Lockyer Valley Regional Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the region, the Ugarapul and Yuggera people, and pays its respects to their Elders, past and present, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of other communities who may live here. Lockyer Valley Regional Council is committed to cultivating inclusive environments for all staff, customers, residents and visitors.
Council delivers $114M Budget with major road investment.
Council handed down its 2025-26 Budget and Operational Plan on 1 July, which included significant investment in the region’s roads, directly responding to one of the most frequent concerns raised by residents.
When handing down the Budget, Mayor Tanya Milligan said it demonstrated Council’s strong commitment to invest even more into repairing and upgrading our road network.
“Council’s combined investment of $45.74M is a clear demonstration of our commitment to restoring and upgrading our road network as quickly as we can,” she said.
Mayor Milligan said Council had worked hard to keep this year’s general rate increase to a modest 3.56 per cent
“Combined with levies, the average residential owner-occupied property will see an increase of $110 per year, around $2.10 per week , to meet the rising cost of providing services,” Mayor Milligan said.
Council’s $29.76M Capital program will fund 87 projects, including $19.88M on renewal Works, $4.95M on new road network projects and $4.93M on infrastructure upgrades.
Deputy Mayor and Finance Portfolio Councillor Chris Wilson said Council’s average rate increase for the past four years was 3.7 per cent, compared to the average CPI of 4.5 per cent.
“This shows our genuine long-term commitment and concerted effort to find the balance between minimising impacts on families, while delivering the growing range of services the community expects,” he said.
“Council continues to operate responsibly and within its means, evidenced by our adjusted $1.01M surplus, and we have no debt now and none forecast.”
To read the Budget pack in full, visit www.lockyervalley.ql d.gov.au/budget
15,000 trees to be planted to help stabilise Lockyer Creek and improve native habitat.
Council has welcomed funding to reduce floodplain erosion along Lockyer Creek and enhance vital habitat for local wildlife.
Resilient Rivers (SEQ) recently unveiled a $30M, two-year program to rehabilitate and restore critical waterways and habitat across South East Queensland ahead of Brisbane 2032.
Mayor Tanya Milligan said as part of the investment, 15,000 trees would be planted in the Lockyer Valley to stabilise Lockyer Creek and improve native habitat for koalas, birds and reptiles.
“In partnership with Seqwater, 5000 native plants will be planted to reduce floodplain erosion along lower Lockyer Creek, which will prevent about 1000 tonnes of sediment from entering the creek each year,” Mayor Milligan said.
“A further 10,000 native plants will be planted on 30 hectares of land adjacent to Seven Mile Lagoon at Lockyer Waters, which is home to more than 150 bird species including migratory birds.
“The investment will also help establish the first regional platypus monitoring program, which Council is excited to be a part of,” she added.
The two-year investment (2025-26 and 2026-27) is the largest coordinated program of waterway and habitat revitalisation since the Resilient Rivers program was established following the 2011 floods.
Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers, Ann Leahy said the program was a great example of what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to safeguard communities.
“This program is delivering real results in disaster recovery and long-term flood resilience, including reducing the impact of flood waters and sediment from devastating our communities and ecosystems,” Ms Leahy said.
The funding includes $21.3M already committed through the SEQ City Deal, a partnership between the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Council of Mayors (SEQ), alongside the $8.7M from partners including SEQ councils and Seqwater.
Resilient Rivers (SEQ) is one of 29 commitments being delivered under the SEQ City Deal.
For more information on the Resilient Rivers SEQ program and upcoming projects, visit: www.resilie ntrivers.com.au
Council’s Local Heritage Register is set for a refresh.
Planning and Development Portfolio Councillor David Neuendorf said Council recently engaged a cultural heritage expert to undertake an updated local heritage study – the first for the region as a whole.
“The last heritage studies were completed in 2000 by the former Gatton Shire Council, and adopted into their planning scheme in 2007, and in 2001 by the former Laidley Shire Council, however this was never formally adopted,” he said.
“This recent study assessed 307 places within the Lockyer Valley that were identified as potentially having local heritage significance, with the expert recommending a total of 117 places for inclusion on the Register.
“Of those, 65 are currently on the Register and 52 are new places proposed to be entered into the Register, while 66 places are proposed to be removed from the Register.”
Under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, all local governments in Queensland are required to identify places of cultural heritage significance for their area in either a Local Heritage Register or their planning scheme.
