Dec 17th, 2018

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Last Friday, I joined in the Christmas celebrations at Crows Nest, Queensland 'Christmas in the Park' hosted by the Crows Nest & District Tourism & Progress Association. The committee made the wise decision to move the event indoors due to the wet weather and it was pleasing to see the rain didn't dampen the Christmas spirits of the community. I am pictured here with the Association President Tammy King and Lisa Goodman from Toowoomba Region Council.

Dec 14th, 2018

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Over the past few weeks I have attended 14 school awards ceremonies across the electorate. It has been wonderful to witness the enthusiasm and effort of so many students being rewarded, and to see the invaluable commitment of the teaching and administrative staff who do so much. The ceremonies have taken varied formats and have been held in many different settings - including the Jondaryan State School event (below) held in the The Woolshed at Jondaryan! Thank you to all the schools who have invited me to participate in their end of year festivities - unfortunately it is just not possible to attend them all.

Dec 10th, 2018

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Today I attended the Zonta Club of Toowoomba Garden City Flag Handover Ceremony which marked the end of '16 Days of Activism' with Human Rights Day. I am joined here by Kristen Tydings, guest speaker Raheela Asia, Paul Antonio and Kathryn Galea. Raheela is a student of St Ursula's College, Toowoomba, formally from Pakistan and she spoke of various issues facing women in her country including child marriages and the lack of opportunities for women to be educated in Pakistan. The event also highlighted the Zonta Club's campaign 'Say No to Violence'.

Dec 10th, 2018

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The Toowoomba Second Range Crossing reached a milestone on Saturday when the western section from Cranley to Athol was opened to traffic and I was present for the cutting of the ribbon to mark the occasion. Nexus TSRC personnell, Mayor Paul Antonio, John McVeigh, Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey MP, Scott Buchholz MP, Trevor Watts, Ian McFarlane, David Janetzki MP and Lockyer Mayor Tania Milligan were all present to see the new 24 km section of the crossing opened. The eastern side of the crossing from Mort Street at Cranley to Helidon Spa is expected to be opened mid 2019 but for now, the western section is open and toll free.

Dec 8th, 2018

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Today I attended the 125 Year Celebrations of the Southbrook Sports Club Inc held at the Southbrook Sports Grounds. Club President, Alan Peterson, gave a history of the club over 125 years and I also stepped forward to speak of my experience playing cricket against the Southbrook Club when I was on the team for Milmerran. It is a remarkable effort for successive committees over the years to maintain the club and I congratulate them on 125 years of operation and service to the community.

Dec 7th, 2018

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Agriculture Minister Mark Furner has announced the end of the Queensland Agricultural Training Colleges and the closure of training colleges in Longreach and Emerald.

I am appalled that yet again this Palaszczuk government shows such a lack of understanding of the needs of the agricultural industry and the communities of rural and regional Queensland. This will impact the futures of so many young rural people and threaten the viability of rural industries going forward. The article below, presented online in the Queensland Country Life outlines Minister Furners' decision but the government needs to explain more clearly how they will replace this vital educational service. 

Story here- 

https://www.queenslandcountrylife.com.au/story/5796396/so-cruel-devastation-over-pastoral-college-closures/

Nov 28th, 2018

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The Queensland Government committed $1.5 million for the creation, upkeep and conservation of memorials, monuments and other public sites recognising veterans' achievements. Eligible groups can apply for up to $30,000 per project via the Queensland Veterans' Memorial Grants Program over three rounds starting from November 2018. For more information and to apply, go to www.qld.gov.au/veterans 
I would encourage all branches of RSL Queensland, schools and community groups to consider applying if there is a project needing funding in your community.

Nov 22nd, 2018

Following our tours in Canberra to learn about the growing opportunities within the space industry, members of the State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee travelled to Tarawera, between Goodiwindi and Westmar to view a rocket launch by Black Sky Aerospace. 

Nov 22nd, 2018

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Over the past few days, as part of the State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee I have travelled to Canberra to look at opportunities arising in the space industry. It was very interesting to attend talks and tours of the Canberra Deep Space Centre and Mt Stromlo Observatory where simulation testing takes place on satellites. I am pictured here learning about the simulation testing processes, and with David Batt MP - Member for Bundaberg and Brent Mickelberg MP - Member for Buderim at the Deep Space Centre.

Nov 22nd, 2018

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An article featured in the Queensland Country Life today highlights the threat of closures of Queensland Agricultural Training Colleges as we await Agriculture Minister Mark Furners' long-awaited recommendations for the sector.

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The LNP will always fight for our Ag Colleges and our farmers. It’s time for Labor to come clean on the future Ag education in Queensland.

