FIREWEED FIGHT BE ON THE LOOKOUT __ HELIDON SUBDIVISION APPROVED __ 26-27 FEES & CHARGES ADOPTED
Hope CALLS GROW FOR REGIONAL HOSPITAL
Acknowledgement of Country
Lockyer Valley Regional Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the region, the Ugarapul and Yuggera people and pays its 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.
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CALLS GROW FOR NEW Regional Hospital
Calls for a new regional hospital in the Lockyer Valley have intensified following media scrutiny about ‘bed block’ and locals being shut out of the Gatton and Laidley hospitals.
Mayor Tanya Milligan said Council has been lobbying the State Government to plan for a larger regional hospital for more than a decade.
“Council is acutely aware that there is a desperate need for a purpose-built regional hospital - and it is extremely frustrating and disappointing that we’re unable to get any traction,” she said.
“Our local health system is already buckling under the pressure of meeting current demand, and our fastgrowing population needs action now on planning for critical health infrastructure to support it into the future.
“The staff at our local hospitals are doing a great job, but they‘re doing so with inadequate resources for a population of our size.”
Mayor Milligan said anything less than a new regional hospital would be a band-aid fix.
“While we welcome the recent investments in the region’s existing hospitals, including a new CT scanner, ultrasound service and upgraded X-ray service, these uplifts are equivalent to putting a band-aid on a gaping wound – it is simply not good enough.
“Our region has a combined total of 41 hospital beds and with our population set to grow to 57,000 by 2041, this is glaringly unsustainable.”
The Lockyer Valley is currently serviced by two small hospitals – one in Gatton and one in Laidley. Both hospitals are classified as level 2 clinical services and provide limited specialist services. A lack of maternity services means women must travel outside the region to give birth.
According to an ABC report, State Government data suggests a third of the Lockyer Valley’s 41
“Our region has a combined total of 41 hospital beds and with our population set to grow to 57,000 by 2041, this is glaringly unsustainable.”
hospital beds are being used by long-term patients waiting for an aged care or disability support service, causing ‘bed block’.
Mayor Milligan said she regularly hears stories of local patients being turned away from Gatton or Laidley hospitals due to a lack of services or available beds.
“People in the city would be up in arms if they had to travel 30, 40 or 50-plus kilometres to access basic health care, but this is our reality,” she said.
“Too many of our residents are being forced to travel outside the region to access many public health services, and this is only set to get worse if nothing significant changes.”
Mayor Milligan said the regional hospital could also be designed to cater to the 1,500-bed Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre, which opened in September 2025.
“Rather than transporting inmates on a three-hour round trip to Brisbane to receive hospital treatmentwhich is not only time consuming but costly - a section of the new regional hospital could be purpose-built to accommodate the security needs of inmates,” she said.
She said while Council did not have a preference for where the regional hospital should be located, Plainland, with its easy access to the highway, was an obvious choice.
“Our region, and Plainland in particular, is undergoing considerable growth,” Mayor Milligan said.
“We’re urging the State Government to take action now to secure land in a strategic location while it’s still available and start planning for a regional hospital in earnest.
“The writing is on the wall. We can’t still just be talking about this in another 10 years.”
HOW ARE RATES DETERMINDED? Budget Explainer
With Budget time fast approaching, Deputy Mayor and Finance Portfolio Councillor Chris Wilson explains how Council determines rates.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council’s 2026-27 Budget will be realistic and in line with our community’s actual needs, while at the same time allowing sufficient resources to support our growing community, Council’s Deputy Mayor and Finance Portfolio Councillor Chris Wilson says.
“There is often a lot of confusion surrounding Budget time and how Council determines what rate rise is necessary.
“Budgets determine funding for everyday services such as roads, local parks and reserves, playgrounds, libraries, local infrastructure, and waste collection, as well as looking ahead to new projects and longterm improvements.
“In a snapshot, the Budget process shapes how councils invest in their communities.
“Councils plan their budgets carefully to balance community needs with financial sustainability and are guided by long-term financial plans and asset management plans.
“We look at costs, population changes and local needs and decide which services and projects will be delivered in the coming year.