“Council uses the Local Heritage Register to protect and manage our local heritage places so they can be enjoyed, both now and in the future,” Cr Neuendorf said.
“We have written to landowners of all properties proposed to be added, removed or retained on the Register, with details on how they can make a submission during the consultation period, which runs until 8 August 2025.
“We are also offering landowners one-on-one meetings with our planning officers and our heritage expert to discuss the proposed changes or the details of their property’s citation.”
To see the list of proposed changes, including information sheets and FAQs, and to make a submission, visit Council’s Engagement Hubhttps://lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au/ local -heritage-study
Alternatively, you can view the proposed changes in-person at the Gatton or Laidley Customer Service Centres.
For more information, email heritage@lvrc.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 1300 005 872.
Image Credit: State Library of Queensland Laidley Rail Station, 1901.
Projects completed in the last two months
• IGA Carpark, Laidley
• Biggs Road, Withcott Pavement Rehabilitation
• 2024-25 Bitumen Reseal Program
• Playground kerb and surfacing renewal at Little Apex Park, Gatton
• Laidley Memorial Park Improvements
• Lyne Road, Morton Vale Pavement Rehabilitation
• Helidon Township Entry Project
• Patrick Street, Laidley Pavement Works
• Cleaning of the identified blocked pipes and associated excavator work following TCAlfred
• Roadside weed treatments, particularly targeting lantana
• Bin and shade sail repairs
• Repaint of half-court at Walter Brunner Park
• Edgerton Drive, Plainland Rehabilitation
• Accessibility improvements at Laidley Pioneer Village, Lake Clarendon and Gatton Depot
Projects underway in July-August 2025
• Lake Apex Carpark Entrance
• Mahon Bridge Reconstruction
• Old Laidley Forest Hill RoadBlackspot Rehabilitation
• New amenities block, Lake Dyer
• Pre-digs at Gatton Cemetery for Section 10
• Tenthill Creek Road, Gatton Drainage Upgrades
Projects planned for September 2025 - February 2026 (weather permitting)
• John Street, South LaidleySafety and Pavement Upgrades
• Tenthill Creek Road, Gatton Drainage Upgrades
• Laidley Cultural Centre Upgrade
• Laidley Recreation Reserve Shelter Replacement
• 2025-26 Black Spot Program
• 2025-26 Bitumen Reseal Program - preparation works
• Footpath Missing Link Program - various locations
• LVSAC Pool Heating Replacement
Let us know! The sooner you report it, the quicker we can fix it.
To report a pothole, contact our friendly Customer Experience team on mailbox@lvrc.qld.gov.au, 1300 005 872 or click the button below.
Works were undertaken to improve safety, functionality and longevity of the road.
Council has recently completed an upgrade of Biggs Road in Withcott.
Council’s Infrastructure Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan said the project delivered much-needed enhancements to improve safety, functionality, and longevity of the corridor.
“Biggs Road serves as an essential connection between Toowoomba Connection Road and the residential zones of southern Withcott,” Cr Hagan said.
“The pavement had reached the end of its service life and had inconsistent road widths.
“Thanks to funding from the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program (SEQCSP), the project has established a consistent 7.5-metre-wide rural collector cross section.
“The inclusion of kerb and channel infrastructure, a 1.5-metre-wide concrete footpath, and an
underground stormwater system ensures better water management, pedestrian safety, and overall amenity for residents and road users.
“The 20-year pavement design life also promises a robust and durable road surface that will support growing transport demands well into the future.
“This upgrade has significantly enhanced connectivity, road safety, and accessibility for the Withcott community and reinforced our commitment to delivering high-quality, future-focused infrastructure.”
Works began in December 2024, with Council crews completing essential preparation including drainage, profiling, kerb concreting and primer sealing.
A specialised third-party contractor was engaged in March to perform the final bitumen reseal works and line marking.
Works to upgrade a section of Old Laidley Forest Hill Road have begun.
The project will see a 340-metre section of the road undergo a full reconstruction, including widening of the existing pavement and a culvert replacement.
Works began on 1 July and will take around eight to ten weeks to complete, weather pending.
Infrastructure Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan thanked the community for its patience as Council undertakes this important upgrade.
“Crews will work on one side of the road at a time, leaving one lane operating at all times under trailer mounted traffic lights,” he said.
“Motorists can expect a maximum wait time of around five minutes while these works restore the structural integrity of this important local road.
