Drive-In movies are back this winter on the Western Downs 21 Jun 2021 Western Downs Regional Council is bringing outdoor movies to Dalby, Miles, and Tara this winter with a free community drive-in… read more
Local artists set to shine at Groovin’ in the Garden 03 Feb 2021 A stellar lineup of local and regional musical talents are set to serenade visitors at Council’s award-winning Chinchilla Botanic Parkland… read more
Rural residents ‘jingle all the highways’ this festive season 22 Dec 2020 The Western Downs has been dazzled with Christmas cheer this Christmas, with rural households taking part in the ‘Christmas Where the… read more
Community Spirit Bursary Students take centre stage 21 Dec 2020 Seven outstanding senior students have been recognised for their contributions to making the Western Downs an even better place to… read more
More than half a million dollars for Western Downs Community Groups 17 Dec 2020 Twenty community and sporting groups across the Western Downs will share in a massive investment to improve their club infrastructure… read more
New shed on the way for Miles SES group 17 Dec 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is supporting the vital work of local emergency services, with its $50 million COVID-19 Recovery Package… read more
Council operations over Christmas and New Year period 16 Dec 2020 All Western Downs Regional Council Customer Service Centres, Depots and Libraries will close for a short time over the Christmas… read more
Words out West celebrates ‘The Little Things’ with brand new competition 14 Dec 2020 Avid storytellers are being encouraged to let their imagination flow, put pen to paper, and take part in the inaugural… read more
Council unveils concept design for Dalby’s ‘town heart’ 10 Dec 2020 Dalby’s town centre will be transformed into a vibrant, exciting and energized hub, with Western Downs Regional Council today approving the concept design for a… read more
Council tightens water restrictions in several towns 07 Dec 2020 4 December, 2020 Water restriction levels have been elevated across parts of the Western Downs to combat the significant over-usage… read more
Arthur Christmas lights up the region 02 Dec 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is using movie magic to help residents get into the festive season this November and December,… read more
Trevor heads on tour for regional Storytime 02 Dec 2020 Western Downs’ treasured Story Dog Trevor is taking his show on the road to celebrate his recently published book, ‘Trevor… read more
Western Downs continues to deliver strong economic certainty 30 Nov 2020 26 November, 2020 The Western Downs is proving its place as a regional economic powerhouse in Queensland, with the latest… read more
Words Out West delivers a novel approach to storytelling in 2021 23 Nov 2020 Words Out West will return to the region for its second year in March 2021, signifying a new chapter for… read more
Council boosts its local buy strategy 19 Nov 2020 Doing business with Council will soon be even easier, with Western Downs Regional Council revamping its Panel Arrangements to support local spending. Endorsed… read more
Region’s top artists recognised 18 Nov 2020 This year’s most outstanding artists have been crowned as part of the 2020 Regional Artists’ Exhibition which celebrates creativity across various… read more
Councils to unite for water security 18 Nov 2020 Western Downs Regional Council will join forces with neighbouring local governments to advocate for long-term water security in the region. At its… read more
Western Downs rural residents encouraged to ‘jingle all the highways’ in 2020 11 Nov 2020 11 November 2019 Rural households across the Western Downs are being invited to spread some festive cheer as part of… read more
Council supports local artists, events and community projects in latest round of grants 09 Nov 2020 Fifteen Western Downs community groups have secured support to deliver initiatives in the region as part of Council’s Grants and… read more
Chinchilla Botanic Parkland named Australia’s best park 02 Nov 2020 Western Downs Regional Council’s Chinchilla Botanic Parkland has been named Australia’s Park of the Year, trumping every other state and… read more
Spring planting begins for ‘adopted’ street trees 02 Nov 2020 Western Downs Regional Council’s popular Adopt a Street Tree program is bringing more trees to the streets this Spring as… read more
Council supports young entrepreneurs with new Youth Business Program 02 Nov 2020 Local Chambers of Commerce in collaboration with Western Downs Regional Council are launching a brand-new program to support and educate young businesspeople whilst encouraging local up-and-coming entrepreneurs to… read more
