There is one thing that never surprises me and that is the strength and resilience of our community in times of natural disaster and crisis.  

This was highlighted again recently when we saw many in our community carry out their voluntary roles fighting fires in the Kandanga and Widgee/Kilkivan areas.  

These community members; dedicated Rural Fire Brigades, our State Emergency Service members, our urban firefighting personnel together with QPWS members worked long and arduous hours in bringing those fires under control. And we as a community must extend our thanks to them.  

As most of us saw via media reports from across both Qld and NSW, these people perform their roles in very trying circumstances and conditions which, in a heartbeat, can turn into very real life threatening situations. 

Thanks must also go to those behind the scenes who provided meals and refreshments when the front line personal where able to take a break from the tasks being performed.

As well as those employers who supported our community by giving our volunteers time off work to undertake those vital roles. 

From me personally and on behalf of Gympie Regional Council and the wider community, thank you. 

Having said this, we are by no means through the challenging weather conditions we are currently experiencing. 

I would ask the wider community to remain ‘aware but not alarmed’ to our present fire risks. 

Have your emergency plan prepared should you and your family need to act, and keep an eye out for your neighbours, especially if they may be elderly.    

Mayor Mick Curran