“Roads are very important for Council and for our community, and this important project will ensure much safer and more comfortable travel for our residents.”
This $484,500 project is funded by the Australian Government’s Black Spots Program.
Council’s 2024-25 Bitumen Reseal program has resealed 57km of existing road pavement, helping to extend the life of 42 local roads.
Resealing roads not only increases safety and extends the lifespan of the region’s sealed road network, but also improves driving conditions and makes them more resistant to weather-related damage.
Infrastructure Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan said Council’s road network is one of our greatest assets and without this essential upkeep, roads would deteriorate faster.
“Road maintenance is vital, and we always strive to be proactive in this space,” he said.
“The reseal is primarily about waterproofing the surface to protect the pavement and extend its life, as well as improve surface texture issues.”
The program is jointly funded by Council and the Australian Government through the Roads to Recovery (RTR) Program.
Upgrades to Laidley Memorial Park are now complete.
Council undertook the works, which included removing two hedges, garden edging and two seats, earlier this month at the request of the Laidley RSL Sub-Branch.
Parks and Gardens Portfolio Councillor Anthony Wilson said the improvements were made to accommodate larger crowds come Anzac Day.
“The RSL is now able to push the Master of Ceremonies area back, which opens the area for increased seating and greater crowd numbers, as well as greater viewing capability at events,” he said.
“Anzac Day continues to grow in popularity each year, and it will be great to improve viewing for people at future services, as well as to ensure pedestrian and motorist safety.”
Council’s new 2025–2026 Fees and Charges Register took effect on 1 July 2025.
Finance Portfolio Councillor and Deputy Mayor Chris Wilson said adopting the fees and charges served as a vital component of Council’s annual budget process.
“It ensures cost recovery fees are an actual reflection of the cost of delivering the associated services, and like many households and businesses, Council is still experiencing an increase in the costs of materials, services and labour caused by inflation.
“By adopting these changes, it also guarantees we comply with legislative requirements of the Local Government Act 2009,” he said.
For the 2025–2026 financial year, the forecast revenue from fees and charges is approximately $8.6M.
“Fees and charges are a user pays system, so only those who need the service are charged and other ratepayers are not burdened unnecessarily.
“The revenue expected from fees and charges is an important source of revenue and helps to offset Council’s reliance on general rates,” Cr Wilson said.
Cost recovery fees are generally set to align closely with the full cost of providing the relevant services.
“The majority of fees have increased within Council’s indexed percentage of 3.8 per cent, which is in line with Council’s long-term financial plan and the Queensland Council Cost Index.
“In some instances, fees and charges have been set to achieve Council’s requirement to have business units generate sufficient income during the year to cover their respective operating costs, plus a return on capital.
“Other adjustments to the fee amount may be the result of changing costs or service levels, where fees have been combined or abolished, or where fees have been rounded for ease of use,” Cr Wilson said.
To view the Fees and Charges 2025-2026, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-services/fees-and-charges
Council has requested the Queensland Valuer-General undertake a new land valuation for the Lockyer Valley.
At its May Ordinary Council Meeting, Council approved a recommendation to request a revaluation, helping to ensure the current economic conditions, market movements and the influence of recent land sales are accurately reflected in property values.
If the revaluation proceeds, it will take effect from 30 June 2026, three years after the last valuation came into effect, Mayor Tanya Milligan said.
“Conducting regular valuations helps minimise unexpected fluctuations in rates and provides ratepayers with greater confidence in the fairness and consistency of their assessment,” she said.
“It is also worth noting that the cost of valuations is about $170,000, and Council must pay this cost annually whether a valuation is conducted or not, so it makes sense to use this money wisely and regularly to get the most up-to-date land values for our community.
“If the Valuer-General decides to undertake the revaluation, the new values will be supplied to us by March 2026 and included within the rates modelling for the 2026-27 Budget.”
The Valuer-General is responsible for determining the value of rateable land and this forms the basis for general rates levied by Council each year. As land values fluctuate over time, the Valuer-General is required to review these valuations annually.
Deputy Mayor and Finance Portfolio Councillor Chris Wilson said as part of this process, Council is consulted to provide input on whether a revaluation should take place.
“Increases in market activity and property prices saw us seek revaluations for 2022 and 2023, and while the pace of sales has stabilised since then, they still remain strong relative to historic averages,” he said.
“In light of this, we’ve requested a revaluation to reduce the chance of large shifts and to create a more predictable and stable rating environment.