Western Downs artists celebrated through film 29 Oct 2020 The stories behind the region’s most renowned creatives are being celebrated as part of a new project to explore the… read more
Region invited to local artists’ night of nights 23 Oct 2020 Western Downs locals are being encouraged to step out and relish in the region’s most creative talents, with tickets now… read more
Council throws support behind local jobs 22 Oct 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is offering a one-stop-shop for employers and job seekers to help support the local economy. Council… read more
Make a splash this Spring with the return of Regional Pool Parties 20 Oct 2020 19 October 2020 With Summer fast approaching, Western Downs Regional Council has partnered with SwimFit to deliver a fun way to cool down, bringing back their… read more
Western Downs celebrates Book Week with giggles and good times 14 Oct 2020 Families from across the region are being invited to share in the magic of reading, with Western Downs Libraries hosting… read more
Park upgrades continue to branch out in Meandarra 13 Oct 2020 Leo Gordon Apex Park in Meandarra will be revitalised with new facilities and extensive landscaping as part of Western Downs Regional Council’s local stimulus package to… read more
New platform calls on locals to Buy Western Downs 08 Oct 2020 Buying local will soon be easier than ever, with a new social media platform launched in the Western Downs to… read more
Western Downs 2021 Australia Day Award nominations closing soon! 07 Oct 2020 Nominate a community champion! Residents are reminded to get in quick and nominate an outstanding community member with nominations for the… read more
Youth Month launches into the Western Downs this October 30 Sep 2020 Young people from across the Western Downs will have the opportunity to let loose and have some fun this October,… read more
Inspirational Senior Sergeant leads the push for Words for Wellbeing 29 Sep 2020 A Queensland Senior Sergeant who survived a shooting has partnered with Western Downs Libraries to launch a new series promoting the importance of mental and… read more
Council provides opportunities for locals to kickstart a career in 2021 28 Sep 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals to kickstart their career with a traineeship or apprenticeship… read more
New outdoor space delivered for Tara Library 23 Sep 2020 Bookworms can now enjoy their favourite read outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine with Western Downs Regional Council constructing… read more
Stage two of footpath upgrades next on Council’s list of stimulus work 16 Sep 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is continuing a strong push ahead to deliver its $50 million COVID-19 Recovery Package with local… read more
Fresh paint on the way to restore regional halls 15 Sep 2020 A series of community halls across the Western Downs are being revamped as part of a dedicated program to secure and create jobs and enhance liveability in… read more
Only days to go until Flickerfest rolls into the Western Downs 10 Sep 2020 This weekend, the Western Downs will showcase the first of two world-class short film programs from Australia’s largest short-film festival – Flickerfest. Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development… read more
Stimulus package supports work at Myall Remembrance Park 09 Sep 2020 Myall Remembrance Park is next in line to reap the benefits from Western Downs Regional Council’s COVID-19 Recovery Package with… read more
Wandoan Soldier Settlers to be commemorated in Avenue of Honour 03 Sep 2020 Wandoan’s Soldier Settlers will be remembered forevermore with Western Downs Regional Council partnering with the local community to establish a dedicated memorial in their… read more
Chinchilla Botanic Parkland tops Queensland’s best parks 02 Sep 2020 The Chinchilla Botanic Parkland is securing its place as a premier lifestyle and leisure destination having claimed the state title of… read more
Western Downs celebrates its newest residents 02 Sep 2020 The Western Downs has officially welcomed its newest Australians as part of an official Citizenship Ceremony held at the Dalby Events Centre on… read more
Miles Cemetery enhanced with brand new fence 02 Sep 2020 A striking new fence has been installed at the Miles Cemetery to improve presentation and refine safety standards of the… read more
Seniors Month celebrates importance of social connection in the Western Downs 26 Aug 2020 Western Downs seniors are being encouraged to get involved in local community groups this Seniors Month, as a way of… read more
