Councillor Report – Ordinary Council Meeting 23 March 2022

 Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 23 March 2022

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

The Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Assn held a very successful Jimna Landcare Festival on Saturday 19^th March.  Around 140 people made their way to Jimna and spent the day at the festival.  The festival was blessed with perfect weather, interesting and informative stalls, entertaining and interesting speakers, great live music, lots of information around bush tucker, different stalls selling plants and other much needed supplies, hunger enhancing smells from the Kilcoy Lions BBQ and award winning scones and coffee from our host Pete.  Jimna Base Camp was a perfect venue to hold this community based event. This festival now completes the projects funded through Landcare Led Bushfire Recovery supported by the Australian Government’s Bushfire Recovery Program for Wildlife and their Habitat.

Agenda Item # 33   Councillors’ Report

March

09           Ordinary Council Meeting – Kilcoy

09           Council Workshop – Kilcoy

09           Villeneuve Rural Fire Brigade meeting

10           Brisbane Valley Interagency meeting – Zoom

10           Human Social Recovery Group Meeting – Teams

10           Kilcoy Historical Society AGM & Monthly meeting

11           Mt Kilcoy State School Badge Presentations

14           LGAQ – Qld Fixated Threat Assessment Centre (QFTAC) Forum – Teams

14           Kilcoy State School P&C Assn AGM & Monthly meeting

15           Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Monthly meeting

16           Mt Kilcoy State School P&C Assn AGM & Monthly meeting

16           Briefing – Human Social Recovery Group – Teams

16           Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Assn Monthly meeting – Toogoolawah

17           Human Social Recovery Group Meeting – Teams

17           Lowood State High School – 2022 Senior Leadership Ceremony

17           Alara – Morning Tea – Kilcoy

17           Kilcoy Art Society Monthly meeting

17           Mt Kilcoy Sandy Creek Rural Fire Brigade AGM & Monthly meeting

18           Youth Filmmaking Workshops Kilcoy State High School

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Steven Miles said the 16,500 assessments were undertaken by the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service (QFES), supported by staff from the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA).  While some of these properties will be repaired quickly, others may be uninhabitable for months, if not longer.

The Queensland Government has worked to unlock Personal Hardship Assistance Grants for those impacted residents, including additional options for those who aren’t insured. For more information, impacted Queenslanders can visit the Department of Communities, Housing and Digital Economy website or call the Community Hotline on 1800 173 349.

The State Recovery Coordinator, Major-General Jake Ellwood, is working closely with the QRA and key stakeholders to commence this plan which will include programs that address all of the issues that people are facing – their housing, their amenities and their mental health.

For more information on the damage assessments, visit QRA’s website at www.qra.qld.gov.au/darm.

  Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 9 March 2022 – Councillor Report

 Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 9 March 2022

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

I wish to express heartfelt thanks to all emergency workers that have assisted in any way over the recent flood event. I also wish to acknowledge our Council Staff, local businesses, volunteers, community members, and Councillors who came together to assist and manage the flood emergency in many different ways.  Community members opened up their hearts, wallets and homes to help stranded travellers.  A huge thank you to Kilcoy Global Foods for transporting several boxes of groceries to the sixty odd stranded travellers on the eastern side of Kilcoy Creek.  I offer sincere condolences to family, friends, loved ones and colleagues of those people who have lost their lives during this natural disaster.

The feeling around this natural disaster was summarized by a stranded traveller who offered the following words upon returning home after spending four days in the Kilcoy Refuge Centre.  “……….You are all amazing, beautiful people. The kindness and generosity you shared towards us the ” flood stranded ” for 4 days was unbelievable.  Words cannot express how grateful we are for everything you did. Donations of food, clothing, beds, linen, accommodation, access to showers and bathrooms etc. Kilcoy is an incredible town full of beautiful, gracious people who work together to make things happen and have fun along the way. Hula hoop competition was great addition.  Proud to be an honorary local.  We have returned home safely and will never forget your hospitality. Thank you all once again”.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the many other communities located in Queensland and New South Wales, that are struggling through this challenging and heartbreaking time.