“Once this is finalised, it then determines how much revenue is required.
“We also consider other income sources such as
grants, before determining how much needs to be raised through rates.
“Council works out how much funding is needed for the year, then sets different rates for different property types (for example, residential, rural or commercial). These rates are applied to property values to work out each owner’s share, so the total collected matches Council’s budget.
“Councils may consider increasing rates if there is a need for new infrastructure, to expand services or respond to rising costs, like fuel prices being driven by the Iranian conflict or increased cost of road infrastructure materials.
“At the end of the day, we’re just like a household –navigating pressures on costs and income and regularly looking at spending and our overall budget, while also planning to keep rates affordable,” Cr Wilson said.
Cr Wilson said the 2026-27 Budget, set to be handed down in July, would focus on what’s important.
“Every community has different needs, and we will continue to look at what our priorities are in line with rising costs, changes to our population and long-term planning goals,” he said.
To watch the Operational Plan and Budget Explainer video, scan the QR code or click the link below.
WILLIAM KEMP RV PARK Exclusion Zone
Council has temporarily closed a section of the William Kemp RV Park in Gatton due to safety concerns.
Facilities Portfolio Councillor, Anthony Wilson said the closure was necessary for the protection and health and safety of the community.
“Following concerns raised by Gatton Kindy with the inappropriate behaviour and proximity of some campers in William Kemp RV Park, Council has created an exclusion buffer zone in the park area closest to the Kindy,” he said.
“The area affected is the southern end of the RV park – being the area adjacent to the current solid fence and laneway.
“Overall, we’ve deemed this closure necessary to mitigate potential risks to children, staff and the wider community, and to support a safe and appropriate operational environment adjacent to the kindergarten site.
“Council has recently installed a temporary construction fence to mark the exclusion zone.
“The exclusion zone is expected to be in place for up to six months.
“Council continues to liaise with Gatton Kindy and the local Police to ensure the safety of Gatton Kindy children, their families and staff, without displacing homeless people from the general area.”
Cr Wilson said Council was understanding of the housing crisis and homelessness issues being experienced by parts of the community.
“As a Council, we are in regular conversations with the Department of Housing and various support services,” he said.
“In this instance, no campers were moved on except to a different part of the park, outside the exclusion zone.”
Council welcomes any support from the Queensland Government and funded support services to assist the region’s homeless to move into more secure accommodation.
NOW COMPLETE Bitumen Reseal Program
Council has invested in the region’s road network by resealing a host of local roads.
Infrastructure Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan said the 2025-26 Bitumen Reseal and Asphalt Program covered dozens of streets across the region, with work now officially complete.
“Council crews and contractors began work on the program in November last year and have completed works on a total of 78 roads equating to almost 63 kilometres,” he said..
“These roads had reached the stage of intervention and have undergone works to improve rideability and safety for motorists and cyclists and to extend the road’s useful life.
“However, for some of Council’s roads, they were simply too far gone, and our crews have invested in not just doing the reseal but completing a total pavement rehab and bitumen reseal preparation works.
“These roads included Paradise Road, Mount Sylvia, a section of Zabel Road, Lockrose, Hawleys Road, Lake Clarendon, Jew Road, Crowley Vale and Tenthill Creek Road, Gatton – just to name a few.
“Overall, this project was a highlight of our 2025-26 Budget, with a substantial capital investment.
“We all know how important our roads are – and that is why we continue to make this ongoing investment in not only this project, but our entire road network.
“Works included resealing, removing and replacing unsuitable material, surface correction, pothole repairs and kerb and channel replacement.
“The old saying really does ring true – the better you look after something, the longer it will last. Road resealing means they achieve their maximum lifespan, saving money in the long run.”
Some of the completed roads include:
Forest Hill - Gill Street; William Street, Dodt Road, Brimblecombe Street.
Laidley - Coates Street, Drayton Street, John Street North, Moonlight Parade, Alexander Street, Douglas McInnes Drive, Old Mulgowie Road, Lester Lane West, Miles Road, Whitehouse Road, Range Crescent, Orton Street, Crown Street, Breuer Street, South Street, Macaranga Court, Paroz Road.