Jandowae looking fresh after CBD upgrade 26 Aug 2020 Jandowae is donning a fresh new look after Western Downs Regional Council joined forces with two local community groups to… read more
Local artists excited to prepare for annual exhibition 26 Aug 2020 Western Downs artists are being urged to share their creative prowess with the wider region as part of the 2020 Western Downs Regional Artists’ exhibition, with… read more
Trevor the Story Dog paws his way into print 26 Aug 2020 Western Downs’ beloved four-legged friend Trevor the Story Dog has been written into history, with Western Downs Libraries launching a special storybook in… read more
Pioneer Park prepares to become Kogan’s picnic hotspot 19 Aug 2020 Kogan’s Pioneer Park is preparing for an upgraded picnic area with new equipment on the way as part of Western… read more
Chinchilla Lions Park to undergo revamp 19 Aug 2020 Chinchilla’s Lions Park will undergo a refresh, with Western Downs Regional Council soon to commence important upgrades as part of… read more
Dates set for the return of FlickerFest 12 Aug 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is excited to announce the much-anticipated short film festival FlickerFest will make its way to our region this September, after an earlier COVID-19 induced postponement. … read more
Australia Day Award nominations now open 12 Aug 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is calling for residents to shine a light on the tremendous work of local groups and… read more
Tara community hall receives slice of stimulus package support 12 Aug 2020 The Tara Soldiers Memorial Hall has received a fast-tracked facelift as part of Western Downs Regional Council’s $50 million COVID-19… read more
Flood repairs to cost $7 million 12 Aug 2020 Council will soon commence a massive restoration program across the region to repair roads and bridges damaged during flooding in… read more
New community grants to focus on destination events 05 Aug 2020 Western Downs Regional Council has added to its vast list of community grants and funding opportunities by launching the new… read more
Works underway to improve Dixon Street creek crossing 31 Jul 2020 Western Downs Regional Council will soon commence works to bolster the Myall Creek crossing on Dixon Street, Dalby as part of a… read more
New fencing to support safety at Dalby Lions Park 28 Jul 2020 One of Dalby’s much-loved parks has received a new fence to enhance the appearance and safety of the facility as… read more
Miles CBD revamp to celebrate local community stories 27 Jul 2020 The Miles community is being encouraged to reflect on the brilliance of their town and share their exciting local stories… read more
Council’s 2020/21 budget to lead community recovery 23 Jul 2020 Steering the community through recovery and delivering a solid future for the Western Downs is the focus of Western Downs… read more
Fees and charges relief to boost community recovery 23 Jul 2020 Many fees and charges will be waived or frozen to support the community through the COVID-19 health crisis and boost… read more
Council cash flows to water tank rebate for residents 23 Jul 2020 Western Downs residents looking to install a rainwater tank on their property will be offered a significant rebate under a… read more
Tourism and economic growth remain a priority for Council 23 Jul 2020 Securing diverse economic growth for generations to come is a strong focus for Western Downs Regional Council, with multiple strategic… read more
Strengthened waste and utility services promised by Council 23 Jul 2020 Communities across the Western Downs will continue to receive high quality essential services with Western Downs Regional Council committing over… read more
Record Parks and Open Spaces Budget delivered in 2020/21 23 Jul 2020 Beloved parks across the region will undergo an abundance of upgrades as Western Downs Regional Council announces a record $17.1… read more
New trainees kickstart careers with Council 23 Jul 2020 Western Downs Regional Council has welcomed two new trainees to the team this week, as part of its popular Early… read more
Council invests region-wide on roads, bridges and footpaths 23 Jul 2020 A comprehensive package of works to improve the region’s road network and boost connectivity across local towns has been delivered… read more
Myall Remembrance Park remembers local servicemen 23 Jul 2020 Local servicemen and women of the Western Downs are never forgotten as Myall Remembrance Park continues to expand its Services Memorial wall. The… read more