Agenda Item # 25   Councillors’ Report

February

23           Council Ordinary Meeting = Esk

23           Council Workshop – Esk

24           Kilcoy Recreation Grounds Committee Quarterly Meeting

27           Kilcoy Refuge Centre

28           LDMG Extraordinary Meeting – Teams

March

02           ALGWA Conference – Hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council

02           Combined Ipswich & Toowoomba District Human & Social Recovery Committee Meeting – Teams

02           Councillor Briefing with CEO – Teams

02          LDMG Meeting – Somerset – Teams

03           ALGWA Conference – Hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council

03           LDMG Meeting – Somerset – Teams

04           Combined Ipswich & Toowoomba District Human & Social Recovery Committee – Teams

04           Tour of flood impacted areas Kilcoy with ADF

05           Kilcoy Rodeo Assn Committee Meeting

07           LDMG Meeting – Somerset – Teams

08          Kilcoy Hospital Auxiliary monthly meeting

08           Kilcoy Tennis Club monthly meeting

08           Visit to flood impacted residents – Seib Street, Kilcoy

08           Kilcoy State High School P&C Meeting

Whitsunday Regional Council hosted the Biyearly Australian Local Government Women’s Assn. (Qld Branch) Conference, titled “Women Connected and Unshaken”.   Among very informative presentations and sessions, the delegates also learnt of recent poor treatment of Councillors and Senior Staff members.  It is a sad day when the public believe they have the right to target and threaten Councillors and staff when unhappy with council decisions. This attitude and associated threats and treatment of fellow human beings is totally unacceptable in our society.

Unfortunately, the Kilcoy Rodeo Assn. has made an unavoidable decision to postpone the rodeo which was to be held on Saturday 26 March.  The showgrounds cannot be brought to a suitable condition to continue with this date.  Locating another suitable date this year proved impossible, therefore we look forward to March 2023 to welcome and attend this great event.

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 23 February 2022 – Councillor Report

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 23 February 2022

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

Bunya to the Bay is an award winning educational experience grounded in Aboriginal culture and heritage that follows the Brisbane River from source to the sea.  A group of 40 selected students relay in teams to walk, cycle and canoe over 340 km of challenging river terrain.  Scientific, personal, social and adventure learning experiences build the students’ understanding of the many facets of the Brisbane River.  An amazing and important opportunity provided by Stanley River Environmental Education Centre for State School students of all backgrounds and abilities from Years 10, 11 and 12.  I encourage our residents to view the video on Youtube of the 2021 expedition, it certainly provides a deep understanding of the students’ experiences.

153,000 trees have been planted at Wivenhoe Dam to increase koala habitat and water quality and is one of the biggest revegetation projects in southeast Queensland.  The Wivenhoe Dam revegetation program is part of the government’s $1 billion investment to protect the environment and create jobs as part of the state’s economic recovery.  The trees have been planted at seven sites on former grazing land.

Kilcoy Global Foods announced that it will build a $50m food manufacturing factory on the Sunshine Coast.  It has also announced that as a further part of its expansion plans, it is proposed to develop housing for abattoir workers at Kilcoy.

Huge congratulations to the following groups who have been successful with round 112 of the Gambling Community Benefit Funds (GCBF) :- Esk Jockey Club Inc. $35,000 install track running rail; Kilcoy Art Society Inc. $34,530 paint building, replace ramp and install flooring; Kilcoy Golf Club $17,000 renovate verandah; Kilcoy Race Club $28,510 purchase tent; Lowood Community Action Group Inc. $13,408.78 install lighting and paint mural; and Toogoolawah State School P&C Assn $25,000 install shade sail.  Community groups are advised that the GCBF is holding a “super round” (round 113) and grants of up to $100,000 is available to go towards projects that benefit local communities.

Agenda Item # 30  Councillors’ Report

09 February        Ordinary Council Meeting  – Esk

09 February        Council Workshop – Esk

10 February        Brisbane Valley Interagency Meeting – Zoom

13 February        AAA Racing (AUS) – Jimna Base Camp

15 February        Kilcoy District Progress Alliance AGM & Monthly meeting

17 February        Kilcoy Art Society Inc. AGM & Monthly meeting

21 February        RADF Assessment Meeting – Teams

22 February        Kilcoy Interagency Meeting – Zoom

22 February        Somerset Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee Meeting – Esk

AAA Racing (AUS) – Jimna Base Camp – Go Figure ‘22

AAA Racing (AUS) held its trial event at Jimna Base Camp on Sunday 13 February.  The event consisted of two running legs that shared a total of 80km of trails, and around 50 runners became part of the inaugural event.  The runners are welcomed to the northern section of our beautiful region, and I look forward to the return of this event in February 2023 at Jimna.