“These were some of our region’s busiest streets, so to have their lifespans extended is the news we want to give our community,” Cr Hagan said.
A bitumen reseal involves spraying a thin layer of bitumen over an existing road surface, followed by a layer of stone aggregate that is rolled in to create a durable, skid-resistant finish.
This process protects the underlying pavement from weather damage and everyday wear and tear.
The program is jointly funded by Council and the Australian Government through the Roads to Recovery Program.
GET READY TO Get Ready, Lockyer!
Council’s 2026 Get Ready Lockyer Day will be held on Sunday 2 August and will put a spotlight on helping the community gather the knowledge and tools they need to be prepared for all types of disasters.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Cr Tanya Milligan said the 2026 Get Ready Lockyer Day would focus on giving residents tips for how to prepare, and information on what to do before, during, and after a storm, flood or bushfire.
“Being prepared, aware and connected, makes our community stronger and able to recover more quickly after an event, and that is what this day will be all about.
“We know disasters can strike fast and have lasting effects, and that is why planning and preparedness are crucial to ensuring the safety of both the community and emergency response crews.
“Kids will love the exciting demonstrations, where they’ll get to see our emergency services in action.
“And adults can learn what they need to do to prepare for disaster while keeping their family and home safe.
“Staff from our Council will be there to chat and share their knowledge, along with representatives from our emergency services and other preparedness, response and recovery organisations.
“This is an action-packed event but it’s also incredibly important and not to be missed,” Mayor Milligan said.
There will be something for everyone on the day, including:
• Giveaways for your emergency kit;
• Walk over our giant map of the region;
• Meet your local emergency services personnel and volunteers;
• Talk with the Rural Fire Service about the bushfire risk in your area and to your property;
• Find out how to fill and lay sandbags correctly; and
• Activities for the kids with games, storytelling and their own bag to colour and take home.
“Come along on the day to follow the ‘Preparedness Trail’ to build your disaster resilience; explore local risks by walking over our Big Map; help the kids learn about preparing animals for emergencies at the petting zoo; see a display of historical Lockyer Valley disaster events; watch sandbagging demonstrations; pick up handy items for your emergency kit; and take part in the giant inflatable obstacle course challenge.
“In addition to Council, participating agencies will include: Queensland Police Service; Queensland Fire and Rescue; Rural Fire Service; State Emergency Service; Australian Warning System; Queensland Ambulance Service; West Moreton Health; Laidley Community Centre; Lockyer Community Centre, and more.
“This event is only held every two years, and is a key, community-focused opportunity to support residents to better understand local hazards and take practical steps to prepare for emergencies.
“Feedback from previous events consistently highlights the value of face-to-face, meaningful conversations between agencies and community members, and the importance of hearing preparedness advice directly from trusted services,” Mayor Milligan said.
WHAT: Get Ready Lockyer Day
WHERE: Ferrari Park, Laidley
WHEN: 10am – 2pm FOR EVENT
DETAILS
Scan the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/ get-ready-day-2026
COUNCIL APPROVES Helidon Subdivision
Council has unanimously approved a development application for a new residential subdivision in Helidon, increasing housing stock for the region.
Lodged by Fernvale Land Co Pty Ltd, the development seeks to reconfigure four hectares of vacant land at 40 Plant Street, Helidon into 62 lots plus a drainage reserve.
Planning and Development Portfolio Councillor David Neuendorf acknowledged the 124 properly made submissions lodged by the community, which raised concerns about small lot sizes, density, and impacts on rural character, among other matters.
Of the 62 lots, 39 are small residential lots between 400m2 and 600m2, and 23 are standard lots between 601m2 and 961m2.
“We understand this development has caused some angst in the community, and we must stress that our officers have undertaken an extensive assessment and worked with the applicant to ensure the density and lot size of the final subdivision layout comply with the Lockyer Valley Planning Scheme,” he said.
“Councillors and officers reviewed and considered all the submissions but are unable to apply restrictions to the development application based on non-planning related matters.
“Living on a 400m2 block may not appeal to everyone, but it does to people who are retiring or downsizing, and to young couples or young families who are trying
to enter the property market.