Nov 11th, 2018

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As Remembrance Day was observed on Sunday around the nation, I attended very moving ceremonies at both Pittsworth and Pilton. I was honoured to lay a wreath at the Pittsworth RSL Sub Branch 100th Year Celebration, and also to be part of the official opening of the Pilton Soldiers Memorial Museum - a wonderful tribute to the veterans of the area. At Pittsworth I am pictured alongside Ms Ros Scotney, Merv Kahler and Allen Peterson; and at Pilton I am joined by TRC Councillor Anne Glasheen, Malcolm Sypher, President, and John McVeigh Member for Groom. I have included photos of the Honour Rolls in each town to demonstrate the extraordinarily high rate of enlistment from small country communities.

Nov 6th, 2018

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Following the start of the Containers for Change QLD Recycling Scheme this month, I visited one of the depots in my electorate. Pittsworth Metalsare busy receiving bottles and cans daily. Ken (pictured below) is providing wheelie bins to local schools, sporting groups and so on to make collection and drop off an easy task. They have already received a staggering 40,000 plus containers! I encourage everyone to get behind the scheme to reduce unwanted litter in the environment and going to landfill.

Oct 31st, 2018

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The annual City versus Country Touch Football game was played at Suncorp Stadium on Monday evening and I was joined on the victorious Country side by my fellow State Development Natural Resources and Ag Industry Development Committee members Brent Mickelberg MP - Member for Buderim and David Batt MP - Member for Bundaberg. This game of Touch Football is enjoyed by Members from all parties representing electorates across the City area and right throughout regional Queensland.

Oct 31st, 2018

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I always enjoy a day out at the Toowoomba & District Old Machinery Society Inc - Tadoms field day held at the Oakey Showgrounds and last weekend was no exception with perfect weather and green feed about after recent rain. I was invited to open the event and was joined by TADOMS President Bob Buckley and I can also be seen with the John Deere that I drove in the Grand Parade. If you are an old machinery enthusiast, this event is a must on the yearly calendar. Congratulations to the Society for another successful rally.

Oct 26th, 2018

Yesterday I had the great pleasure and honour of presenting DownsSteam Tourist Railway & Museum, Drayton with a copy of Steam Australia by Tim Fischer on his behalf. As well as his many political achievements, Tim is acknowledged as something of an expert on rail travel and history, and this new book is a fascinating look at the role of steam rail in the development of Australia. It was a most enjoyable gathering and I am pictured here with Ros Scotney, Chairperson of DownsSteam, and Robert Ketton, train enthusiast.

Oct 25th, 2018

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This morning I attended the Pittsworth Mayoral Prayer Breakfast at the Pittsworth Golf Club. This was the 4th such breakfast, raising funds to support the Pittsworth local school Chaplaincy program - a very valuable community asset.Here I am pictured catching up with this mornings' guest speaker Peter James, CEO of Scripture Union of Queensland of Queensland, and Mayor Paul Antonio.

Oct 24th, 2018

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This morning I was pleased to attend the Toowoomba Catholic Schools 2018 Year 12 Apprentice and Trainee Employer Thank You Breakfast. This was an opportunity to recognise and thank all those businesses who partner with schools to assist and support our young trainees and apprentices, helping to make their progression to a trade possible. I am pictured below with Dr Pat Coughlan, Executive Director of Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office and Councillor Mike Williams attending the breakfast.

Oct 22nd, 2018

On Sunday, I sponsored the 18 hole stableford event at the Clifton Golf Club with prizes from the Queensland Parliament. Congratulations to winner, Daniel Hedges and runner up, Graham Riddle. Clifton Golf Course & Club Page

Oct 22nd, 2018

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On Saturday, I visited the Crows Nest Tennis Club for the unveiling of their newly resurfaced and fenced courts in Crows Nest, Queensland. I was met by Club President Paul Fleming and was lucky enough to serve the first ball on the new courts to young Abigail. Tennis is a great social game and I am pleased to see the community of Crows Nest benefitting from the recent upgrades to their courts.

Oct 16th, 2018

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Last Thursday, I met with Eric Jacometti, Managing Director of Boomaroo Nurseries, who is soon to open the new state-of-the-art vegetable seedling nursery at Southbrook. The operation at Southbrook will become one of the most advanced seedling nurseries in the world allowing Boomaroo to reach a greater number of growers and provide the latest innovations and technologies in vegetable seedling and Greenlife production.

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Oct 6th, 2018

The Cobb+Co Museum held the Lost Trades Fair - Toowoomba QLD over the weekend and I visited on Sunday along with a bumper crowd of approximately 6000 people on top of the 6500 that visited on Saturday. The Lost Trades Fair was a showcase of artisans practising their trades using skills that have been around for hundreds of years. We saw the making of wooden buckets, articles of leather work and items made from animal horn as well as the famous penny farthing bicycle. I caught up with Robin Krieg and Ben McIntyre who also enjoyed the event. I hope many people were inspired and reminded of the incredible skills of yesteryear and those who made things entirely by hand. Congratulations to Cobb&Co for a very successful Lost Trades Fair.