AGM – Kilcoy District Progress Alliance and Kilcoy Art Society Inc.

Congratulations to these two successful non-profit community groups who have achieved very important milestones and projects in 2021.  The strength of these groups will only provide a positive and rewarding presence in the Kilcoy community.  I encourage residents to pop along to the monthly meetings to learn what these groups are about and maybe consider becoming members.

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 9 February 2022

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 9 February 2022

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

Huge congratulations to the Yowie parkrun group of volunteers, in celebrating their third birthday.  There were tourists from Warner Lakes, Logan, Stanthorpe, Wondai, North Lakes and members from Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre who joined in the brightly coloured fun.  Everyone was encouraged to dress in the loudest and brightest attire they owned.

I am somewhat relieved to learn that a former Facebook data scientist welcomes Australian’s efforts to regulate Facebook’s standard of operation.  The Australian Senate inquiry was told of the widespread harassment and violent threats on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and calls for changes, including greater powers to identify online trolls.

I wish to thank staff who took the time to investigate the possibility of providing sign language lessons in our region.  After being approached by residents who were interested in learning Auslan, I advise that the Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre is providing a basic introductory course.  The course will be held on Saturday 26 February from 9:30 am – 12:00 pm, and will cost $25 per person.

With great sadness and along with many others, I would like to pay tribute of Mr Halwyn Herrmann.  Hally will be missed by many and remembered for his unique abilities.

Agenda Item # 40  Councillors’ Report

December

16           Council Ordinary Meeting

16           Councillors’ & Directors’ Christmas Lunch

16           End of Year Team Somerset Christmas Celebration

18          Esk Races – Judging Fashions of the Field

22           Mount Glen Rock Steering Committee Meeting and Walk on Sandy Creek Trail

23           Inspection Sandy Creek, Esk with Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Assn and NRM Officer

January

10           Councillor/CEO Team Catchup (Teams)

17           Meeting with (2) Kilcoy residents

19           Council Ordinary Meeting

19           Council Confidential Workshop

26           Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony – Somerset Civic Centre

26           Australia Day Awards Ceremony – Somerset Civic Centre

28           2022 Outlook – Councillors Strategy Discussions (Teams)

28           Ross Manning – The Condensery

February

01           Teams meeting – CEO & Councillors

01           Somerset Arts Networking Event – “What’s the Plan?”

02           Mr Jim Lougheed Funeral – Past Kilcoy Shire Councillor

03           Brisbane Valley Heritage Trails Committee Meeting – Yarraman

05           Somerset & Wivenhoe Fish Stocking Assn – Release Lake Somerset – Westvale Boat Ramp

05           Kilcoy District Tennis Assn AGM

07           The Condensery – Somerset Regional Art Gallery Advisory Committee meeting – Esk

08           Kilcoy Hospital Auxiliary meeting

Congratulations to our new Australians and to all Australia Day Award nominees.  It is overwhelming to be nominated, and the ceremony is one that resonates the pride experienced by all involved.

The second Arts Network Event was held Tuesday night 1^st February, and it was titled “What’s the Plan?”  This proved to be a great community brainstorming opportunity.  Guests were asked to participate in a workshop that had the theme identified as significant for the arts sector across the region.  I look forward to the next networking event.

Another great effort made by the busy members of the Somerset & Wivenhoe Fish Stocking Association, with 92,500 Bass fingerlings being released into Lake Somerset at the Westvale Boat Ramp. These Bass fingerlings were paid for from the SIPS permit, it is great to see the fishing funds at work.

The Condensery is undergoing a major change in direction – with the assistance of newly appointed professional and experienced staff.  New strategies and associated plans are in place and will be worked through accordingly – so watch this space!

The Kilcoy District Tennis Assn. held its AGM on Saturday 5^th February where its future plans and aspirations were captured and explained by President Gill Todd.  Well done to this group of volunteers who have really brought this club alive over the past 12 months, and special congratulations for being nominated in the Australia Day Awards – Community Group of the Year, and also to President Todd who was nominated for Citizen of the Year Award.

Councillor Report – Ordinary Meeting 16 December 2021

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 16 December 2021

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

I note that the State Government announcement that they will continue offsetting the cost of the waste levy on household wheelie bins. I am aware the officers will be looking at the Somerset Stats in line with this announcement.

