Cr McKay - Caring for our environment

Everyone is welcome to join us for our fourth year of planting at Kirbys Road Environmental Reserve, Obi Obi on November 16 from 8 to 11.30am.

We will be returning to the original site which has grown so well and introducing the next stage of trees and understorey shrubs as well as expanding now to stabilise creek banks. Morning tea, water and equipment for planting is provided.

You will also have the chance to have your say on the future recreational and cultural opportunities in the reserve. A facilitated workshop regarding the landscape design of the reserve will follow the tree planting activity.

RSVP by November 14 with your name and contact details to [email protected] .

Local recognition at prestigious awards

A massive congratulations must go to our own Hive Haven of Beerburrum, winner of the Trade and Career Achievement Award in the Regional and Community Awards late last month. Well done also to a number of our local groups and individuals for being nominated as finalists in their respective categories including the Blackall Range Care Group Inc and Sailability Sunshine Coast Queensland.

Celebrating Sister City partnership

It was with much pleasure that I attended the 20 year Sister City anniversary celebration between council and Tatebayashi, Japan.  More than 20 delegates from Tatebayashi travelled to the Sunshine Coast to attend the event and witness the signing of the agreement renewal for another 20 years.

Since 1996, we’ve enjoyed our relationship with the Japanese city, with artists and schools in particular playing a strong role including more than 600 students visiting our region.

Keeping our neighbourhoods safe

After a series of incidents, near misses and complaints from local residents concerning speeding and reckless driving along Wakefield St, Woombye, Hunchy Rd, Palmwoods and _Upper Landershute_ Rd, Palmwoods, council and the Queensland Police want to make it very clear this behaviour will not be tolerated.

Police have assigned additional resources to these areas and offenders will be held accountable.

In addition, I am seeking a 10kph speed reduction, a flashing speed solar warning light and an additional guide post on Hunchy Road.

Change of pace in Flaxton

Heads up Main Roads have changed the speed limit on Flaxton Drive from 80kph to 60kph in both directions. Some locals have let me know they were caught unawares of the change and wished to also bring it to others’ attention.

Healthy Towns Awards

Many congratulations to Kay Nixon, last week announced the winner for the community gardens project in Palmwoods.

- This column first appeared in the Sunshine Coast Daily on November 4, 2016