“We must cater to people at all stages of life, and not everyone wants or can afford a 1,000m2 block.
“This subdivision is in walking distance to Helidon State School, McGovern Park and the Helidon town centre, and has easy access to the Warrego Highway.
“More housing is something our region needs, and this subdivision is well located and already has water and sewerage infrastructure readily available.”
Cr Neuendorf hoped the development would be the start of a “reinvigoration” of Helidon.
“Living in the area all my life, I have seen so many businesses close on the main street of Helidon. We used to have a bakery, doctor’s surgery, butcher’s shop and now they are defunct.
“I believe this is only going to be good for the town.”
The applicant must install a vegetated buffer to separate agricultural land, upgrade existing surrounding roads, and build new internal roads to Council standards which will include new footpaths.
The land was zoned ‘Urban Residential’ under the former Gatton Shire Planning Scheme and is now zoned ‘Low Density Residential Zone (Suburban Precinct)’ under the Lockyer Valley Planning Scheme, which came into effect in 2024.
BEFORE YOU FILL UP VISIT
Council’s Disaster Dashboard
Residents looking to stay on top of fuel prices and availability across the Lockyer Valley can now check fuel supply and pricing through Council’s Disaster Dashboard.
Council has now added a fuel supplies tab to its Disaster Dashboard to provide motorists with certainty in these uncertain times.
When visiting the Disaster Dashboard, click on the ‘Fuel Supplies’ tab in the top right-hand corner and it will take you to a display of fuel stations across our region.
A green fuel icon indicates full fuel availability; orange means partial fuel availability and red indicates no fuel availability.
You can also drill down on a specific fuel station to see the fuel status and cost per litre of different fuel types. And if you scroll out, you can see fuel availability for the whole state – great for planning trips.
This practical tool supports our regional communities as we all navigate supply concerns and helps visitors to our region plan their journey.
Fuel supply and pricing can certainly change quickly, but it is important our communities don’t panic and continue to exercise a sensible and practical approach when it comes to fuel consumption.
Actions like planning ahead of travel by using this new functionality on the Disaster Dashboard and reducing nonessential travel can play a big part.
Under the Queensland Government Fuel Price Reporting Scheme, fuel retailers must report price changes within 30 minutes. The information shown is automatically sourced from the Queensland Government Fuel Prices API.
COUNCIL PROMOTES NEW Weather App
Council is encouraging residents to download the Bureau of Meteorology’s free BOM weather app as Council prepares to move away from its paid weather alerts provider.
Mayor Tanya Milligan said Council would cease its contract with the Early Warning Network (EWN) on 31 July 2026.
“Since 2011, the EWN has delivered severe weather alerts to more than 4000 local subscribers, with Council covering the costs for all subscriptions,” she said.
“However, the BOM Weather app now provides broader coverage and enhanced early warning notification options for residents and is at no cost to Council or the community.
“As we transition away from using the EWN, we are encouraging EWN subscribers and those who haven’t opted in to a weather alert system before, to download the free BOM Weather app.”
Mayor Milligan said the app allows users to receive warning notifications for up to three locations across Australia.
Dashboard
“It also has an offline mode for times when you don’t have any internet, enabling users to access crucial weather information during outages or in mobile black spots,” she said.
Council has notified its EWN subscribers directly of the need to transition to the BOM Weather app before the 31 July deadline.
Residents unable to access the BOM Weather app due to limited digital literacy, lack of smartphone access, or previous reliance on landline and email notifications, will still have access to critical information via the radio and official websites, including Council’s Disaster Dashboard,
Download the app via www.bom.gov.au/bom-weather-app, https:// disaster.lvrc.qld.gov.au or via the App Store or Google Play store.
For more information, head to disaster.lvrc.qld.gov.au and select ‘Fuel Supplies’ in the top right-hand corner.
Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Security Scheme
The Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Security Scheme has been singled out for its innovation to deliver long-term sustainable food security for South East Queensland (SEQ).
