December 16, 2014
by Deb Frecklington
Hasn’t the recent rain been fantastic? What a great early Christmas present for our farmers and local businesses!
2014 has certainly been a difficult year with such dry conditions across most of the Nanango electorate.
But the recent rains have brought hope, and it’s wonderful to see some green grass again.
It’s important to note that not everyone has received a decent fall, though.
So let’s hope 2015 brings more widespread rain.
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As we all know, the lead-up to Christmas is always hectic. But I’ve really enjoyed attending as many school graduation ceremonies as possible.
This year has been especially important, with students from both Year 6 and 7 graduating to high school.
During my visits to Nanango State School, Esk State School and Cooyar State School graduation ceremonies, I highlighted with the students that they are truly part of an historic time.
2015 will be the only year that both year levels transition to high school at one time.
In fact, more than 100,000 students in Year 6 and 7 across Queensland are making the move to high school next year.
I also wanted to mention the Year 10 Transition Evening at Kingaroy State High School, which was another great opportunity to meet with the school’s future leaders and encourage them in their leap to Year 11.
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In the last few weeks hundreds of local children have also received a Certificate from the Premier of Queensland for completing the 2014 Premier’s Reading Challenge.
I was so pleased to personally hand out some of these certificates at Taabinga SS, Coolabunia SS and St Mary’s and congratulate our youngsters on their achievement.
I also hope everyone has had the opportunity to attend one of our local Christmas events.
The organisers of the various events around the South Burnett must be congratulated for always putting on such a great time for our families.
In particular, well done to the South Burnett Young Leaders who forged ahead with the Kingaroy Christmas Carnival despite the rainy weather.
It was really nice to see families come on down to support the evening and the kids enjoying themselves so much.
I love selling the raffle tickets at this event, but I was particularly happy to meet Santa (aka John Box) and put in my Christmas wish!
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One final note: this month I attended a meeting of the Brymaroo Campdraft Committee.
Brymaroo is near Maclagan and they’re busily preparing for their annual Easter Campdraft.
I’d encourage anyone considering what to do for Easter next year to get along to Brymaroo, as they put on a fantastic country event.
So, with 2015 nearly here, I am really looking forward to continuing my work with all the communities around the Electorate, and in particular forging stronger links with our hardworking community groups and volunteers.
I’d like to wish you and your family a wonderful festive season and safe travels over the Christmas break, and I’m hoping to deliver even more for our region in 2015.
Talk to you again in the New Year!