“If we don’t do this regularly, undesirable jumps can really blindside and sting our ratepayers, which is what we want to avoid.”
The Valuer-General will consider Council’s feedback, along with legislative requirements and other relevant factors, before confirming whether a revaluation will proceed.
To view the recent changes to land values in the Lockyer Valley, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov. au/land-valuation
The decision was made to end the trial following community feedback and a review of the service.
Council has formally brought its Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) waste collection trial to a close.
Council began the trial in 2021, which saw FOGO (green lid) bins rolled out to about 1000 households in Laidley and Gatton. As part of the trial, participants’ general waste collection was extended to fortnightly.
Given the relatively high rates of contamination in FOGO bins, which increased the costs to process the organic waste into compost, and residents’ concerns with the fortnightly collection of the general waste bins, Council made the decision to cease the trial and continue to investigate other options for organic waste management.
“We sincerely thank everyone who participated in this trial – this process yielded valuable information and data, and we now have a better understanding of the issues that will inform our future direction,” Waste Management Portfolio Councillor Julie Reck said.
“Right now, we are actively exploring feasible options to reduce the amount of organic waste going into landfill, including investigating the viability of an opt-in garden organics service.
“However, finding a practical and cost-effective solution is proving more difficult than any of us anticipated, and we ask the community for their patience as we continue to do our due diligence.”
Weekly red bin collections recommenced in the trial areas on 7 July
Council forced to close more public toilets at night due to vandalism.
Council will close the public toilets at Littleton Park, Gatton from 9pm nightly following repeated vandal attacks.
“We know it’s only a very small minority of the community involved in this criminal behaviour, but it has massive flow-on effects that impact the wider community,” Facilities Portfolio Councillor Anthony Wilson said.
He said this situation was far from ideal, especially for the homeless, and urged the community to be on the lookout for anti-social behaviour.
“Please, if you see any suspicious behaviour or know who is responsible for vandalising or stealing public property, report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or Council on 1300 005 872,” he said.
“Vandalism is not a victimless crime. The funds we spend on repairing vandalism are funds we don’t have for improvements to a range of community facilities.”
Council introduces discounted three-year dog registration.
Dog owners in the Lockyer Valley can now opt for a one or three-year dog registration, with Council introducing an expanded duration to make it easier and more affordable.
The changes, which came into effect on 1 July 2025, give dog owners the choice of either a one-year registration or a discounted three-year registration.
Regulatory Services Portfolio Councillor Cheryl Steinhardt said Councillors requested the change in response to declining rates of dog registration over the past few years and to assist residents with cost-of-living pressures.
“Up until now, local dog owners have had to renew their pet’s registration each year, and while we are keeping a one-year option available, we want to give people the choice of a longer registration period to make it more convenient. Owners who opt for a three-year registration effectively get the third year for free,” she said.
Under Council’s 2025-26 Fees and Charges, you can register a desexed dog for three years for just $100 compared to $50 for one year.
It is a Queensland Government requirement that all dogs over the age of 12 weeks are registered, with fines payable if you are found in breach.
If you haven’t registered your dog before or you’ve let the registration lapse, please contact our friendly Customer Experience staff on 1300 005 872.
To fill out a dog registration application form or to learn more, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/ d og-registration
Council’s revised three-year Internal Audit Plan (2025-26 to 2027-28) was given the green light at the July Council Meeting.
Mayor Tanya Milligan says the Internal Audit Plan is far more than just a statutory requirement.
“The Internal Audit Plan is being actively used by Council to ensure our programs, services and administration are efficient, effective, and accountable,” she said.
“As the level of government closest to the community, accountability needs be more than just a buzzword – and that’s why we take our audit processes seriously.
“Our key operations, administration and risk management are checked by the Audit and Risk Management Committee that includes independent members to ensure Council is operating above board in all aspects of our operations.
“The challenges facing local governments across the country are significant, with proportionately less funding coming from State and Federal levels, ever-increasing costs from suppliers and contractors, and expectations of improved services and facilities from community members.
“We need to make every dollar count, for ourselves and our ratepayers, and we need to ensure we are being diligent and accountable as we go.”
Part of that process requires Council to prepare and adopt an internal audit plan and carry out internal audits each financial year, Mayor Milligan said.
“In order to do this, we’ve engaged an independent contractor, O’Connor Marsden and Associates (OCM) to work in conjunction with Council’s Executive Operations area,” she said.