The South East Queensland Food System Strategy was developed in partnership with the CSIRO and the Council of Mayors SEQ to shine a light on new ideas and technologies to address food security, as the state deals with rapid population growth and ‘mega events’ such as the 2032 Olympics.
The report identifies water availability and climate risks as the major pressures facing the Lockyer Valley and Somerset region.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor Tanya Milligan and Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt welcomed the report’s acknowledgement of the Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Security Scheme (LVSWSS) and the important role it will play in mitigating the increasing threat of drought and extreme heat.
“This region is one of Australia’s most important food bowls,” Mayor Milligan said. “This project will create Australia’s largest recycled water irrigation scheme to increase local agricultural output by $270 million to nearly $1.7 billion annually.”
Mayor Wendt said the project would secure 4,500 ongoing permanent and seasonal jobs, including 600 new permanent jobs.
“Our project is a game changer,” he said. “Less than two hours from Queensland’s fastest growing population base, we have the opportunity to lock in the future prosperity of our region for decades to come, while significantly enhancing food security for SEQ and Queensland more broadly.”
Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Collaborative Chair Paul Lucas said the CSIRO report was a timely call for coordinated action to strengthen the region and its growers for the benefit of all Queenslanders.
“This project will not only support growers, but the whole community will benefit,” he said. “We know that when our farming community is doing well our region does well, because a large slice of the dollars earned by growers is spent in the local community.”
The project is seeking to utilise the Western Corridor Recycled Water Scheme, built in response to the Millennium Drought to provide Purified Recycled Water to supplement SEQ’s drinking water in drought. To-date, the scheme has never been required for drinking water.
The LVSWSS forms part of the Water Initiatives in the Lockyer Valley commitment being delivered under the South East Queensland (SEQ) City Deal. The SEQ City Deal is a partnership by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Council of Mayors SEQ.
Scan the QR code to learn more about the project or visit lvandswatercollaborative.com
RECRUITMENT COMMENCES For New CEO
Council has begun the process of recruiting for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) after the sudden resignation of Scott Greensill.
Mayor Tanya Milligan said Mr Greensill informed her of his decision late last month.
“Unfortunately, Scott has decided not to continue his employment with Council,” Mayor Milligan said.
“Our Group Manager, People, Customer and Corporate Services, Dan McPherson, will step up as Acting CEO until we find a replacement.
“I have complete faith in Dan who has held this position previously.”
Mr Greensill was appointed CEO earlier this year following the retirement of long-standing CEO Ian Church, who led Council for more than nine years.
“While I won’t go into any further details behind Scott’s resignation I will take this opportunity to assure the community that Council will continue to move forward organisationally and our focus on delivering our core business will not waiver,” Mayor Milligan said.
“Council is in a great, financially stable position with a united elected arm, and we are situated in a growth area that offers ample opportunities, making it an attractive role, as demonstrated by the 71 applications we received for the position earlier this year.
“Council will inform the community once the recruitment process has concluded.”
SENATOR VISITS THE Lockyer Valley
Flood resilience and future infrastructure were firmly on the agenda when Council welcomed Senator Corinne Mulholland to the region.
Mayor Cr Tanya Milligan, Deputy Mayor Cr Chris Wilson and Senator Mulholland toured key sites across the Lockyer Valley, showcasing both completed works and the projects still needed to better protect local communities from flooding.
The visit included inspections of the Grantham Scrub Road upgrade, supported by $212,500 in Federal funding, along with Tenthill Creek Road ($189,500), Woodlands Road ($545,000), and a detailed briefing on the critical Laidley Flood Mitigation Project.
Mayor Milligan said the tour was an important opportunity to make the region’s priorities clear.
“This was about showing, on the ground, what these projects mean for our communities — safer roads, better flood protection and stronger connections right across the Valley,” she said.
“We know what needs to be done, and we are committed to making sure all levels of government understand the urgency for our region.”
Mayor Milligan said Council continued to push for additional funding to deliver the Laidley Flood Mitigation Project, a key piece of infrastructure for the Valley’s future.
“We’re grateful for the State funding that’s helping us plan this project, but the reality is more investment will be needed to get it across the line,” she said.
