By Cr Kerri Cryer
Together my division and arts portfolio, cover a diverse area and an extensive range of activities.
The last few weeks have been quite busy: welcoming new citizens at an Australian Citizenship ceremony in Beaudesert; a Canungra multiagency scenario evening with a ‘multi-vehicle crash scene set-up’ very on point with the recent unfortunate spate of accidents on our roads; opening of Solo Eco Artist Lisa Wood’s important ‘Rainforest Requiem’ Exhibition at Boonah Regional Art Gallery; Beaudesert Cricket Club’s Award Presentation; launch of Scenic Rim’s Eat Local Month at Scenic Rim Farm Shop; and of course the amazing Tamborine Mountain Arts Trail over the long weekend which featured more than 70 incredibly talented artists!
The Arts Trail for 2026 took the visitor on a visually creative journey over three fabulous days around an outstanding collection of artist studios and displays of works strategically located at various sites around the mountain. The glades sculpture walks were particularly spectacular. Proudly note there is such an immense talent in our region.
In line with my portfolio, the inaugural Scenic Rim Sustainable Fashion Designer Showcase was a standout event featuring an Upcycle Op Shop Challenge of ‘upcycling passion, adventure, and creativity’ – so important in this time of need to ‘reuse, reduce, recycle’.
Presenting awards for the challenge and closing the magnificent showcase was a great privilege – looking forward to next year’s event!
Paying tribute with our community for those who have fallen, served, or are serving – a great honour to attend Anzac Day Services at Veresdale Scrub State School, Gleneagle State School, Tamborine Mountain State High School, Tamborine Mountain College, Tamborine Masonic Lodge, Tamborine’s Dawn Service, and Beaudesert’s Service.
Small Business Month for May commenced with a breakfast featuring guest speaker, rural entrepreneur, Julia Spicer OAM, plus a panel of recent Business Excellence Award winners.
Officially launching the Smart Lockers and Smart Return Shelves at Beaudesert Library was not only special, it was also informative to learn how borrowers can efficiently borrow and return books (in a fun way).
In Jubilee Park, a Candlelight Vigil was held for sadly 24 confirmed victims since May last year, supported by YFS, Zonta, Beaudesert Police, Rotary, and Council.
It was attended by 60+ local community members who heard each victim’s name called out in the candlelight in a very heartfelt and moving tribute.
Currently a very busy time in Council examining the capital works program, operational plan, and cultural services for the 2027 Budget while keeping in mind the current economic pressures and war crisis.