Apparently, a report has been made in a Queensland Newspaper, that a Yowie has been seen in Jimna Saturday 4^th December 2021, by three plantation workers.  Not long back to the Jimna Base Camp after tree planting, Stirling, Seamus and Margus were heading up School Road at about 7:50pm, when it was spotted.  It is reported that a big, dark, roundish shape was seen by two occupants of the car.  Do you believe in Yowies?  These hard working plantation workers say there is something out there, and it wasn’t someone dressed up!

I take this opportunity to wish my fellow Mayor and Councillors, Council Staff, all residents of our beautiful region a very Merry Christmas, and a Safe, Healthy and Happy 2022.  We are an awesome and envied team as we are not a team because we work together, we are a team because we respect, trust and care for each other.  In my role as Councillor, I look forward to achieving important and highly desirable outcomes during 2022.

Agenda Item # 26  Councillors’ Report

December

08           Ordinary Council Meeting – Esk

08           Council Workshop – Esk

08           Kilcoy Chamber of Commerce Business Meeting

Kilcoy Chamber of Commerce Business Meeting

Around ten people attended the meeting held at the Kilcoy RSL.  The meeting was led by Secretary Lee Robinson and based around brainstorming, sharing ideas and priorities that impact local businesses.  An opportunity that as leaders we must be willing to let go of what worked yesterday, and learn new ways of seeing, doing and leading.  It was suggested that the Chamber should survey local businesses to understand what is important to them, and what would encourage them to join the Chamber.  Membership is important for the Chamber to exist and to continue to grow.

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 8 December 2021 – Councillor Report

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 8 December 2021

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

Christmas Spirit alive and well in Somerset

Firstly, I acknowledge the hard work and immense effort provided by our community groups to successfully bring together any community event.  Unfortunately, this Christmas, one Christmas event had to be cancelled, but for those groups who have had or about to hold Christmas celebrations, good on you for taking the initiative.  The Kilcoy Christmas Carnival held on Saturday evening was a complete success, and the Christmas Spirit was on show for all to absorb and share.  It is estimated that around 1300 attended the celebration.  The organising committee advised that the event cost approximately $18,000 and most of these costs were met by donations and or sponsorships.  Some businesses provided not hundreds but thousands of dollars to make sure that no child was disadvantaged by providing free rides, free face painting, free entertainment, and free give ways.  The ever popular fireworks were held just prior to a storm that seem to  just reach Kilcoy resulting in some rain and wind for a short period of time.  The social wellbeing and community spirit created by such events will linger for quite some time.  Sense of Community, it is in the DNA of every Somerset resident.  Wishing for great weather for future Somerset Christmas events.

Mental Health Funding Shortfall

There has been much reporting and public discussion around funding shortfalls with mental health. Less money is invested in Queensland’s mental health system than any other state or territory in Australia, with decades of chronic underfunding meaning the state has the worst staffing levels and least number of beds to service its population.  And in the past 10 years while Queensland’s health budget has grown by around 50 per cent the mental health budget has only increased by about five per cent.  For example, the entire operating budget for the Metro North Hospital and Health Service this year is $3.36 billion but just $220 million of that will be spent on mental health – a meagre 6.5 per cent.   “Around the world” is experiencing an increased presentation in people with mental health issues, most of it on the back of Covid-19.  An issue for State and Federal Government to address sooner rather than later.

Agenda Item # 35  Councillors’ Report

November

24           Ordinary Council Meeting – Esk

24           Council Workshop 26 – Esk

25           Business Forum – Thriving in Agriculture Event – Lowood Golf Club

26           Movement to Music – Kilcoy Gym

26           Meeting with local community member – Kilcoy

26           Kilcoy Recreation Grounds Committee Meeting

30           Kilcoy Interagency Meeting

30           Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre Steering Committee – Presentation of Concept Plans

30           Kilcoy Rodeo AGM & General Meeting

December

01           Somerset Dam & District Progress Assn monthly meeting

02           Brisbane Valley Heritage Trail Committee AGM & monthly meeting – Yarraman

03           Turn the Lights On – Kilcoy Shines

03           Linville State School Annual Awards – Moore

O4          Kilcoy Christmas Carnival

07           Volunteer Famil & Christmas Function – Toogoolawah & Esk

07           Kilcoy State School Annual Awards 3-6 years

Business Forum – Thriving in Agriculture Event – Lowood Golf Club

Congratulations to staff for organising another brilliant and informative business networking evening.  Once again, the guest speakers were informative, inspirational and motivational.  The catering was received at an extremely high standard, many thanks to all involved with this event.

