August 19, 2021
Former State and Federal MP John McVeigh is taking over as chair of Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE).
Toowoomba mayor Paul Antonio announced he appointment on Thursday.
Current chair Shane Charles, who has led TSBE for almost 10 years, will step down in October.
Mayor Antonio thanked Mr Charles for his contribution to the community.
“TSBE continues to be a powerhouse in advocating for infrastructure and economic growth across the Region,” Mayor Antonio said.
“TSBE has been amazing in the way it’s stimulated our economy over the past 10 years and Shane has been instrumental in getting the organisation to where it is today.
“Shane had a number of roles in his time with TSBE and I, along with all of Council, would like to thank him for his service.
“While it’s sad to see him leave, it must be said that when one door closes, another opens.
“We now welcome John McVeigh who will bring a wealth of experience to the role.
“As the former Member for Groom, John has worked across all levels of government and is currently the Executive Director for the Institute for Resilient Regions within the University of Southern Queensland.
“I’m sure John will be a huge asset to TSBE and look forward to working with him moving forward.”
Dr McVeigh resigned from Federal Parliament in September last year, sparking a by-election for the electorate of Groom.
He was elected to the Queensland Parliament in 2012 and served as Agriculture Minister before swapping to Federal politics in 2016.
Before entering State politics, Dr McVeigh was a councillor on Toowoomba Regional Council from 2008-12.
Dr McVeigh’s father Tom was a federal National Party MP from 1972 to 1988.
