their concept designs in early March 2026, after which time the selection panel will evaluate the proposals and appoint a mural artist.

The successful artist will then paint the silos over a three-month period, expected to take place between April to September 2026.

The Forest Hill Silos Precinct and Mural Art Project will deliver the closest silo art to South East Queensland’s booming population, providing a significant injection to the economy of nearby towns and businesses.

For more information on the project, visit https://lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au

Image is for illustration purposes only. Mural design has not yet been determined.

OPENING SOON Major Community Grants

Round 2 of Council’s Major Community Grants program for 2025-26 opens on Sunday, 15 February 2026.

Grants of between $1000 and $4000 are available to local not-for-profit community or sporting groups to undertake projects, activities or events which benefit the wider Lockyer Valley community.

Whether you’re working on a game changing initiative, hosting a community event, or looking to upgrade your club’s equipment - this is the grant program for you!

Applications close Sunday, 15 March 2026.

For more information and to apply, scan the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/major-community-grants.

GROWTH MANAGEMENT

Have Your Say

Council will soon seek the community’s feedback on how growth could be managed across the region to inform the next stages of its Growth Management Strategy (GMS).

Council has undertaken region-wide research to understand how many people may live and work in the Lockyer Valley by 2046, and how that growth could be shared across towns and rural areas.

In the coming months, Council will visit a host of towns across the region to discuss how this projected growth could be managed, inviting your views on where homes and jobs would be best located, the mix of housing types you would prefer to see, what areas should remain unchanged, and much more.

Your views will inform planning for land, infrastructure, services and town character, and will be considered in the next stages of the GMS.

Stay tuned for the times and locations of consultation activities by following Council’s Facebook page, scanning the QR code or regularly checking Council’s Engagement Hub: https://lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au

REOPENING OF THE Gatton Admin Building

Council’s customer service operations will return to the Gatton Administration Building at 8.30am on Monday 2 February following the completion of essential roof repairs.

The temporary Customer Service Centre at 55 North Street, Gatton will cease operating at 4.30pm on Friday 30 January.

The Gatton Administration Building was one of several Council-owned buildings to undergo insurancefunded roof repairs in 2025 after suffering severe hail damage in December 2023.

The roof replacement at the Gatton Administration Building involved exclusion zones inside and outside the building, necessitating the establishment of the temporary Customer Service Centre and relocation of staff across different locations.

Council thanks the community for its patience and understanding and looks forward to welcoming customers back to the premises.

For more information, scan the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/news

COUNCIL APPLIES FOR Cycleway Funding

Council will apply for funding from the Queensland Government’s Active Transport Grants Program to construct a 2.5-metre wide shared path along Spencer Street, Gatton, from Railway Street to William Street.

This missing link would provide pedestrians and cyclists with about 250 metres of upgraded footpath and improved street lighting along the main spine of Gatton. If successful, Council would provide a 50 per cent co-contribution from its 2026-27 budget to make the project a reality.

The project is fully designed and ready for construction.

Council will also apply for funding for a Cycling Options Analysis Planning Study for a 6.5 kilometre active transport link from Gatton to the University of Queensland Gatton Campus and to investigate the expansion of the network to incorporate other towns in the area.

2025 Charity Wrap Up

In 2025, Councillors and Council staff rallied together to raise more than $3500 for a range of meaningful initiatives, making a real difference in the lives of locals and supporting charities that do incredible work for our community.

From snapping up hundreds of raffle tickets, donating every time they wore jeans on a Friday, to rolling up their sleeves for bake sales, staff have found ways to give back to the community they live and work in each day.

Charities that benefited included Lockyer Valley Cancer Support Group, Movember, Share the Dignity, and the Lockyer Valley Salvation Army, to name just a few!

For further details, scan the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/charity-wrapup-2025

Holiday fun at Withcott Sports Centre

Council swung open the doors to the Withcott Sports Centre earlier this month, hosting a series of free holiday drop-in and play events to showcase the upgraded facility.

A variety of sports, including basketball, futsal, pickleball, netball and badminton, were available to play during the day, while Council also hosted a Basketball Nights program for those solely interested in shooting hoops.

The events were a big success and kept kids active, introduced them to sports they may not have experienced before, and let them see the fullsized indoor basketball/multi-sport court for themselves.

To find out more about the facility, which is available for hire, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/withcott-sports-centre

Council helps outback town after severe weather

Council recently answered the call for assistance from a community impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, with a staff member from Council’s Disaster Management unit deployed to Julia Creek for 14 days to support McKinlay Shire Council in North West Queensland.

The Lockyer Valley has been the grateful recipient of similar assistance through the Council-to-Council (C2C) program and has deployed officers to other impacted regions several times.

Working together with our fellow councils doing it tough and lending a hand is what mateship and being a Queenslander is all about.

