October 2, 2025
Congratulations to the hard-working committee of the Wondai Garden Expo, led by Jodi, on delivering another outstanding event.
This bi-annual expo continues to go from strength to strength, showcasing the best of our region.
With perfect weather, a wide range of stalls and strong crowd attendance, the event was a great success. It was wonderful to see an inclusive atmosphere, with facilities and experiences catering to people of all abilities.
A big thank you to the incredible team of volunteers whose dedication and teamwork make the expo such a welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Well done to all involved!
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Important Legislation Passes
September has been a busy month, with two sitting weeks of Parliament taking up a large portion of my time.
One of the standout moments was seeing the Penalties and Sentences (Sexual Offences) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 pass through the Parliament – a Bill I was proud to introduce.
These reforms better reflect community expectations around the seriousness of sexual offences, especially against 16- and 17-year-olds. They ensure sentencing is more victim-centred and close loopholes that allowed “good character” to unfairly reduce penalties.
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Minister Visits Cherbourg
I had the honour of bringing Minister Ann Leahy – the Minister for Local Government and Water, and the Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers – to Cherbourg.
It was a truly productive and uplifting discussion with the Council.
It provided an excellent opportunity for the Minister to see firsthand the amazing things happening in this community.
We walked through progress on new houses, and discussed many of the initiatives that are already up and running.
The Ration Shed is preparing to open an exciting new exhibition, and the Youth Advisory Group’s shop at Bert Button Lookout is absolutely worth a visit.
Well done to the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council for your leadership and hard work. Minister Leahy was equally impressed by everything you are achieving here.
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Wondai Regional Art Gallery Extension
I was proud to deliver on my election commitment with the official opening of the $100,000 extension to the Wondai Regional Art Gallery.
This expansion adds a covered outdoor area, improves accessibility, and provides extra workshop space, helping ensure the Gallery can better serve artists, visitors, and the whole South Burnett community.
The Gallery is already a thriving hub – locally run by volunteers, hosting monthly exhibitions, art classes, workshops and events – and this upgrade is a major boost to what it offers.
It’s a wonderful asset for our community, fostering creativity, connection, and culture.
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Coolabunia Students Visit
Coolabunia State School students in Year 4-6 visited Parliament House this month as part of their excursion to Brisbane.
Visiting Queensland Parliament House helps students see democracy in action, learn how laws are made, and understand the roles of government and elected representatives.
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Qld Training Awards Success
I’m delighted to shine a spotlight on the outstanding individuals and organisations from our region celebrated at the recent Queensland Training Awards.
Their resilience, determination and commitment to vocational education illustrate the strength of local talent.
A big congratulations to our State winners:
- Therese Stanton – Equity Student of the Year, honoured for her courageous return to a healthcare career after recovering from a life-changing stroke.
- Cameron Flick – Vocational Student of the Year, recognised for his relentless dedication to training and personal growth.
Both have shown remarkable drive, talent and commitment to their chosen paths.
We also applaud our State finalists:
- Brylie Jones – School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year finalist
- Lilly White – Vocational Student of the Year finalist
- Global Engineering & Construction – Medium Employer of the Year finalist
Regionally, at the Darling Downs Southwest Awards, we celebrate:
- Caitlin Franklin – Bob Marshman Trainee finalist (Cert III in Business)
- Rose McMahon – Bob Marshman Trainee finalist (Cert III in Business)
- Samuel Simpson – Vocational Student finalist (Diploma of Counselling)
- Darrie Lea – Vocational Student finalist (Diploma in Indigenous Primary Health Care)
- Kingaroy Refrigeration, Air Conditioning & Electrical – Small Employer finalist
- South Burnett CTC – Medium Employer finalist
- South Burnett Regional Council – Large Employer finalist
To all winners and finalists – your achievements affirm the power of education, perseverance and community support. You set a high bar and serve as an inspiration for vocational learners right across Queensland.
