Published Friday, 22 February, 2008 at 01:14 PM

Minister for Mines and Energy
The Honourable Geoff Wilson

South West Queensland residents encouraged to have their say on electricity

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson is inviting South West Queenslanders to contact their newly-appointed Regional Electricity Council (REC) to have their say on electricity issues.

Mr Wilson, in appointing the nine members of the South West Queensland REC, said the councils 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 Susan Ferguson and Arthur Fielding to the council.”

Members of the South West Queensland Regional Electricity Council are:

  • Mr Mark Tranter (Chair)
  • Mr Robert Burgess
  • Mrs Susan Ferguson
  • Mr Arthur Fielding
  • Cr Robyn Fuhrmeister
  • Mrs Monica James
  • Mrs Marlene Johanson
  • Mr Maurice Passmore
  • Ms Beth Wood

Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine 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,” Mr Shine 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 (Minister Wilson)

Rhianwen Whitney 4638 5755 (Kerry Shine MP)