Oct 5th, 2018

Today I attended the official opening of the 18th Annual Members' Exhibition of the Pittsworth Art Group Inc. which was held at the Pittsworth Art Gallery. The exhibition opening was well attended and the standard of artwork on display was exceptional. I was lucky enough to purchase an artwork by Cecelia Krieg which is shown in this photo gallery. The exhibition is on display at the gallery in Pittsworth until 14 October.

Sept 28th, 2018

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During the past few days the 2018 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament has been held at Parliament House. The representative for Condamine was Bonnie McKinlay, pictured here entering the Annexe. I hope Bonnie, and all the participants, have enjoyed their experience this week.

Sept 28th, 2018

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​Congratulations to the Wagner family of Toowoomba and the Wellcamp Airport on securing the new QANTAS Pilot Training Academy. The academy is expected to be operational by mid 2019 and QANTAS CEO Alan Joyce said Toowoomba was chosen because of the access to uncongested airspace, a high proportion of clear weather days per year, the support infrastructure available and the regions' ability to attract students and trainers to live in the area. This will be a wonderful asset in the Toowoomba region and I congratulate everyone involved in the selection process. I am pictured below with Denis Wagner Jr, and Joe and Helen Wagner at the announcement this morning.

Sept 26th, 2018

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​Congratulations to David and Gay Keary of Pittsworth who took the honours in the Town Garden section of the Country Garden Winners of Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. David and Gay have obviously put enormous effort into their displays and their beautiful garden is well worth a visit.

Sept 25th, 2018

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Nexus TSRC CEO, John Hagan met me for an inspection tour of the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing yesterday. The section of the road in the Condamine electorate west of Toowoomba is all but completed on schedule from Beresford Rd to the Gore Highway. Work is still ongoing from where the crossing intersects the New England Highway eastwards but work is still mostly on schedule. The viaducts and spans across various road sections are very impressive and I can only anticipate the benefits of the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing when it is completed.

Sept 25th, 2018

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On Sunday, I attended the official opening of the Goombungee Fire and Rescue Station which was attended by Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Craig Crawford MP. I congratulate the township of Goombungee on this improvement which I know will assist local emergency service officers in times of need.

Sept 24th, 2018

On Sunday, I sponsored a Golf Day at the Goombungee Golf Club with prizes from the Queensland Parliament gift shop. Overall Winner was Col Shields from The Barn at Oakey and Runner Up went to Ann Cass. I am sponsoring several golf days around the Condamine electorate in the coming months so be sure to check your club calendar for the next sponsored day.

Sept 12th, 2018

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​The Amaroo Environmental Education Centre is one of 25 outdoor and environmental education centres across Queensland that are owned and managed by the Queensland Department of Education. Amaroo is located in the Condamine electorate and provides programs to several Condamine schools including Quinalow State School and I was lucky enough to join the Year 4 to 6 students there yesterday morning. The program being delivered is 'Murri and Migaloo Magic' which focusses on the comparison between Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures. Prinicpal of Amaroo, Cam Mackenzie led myself and the students on a bush walk and the students then participated in an activity of building shelter in the bush. I thank Cam and the students from Quinalow for an enjoyable morning at Amaroo. Click on the tag above to find out more.

Sept 10th, 2018

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In the early hours of the morning on Wednesday the 22nd of August the Commercial Hotel, located in the main street of Dalby, was extensively damaged by fire. The hotel fondly known as ‘Mary’s’ was an icon of the town. Although Dalby is no longer in my electorate I spent time in Mary’s from a very early age as did many others.

The original hotel was built in 1885. The building was demolished in 1909 and a two storey brick establishment was constructed in its place. The Commercial had several female publicans. One was Miss Mary Barry, becoming the owner in 1952. Mary passed away in 2010 at the age of 91 still living in the hotel and coming downstairs when she could, to be with her faithful patrons. The hotel was officially named ‘Mary’s’ in 2010 as a tribute to Mary.

Mary Barry was a living legend in Dalby, known far and wide for her hospitality and her hotel was an institution. Everyone knew about Mary’s no matter which part of the country they hailed from. After Dalby cattle sales all the agents and buyers would end up at Mary’s for a drink to wash the dust away. It was the favourite haunt of many a local bank manager, farmer or grazier, with generations of families all knowing the familiar timber bar. As a small child I fondly remember sitting up at the bar and being given a red lemonade by Mary followed by ‘Happy Days’ darling. When I was old enough I loved going to Mary’s for a beer or two after a cricket match. At times it was packed to over flowing with patrons new and old spilling out on to the pavement.

