New Beginnings

Every year brings highs and lows but as we move forward into 2023 all we can do is our very best.

I’d like to share a couple of thoughts for the new year with you.

Please give a thought to the people that are homeless and that are living in tents around our town.  If you can assist with accommodation or know of anyone that can, please call CASA, St Vincent De Paul or Lifeline-Uniting Care.  

While housing is not a council issue, I will be working proactively with the state and agencies to help reduce this ongoing crisis for our region in 2023.

One of the committees I am on is the Environmental Disaster subcommittee. This sits under the Local Disaster Management Group, which will be on alert at this time of year getting ready for any disasters that may come our way.  

You can help by getting ready for storm season; prepare an emergency kit, clean up around the yard and use your dump vouchers to dispose of any items that could potentially become flying debris. Now is the ideal time to clean your gutters and think about your elderly neighbor that may also need a helping hand.

It’s also a timely reminder to support local businesses into the new year. These are the people that employ our local residents and keep our local economy going.

Finally, enjoy your time over the holidays and look forward to the new year. It’s a time for new beginnings.

Spend it with family just before we all go back to work and school. Why not take a look, walk, or picnic at our greatest asset in the city, the Pioneer River? Head down to the new river precinct which is now open to the public – this is the section from Paxton’s to the fish markets.  In the new year minor works will be occurring, so watch this space.

Happy New Year to each and every one of you and I am looking forward to continuing my advocacy in the community into 2023.

Cr Alison Jones

Mackay Regional Council

‍