Council invests in active, vibrant communities 23 Jul 2020 A continued investment in the region’s much-loved not-for-profit and sporting groups across the Western Downs is a significant feature of… read more
Hakuna Matata your way into August 16 Jul 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is sprinkling a little bit of Disney magic to the Miles and Tara regions with a… read more
Dalby Aquatic Centre prepares for sun smart upgrades 13 Jul 2020 Pool-goers looking to make a splash at Dalby Aquatic Centre will be treated to some snazzy new features this summer… read more
AFL SportsReady trainees kickstart their careers with Council 13 Jul 2020 Western Downs Regional Council will welcome two new trainees in partnership with Arrow Energy and AFL SportsReady. Council Spokesperson for… read more
Council moves to lifetime dog registration tags 09 Jul 2020 Being a responsible pet owner has never been easier with Western Downs Regional Council moving to lifetime tags and waiving registration fees on desexed dogs, as part… read more
Cattle transport ramps up at Dalby Saleyards 08 Jul 2020 The Dalby Regional Saleyards continue to strengthen its place as one of Australia’s leading cattle saleyards with the construction of… read more
Winners of local online music competition announced 08 Jul 2020 Drillham local Ben Slater has been announced the winner of Council’s ‘Groovin’ from the Garage – The Originals‘ competition, which… read more
Council pedals ahead with new mountain bike trails at the Bunya Mountains 03 Jul 2020 A new adventure tourist experience is a step closer to fruition, with Western Downs Regional Council recently awarding the design… read more
Council ‘lights up’ the region with new community billboards 29 Jun 2020 Local community groups will soon have the chance to see their name up in lights, with Western Downs Regional Council… read more
Council leads the way to recovery with business support webinars 26 Jun 2020 Western Downs Regional Council’s free business support program is delivering real results for local traders, with more than 35 businesses taking advantage of… read more
Chinchilla Weir reopens to campers with improved facilities 24 Jun 2020 Campers and day trippers will be treated to new and improved facilities when they visit Chinchilla Weir, with Western Downs… read more
Infrastructure charges waived to boost economic development 22 Jun 2020 Infrastructure charges will be waived on priority developments as part of a new policy adopted by Western Downs Regional Council… read more
Council helps runners step it up at Chinchilla parkrun 19 Jun 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is helping Chinchilla residents put their best foot forward, with the recent installation of several parkrun… read more
Council extends Business Recovery Planning Initiative to continue support 19 Jun 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is continuing to back local businesses, with a fresh round of free Business Recovery Planning sessions now… read more
Local music talents shine online 10 Jun 2020 The stage is set for the region’s musical talents with Western Downs Regional Council announcing the finalists of its new… read more
Chinchilla dog park open for playful pooches 08 Jun 2020 Chinchilla’s new off-leash dog park is now open and welcoming locals and their four-legged friends to enjoy the new facility…. read more
Council gives back with sweet snacks 01 Jun 2020 Western Downs Cinemas are showing some community spirit by donating all excess and unused confectionary and snacks to those doing it… read more
Outdoor Storywalks encourage reading at Chinchilla Botanic Parkland 01 Jun 2020 Much-loved childhood tales are being brought to life across the Western Downs, with local families given the chance to enjoy… read more
Community groups invited to take advantage of new grant funding 01 Jun 2020 Applications are now open for Western Downs Regional Council’s $1 million Community Infrastructure Grants Program and $300,000 Community Organisation Hardship & Assistance Grants Program as part… read more
Western Downs develops a taste for ‘Library Takeaway’ 01 Jun 2020 Western Downs Libraries are celebrating their reopening after dishing up a successful ‘Library Takeaway’ program during the COVID-19 restrictions. The region-wide Library Takeaway… read more
First ground breaks on Recovery Package projects 29 May 2020 Council’s delivery of its $50 million COVID-19 Recovery Package is well underway, with the first works under the Accelerated Infrastructure… read more
Funding kickstarts major upgrade of Tara Lagoon Parklands 28 May 2020 A major project to revitalise the Tara Lagoon Parklands is now a step closer to construction, with Western Downs Regional… read more
