Hell of the West is Triathlon of the Year!
I am delighted to congratulate our very own Hell of the West (HOTW) triathlon, which has taken home the gold at the 2025 AusTriathlon Awards held at the Gold Coast. Taking out the Event of the Year: 500–1000 participants category, Queensland’s toughest triathlon was up against some very impressive finalists such as Barwon Heads and Sid James Harbour Triathlons. The iconic HOTW will celebrate its 35th anniversary in March next year - an incredible milestone for a race first launched in 1989 by passionate local triathlon enthusiasts, and now delivered with dedication by the Goondiwindi Triathlon Club.
HOTW’s gruelling 2km swim, 80km cycle, and 20km run continue to attract hundreds of competitors and their support crews from all over the country, bringing a significant economic boost to our community over the weekend.
A huge congratulations must go to the committee, volunteers, athletes, and supporters who pour their time, talent, and enthusiasm into making HOTW the remarkable event it is today - we couldn’t be prouder for Hell of the West to call Goondiwindi home.
Update – Council working with Essential Energy to address Yelarbon concerns
An update now for Yelarbon town, where over the past couple of weeks residents have reported experiencing intermittent power supply issues, which in turn has impacted water supply. Council is working with Essential Energy, as we understand that the power supply issues are causing the town water booster pumps to stop and start frequently. Council has engaged a local electrician to monitor the incoming power supply, and the findings have now been forwarded to Essential Energy for further investigation. While Council has no control over the stability of the external electricity network, we are also exploring whether any internal measures can help reduce the impact of these disruptions. Council will provide more updates on this issue.
Storm season on the horizon – take simple steps now to prepare
Our region was hit hard by severe storms this fortnight - from downed power lines and large fallen trees to significant damage to sheds, machinery, and private property. With summer and our peak storm season upon us, it’s a timely reminder for residents to get storm-ready. Simple steps such as clearing gutters, securing loose items like trampolines, and managing overhanging trees can make a meaningful difference in reducing risk and protecting homes and families.
I extend a sincere thank you to the many volunteers who pitched in to help their neighbours and wider community clear up – as well as our Council crews, who were out early the next morning working swiftly to clear extensive storm damage, restore access, and address safety hazards. Council has waived the bulk green-waste fees through to this Sunday [7 December] to support residents with clean-up efforts.
Goondiwindi grads farewell Class of 2025
I was delighted to attend the Goondiwindi Year 12 Graduation Ceremony – as always, a significant milestone not only for the students but also for their families, teachers, and the wider school community. It’s a moment filled with pride as graduates prepare to step into the wider world, ready to forge their own paths and make their mark. I offer my warm congratulations to the Class of 2025, heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff who have guided them, and a big well done to the parents and families who supported them every step of the way.
Inglewood and Texas students celebrate success
Alongside my fellow councillors, I was pleased to attend both the 65th Annual Awards Night at Inglewood State School, and the Texas School Awards Night over the past fortnight. Councillors also attended the St Maria Goretti graduation and awards night earlier this week. These events are a wonderful recognition of the hard work and dedication shown by students throughout the year, celebrating their academic, sporting, cultural, and leadership achievements for 2025. It’s always inspiring to see the talent and commitment within our schools, and to acknowledge the staff and families who support them. Congratulations to all award recipients and their supportive families and school communities.
Ready to serve – no faults for Kindon’s new tennis courts
It was wonderful to join the Kindon School community for the official opening of their newly refurbished tennis court - a fantastic opportunity for students, families, and staff to come together and celebrate this valuable addition to the school. It’s wonderful to see investment in long-lasting infrastructure that supports active lifestyles and creates new opportunities for sport and connection within the community. The enthusiasm of the young players on the day made it clear just how much these courts will be enjoyed.