Mary was a big supporter of local sporting clubs, with the rugby union and cricket clubs being amongst her favourites. Famous faces were seen from time to time enjoying the warm, relaxing atmosphere Mary’s always provided. Unfortunately the fire has destroyed memorabilia that was collected over many years, along with decades of photographs and sporting successes. The loss of Mary’s has left a deep sadness in the hearts of all those who entered this historic building.

Sept 5th, 2018

Join us in the fight for a full review of the 950 Bus Service from Crows Nest to Toowoomba via Highfields, including community consultation, to ensure this service meets the needs of the Crows Nest and Highfields communities.

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SIGN PETITION HERE

Aug 31st, 2018

I have recently asked the Clerk of the Parliament to launch an ePetition in support of urgent repair work on the Clifton Leyburn Road. This road is in dire need of repair and currently presents a safety issue for all who travel on it. Click this link to open the E-Petition:  https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/work-of-assembly/petitions/petition-details?id=2994. The e-Petition closes on 31/10/2018. Please support our efforts to secure better funding for roads in our region.

Aug 27th, 2018

Last Friday, I was joined by my fellow State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee (SDNRAIDC) colleagues for a tour of the DA Hall & Co Egg Farm at Millmerran and the Millmerran Power Station. DA Hall and Co cares for 1.8 million laying hens and produces around 10% of Australia's eggs using high standards in animal welfare and biosecurity measures. The Millmerran Power Station is one of Australia's most environmentally efficient power stations using less water and coal than other coal fired power stations and provides power to 1.1 million homes. It was an interesting and informative tour and I thank DA Hall and Co and the Millmerran Power Station for hosting the committee.

Aug 27th, 2018

I have had many constituents ask me how they can access drought relief funding. Assistance is available from many sources so I would like to provide an overview of where constituents can go to find out what they may be eligible to receive.
Federal Government drought support Farm Household Allowance go to http://www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-fo…/drought/assistance

Rural Financial Counsellors can assist with the process of applying for Farm Household Allowance. Find your nearest counsellor at 
http://www.agriculture.gov.au/…/rural-financial-counsel…/qld

The Queensland Farmers' Federation website has several useful links for support including mental health services, Aussie Helpers, The Big Dry Drought Appeal, Rotary and Drought Angels. Go to 
https://www.qff.org.au/b…/support-farmers-rural-communities/

The QCWA Queensland Country Women's Association offers assistance through the Public Rural Crisis Fund. Go to 
https://www.qcwa.org.au/what-we-do/public-rural-crisis-fund/

Aug 23rd, 2018

There will be a Carers Qld / NDIS Workshop in Pittsworth on Friday Sept 7th

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The Bringing your Plan to Life workshop is provided to empower participants and carers to better understand their NDIS plan and maximise the benefits it provides. It will cover information around funding types, services categories and more...

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Time: 10am - 11.30am Venue: Pittsworth Function Centre, Hume St Pittsworth

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For information contact Estela (07) 4646 2800

Aug 13th, 2018

Is your club or association looking to apply for a grant in the future? Why not head to one of these grant writing workshops hosted by Toowoomba Region? Government funding is readily available at both Local, State and Federal level and knowing how to tap into those resources can make the difference in ensuring your application is successful.

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Workshops- (8.45am for a 9am start)

11th Sept - Pittsworth Function Centre

13th Sept - Goombungee Service Centre

15th Sept - Toowoomba City Library

Aug 8th, 2018

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Yesterday I attended the unveiling of the last piece of work in the mural that has been created by the Year 10 students at Clifton State High School. The incredible collection of work from these very talented students has been under creation over four years from 2014 to 2018 which commemmorates 100 Years of ANZAC and the move towards victory of the Australians in WWI. The students I spoke to were very proud of their achievement and I too was very impressed by the standard and appeal of the completed mural. I offer my congratulations to the students and their school for providing them with the opportunity to create such an impressive display that will remain there for many years to come.

Aug 7th, 2018

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The Official launch of the 'Have Another Look Captain Cook Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture Week' at Cobb+Co Museum in Toowoomba see me joined by Dennis Campbell, Tony Coonan, Learning Officer from Cobb+Co who was dressed up a Captain Cook, Jim Thompson, John McVeigh, Cr Megan O'Hara Sullivan, Trevor Watts, John Dornbusch from University of Southern Queensland - Australia and David Williams from Queensland Museum.

Aug 2nd, 2018

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The Scouts Queensland today held a "scarfing up" ceremony to increase awareness of scouting in conjunction with World Scouting day on 1 August. State politicians and local mayors and councillors were invited to "scarf up" in recognition of their local scouting communities. I am pictured here with David Janetzki MP, Member for Toowoomba South, and young scouts Victoria Sherrie, Alexa Ready and Aimie Sherrie. The girls participate in Scouts at Drayton and Glenvale.