Somerset Dam & District Progress Assn

Department of Parks and Gardens rang the SDDPA President and advised that it is agreed to facilitate the request to burn sections at risk around the Somerset Dam Village.  Discussions will be held with the Rural Fire Brigade, DTMR and SEQWater to coordinate an efficient burn.  The Department will also contact impacted landholders.  The association was also advised that the area required rain before attempting the burn.  Now that this has occurred, the position is looking very positive.  The group were ecstatic to receive this information so quickly after identifying this need early in November.

Linville State School Annual Awards – Moore

Being a small school does not limit the achievements of this active and sincere group of students.  An endearing evening was held with a spread of home cooked mains and ice-cream for dessert.  There were many special awards distributed, and a lovely Certificate of Appreciation certificate was presented to Council in recognition of ongoing support made to the school during 2021.

Turn the Lights on – Kilcoy Shines & Kilcoy Christmas Carnival Events

Many children, parents and care givers attended the Turn the Lights On, Kilcoy Shines to witness the newly erected Christmas Tree along with numerous Christmas lights glowing preciously in Yowie Park.  The event complimented the Kilcoy Christmas Carnival, which was a huge success as well.  Congratulations to the organising committees (and their spouses/partners), sponsors and of course to all those who attended these wonderful community events.

Cr Gaedtke Councillor Report 24 November 2021 Ordinary Council Meeting

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 24 November 2021

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

It is great to see the Lowood Open Door Gallery is busy with events, and the latest High Tea and painting experience was a complete success.  Well done to all, especially to Karen.

It is a pleasure to see our two local parkruns up and going again.  There was a lovely Facebook post regarding the Yowie parkrun, stating that this parkrun is the friendliest and most hospitable parkrun they have attended.  The author also recognised inspirational locals who attend the event on a regular basis, and the availability of staying overnight at a local motel.

A big congratulations to Wanda Kropp of Hazeldean Rural Fire Brigade upon receiving her award as State Youth Volunteer of the Year.  The award was officially presented by the Assistant Commissioner of the Rural Fire Brigade Services – John Bolger.

Agenda Item #25  Councillors’ Report

November

10          Ordinary Council Meeting – Esk

10           Council Workshop – Esk

10           Kilcoy State High School P & C Assn Meeting

11           Remembrance Day – Kilcoy RSL

15           RADF Committee Meeting – Esk

16           Inception Meeting – Regional Economic Development Strategy – Esk

16           Somerset Economic Development & Tourism Committee Meeting – Esk

16           Esk Recreation Grounds Advisory Committee Meeting  (Observer)

16           Kilcoy & District Progress Alliance Meeting – Kilcoy

17           Kilcoy State High School – Annual Awards Ceremony

17           Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Ass Inc AGM – Kilcoy

19           Kilcoy State High School Valedictory

22           Somerset Civic Centre Committee Meeting – Esk (Observer)

23           Lions Camp Duckadang – Inspection with Lions Club – Linville

A lovely commemoration was organised by the Kilcoy RSL, where many beautiful wreaths were laid against the memorial wall.  Our young leaders of tomorrow enjoyed a selfie with Deb Frecklington (MP) and myself.

Explore Somerset SEQ Food Trails video was released highlighting our local businesses and our very own Condensery, along with our local lakes.  It is surely a great marketing presentation for our region.

The Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Assn Inc AGM was well supported, with all positions filled and the management committee grew by two new members.  Megan Lee, Education and Communications Officer, Barung Landcare gave an interesting presentation.  Megan has been working in the Landcare movement for over 14 years in diverse community engagement, communications and project officer roles.

It is rewarding to be able to attend the school events again, after COVID restricted the attendance last year.  The Annual Awards Ceremony and the Valedictory held at the Kilcoy State High School was once again fantastic events and the opportunity to acknowledge our future leaders.  The Valedictory tends to be an emotional ceremony, and it was for 2021.  Well done to all those involved.  Many thanks to local identity Gerald Youles for providing a video that complemented my speech.  Gerald’s words were well received by the Year 12s.