Latest grants strengthen Western Downs Community 25 May 2020 Five Western Downs community groups are the latest to receive funding for new and exciting initiatives to boost their service… read more
Volunteering culture celebrated on the Western Downs 20 May 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is recognising the invaluable service of volunteers across the region as part of National Volunteers Week from 18-24 May. … read more
Apply now for Council’s COVID-19 Business Recovery E-Commerce support 14 May 2020 Western Downs businesses are encouraged to take advantage of free digital support sessions designed to help businesses emerge from the current health crisis and increase… read more
Apply now for free business recovery planning support 14 May 2020 Western Downs businesses are being urged to take advantage of a free one-on-one consultation session with a local service provider designed to coach them… read more
Full steam ahead for Council’s Accelerated Infrastructure Program 14 May 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is pushing ahead with its $50 million COVID-19 Recovery Package with the first series of contracts… read more
Council calls on local musos to get ‘Groovin’ from the Garage’ 08 May 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is calling on local music artists to get groovin’ from home as part of a new… read more
Annual artists’ exhibition opens for online entries 07 May 2020 Local artists across the Western Downs are invited to let their creativity flow and submit their online entries for the… read more
New Council announces Deputy Mayor and Councillor Portfolios 07 May 2020 Mayor Paul McVeigh and his team of eight Councillors have elected their portfolios and announced Cr Andrew Smith as Deputy… read more
Targeted relief to support business and kickstart the economy 28 Apr 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is delivering vital support to local businesses as part of its comprehensive $50 million COVID-19 Recovery… read more
Council backs community groups 28 Apr 2020 Sporting and not-for-profit community groups will receive a major leg up as part of Western Downs Regional Council’s COVID-19 Recovery… read more
Dog registration fees waived to support households through COVID-19 28 Apr 2020 Desexed dog registration fees will be waived until the end of next financial year as part of Western Downs Regional… read more
Council backs local Tradies 28 Apr 2020 A suite of construction projects will be fast-tracked to create hundreds of local jobs and deliver economic certainty as part… read more
Major Projects to deliver jobs and enhance tourism for the Western Downs 28 Apr 2020 Western Downs Regional Council has announced a huge Accelerated Major Projects Program as part of the total $50 million COVID-19… read more
Targeted relief to support families and stimulate economic growth 28 Apr 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is delivering targeted relief on rates, fees and charges to reduce the burden on families during… read more
Council community and aged care services increase safety precautions 20 Apr 2020 Western Downs Regional Council has increased safety measures at its residential aged care facilities and community care services in accordance with requirements outlined by… read more
Local artists called to take special part in Australia Day Awards 06 Apr 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is calling for expressions of interest from local artists to design two unique trophies to enhance the annual Regional Australia Day Awards. … read more
Hot ‘Library Takeaway’ served up to Western Downs residents 03 Apr 2020 Western Downs Libraries are dishing up a brand new ‘Library Takeaway’ service to support residents in self-isolation and promote the spirit of our active, vibrant communities. … read more
Increased measures implemented at Dalby Saleyards amid COVID-19 emergency 03 Apr 2020 Western Downs Regional Council has implemented a range of new public safety measures at the Dalby Saleyards to ensure the… read more
Final call on Enviro Grants closing soon 26 Mar 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is calling for final submissions for the Recycle Market Enviro Grants Program with applications closing next… read more
Online webinars to support local businesses 26 Mar 2020 Free online webinar sessions will be offered to Western Downs businesses as part of an ongoing push to support the… read more
Local artists selected to energize community pride in Chinchilla 26 Mar 2020 Two local artists, Regina Hyland and Graeme McCullough, have been selected by a project team of six Chinchilla community members… read more
