Well, what a year we have left behind and I hope you are all rested and ready to face the challenges and excitement of 2022. It’s got to be better than 2021 although as I write this column the new COVID-19 variant is spreading rapidly, and again our lives are needing to accommodate this. Please be assured that all council services, facilities and customer contact centres are operating under COVID-19 safe procedures which we are all familiar with, so the main message is that we all be patient and kind in our dealings with all businesses in our region.

EMPOWERHER HIKING PROGRAM
Bookings are open for local women and girls to explore our beautiful region at the same time as learning bushwalking skills, meeting like-minded friends, and getting active. This program, funded by the Queensland Government and Health and Wellbeing Queensland, is the first of its kind for the Scenic Rim, with a selection of guided walks in our national parks to suit all levels of fitness. Find out more and book tickets on www.scenicrim.qld.gov.au/empowHER
AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS
Thank you to those residents who have nominated community members that have made a difference in our communities over the past and previous years. Special congratulations to all the nominees - and especially Bren Dalby and Turning Canungra Pink from Canungra, Susan Cully and Jon Durrand from Beechmont, Susie Fenton, Janis Bailey, Sandra Evans, Barbara Proudman and Judy Roland from Tamborine Mountain. The awards ceremony has been postponed for the immediate future so watch this space for a rescheduled date.
REGIONAL PROSPERITY STRATEGY ANNUAL REPORT CARD
Available on the council website, this initial report is a concise snapshot of how well the region has fared and rebounded from the pandemic over the past year. It includes local and tourism expenditure, business development and attraction, COVID-19 stimulus initiatives and much more.
ROAD DAMAGE FROM SUMMER RAINS
Drivers will be very aware of the damage the wet weather has caused to roads throughout the Scenic Rim region, in particular Sarabah, Illinbah, and Flying Fox in our local area.
Emergency works are being completed and council crews are currently assessing the damage in order to lodge a claim for disaster funding. The message is to take it easy on the roads and with further rain predicted, "if it's flooded forget it".
SPECIAL MEETING OUTCOME
This was a particularly challenging meeting from a number of aspects but especially the legislative requirements around declarable conflicts of interest. However, in my mind it is about complying with the legislation and ensuring due process is adhered to in all council decisions.
CONTACT ME
I am always available to talk with residents on 5540 5403 or 0407 630 052 or email virginia.w@scenicrim.qld.gov.au. I am at the Canungra Library on the second Saturday of each month from 9am until 11am, the next Saturday being February 12.