The Lions Clubs that own and operate Camp Duckadang held an information sharing afternoon.  The centre offers outdoor education, activities and facilities for school groups, social and community groups.  The venue is set of 1.5 hectares on the beautiful upper reaches of the Brisbane River.  They say it is a place to learn new skills, enjoy relaxing times together, broaden your experiences within a natural environment, challenge yourself, escape the everyday and work together as a team.  I absolutely support this facility and the future visions expressed by the Lions Clubs.

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 10 November 2021 (Combined)

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 10 November 2021

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

Linville and district residents have been left without the telecommunication infrastructure as promised, with only a small cell tower attached to a private residence being provided.  There are numerous areas within our region that suffer with telecommunication black spot, however this particular area is prone to natural disasters through flooding and bush fires and reliable telecommunications is paramount to the community safety.  I once again look for support from our Council on behalf of community residents.

The Brisbane Valley Kilcoy Landcare Assn Inc. held a very success Linville Landcare Festival on Saturday 6^th November, which brought residents together with others to learn from the 2019 Black Summer Fires and offer expert information, advice and support.

A recent newspaper article disclosed that Somerset Regional Council area, as at 18 October has 68.3% of its residents at least vaccinated with the first dose, and that the region should reach the target of 80% vaccination rate by 26 December 2021.

It has been reported that Australians are struggling with what is recyclable household waste, and what isn’t.  The new research showed 88 per cent put common household items in the wrong bin.  You may be surprised that 36 per cent of us believe that coffee cups can go in recycling bins, but the stark reality is that most are not recyclable.  Are you aware that 68 per cent of surveyed residents did not know that aluminium foil can be recycled, if scrunched together to the size of a golf ball.

Agenda Item # 27 Councillors’ Report

October

13           Ordinary Council Meeting – Esk

13           Council Workshop – Esk

13           BVKL Assn Inc MC Meeting

14           Brisbane Valley Interagency Committee Meeting – Zoom

17           Kilcoy Motocross Club – Club Day meeting

18           Meeting with local community member

19           Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Inc monthly meeting

20           Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre Steering Committee meeting

20           BVKL Assn Inc monthly meeting

21           Annual Awards Toogoolawah State High School – Esk

22           Community Meetings with Director Young (KDHS, Kilcoy RSL, Kilcoy Lions Club, KDPA & Cr Isidro)

23           Free Tree Day – Esk

24-27     LGAQ Conference – Mackay

28           Team Somerset – Whole of Organisation Team Building

November

• The Condensery – Somerset Regional Art Gallery Advisory Committee Meeting – Esk

03           Prawn Farm Tour – Esk

04           DSDILGP Financial Management in Practice for Elected Members Workshop – Toowoomba

05           Catherine O’Donnell – Dawn to Home Exhibition Opening  – The Condensery – Toogoolawah

05           New Quarterly Exhibition Opening Night – Kilcoy Art Society Inc.

06           Linville Landcare Festival

08           Urban Utilities – Bundamba STP & SEQWater WTP Tour

09           50 kph Sticker placement trial – Business Wheeled Bins –   QPS – Esk

I was invited to attend the Kilcoy Motocross Club Day and assist with presenting the many trophies to the respective age groups and place getters.  It was a wonderful event with many different ages of competitors who share a real passion for this sport.  I was honoured to meet three Pro Riders,  Todd Waters, Ricky Latimer and our very own Luke Zielinski.  Todd has just relinquished his Australia Number 1 title.  Congratulations to all competitors who enjoyed the club day.  I saw how much hard work goes into organising this type of event.

I met with a local community member who has been working tirelessly to provide factual evidence that the swimming season should be extended at the Kilcoy Aquatic Centre.  The results unfortunately, were not all that convincing, as there appears to be some apathy towards this cause.  It is questionable if the extra costs would be warranted by so little public take-up.  A big thank you to our community champion, and I certainly appreciate the effort given to this matter.

The Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Inc. is busily working towards the Christmas Lights project.  With an amount in excess of $32,000, there is much planning to make this project eventuate for the 2021 Christmas period.  Well, done to this hard working committee.

Congratulations to the Toogoolawah State High School, it is so inspiring to see the leaders of tomorrow conduct their awards and without any issues at all.  A very proud and humbling evening.