Aug 1st, 2018

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Recently I have had cause to drive the Clifton - Leyburn Road on a few occasions. The appalling state of this road was first brought to my attention by Janeen Maguire concerned for the safety of the school children who travel along it every day. I have met with Mark Bailey, current Minister for Transport and Main Roads to discuss the funding needs for this road and was dismayed by his response that the TMR "continually monitors this road on a monthly basis" and that "ongoing repairs" will take place over the next two financial years! That is two years of ineffective tinkering which will do nothing to improve the state of the road or the safety of those who use it. Clearly visible in the picture here is one of the signs which have appeared since my meeting with the Minister, advising that drivers should Reduce Speed - an admission that the road is not up to standard for normal use.
I thank Janeen and Pat Maguire, and bus operator Colleen Horten for their time today.

July 30th, 2018

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Yesterday I visited Precision Ag Solutions with Shadow Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning and Member for Glass House Andrew Powell MP. I was also joined by Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts MP as well as Danny Weier, Scott Farquharson, Mike Jones and Nick Farquharson from Precision Ag, a local company that produces precision technology products and provides support to farmers in Queensland and New South Wales.

July 30th, 2018

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NDIS National Disability Insurance Scheme Information and Access Pittsworth, Queensland. Do you want to know about the NDIS? There are free sessions on Fridays at the Pittsworth Function Centre on these dates from 10am - 1pm:-

• 17 August

• 7 & 28 September

• 19 October

• 9 & 30 December

July 24th, 2018

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Last Friday I visited AgEtal Pty. Ltd. seed and grain testing laboratory in Toowoomba. The operation at AgEtal is very, very impressive and I was most interested to tour the facilities and learn about the highly technical and scientific work done by employees there. The laboratory carries out specific testing on seeds to determine quality for highest value production in the agricultural cropping industry. Visitors from AgForce South West Queensland were also on tour that day and were similarly impressed with what they saw. Thanks to Ken Cunliffe for showing us around the AgEtal facility. I am pictured here with Rachel Baskerville, Ken Cunliffe and Tara Russell.

July 22nd, 2018

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I attended the AgForce Queensland Grains Gala Dinner at Clifford Park Racecourse last Friday where I was pleased to congratulate Paul McIntosh on receiving the 2018 AgForce Grains Service to Industry Award. Paul is very highly regarded as an agronomist and he is very deserving of this recognition. I know Paul very well and used to play cricket against him back in the day so it was a pleasure to join him and his wife Roslyn on the night.

July 16th, 2018

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Yesterday I presented a new Queensland flag to representatives from Oakey RSL Sub Branch. Eligible not-for-profit organisations and schools are able to receive a free Queensland Flag. To find out more, click here- https://www.patweir.com.au/qld-flag-requests
0r send an email to my office-  condamine@parliament.qld.gov.au

July 11th, 2018

Yesterday I was a guest at the Crows Nest, Goombungee and Kingsthorpe combined QCWA AGM, held at Crows Nest QCWA hall. The QCWA is a wonderful organisation and many smaller communities are indebted to the efforts of their members. Here I am pictured with Lisa Goodman (TRC), Cathy Lacey (Pres Crows Nest QCWA), Dorothy Dorries (Pres Kingsthorpe QCWA), Elaine Kieseker (State Vice Pres Southern Region QCWA) and Phoebe Mitchell (Darling Downs Div Pres QCWA)

July 6th, 2018

On Wednesday July 4th I was pleased to help sponsor the Pittsworth Bowls Club Town & Country Interclub Competition day. It was well attended and enjoyed by all who came. I am pictured below during the trophy presentation with Roger Gibbs, Trevor Briese and Neil Ezzy who were Runners Up for the day, and Lester Harveys' winning team.

July 4th, 2018

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On Monday I was very interested to meet with Suzie Byrnes, Regional Development Advisor with LifeFlight Toowoomba. Suzie showed me around the new LifeFlight hangar, currently under construction, which will house new and improved facilities for the LifeFlight service throughout the South West. I am pictured with Chris Luhrs of Hutchinson Builders and Suzie Byrnes.

June 25th, 2018

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Last Friday, I travelled out to Charleville for the Property Rights Australia Conference which I was invited to attend in Ann Leahy's absence. The hot topics at the Conference were the vegetation management issue and landowners rights when dealing with resource and mining companies. The conference was very well attended and I appreciated being able to meet with landowners particularly following on from my recent visits to regional Queensland. I was joined by Peter Spies from North Queensland and Martin Bella from Sarina who were both keen to 'maintain the rage' for farmers and graziers against the unfair vegetation management laws by wearing their iconic green shirts. Of particular interest on my journey was the big sign that welcomes travellers to the Western Mulga lands.

