This week has seen the introduction of new legislation for local government particularly regarding how conflicts of interest are managed and the process for bringing complaints against councillors. These changes come in the wake of the recent high profile prosecution of councillors.

Whilst everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence, serious allegations and charges have been made against councillors from at least 4 councils across Queensland.

Along with my fellow Mayors from the Wide Bay Burnett area, I was fortunate to meet with the local Government Minister, Sterling Hinchliffe and as a collective group, offered our full support.

As I have said previously, no councillor across Queensland should hold any fears regarding this new legislation if they are doing the right thing and working for their community.

There are 77 councils right across Qld and issues have been identified in only 4.

As the Minister said last week, the vast majority of Councillors and staff are doing the right thing, and this is the positive we can take away.

I for one welcome the new legislation which I am sure will see Councillors doing the wrong thing brought to justice. More importantly, those of us acting with integrity and ethically and making our communities a better place, can have the ongoing confidence of the community and get on with the job.

On another note, this week we are celebrating National Volunteer Week where we get to acknowledge and appreciate the incredible contribution that our local volunteers make to the Gympie region.
We have an truly generous community who give of their time to sporting, musical, community, and charity groups to name a few, because they want to make a difference.

And I’m looking forward to celebrating with them all at our Annual Morning Tea tomorrow at the Civic Centre. Thank you to all our volunteers for your hard work, commitment and dedication - you make the Gympie region a better place to live.

Mayor Mick Curran