A huge acknowledgement to the staff who were part of the Free Tree Day events.  There were many great comments regarding the days’ activities from those residents that attended to collect their free trees.  Also, many thanks to the community groups who assisted during the day.

I appreciate the opportunity to attend the annual LGAQ Conference, which provides networking to learn, share visions and understand local government from a much more collective perspective.

It is welcoming to see that art and culture is alive and well in our region.  The two exhibitions held on Friday 5^th each provided different perspectives, and certain pieces initiated thought provoking consideration.

Councillors and QPS Officers shared a humid morning and walked the Esk CBD streets to affix 50kph stickers to the side of business’ wheeled green bins.  The trial will provide stats and data around the influence the stickers have on drivers’ behaviour, when the bins are placed on the footpath for weekly collection.

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 29 October 2021 – Councillor Report

Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 29 October 2021

Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

Linville and district residents have been left without the telecommunication infrastructure as promised, with only a small cell tower attached to a private residence being provided.  There are numerous areas within our region that suffer with telecommunication black spot, however this particular area is prone to natural disasters through flooding and bush fires and reliable telecommunications is paramount to the community safety.  I once again look for support from our Council on behalf of community residents.

A recent newspaper article disclosed that Somerset Regional Council area, as at 18 October has 68.3% of its residents at least vaccinated with the first dose, and that the region should reach the target of 80% vaccination rate by 26 December 2021.

Agenda Item #28 Councillors’ Report

October

13           Ordinary Council Meeting – Esk

13           Council Workshop – Esk

13           BVKL Assn Inc MC Meeting

14           Brisbane Valley Interagency Committee Meeting – Zoom

17           Kilcoy Motocross Club – Club Day meeting

18           Meeting with local community member

19           Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Inc monthly meeting

20           Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre Steering Committee meeting

20           BVKL Assn Inc monthly meeting

21           Annual Awards Toogoolawah State High School – Esk

22           Community Meetings with Director Young (KDHS, Kilcoy RSL, Kilcoy Lions Club, KDPA & Cr Isidro)

23           Free Tree Day – Esk

24-27     LGAQ Conference – Mackay

28           Team Somerset – Whole of Organisation Team Building

I was invited to attend the Kilcoy Motocross Club Day and assist with presenting the many trophies to the respective age groups and place getters.  It was a wonderful event with many different ages of competitors who share a real passion for this sport.  I was honoured to meet three Pro Riders,  Todd Waters, Ricky Latimer and our very own Luke Zielinski.  Todd has just relinquished his Australia Number 1 title.  Congratulations to all competitors who enjoyed the club day.  I saw how much hard work goes into organising this type of event.

I met with a local community member who has been working tirelessly to provide factual evidence that the swimming season should be extended at the Kilcoy Aquatic Centre.  The results unfortunately, were not all that convincing, as there appears to be some apathy towards this cause.  It is questionable if the extra costs would be warranted by so little public take-up.  A big thank you to our community champion, and I certainly appreciate the effort given to this matter.

The Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Inc. is busily working towards the Christmas Lights project.  With an amount in excess of $32,000, there is much planning to make this project eventuate for the 2021 Christmas period.  Well, done to this hard working committee.

Congratulations to the Toogoolawah State High School, it is so inspiring to see the leaders of tomorrow conduct their awards and without any issues at all.  A very proud and humbling evening.

A huge acknowledgement to the staff who were part of the Free Tree Day events.  There were many great comments regarding the days’ activities from those residents that attended to collect their free trees.

Councillor Report Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 13 October 2021

 Cr Cheryl Gaedtke – Ordinary Meeting 13 October 2021

 Agenda Item # 5 Matters of Public Interest

 Congratulations to the Somerset region based community groups who have been successful with the June 2021 Gambling Community Benefit Funding round 110 – Toogoolawah Local Ambulance Committee ($26,229.35); Kilcoy District Historical Society Inc. ($6,435); Kilcoy District Progress Alliance Inc. ($32,200); Lowood & District Community Kindergarten Assn Inc. ($15,463.80) and Lowood & District Golf Club Inc. ($35,000).

 Congratulations to CDTCPL TJ Anderson, from 101 ACU Kilcoy, for being awarded the Cadet Leadership Award at the SGT LAI Course just completed. This is a remarkable achievement when you consider the unit was only formed two years ago with all new staff and cadets (except for the OC CAPT (AAC) Andrew Cummings). This is the second SGTs’ LAI in a row where 14 Battalion has taken out this award. Congratulations to all, and well done TJ.