June 20th, 2018

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Deb Frecklington, Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minster for Trade visited Toowoomba on June 20th to discuss a range of issues currently concerning the region. It was a very informative day and we met with a number of industry and community representatives. We are pictured here with David Janetzki MP Toowoomba South, Jo Sheppard of the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce, Peter Wilson of Australian Milling Group, Stacey Burrell of TSBE and Kate Venables of CatholicCare Social Services.

June 12th, 2018

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I joined with constituents in Oakey, Queensland andPittsworth, Queensland over the weekend to celebrate Queensland Day. On Saturday I attended the Oakey Historical Museum where I helped to cut Queensland's birthday cake with Mayor Paul Antonio.

June 9th, 2018

Last Sunday, I attended the Crows Nest Pony Club for the official opening of their new ablutions block. This is a great addition to their facilities, and I am pictured here with Club President Cassie O'Brien and Vice President Ryan Willis. I thank the Club for the opportunity to say a few words and be a part of their celebration.

June 5th, 2018

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I’m at the opening day of Farm Fest 2018 with Jim McDonald MP Lockyer, Deb Frecklington MP and Tony Perrett and Trevor from Chesterfield Australia in front of the John Deere S770 harvester. The S700 series combine harvester is new for 2018.

May 29th, 2018

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This morning I attended the unveiling of the spectacular mural at Gowrie State School that was created using funds from the Reconciliation in Queensland Schools Program (RISQ). The unveiling of the mural coincides with National Reconciliation Week and I was honoured to be invited to join Principal Mandy Norton-McNeill and the students from Gowrie State School on this important occasion.

May 28th, 2018

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This morning I attended the Flag Raising Ceremony in Oakey, Queensland to mark the beginning of National Reconciliation Week. Students from Oakey State High School, Oakey State School and St Monica's School, Oakey assisted Francis Nona from Goondir Health Services with the raising of the flags. John McVeigh and Toowoomba Regional Councilors were also in attendance. I gave a short address to those present and highlighted the importance of acknowledging the atrocities of the past but also the fact that we can't change history and the path to reconciliation is about moving forward. We need to address the inequalities that still exist and look at all areas of Queensland individually to determine the best way forward. I commend the involvement of local organisations such as Goondir and the work they do with indigenous people in the community.

May 15th, 2018

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The Crows Nest Show was held last Saturday and despite the very cold weather, the event was most successful and enjoyable for 2018. I congratulate the Showgirl entrants and winners in the various categories and I also would like to express my appreciation and amazement for the incredible displays in the pavilions. The quality and amount of produce, cookery, craft, art and flowers was some of the very best I have seen and the people in the district who submitted entries should be very proud. To win a ribbon at Crows Nest Show would have been an honour as the standard was very high. Congratulations to the committee and hardworking volunteers who made 2018 Crows Nest Show a success.

May 14th, 2018

It has been a busy few weeks with the start of the local Shows (Goombungee Haden Show pictured) and a visit to Beef Week 2018 in Rockhampton. I have also been busy with continued hearings and submissions regarding the new Vegetation Management Laws in Parliament and it was great to see so many Queenslanders speak out and get involved in this important issue.

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I continue to get out and about in Condamine conducting mobile office events. So far I have been to Pittsworth and Crows’ Nest, and the next one is in Oakey on May 19th. These days are a wonderful opportunity to meet the locals and hear about what is important to them.

May 9th, 2018

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I have had the great pleasure of attending Beef Week in Rockhampton for the past couple of days. It has been wonderful to meet and talk with many rural producers and to see the very high standard of stock on show. Here I am pictured with Lachlan Millar MP Shadow Minister for Fire Emergency Services and Volunteers and Tony Perrett MP Shadow Minister for Agricultural Industry Development.

April 26th, 2018

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The State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee report on the Vegetation Management and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 was handed down on Monday, 23 April and I am very disappointed in the recommendations contained in this report.

Non-government members on the committee including myself as Deputy Chair travelled to regional forums and listened to many concerned landowners across Queensland. I understand their concerns and I have provided a dissenting report which is attached at the back of the committee report starting on page 127.

I have tried to reflect the views of many of those farmers and landowners who are worried about the impact this legislation will have on their operations including industry bodies such as AgForce and The Queensland Famers Federation in my dissenting report. I share the disappointment that the views of so many of these people were not listened to.

There are several reasons we have opposed this legislation including the lack of meaningful consultation and proper cost analysis on the social and economic impacts this bill will have on regional Queensland. I also believe there are concerns with the justification of the removal of High Value Agricultural Land and Irrigated High Value Agricultural Land from the act and the proposed vegetation clearing code for mulga fodder harvesting is unworkable.