“With a growing population and a history of flood risk, this is about protecting homes, businesses and livelihoods for the long term.”
Mayor Milligan said the visit reinforced the importance of strong partnerships between local, State and Federal governments.
“These projects simply wouldn’t happen without that support, and we appreciate the funding already provided,” she said.
“At the same time, we’ll keep advocating — because our community deserves the infrastructure that matches our growth and our needs.”
COUNCIL ADOPTS 2026-2027 Fees & Charges
Council has adopted its 2026–2027 Fees and Charges Register, to take effect from 1 July 2026.
The changes were adopted by Councillors at the May Ordinary Meeting of Council and will remain in place until 30 June 2027.
Council’s Finance Portfolio Councillor and Deputy Mayor, Chris Wilson said adopting the fees and charges formed part of Council’s blueprint for the year ahead.
“Adopting the Fees and Charges Register forms an important part of our annual Budget process,” Cr Wilson said.
“Our Budget covers the huge range of services provided by local government, such as waste management, animal control, servicing parks and gardens to cemeteries and the many sporting fields.
“Fees and charges play an important part in making sure Council’s business units can generate sufficient income throughout the year to cover their respective operating costs, plus a return on capital.
“The majority of fees have increased within Council’s indexed percentage of 3.5 per cent, which is in line with Council’s long-term financial plan and the Queensland Council Cost Index.
“Like many households and businesses, Council is not immune to cost increases caused by inflation and the Middle East conflict.”
There are a total of 671 fees and charges in the 2026-2027 register.
“Fees and charges don’t impact all ratepayers – they are a user pays system, so only those who need the service are charged,” Cr Wilson said.
“The revenue expected from fees and charges is an important source of revenue and helps to offset Council’s reliance on general rates.”
TO VIEW THE FEES AND CHARGES
Scan the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-services/ fees-and-charges
Time to Treat Fireweed
Winter is here and with the cooling temperatures, residents may soon see fireweed and its distinctive yellow flowers popping up.
To prevent large infestations of the invasive weed, Council is urging landholders to treat fireweed on their properties as soon as it first appears.
“Unfortunately, fireweed has become increasingly abundant in South East Queensland, including the Lockyer Valley,” Pest Management Portfolio Councillor Cheryl Steinhardt said.
“As an invasive weed it grows quickly and produces a lot of seed, competing strongly with pasture, and has the potential to poison livestock if eaten.
“Early season spraying of fireweed helps get ahead of the seedbank, preventing large bushes from establishing and requiring longer term fireweed control.”
Fireweed features distinctive yellow daisy-like flowers and is a category 3 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
The Act requires everyone to take all reasonable and practical measures to prevent or minimise the biosecurity risks of invasive plants under their control.
This means all landowners, including Council, have a General Biosecurity Obligation under the Act to manage fireweed.
“Council’s Pest Management team can help landowners identify and manage fireweed on their properties by offering advice and free use of spray equipment,” Cr Steinhardt said.
“We also have a Herbicide Subsidy Program that provides access to herbicide at a 50 per cent subsidised rate that I encourage landholders to take advantage of.
“Smaller infestations of fireweed can be hand pulled using gloves, double bagged and disposed of free of charge at the Gatton Landfill on Fords Road only.
“All fireweed must be double bagged and sealed prior to transport to prevent further seed spread, and not placed in wheelie bins,” she added.
Council manages fireweed on roadsides, parks and reserves by undertaking scheduled herbicide spraying programs and hand removal techniques.
“Our spray crew is on the lookout, surveying known fireweed locations and will spray or hand remove fireweed on Council land as soon as it is first detected,” Cr Steinhardt said.
For more information on managing fireweed or accessing the Herbicide Subsidy Program, contact Council’s Pest Management team on 1300 005 872 or visit www. lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/ pest-management
TIPS AND TRICKS Kerbside Bin Collection
We all want our rubbish collected without any hiccups, right? Here are a few simple tips to make sure your bin gets emptied every time:
Timing
• Your bin needs to be out before 6am on collection day.
• If you prefer to be prepared early, bins can be placed out from 6am the day before your scheduled service.
