As this is my first column for 2023, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very happy and successful year ahead. Although there many challenges for our community, we need to stay united and deal with them together.

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS and NEW CITIZENS
What an enjoyable ceremony it was, held on Australia Day to welcome 23 new citizens to the region, and to celebrate the 2023 Scenic Rim Australia Day Award recipients. Congratulations to Justin O’Leary, Adrian Sandell, Gary Hamblyn, and the Dancing with Celebrities event, hosted by the Lions Club of Tamborine Mountain, on their well-deserved awards. I would like to thank all the nominees for their selfless contributions to our community, as well as those who took the time to nominate them for an award.
EAT LOCAL MONTH
Following the huge success of Eat Local Week since its inception in 2011, this signature event has been extended to a month-long celebration throughout June, culminating in the Winter Harvest Festival on 1 July. There will be more news in coming months.
ADVISOR TO COUNCIL
I would like to assure the community that this role is to ensure best practice local government principles and governance are adhered to during Council meetings, with a particular focus on Office of the Independent Assessor (OIA) matters. Please be assured that Scenic Rim Regional Council continues to be a successful Southeast Queensland council with a sustainable financial forecast and much to celebrate.
LET’S TALK SCENIC RIM
Have you signed up to this online portal that enables residents to share their views on various matters affecting our community? If not, please register on www.scenicrim.qld.gov.au and join the mailing list as the next topic for consultation will concern upcoming Budget matters as part of ongoing Budget 2023-2024 discussions.
CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY
If you are looking to be part of this annual event, Moriarty Park in Canungra hosts this event every year and would welcome any residents to join the clean-up team, commencing at 8am Sunday March 5th. Meet in the carpark on Monarch Drive and it is generally all complete by 9am.
THE LONG SUNSET IS ON AGAIN
As part of the Qld Music Trails 2023 this event is being hosted again at Elysian Fields Canungra with top acts: Lime Cordiale, Hatchie and Sycco, accompanied by local gourmet food and artisan goods. Check the website qldmusictrails.com, as presale of tickets has commenced.
CONTACT ME
I am always available to talk with residents on phone no. 5540 5403 or 0407 630 052 or email
virginia.w@scenicrim.qld.gov.au
I am at the Canungra Library on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9am till 11am to meet with residents.