Read more by scanning the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/staff-deployment-outback-qld

Council Meetings for 2026

Ordinary Council Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month commencing at 9am in the Council Chambers, Gatton, unless otherwise determined. 2026 Council Meetings will be held on the following dates:

• 18 February

• 18 March

• 15 April

• 20 May

• 17 June

• 15 July

• 19 August

• 16 September

• 28 October*

• 18 November

• 16 December

*Exception to Ordinary Meeting schedule

To view agendas and minutes of past meetings, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/agendas-minutes

Interagency Meetings for 2026

The Lockyer Valley Service Provider’s Interagency (LYSPI) and Lockyer Youth Agency Network (LYAN) meetings are back for 2026!

The groups meet to develop localised strategies to overcome service gaps, identify opportunities for collaboration, and to support information sharing between organisations, service providers, community groups and community members.

The next meeting of the (LYSPI) and (LYAN) will take place on 3 and 12 February respectively.

To see the 2026 meeting dates and to join, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/interagency-meetings

What’s on!

WELCOME YOUR BUB SAVE THE DATE

Welcome Baby Celebration

SATURDAY 14 MARCH, 10AM - 11AM

GATTON LIBRARY

The annual Welcome Baby Celebration is an opportunity to introduce and welcome your baby as a valued member of the Lockyer Valley community.

If you welcomed a baby in 2025, join us for a wonderful morning of celebration and community connection.

Each family receives a certificate from the Mayor, and a First 5 Forever library pack. The celebration will conclude with morning tea.

Bookings are required and RSVPs close Monday 9 March.

To make a booking, visit https://forms.office.com/r/jzj8Lidf1v

International Women’s Day Breakfast

THURSDAY 5 MARCH, 7AM

GATTON SHIRE HALL

Join us as we celebrate the achievements of women and focus on reducing barriers to fairness and inclusivity at our annual International Women’s Day Breakfast!

Attendees will receive a light buffet breakfast and hear from Kerri McMahon, who spent four years circumnavigating Australia.

Both men and women are encouraged to attend.

Tickets are $25 and available to purchase until Friday, 27 February at https://lockyervalleytickets.com.au. Strictly no tickets sold at the door.

LOCKYER VALLEY ART GALLERY

Art Gallery Exhibition

OH MG - CHLOE WIGG

30 JANUARY TO 22 MARCH 2026

Oh MG is a celebration of community and storytelling while raising awareness of the rare disease Myasthenia Gravis, which the artist was diagnosed with in 2021.

When you visit Oh MG, you will see a vibrant and beautiful wall drape comprised of more than 2600 crocheted snowflakes.

Each individual snowflake sculpture has been created from up-cycled medication bottles donated by MG sufferers nationwide. The wall drape is also accompanied by a series of vibrant abstract portraits, telling the stories of those with MG.

Don’t miss the chance to see this great exhibition at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery, inside the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre.

Celebrate World Wetlands Day

MONDAY 2 FEBRUARY, 6.30AM - 10AM, LOCKYER WATERS COMMUNITY CENTRE

Celebrate World Wetlands Day by joining us for a peaceful morning bird walk and tree planting.

Bird Walk – 6.30am to 8am. Join a BirdLife expert surveyor on an early morning bird walk and discover the incredible species that call Seven Mile Lagoon home.

Community Planting Event and FREE Morning Tea – 8am to 10am. Plant native vegetation near Seven Mile Lagoon that will help improve local wildlife habitat.

No registration needed. Just bring a hat, water and wear enclosed footwear (gumboots recommended for the bird walk), and outdoor-friendly clothing. All planting tools and materials supplied.

Council Pop-Ups

SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY, 8.30AM - 11.30AM, WALTER BRUNNER PARK, PRESTON

SUNDAY 8 MARCH, 8.30AM - 11.30AM, HATTON VALE IGA

Council Pop-Ups are back for 2026! Drop by Council’s upcoming pop-ups at Preston and Hatton Vale to chat with Councillors and staff about a range of topics, including:

• Disaster Management

• Pest Management

• Tourism

• Waste Management

• Infrastructure

It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback on issues that matter most to you and your community.

Disaster Dashboard

Council’s Disaster Dashboard is your one-stop-shop for reputable information during an emergency. See weather warnings, road closures, flood cameras, power outages, creek gauges and more.

Save it to your favourites: disaster.lvrc.qld.gov.au

Current Vacancies

Stay up-to-date with job opportunities at Council by visiting our Current Vacancies page www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/current-vacancies and following us on LinkedIn.

Engagement Hub

Council’s online consultation platform, Engagement Hub, offers a range of opportunities for the local community to have their say. Be sure to register to find out about new projects open for community review. lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au. Also keep an eye on Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ page www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/have-your-say for a full list of consultation projects.

Rates Notices Issued Soon

Council will issue rates notices for the period 1 January to 30 June 2026 in February, with payment due in March. Residents who have recently changed address or applied for a pensioner discount are asked to contact Council to confirm details. If you’ve subscribed to receive your rates by email and can’t locate it, please check your spam folder. To avoid a $2 fee per notice (approved pensioners exempt) sign up to e-notices today! www.surveymonkey.com/r/save-2