• Once it’s emptied, your bin must be back inside your property boundary within 24 hours.
Placement
• Ensure your bin is within 1 metre of the kerb or road verge and keep approximately 1 metre of space between each bin. This gives the truck enough room to grab them safely.
• They also need to face the street, with the lid opening towards the road, and wheels and handle facing your property.
• Keep your bins clear of obstacles, like parked cars, trees, fences, or letterboxes. If the truck can’t reach it or pick it up safely, it can’t empty it.
Filling your Bin Correctly
• Your bin shouldn’t be over full, and the lid must close completely
• It also needs to weigh under 80 kilograms and be packed so everything inside can fall out freely when tipped into the truck.
• For your yellow recycling bin, make sure recyclable items are placed loosely in the bin.
• Recyclable items should not be placed in plastic or paper bags or in cardboard boxes. This ensures the recyclable items can be sorted correctly into their waste types and recycled.
Replacing your Damaged Bin
• Wheelie bins are provided by Council. If your bin has been damaged, it can be repaired or replaced at no charge.
• To have your bin replaced or repaired, visit www.lockyervalley. qld.gov.au/wheelie-bin-requests
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Scan the QR code to watch an explainer video.
Briefs
National Volunteer Week
We tipped our hats to 14 of Council’s tourism and events volunteers at a special morning tea at Lake Dyer on 21 May to celebrate National Volunteer Week. This year’s theme of “Your Year to Volunteer” was all about encouraging Australians to make giving back a priority.
Volunteers play a critical role in our community and help make the cogs turn behind the scenes. Collectively, they contribute almost 1,500 hours of service each year – be it supporting community events, welcoming visitors and making the Lockyer Valley a better place, and we’re incredibly proud and grateful for their ongoing dedication.
One of Council’s newest recruits is 84-year-old Lyn Fuller.
“I get so much out of it – from interacting with and meeting new people to finding out about new places – I’m enjoying it immensely,” she said.
To volunteer, contact tourism@lvrc.qld.gov.au or call to chat with one of Council’s Tourism Officers on (07) 5466 3426
Attention Community Groups and Sporting Clubs!
Council remains committed to engaging directly with local community organisations and sporting clubs across the region – and that is why Council wants your correct contact details on file!
By updating your details with our Engagement Team, you’ll:
• Be subscribed to our Community Connect capacity-building newsletter (or On the Ball newsletter for sporting clubs)
• Be the first to hear about free capacity-building opportunities (like grant-writing workshops)
• Receive early notification when community grant rounds open.
Email engagement@lvrc.qld.gov.au today or call us on 1300 005 872
Council Awards $35k to Community Groups
Council has awarded almost $35,000 to 11 local projects and initiatives spanning the local environment, sport and more.
Council’s Major Community Grants program provides funding for a wide range of projects and programs being delivered by not-for-profit community organisations.
Council is committed to empowering local organisations that are working to deliver local benefits and encourage participation in our communities.
To find out more about Council’s grant programs, scan the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/grants
To see the full list of recipients, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/ $35k-communitygroups
New Aussies Welcomed
Last month, Council welcomed 33 new Australian citizens at a special ceremony at the Gatton Shire Hall.
Mayor Tanya Milligan was delighted to see so many people choosing to become Australian citizens in the Lockyer Valley.
“Citizenship ceremonies are a wonderful opportunity to welcome our newest Australians and celebrate the shared values that unite our nation,” she said.
“This is such a beautiful country and becoming an Australian citizen is a special moment, and we warmly welcome people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures to our region.
“The ceremony was a memorable moment for those involved, as new citizens pledged their loyalty to Australia and begin an exciting new chapter in their lives.”
Teal Ranking for QTM
The Lockyer Valley’s Queensland Tourism Museum (QTM) has received top industry recognition.
The QTM was recently awarded teal status under Tourism Events Queensland’s Best of Queensland Experience program, which plays a crucial role in promoting high-quality tourism experiences across the state.
The annual program assesses tourism operators across the state using a range of measures, including visitor reviews, customer satisfaction, online booking systems, accreditation standards and digital engagement.
