Published Friday, 22 February, 2008 at 12:17 PM

Minister for Mines and Energy
The Honourable Geoff Wilson

North Queensland community members appointed to electricity council

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson is inviting North Queenslanders to contact local members of their Regional Electricity Council (REC) to have their say on electricity issues.

Mr Wilson, in appointing the seven members of the North Queensland REC, said the council played an important role in providing communities with the opportunity to raise any concerns people may have regarding the electricity industry.

“Each Regional Electricity Council conducts four forums in its region each year, dealing with important issues such as the reliability of electricity supply and environmental and vegetation management issues,” Mr Wilson said.

“The seven councils across Queensland play a vital role in providing advice and information to the Boards of Ergon Energy and ENERGEX, the Department of Mines and Energy and to me, as Minister.”

Mr Wilson said members had been appointed based on their experience, knowledge of local needs, and commitment to serving the region.

“I congratulate all of the Regional Electricity Council members on the work they have done previously on the council, and look forward to working with them in the future,” he said.

“I also welcome new appointees Marcia Wilson and Brydget Barker-Hudson to the council.”

Members of the North Queensland Regional Electricity Council are:

  • Professor Peter Arlett (Chair)
  • Ms Brydget Barker-Hudson
  • Ms Patricia Fennell
  • Mr Jim Gleeson
  • Mr Steven Godfrey
  • Ms Valerie Valentine
  • Ms Marcia Wilson

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan urged the community and customers to get behind the REC.

“The REC tackles issues at the grass roots and these forums are a good opportunity for people to put forward their ideas and suggestions on electricity issues,” Mrs Kiernan said.

“It is as easy as phoning to make an appointment. Some people prefer to put their views in writing, others prefer just to talk face-to-face to the REC members when they meet.

“REC members can then pass on advice to the Minister for Mines and Energy, his department, or to the Government-owned electricity corporations.”

Details on contacting the REC are available at www.dme.qld.gov.au/Energy/regional_electricity_councils.cfm

Media inquiries: Caroline Kaurila 3224 7332.