Road Resealing Program contributes to a safer and cleaner Western Downs 13 Mar 2020 Western Downs Regional Council has this week completed the 2019-20 Regional Road Resealing Program, which delivers essential repairs and upgrades to the region’s roads while… read more
Retail workshops to boost local businesses 13 Mar 2020 Western Downs Regional Council has partnered with local Chambers of Commerce and the National Retail Association (NRA) to deliver free… read more
Local youth to learn valuable leadership skills 13 Mar 2020 PLEASE NOTE: This event has been postponed. Western Downs Regional Council is expecting to host approximately 180 students from across… read more
Events Forum to deliver new opportunities for the Western Downs 06 Mar 2020 The Western Downs will showcase its ability to host high-class events as part of a unique networking event this month,… read more
Pilots prepare to hang glide through Dalby’s ‘Big Air’ 02 Mar 2020 International pilots are ready to take flight in the world-class hang gliding competition, Dalby Big Air, on the Western Downs this April. Independently funded and hosted… read more
International Short Film Festival ‘FlickerFest’ rolls into the Western Downs 21 Feb 2020 19 February, 2020 The Western Downs will roll out the red carpet next month, with Australia’s largest Short Film Festival ‘FlickerFest‘ heading… read more
Library workshops encourage residents to ‘Be Connected’ 21 Feb 2020 Western Downs Libraries are offering residents the opportunity to increase their digital skills at free region–wide workshops as part of the Be Connected program. … read more
Tails wagging for new Chinchilla Dog Park 21 Feb 2020 20 February, 2020 Dogs will soon have their day in Chinchilla, with Western Downs Regional Council today endorsing an amendment… read more
Words Out West delivers an exciting new chapter for the Western Downs 21 Feb 2020 18 February, 2020 The region’s first Words Out West Readers and Writers Festival has been hailed a resounding success with hundreds attending… read more
Council welcomes trainees and apprentices across the Western Downs 14 Feb 2020 As part of its renown Early Career program, Western Downs Regional Council has welcomed 14 young trainees and apprentices this… read more
Big names get ready to converge on the Western Downs for Words Out West! 31 Jan 2020 Renowned Australian authors are preparing to head to Dalby for the first ever Words Out West Readers and Writers Festival,… read more
Plans underway for Miles CBD revitalisation 31 Jan 2020 Plans are underway to deliver a revitalisation of the Miles CBD with Western Downs Regional Council seeking community help to… read more
Council helps businesses gain a digital edge 30 Jan 2020 Local businesses are being given the chance to boost their digital presence as Western Downs Regional Council partners with local Chambers of Commerce to deliver… read more
Outstanding citizens recognised as part of Australia Day Awards 2020 28 Jan 2020 Jandowae resident and outstanding volunteer Michael Wood has been named the Western Downs Regional Council’s Regional Citizen of the Year… read more
Look out for Bunya Mountains lookout improvements 24 Jan 2020 Visitors to the Bunya Mountains can sit back and enjoy the spectacular outlook from new viewing facilities completed with $600,000… read more
Words Out West brings glitz and glam to the Western Downs 24 Jan 2020 The Western Downs will come alive this February, with the inaugural Words Out West Readers and Writers Festival bringing a touch… read more
Pool Parties return for one last splash this Summer 24 Jan 2020 Western Downs Regional Council in partnership with Swimfit and privately-owned community pools will be offering a fun way to keep cool through the remaining weeks of summer. Following the… read more
Making our newest locals feel a warm welcome 24 Jan 2020 People living in the Western Downs know it’s the best region in Queensland to live and now even more people… read more
Aussie Ambassadors share in the spirit of the Western Downs 24 Jan 2020 Five outstanding Australians will head to the Western Downs to take part in the region’s Australia Day celebrations and promote… read more
Myall Creek revitalisation bridges the gap in Dalby 17 Jan 2020 Construction works to install a brand-new pedestrian bridge over Myall Creek have reached a major milestone this week, as part of a continued commitment to… read more
Council grants and funding to strengthen community ties 10 Jan 2020 Western Downs Regional Council is continuing its support of the region’s community groups, with the latest round of grants and… read more