“An internal audit is focused on providing independent, objective assurance and consulting services to Council.
“This is yet another example of our commitment to doing the best we can for the community.”
The Lockyer Valley Art Gallery is currently showing one of its most unique and relatable exhibitions yet.
Titled ‘As Above ’ by AJ Gogas, the winter offering is an invitation for people to share reflections on life’s most profound and universal experiences.
AJ explores the intuitive process of somatic painting, which involves creating colourful swirls of abstract art.
Somatic painting is driven by body sensations and held emotions like heaviness in the chest, butterflies in the stomach and tingling fingers – feelings that are felt often by many of us.
The tension and release process results in vibrant colour and movement and invites the viewer to truly experience this artwork.
It is so easy to get caught up in the daily grind of life and this exhibition is a timely reminder to be more mindful – to stop and consider what your body is telling you.
As Above by AJ Gogas is on now until 17 August 2025. You can visit this exhibition seven days a week at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery, located within the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre.
Council has welcomed its first ‘Mayor’s Shadow for a Day’ student of 2025.
We had the pleasure of hosting Laidley State High School student, Matilda last month as part of the ‘Mayor’s Shadow for a Day’ program.
Now in its ninth year, the program provides opportunities for potential leaders of the future to observe and be mentored by the Mayor while seeing the inner workings of local government first-hand.
The Yr 11 student said she was grateful for the unique experience and would use the learnings in her future endeavours.
To find out more about the program, contact Council on 1300 005 872
An eagle-eyed Council worker has rescued war medals from a pile of waste at Gatton Landfill.
Tim, one of Council’s heavy machinery operators, was working at the facility when he spotted an unusual container in a pile of rubbish.
Intrigued, he took a closer look, opening it up to reveal four official war medals inside.
Waste Portfolio Councillor Julie Reck said fate intervened.
If it hadn’t been for Tim, these priceless and precious medals would have wound up in landfill, likely never to be seen again,” she said.
After finding the medals, Tim reported it to his supervisor, and I’m thrilled to say they have now been returned to their rightful owner.
“This was a wonderful stroke of luck and no doubt the owner is very grateful to have these important keepsakes back in their possession,” Cr Reck said.
Never dispose of batteries or items containing batteries in your general waste or recycling bins. Batteries in bins can spark fires that pose serious risks to workers and can cause major damage to local infrastructure. Improper disposal can also harm the environment.
Help look after our beautiful region by taking your used batteries to a designated B-cycle collection point, remembering to tape the ends to limit fire risk.
Aldi, Gatton
Return-It, Gatton
Mitre 10, Gatton
Coles, Gatton
Woolworths, Plainland
Aldi, Plainland
Bunnings Warehouse, Plainland
Foodworks, Withcott
Click the button above to view to Channel 9’s story.
To find out more, including what batteries are accepted, scan the QR code or visit https://bcycle.com.au
The Lockyer Valley Festival of Cultures is all about uniting residents from diverse cultural backgrounds through better understanding of each other.
Held on Sunday, 3 August, come along to the this free event at Littleton Park, Gatton from 11am to 4pm to share, celebrate, participate and connect.
“The multitude of diversities that make up the Lockyer Valley will be celebrated at this event, and there will be music, dance, food, art and lots of activities to try,” Mayor Tanya Milligan said.
“This is such a valuable opportunity to break down barriers and build understanding across cultures.
“The day will be filled with vibrant performances, delicious international food, and family-friendly activities, so don’t miss this wonderful community event.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have so many different cultural backgrounds that call our region home.”
The event is organised in a collaborative approach between Council and local cultural groups and organisations and is supported by the Queensland Government through the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program.
For more information, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 1300 005 872
.lockyerva lley.qld.gov.au
The region’s community groups and individuals scored more than $130,000 in the 2024-2025 financial year through Council’s Community Grants Programs.
This included:
• Major Community Grants awarded $70,000 to 29 not-for-profit community organisations to assist them to undertake projects, activities or events that benefit the wider community.
• Fourteen Minor Community Grants, totalling $7500 awarded to not-for-profit community organisations to facilitate projects including a multicultural open day celebration, sensory friendly space start-up kits and community group milestone anniversary events.
• Community Environmental Grants Program awarded $17,500 to four recipients.
• Ten recipients shared in $20,900 through the Regional Arts Development Fund.
