I held a public meeting on Friday 17 February with the Tamborine community to discuss options for the themes/styles for a sculptural gateway artwork for Tamborine Village. Although the turnout was smaller than I would have hoped, the themes and ideas that came from the residents showed the passion that locals have for the area. I will be posting the list of themes on my Facebook page.

Following the conversation on the gateway artwork, I then opened the floor for questions, and we had a great hour-long discussion about the budget, rates, roads and the need for the State-appointed Governance Advisor.
HEADSPACE MURAL
It was great to meet up recently with Dale from headspace Beaudesert and the fantastic group of young people who worked together to produce such an inspirational piece of mural art on an otherwise unused Energex wall in the Woolworths carpark. The mural was made possible through a grant funded by Council and with paint supplies from Mitre 10 Beaudesert. Great work by all involved!
OUR ROAD NETWORK
Council appreciates that there has been a lot of talk about the road network across our region. We understand your frustration. However, there are some very real reasons why there have been delays to the repair of some of our roads. This includes staff shortages, the inability to access contractors and skilled trades, as well as a national shortage of supplies to complete the works. It is important to note that we have experienced seven weather events in the past three years, which has had a massive impact on our ability to deliver the works required. Council has established a Let's Talk Scenic Rim page that outlines all of these particulars. If you are seeking more information on our roads, or would like to join in the conversation, please visit letstalk.scenicrim.qld.gov.au
VANDALISM
I am aware of the campaign that is encouraging residents to #grabaspraycan and spray paint our road network to identify the potholes on roads across the region. I ask that you please refrain from participating in these activities. Again, I understand your frustration, but participating in these acts of vandalism will not result in your road being repaired sooner. This type of action may also result in Council crews having to attend a site due to the introduction of new hazard or to deal with the use of offensive language in the graffiti, resulting in increased costs to the community and further delays to the reconstruction program. I appreciate your frustration but this could easily escalate to spray painting other things you want fixed, which will only turn our spectacular region into something looking like a ghetto. #report it - don’t spray it.
BUDGET COMMUNITY CONSULTATION
In coming weeks, Council will commence a community consultation process regarding the 2023-2024 Draft Budget. This means that you will have the chance to provide input and feedback on the draft budget. Your feedback is really important to Council, and I encourage you to join in the conversation. By registering on the Let's Talk Scenic Rim platform, residents can share their feedback online. Alternatively, residents can register to attend one of three community consultation sessions. I will provide a further update on this in my next column.
Quote of the Day – “We must consult our means rather than our wishes.” – George Washington