Congratulations to our local major employer Kilcoy Global Foods, who is a finalist and winner in the Agribusiness, Food & Beverages Award.  A Total of 36 companies were vying for the prestigious award of Queensland’s Exporter of the Year.  Winners in each of the State’s 13 award categories automatically qualify as finalists in the national Australian Export & Investment Awards that are to held on 25 November in Canberra, staged by Austrade.

Well, done to Mt Stanley Muster group who have held the first muster in ten years.

 Agenda Item #35 Councillors’ Report

September

22           Ordinary Council Meeting – Esk

22           Council Workshop – Esk

25           Yowie Markets Kilcoy – KDPA Inc Stall

25           West Moreton Show Ambassador – Judging with husband John

26           Kilcoy Rodeo Committee Meeting

27           Human, Social & Economic Local Recovery Group Meeting & Workshop – Esk

27           Meeting with Mr Shane Stone – Coordinator General for National Recovery & Resilience Agency – Esk

28           Kilcoy Interagency Meeting

28           Growing the Arts – Esk

29           Teddy Bears’ Picnic – Fernvale

29           BVKL Assn Inc.  – Festival meeting – Toogoolawah

October

05           Toogoolawah & District History Group AGM – Guest Speaker Dr Denver Beanland

06           The Condensery Toogoolawah – Visit by Senator Scarr

07           Brisbane Valley Heritage Trails monthly meeting – Kilcoy

07           Kilcoy Showgrounds – meeting with Kilcoy Rodeo Assn & Director Corporate & Community Services

07           Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre Redevelopment Steering Committee – Inception Meeting with Consultants

08           Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre Redevelopment Steering Committee – Facility Tour – Highfields & Gatton

09           Lowood Lions Open Door Gallery Reopening

10           Colours of Somerset Art & Culture Festival – Lowood

10           Lowood Tarampa DJFLFC – Stags Presentation Day

11           Mount Glen Rock Steering Committee Teams chat

12           Meeting with local community group

12           Kilcoy Show Society monthly meeting

John and I were honoured to be asked to act as Judges for the West Moreton Show Ambassador.  The judging was very close with all three entrants representing their respective Show Society both professionally and enthusiastically.  During the interviewing process there was many great ideas and information shared, and which should be shared and considered by all show societies.

The Kilcoy Interagency meeting was well supported with many new initiatives shared between visiting allied health services.

I must congratulate all staff for staging a very professional and informative evening, our inaugural arts and cultural evening, Growing the Arts, a Somerset Arts Network Event. The Guest Speakers, including our very own staff members were well received.   The information, stories and achievements shared at the event was just inspiring and offers our region a pathway to arts and cultural excellence and future success.  I have received a great deal of complementary feedback and my Councillor Facebook post received a great deal of attention by the wider community.  Well, done to all.   Go Team Somerset! 

 A very interesting Guest Speaker was invited to the Toogoolawah & District History Group’s AGM, Dr Denver Beanland  was born on 26 January 1945 at St Margaret’s Private Hospital, Kilcoy.  Dr Denver Beanland AM holds a Bachelor of Arts with first class Honours in History (2003) and a PhD in History (2008) from The University of Queensland.  Denver is the author of three books, and he is also the author of many published articles.  Denver served as a Member of the Queensland Parliament from 1986 to 2001. He was the Attorney-General, Minister for Justice, and Minister Responsible for Consumer Affairs from 1996-98 and was leader of the parliamentary Liberal Party 1990-91. Between 1976 and 1986 Denver was an Alderman of the Brisbane City Council and, in 1985-86, was Vice-Mayor.  Denver is Chair of the National Archives of Australia Advisory Council. He is a past President of The Royal Historical Society of Queensland, currently serves on the Society’s Council, and in 2019 was elected a Fellow of the Society. He is also Chair of the Brisbane City Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee.  Denver gave a great historical talk about our great state at the AGM.  It was a pleasure to meet him.

The Lowood Open Door Gallery was reopened on Saturday 9^th October.  With the assistance of many volunteers the gallery is now open for community use and visitation by the public.  I sincerely wish the Open Door Gallery group all the success and joy they deserve, and the following members were acknowledged for initiating the reopening, Yvonne Hawkins, Karen Leahy and Sue White.