• $6900 to support 44 local individuals who excel in sporting, academic or cultural pursuits, through Council’s Ambassador Support Program.
• Sports for All – $10,000 awarded to eight recipients.
The next round of Major Community Grants opens on 15 August 2025, so start preparing your application now!
To keep up to date with other grant funding opportunities for your group, make sure you subscribe to the Community Connect monthly newsletter, or On the Ball for sport and recreation groups.
Alternatively, visit the Grants and Funding section on Council’s website, www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au .
The heart of Laidley will be bursting with colour, music and community pride this spring, as the much-loved Laidley Spring Festival returns from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 September 2025.
Whether you’ve lived here all your life or recently made the Lockyer Valley home, this is your chance to step into something truly special. With this year’s theme of ‘Retro Revival’, the streets will come alive with all the charm of yesteryear—think vintage flair, nostalgic tunes and a celebration of the people and places that make our region shine.
The fun kicks off on Friday, with a line-up of much-loved events across town. From the Spring Gardening Fair to the Quilt & Craft Expo, Orchid Show, Gem Show, Under 5’s Day, and Open Gardens , there’s something for everyone. Local favourites like Das Neumann Haus will also be open for a look back through time.
As the sun sets, Laidley Recreational Reserve transforms into the vibrant Twilight Feast and Fest . From 5pm–9pm, enjoy live music by local performers, food trucks, market stalls, and a relaxed atmosphere under festoon lights—perfect for a laid-back evening with friends, family or neighbours.
Saturday morning sees the town centre buzzing. The scent of spring blooms and freshly brewed coffee will float through the streets as the region’s largest country market takes over. Then at 10am, the Grand Street Parade marches through town, full of colour, vintage vehicles, floats, and community spirit.
The fun continues with family-friendly entertainment, including Elmo and Cookie Monster, a set from rising country star Denvah, and high-energy hip hop group Geed Up. Car lovers will want to check out the gleaming classics at the Show ‘n’ Shine, while foodies can catch celebrity chef Matt Golinski cooking up seasonal delights with local produce.
On Sunday, the festivities head to Forest Hill for Bee Happy Day at the School of Arts Hall from 8.30am–12pm. It’s a perfect morning out for families with little ones — filled with crafts, face painting, bubble discos, circus fun and sweet treats from local stalls and artisans.
The best part? Most events are free, with some asking for just a small donation to support their hard-working community groups. There’s free parking, a park-and-ride shuttle, pet-friendly and accessible spaces — so everyone can join in the fun.
Stay up to date by following @LaidleySpringFestival on Facebook or @laidleyspringfestivalofficial on Instagram or visit www.laidleyspri ngfestival.com.
Calling all local artists!
Are you ready to show off what you’ve been working on?
Expressions of interest are now open to exhibit at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery in 2026!
Artists or interested parties can now submit a proposal to exhibit their work in the Art Gallery, with select openings available for 2026.
Artists or interested parties are invited to submit their application by midnight, 31 August 2025 via the link below.
https://lockyervalley.smartygrant s.com.au/LVAG26
Want to be the first to know when new tenders open?
Council often advertises for requests for tenders via VendorPanel and on its website.
Ensure you are the first to know by registering your business with VendorPanel www.vendorpanel.com/platform/suppliers
For more information and to apply, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/ business-with-council
Celebrate the Lockyer Valley’s outstanding achievers by nominating them for a 2026 Lockyer Valley Australia Day Award.
Our community is full of quiet, unsung heroes, including those who dedicate time to fundraising for important causes, volunteer their time and efforts for local organisations or community groups, or use their talents to represent the region.
Award categories include: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Sportsperson of the Year, Junior Sportperson of the Year, Event of the Year and Community Organisation of the Year
Nominations are open year-round. To submit a nomination, visit https:// lockyervalley.smartygrants.com.au/AusDay26
ChemClear has announced an upcoming collection event in Queensland, offering farmers and agricultural businesses the opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted or expired agricultural chemicals.
Proper disposal is crucial for maintaining a safe and environmentally friendly operation. The cut-off date to register for this collection is Friday, 12 September 2025.
Once a collection is scheduled, you’ll be notified of the date, location, and time.
Visit agsafe.org.au to register your chemicals today and ensure your farm remains a safe place to work and live.
The Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Security Scheme is not just a project for farms.