For museum bookings, scan the QR code or visit www.luvyalockyer.com.au
Interested in volunteering at the QTM? Pop by the Visitor Information Centre, Gatton and speak with one of the friendly team or telephone (07) 5466 3425 to find out more.
WHAT’S ON!
Rural Land Management Planning Workshop
TUESDAY JUNE, 9AM TO 3PM, MA MA CREEK COMMUNITY CENTRE
Hosted by Healthy Land & Water, the upcoming free Rural Land Management Planning Workshop uncovers everything you need to know about developing individual property management plans.
From recognising soil types on your property to enable you to identify their limitations on productivity to identifying and mapping grazing land types, this workshop will equip you with best practice knowledge and skills to manage your property.
Morning tea and lunch are provided.
Contact Pat O’Connor from Healthy Land & Water’s Sustainable Agriculture team on patrick.o@hlw.org.au for more information.
Festival of Cultures
SUNDAY 9 AUGUST, 11AM TO 4PM, GATTON SHIRE HALL
The Lockyer Valley Festival of Cultures is back for 2026!
Join us at the Gatton Shire Hall on Sunday, 9 August, from 11am to 4pm as we showcase the vibrant multicultural diversity that makes our region so special.
Council is calling on local stallholders, food vendors, performers and community groups to make this year’s celebration our biggest yet, champion our multicultural identity and create a safe space for all the cultural backgrounds that call our region home.
To register your interest, scan the QR code or visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/2YM3YY2
Applications close on Sunday, 19 July
COME AND SAY ‘HI’
Council Pop-Ups
SATURDAY 4 JULY, LAIDLEY SHOW
FRIDAY 17 AND SATURDAY 18 JULY, GATTON SHOW SATURDAY 25 JULY, MA MA CREEK EXHIBITION
Come and say ‘hi’ to us at our next pop-up locations. Council’s Pop-Up stalls are a great opportunity to not only meet Councillors and Council staff, but to also:
• Ask questions
• Provide feedback on consultation projects
• Stay up-to-date on Council initiatives
For more information and to view future pop-up dates, scan the QR code or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/have-your-say
Grant Writing and Resilience Planning Workshop
WEDNESDAY 10 JUNE, 6PM TO 8PM, GATTON SHIRE HALL
Attention Lockyer Valley not-for-profit community organisations! Build your confidence and capability at our FREE Grant Writing and Resilience Planning Workshop, where you’ll learn how to:
• Write strong, successful grant applications following disaster events
• Develop long-term resilience strategies for your organisation
• Strengthen your group’s future and sustainability Bookings are essential. To secure your seat, scan the QR or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/grant-workshop-register
RSVPs close Friday 5 June
Laidley Spring Festival
11-12 SEPTEMBER, LAIDLEY | 13 SEPTEMBER, FOREST
HILL
Street Parade: Applications are now OPEN for the 2026 Laidley Spring Festival Grand Street Parade, and this year we’re celebrating all things COUNTRY HARVEST. We’re calling on the whole community to bring the country spirit to town with floats, tractors, farmyard fun, fresh produce and all thing harvest.
Show ‘n ‘Shine: Got a prized car or motorbike you’d like to show off? Register for the Show ‘n’ Shine competition today!
Market Stallholders: Attention local stallholders! If you’d like to be part of this year’s Laidley Spring Festival, now’s your chance!
For more details and to register/apply, scan the QR code or visit www.laidleyspringfestival.com/get-involved
Engagement Hub
Council’s 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 consultation. lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au
Also keep an eye on Council’s Have Your Say page for a full list of consultation projects. www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-council/have-your-say
Current Vacancies
Stay up to date with job opportunities at Council by visiting our Current Vacancies page www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/current-vacancies
Impounded Animals Register
If your pet has wandered a little too far from home, make Council your first port of call! You can now check our Impounded Animals Register to see if they’re safe and waiting to be reunited. www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/impounded-animals
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, fuel supplies and more. Save it to your favourites. disaster.lvrc.qld.gov.au
Online Services
Lodge and track requests, make payments on accounts, and submit applications for property searches - all at your own convenience. www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-council/contact-us