The maps for regrowth are inaccurate and incomplete, and this means the legislation does not reflect the whole story around vegetation management in Queensland. The committee report does make a number of recommendations but these are aimed at resolving the issues arising from the proposed legislation but without the changes to this legislation, those problems do not currently exist.

I would like to thank all those people who attended the hearings from communities around Longreach, Cloncurry, Charleville, Townsville, Rockhampton and Cairns and also those who made submissions to the committee.

I will be speaking against this legislation when the Bill comes before the house at the next sitting of Parliament.

April 26th, 2018

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It was an honour to be present at ANZAC Day Services across the Condamine electorate yesterday, paying tribute to the many servicemen and women, and their families, who have done so much for their country. Below are a few pictures taken at the Acland, Drayton and Westbrook Services. I sincerely thank those communities for allowing me the opportunity to participate.

April 6th, 2018

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Drug use and the terrible consequences on society are becoming more and more of a problem in regional areas. Many affected families do not know where to turn, but I have recently been made aware of a program being run in Toowoomba in August which seeks to support affected families. I have shared the details here for anyone who is interested:
STEPPING STONES (Family Drug Support)
There are no rights or wrongs
You don’t have to do it alone, nor do you have to remain helpless.
Learn new skills to help cope better and survive this journey intact.
WHEN: August 4-5 & 18-19 (1 weekend break in between)
TIME: 9:30am to 4pm (all four days)
COST: FDS members $40(course workbook)
Non-members $70 ($30 annual membership subscription plus $40 workbook)
The course itself is free.
VENUE: Toowoomba Hospital, Unara Room 1, 154 Pechey St, South Toowoomba QLD
CALL: Chrissie 0484 002181 or Head Office (02) 4782 9222
RSVP by27 July 2018 - Limited spaces Bookings are essential

March 28th, 2018

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As part of the State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee I am currently touring regional Queensland attending public hearings relating to the proposed changes for Vegetation Management Laws. The public events have been very well attended and very informative - I am pictured here with Brent Mickelberg MP - Member for Buderim and David Batt MP - Member for Bundaberg in Rockhampton yesterday. We have moved on to Cloncurry today, and will hold hearings in both Longreach and Charleville tomorrow.

March 27th, 2018

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The Agricultural Show culture is alive and well in Goombungee and I was witness to the incredible turn out for the Goombungee-Haden A. H. & P. Society Inc. Miss Showgirl Ball on Saturday evening. I would have estimated there to be around 200 people in attendance and the entries in the various sections of the Miss Showgirl competition was evidence of the community's broad support for their local show. I was joined by 2017 Miss Showgirl Lucy Leicht, Matron of the Ball 2018, Vicki Redding and her daughter-in-law Hannah Redding after the winners were announced.

March 27th, 2018

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Crows Nest Community Solutions Ltd has recently acquired a parcel of bushland which is not State or Council owned and will be used exclusively as an environmental park for bushwalking and bird watching. I attended the guided bush walk and BBQ on Saturday to celebrate the acquisition of this beautiful bushland and I congratulate the committee on their effort to manage and conserve the natural features of the Crows Nest, Queensland area.

March 13th, 2018

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Last night I attended a wonderful information evening held by the Clifton Megafauna Group Inc. Clifton, Queensland is an area rich with fossils, and the Group is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of megafauna specimens found in the local area - in time they hope to secure funds for the construction of a museum to house their collections. I am pictured here with Dr Gilbert Price PhD from The University of Queensland - UQ (guest speaker) and Mr Ian Sobbe who is an accomplished private fossil collector.

March 17th, 2018

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Last Friday I had the pleasure of attending the Mount Tyson State School Leadership Presentation ceremony. As the day marked the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence, Principal Michael Routledge spoke clearly about the issue of bullying and the importance of respect and strong leadership. I am pictured here with the 2018 student leaders and their certificates.

March 16th, 2018

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Today I visited Pilton State School. This is a small but vibrant school community which has been serving the local community for over 100 years. I am pictured below with the School Leaders after presenting them with a Queensland State Flag to be displayed at the school.

March 12th, 2018

FIGHT FOR OUR FARMERS - SIGN THE PETITION

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Labors' Vegetation Management Amendments tabled in Parliament yesterday are an unfair attack on farming communities. Instead of supporting farmers, Annastacia Palaszczuk is taking away landowners rights and threatening their ability to grow the food and fibre we need. QFF, AgForce and other industry bodies have slammed the amendments, saying they are disappointed and frustrated by the unnecessary changes.

The new laws would make it nearly impossible to bring new land into high value agricultural production. The fact is, since the LNPs' balanced vegetation management laws were passed, clearance rates have been 17% lower than the long run average.