It will benefit almost every part of our region, helping to drought proof our communities, boost our local economy, and create thousands of local, ongoing jobs.
It’s crucial the community knows about this project and is aware of its potential benefits for everyone, now and for generations to come.
Find out more by watching this video or head to https:// lvandswatercollaborative.com.au/ to learn more and read the latest Water Collaborative newsletter.
LAIDLEY SPRING FESTIVAL 2025
READ MORE: PAGES 22-23
PARTICIPATE AND CONNECT
COME AND SAY
SUNDAY 3 AUGUST - 11AM TO 4PM
LITTLETON PARK, GATTON
Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of our region at the Lockyer Valley Festival of Cultures.
Head down to Littleton Park, Gatton on Sunday, 3 August from 11am to 4pm to check out what this free, family-friendly event has on offer, including:
• Cultural displays
• Service providers
• Information stalls
• Food vendors
• Live music and entertainment
Full details here: www.facebook.com/sh are/1AjNc69nJM/
FESTIVAL OF CULTURES - SUN 3 AUGUST 11AM TO 4PM, LITTLETON PARK, GATTON
LAIDLEY SPRING FESTIVAL - FRI & SAT 12-13 SEPTEMBER
LAIDLEY REC GROUNDS
Drop by Council’s stall at the Fetival of Cultures and Laidley Spring Festival to chat to Councillors and Council staff and find information on a range of topics, including
• Disaster Management
• Pest Management
• Local Tourism
• Waste Management
• Infrastructure
SAVE THE DATE
SATURDAY 27 SEPTEMBER
LOCKYER WATERS COMMUNITY HALL
Join us for an interactive workshop on local threats to koalas and what we can do to help our national treasures.
Hear from expert speakers, brainstorm local solutions and actions and learn more about programs aimed at reducing local threats.
Light refreshments included.
Follow Council’s Facebook page for more details and to register closer to the date, or visit the Events page on Council’s website www.lockyervalley.qld .gov.au/events
Funded by the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation through the Koala Threat Management Initiatives Program being undertaken by Healthy Land & Water.
SOMATIC ART WORKSHOP - SATURDAY 9 AUGUST, 10AM TO 1PM, LOCKYER VALLEY ART GALLERY
ACRYLIC PAINTING WORKSHOP - SATURDAY 23 AUGUST, 9.30AM TO 11.30AM, LOCKYER VALLEY ART GALLERY
Join AJ Gogas in this Somatic Art Workshop inspired by her exhibition currently on display at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery. This three-hour workshop invites participants of all skill levels to explore movement, colour and mixed media through intuitive, somatic art making. $40pp. Bookings via ajgogas34@hotmail.com.
Join artist Sarah Seletto for this Acrylic Painting Workshop. This workshop will teach women how to create beautiful selfportraits of their body using acrylic paint and paint pens on canvas or recycled materials. $20pp. Bookings essential: https://library.lockyervalley.ql d.gov.au/Events
WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST - 9AM TO 12PM SUNDAY 28 SEPTEMBER - 9AM TO 12PM SEVEN MILE LAGOON, LOCKYER WATERS
Get your hands dirty and do your part for the environment by joining us for two community planting days at the internationally significant Seven Mile Lagoon at Lockyer Waters!
The first planting day coincides with World Lake Day on Wednesday 27 August, while the second will take place on World Rivers Day, Sunday 28 September. Both planting days are being held in collaboration with Greening Australia. All planting equipment provided. Just bring yourself, and ensure you wear weather and sun-safe clothing.
Council’s offices, Libraries, Art Gallery and the Visitor Information Centre will be closed on Monday 11 August for the Ekka Show Holiday. Kerbside bin collections will operate as normal. To see if your nearest Transfer Station is open on this day, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-services/waste-management/waste-facilities
Council’s Disaster Dashboard is your one-stop-shop for reputable information during an emergency. See weather warnings, road closures, flood cameras, creek gauges and more. Save it to your favourites: disaster. lvrc.qld.gov.au
To keep across the career opportunities available at Council and to apply, visit the Current Vacancies page on Council’s website www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/cu rrent-vacancies
Council’s online consultation platform, Engagment Hub offers a range of opportunities for the local community to have their say. Be sure to register to find out about new projects open for community review, to have your say, and to keep in touch. Keep an eye on Council’s Have Your Say page for a full list of consultation projects. https://lockyervalley.engage menthub.com.au
www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/subscribe-to-councilnews