Weekly News Briefs - 1 October 2026
Fire permits suspended
The community is advised that the RFSQ Brisbane Valley District, which includes the Somerset/Lockyer and Scenic Rim Chief Fire Warden Districts, has suspended all Permits to Light Fire from 12.01AM SATURDAY 26 SEPTEMBER to 11.59PM FRIDAY 9 OCTOBER.
No Permits to Light Fire will be valid during this period. Fire restrictions can be extended, varied or revoked as conditions change, so it is important residents stay informed by following updates from the Queensland Fire Department and local authorities.
To find out what you can and can’t do during a fire ban, visit the ‘Fire Bans and Restrictions’ page at www.fire.qld.gov.au
King’s Birthday Public Holiday
A reminder that Monday, 5 October is the King’s Birthday Public Holiday.
Council Offices, Libraries, Art Gallery and Visitor Information Centre will be closed, reopening Tuesday, 6 October.
Kerbside bin collections will operate as normal.
To see if your nearest Transfer Station is open on this day, visit lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/waste-facilities
Join the team at Lockyer Valley Regional Council!
We're currently recruiting for the following positions:
- Plant Operator (Construction) (Full Time, Permanent)
- Loader Operator (Construction) (Full Time, Permanent)
- Operator/Labourer (Infrastructure Operations & Maintenance) (Full Time, Permanent)
- Mechanic (Full Time, Permanent)
- Plumbing Inspector (Full Time, Permanent)
- Principal Accounting Services (Full Time, Contract)
Some applications close Monday 5 October 2026 at 5pm.
View the vacancies and apply online at www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/current-vacancies
Stay snake safe
As spring progresses and temperatures rise, residents may notice an increase in snake activity across the Lockyer Valley.
Snakes play an important role in our environment by helping keep rodent and pest numbers under control.
If you encounter a snake:
- Stay calm and give it space
- Keep children and pets away
- Never attempt to catch or handle it
- Contact a licensed snake catcher if needed
If you see a snake on Council land in a high-use public area, such as near playgrounds, sporting facilities or public amenities, contact Council on 1300 005 872 and provide the location of the sighting.
RADF funding available
Individuals and groups interested in delivering arts and cultural projects in the Lockyer Valley are encouraged to apply for funding support through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
A partnership between the Queensland Government and Lockyer Valley Regional Council, the fund is designed to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
Round 1 for 2026-27 is currently open for applications and closes on Monday 12 October at 9am. Apply online at: www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/radf
Author Talk – David Raymond
Join us for an afternoon with one of Australia’s most experienced police dog handlers, David Raymond BM APM, as he shares the story behind his book, VADER A Police Dog Story.
For five years, Police Dog Vader number 239, served side-by-side with Sergeant David Raymond, one of Australia’s most experienced police dog handlers. Together, they tracked criminals, found missing persons, and faced danger head-on to protect their community. David, a veteran of countless high-risk operations, had earned numerous awards for bravery and leadership. But it was with Vader, his steadfast, fearless partner, that many of these missions unfolded.
WHEN: Tuesday 27 October, 2pm to 3pm
WHERE: Gatton Library
Bookings required, tea and coffee available. Secure your seat by visiting https://library.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au.