As Deputy Chair of the State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee I will be fighting against the proposed changes. I would urge all affected landholders to oppose the changes by signing the petition at fightforfarmers.com.au and to consider making a submission to the SDNRAIDC from Monday. Check our facebook page or this website for further details.

March 12th

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Here are the details on how to make a submission to the State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee on the proposed legislation to amend land clearing laws. I believe these proposed changes will take away landowners rights to manage their land. You can go to The Queensland Parliamentary Website to read the proposed changes.
http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/…/curren…/5VegManagOLAB2018
I urge all affected landowners to make a submission to ensure these proposed changes do not get passed in Parliament.

March 7th, 2018

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Pat played host to the Year 6 students from Geham State School at Parliament House on Wednesday. The students are studying citizenship and civics and their visit to Brisbane and Parliament House allowed them the opportunity to meet Pat and fire some questions  at him as well as time sitting in the gallery watching the proceedings of the House. School groups are welcome to visit Parliament House as part of their studies and Pat welcomes the opportunity to meet with students and their teachers during a sitting week.

Feb 28th, 2018

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​Last Saturday, I was part of the judging panel for the Pittsworth Showgirl competition which culminated in the Pittsworth Show Society Inc Ball on Saturday night. Moore Trailers from Pittsworth were Gold Sponsors of the event so I would like to extend my thanks to them, the organisers, the 10 Showgirl entrants and also my sincere congratulations to the winners. Over 220 people attended the Show Ball which is testament to the support for the Showgirl entrants from their immediate supporters and the wider community of Pittsworth, Queensland. Other sponsors included pb Agrifoods, Pittsworth Confectionery and Hudson Panel Beaters Pty Ltd. Next stop will be the Pittsworth Show on which kicks off on 9 March. I'll be there for the Cattle and Prime Lamb Auction at 12 noon.

February 19th, 2018

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Congratulations to the Senior students of Clifton State High School who were appointed as the leaders of their school this morning. I am joined here by Kate Dowdle and Sophie Facer who are keen to begin their Senior year.

February 16th, 2018

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On Monday I attended the Investiture Ceremony for Pittsworth State High School Leaders for 2018, and was invited to present the Leaders with their badges. It is always a pleasure to meet the young community leaders of the future, and I wish them well in the year ahead.

February 15th

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This week I have been privileged to be part of the Opening of the new Parliament. There have been many events and speeches to mark the occasion and I am pictured here with the Leader of the Opposition Deb Frecklington, my brother Gerard Weir and his wife Amanda who were my guests. I look forward to the term ahead with great enthusiasm.

February 8th, 2018

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Yesterday I was honoured to be present at the Turning of the Sod ceremony to mark the beginning of construction of Coopers Gap Wind Farm, which took place at the Cooranga North Memorial Hall.
Once constructed Coopers Gap will be the largest wind farm in Australia and the Southern hemisphere. It has a projected workforce of 150-200 workers during the construction phase, and 20 local permanent roles after completion.

I am pictured at the ceremony with Keith Campbell - Mayor - South Burnett Regional Council, Mr Mick Cosgrove who played an integral role in the early stages of the Project in his capacity as Mayor of the former Wambo Shire Council, and Paul McVeigh, Mayor of Western Downs Regional Council.

February 2nd, 2018

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Yesterday marked the Launch of the 2018 Mayors Telstra Technology Awards at TAFE Queensland - South West Region RTO 0275 in Toowoomba. The Awards are open to students in years 10 - 12, encouraging innovation and helping students to see how their ideas can be transformed into the industries of tomorrow. Here I am pictured with Pittsworth State High School Senior IT students Laura and Damon.

Feb 2nd, 2018

Yesterday I attended the wonderful celebration of Cambooya Community Kindergarten Assoc becoming part of the C&K - The Creche & Kindergarten Association Limited network. I enjoyed meeting the children, their parents and staff as they marked this special milestone. 

Jan 26th, 2018

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​There was plenty to see and do over the Australia Day weekend in the Condamine electorate. I attended ceremonies and events in Crows Nest, Queensland, Oakey, Queensland and Pittsworth, Queenslandwhere I was able to congratulate the various winners of the community Australia Day Awards. In Pittsworth I congratulated Judy Krieg who was awarded the Citizen of the Year and Bruce Von Hoff who was named the Sports Person of the Year. Bruce is joined by his wife Ros. In Oakey I was joined by Citizen of the Year, Glenda Underwood where I also enjoyed the rafting on Oakey Creek. In Crows Nest, I was joined by Councillor Ann Glasheen for the Crows Nest Day activities which included a street parade. Congratulations to all the winners of the awards and to the organisers of the various community events around Condamine.