Ayr to host Community Cabinet

Ayr will host the next State Government Community Cabinet on 21 and 22 April.  

Premier Campbell Newman said the two-day event was the seventh Community Cabinet held in regional Queensland, and he was looking forward to bringing his Ministers to the Burdekin.

“Local Member Rosemary Menkens has lobbied hard to have a Community Cabinet held on her home turf, and I’m pleased we are able to base ourselves in Ayr to keep working towards a brighter future for Queensland,” Mr Newman said.

“The Burdekin is at the heart of our strategy to create new opportunities for all Queenslanders.

“The district makes a significant contribution to Queensland’s economy with its prime agricultural output, its burgeoning tourism profile, and the fact it is the gateway to Abbot Point and our massive resources sector.

“By taking Cabinet to different regions we get an ‘on the ground’ feeling for how things are progressing and get to hear a cross section of views about how we can make a change for the better in this State.”

All nineteen members of the Cabinet will travel to Ayr for the meeting.

Mrs Menkens welcomed today’s announcement and predicted a range of issues would be raised during community deputations on 21 April.

“Funding for social infrastructure and services, support for the agriculture sector and the cost of living are key local issues,” Mrs Menkens said.

“Community Cabinet is a unique opportunity for local residents and businesses to raise issues with relevant Ministers, and this is a great opportunity for locals to take their concerns directly to the decision makers.

“I certainly encourage people to consider registering for a meeting.”

Meetings are by appointment only, and all members of the public are welcome to register their interest.

Meeting request forms are available from:

· Department of the Premier and Cabinet - telephone 1800 448 377 or 1800 448 378, or website www.thepremier.qld.gov.au

· Rosemary Menkens, Member for Burdekin – Centrepoint Arcade, Queen Street, Ayr. Telephone 4783 2017 or email Burdekin@parliament.qld.gov.au

· Burdekin Shire Council – 145 Young Street, Ayr or by calling 4783 9800

Deputation requests must be submitted by midday 10 April.

[ENDS] 21 March 2013

Media Contact: Premier’s office 3224 4500