With the year almost at an end, it is a good time to reflect on the past 12 months and all that has been achieved.
The ARC has seen record numbers of over 147,000 visitors in the first 12 months of operation. This modern facility is well utilised not only by our community, but also by visitors from neighbouring regions. 

Thousands have jumped on board the Rattler since its launch, with the majority of passengers coming from outside the region, bringing with them economic benefits to our community. 
The completion of the River to Rail Trail Stage 1 and the award-winning Curra Hall have added to the liveability of our region, and provide opportunities for social health and wellbeing.  

One of our major infrastructure projects - the resealing of Tagigan Road - is almost complete.  
As reported by the Real Estate Institute of Queensland, our building numbers are up, which means that our population continues to grow and the Gympie region is seen as a desirable place to live. 

Council also delivered a number of community projects and programs. The ‘1000 Books Before School’ program run by our libraries was a huge success. The ‘Our Towns’ programs continued to support and enhance our rural towns and communities, and the assistance grants program delivered much needed funding to various organisations. Our work in the environment space included weed control where we had a panel of experts deliver information on Giant Rats Tail Grass. 

There is so much more to mention such as our continuous roads and maintenance program, the work in our parks and public spaces, and events such as the 20th anniversary of our Gallery, Emergency Services Expo, Rush and the Queens Baton Relay.
I am proud of what we have achieved over the past 12 months, and 2019 will be no different as we continue to ensure our region is a great place to work, live and play.

Mayor Mick Curran