Weekly News Briefs - 30 October 2025
Community groups urged to register for free workshop
Registrations are now open for an upcoming free capacity building Governance Workshop.
Hosted by Council and facilitated by CPR Group, not-for-profit sporting and community groups are invited to come along to Gatton Shire Hall on Tuesday 18 November from 6pm to 8.30pm to learn more about:
- Governance, incorporation and committees
- Cyber security
- Queensland’s new Child Safe Standards
Bookings are essential by emailing engagement@lvrc.qld.gov.au or phoning 1300 005 872 by 14 November.
Laidley Library opening hours to change
Laidley Library operating hours are set to change on 5 January 2026.
Following a review of the low Saturday morning and weekday afternoon patronage over the past year, Councillors approved amendments to the opening hours at the October Council meeting.
The changes will see Laidley Library align with Council’s Customer Service Centre operating hours and close at 4.30pm. In lieu of Saturday mornings, a late-night Wednesday service, opening until 6pm, will be offered on a six-month trial basis.
We appreciate this change may impact a very small number of community members, but it’s what’s needed to ensure Council balances the sustainability and customer accessibility of our public services.
Restricted weed alert
An infestation of ‘Rubber Vine’, a restricted weed of national significance, has been found in the Lockyer Valley for the first time.
The infestation is located on the rail reserve at Forest Hill and may have spread to the surrounding area of further afield. Rubber Vine is poisonous to stock and spreads via both wind and water.
The community is urged to report any suspected sightings of the weed to Council’s Pest Management Team on 1300 005 872. For more information, visit www.business.qld.gov.au and search for ‘Rubber Vine’.
Stage 1 works at Lake Apex now complete
A host of improvements have been made to make the precinct safer, more accessible, and easier to enjoy for everyone.
Here’s what’s new:
- Upgraded footpaths connecting key picnic and playground areas
- Two accessible shelters with seating
- Widened internal road and a dedicated turnaround bay
- Freshly sealed carpark
- Signage, pavement markings, and tree plantings
Positions vacant
Council is currently seeking applications for the position of:
- Governance Officer (Full Time, Permanent)
This advertisement will close on Monday 27 October 2025 at 5pm. To apply, visit the Current Vacancies page of Council’s website.
See the beauty of nature at Lockyer Valley Art Gallery
The natural world is a beautiful thing – full of power and awe – and it’s now taking centre stage at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery.
Titled Nature’s Canvas, you’re invited to come and see an exhibition that brings together works from three Somerset artists: wildlife artist, Marita Reynolds; artist and retired veterinarian, Karen Leahy; and botanical illustrator, Cassandra Hodgins.
Nature’s Canvas by the Nature’s Canvas Group is on at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery until
30 November with free entry.
Temporary relocation of the Gatton Customer Service Centre
The Gatton Customer Service Centre has temporarily relocated to The Lockyer Centre, 55 North Street, Gatton (opposite the Gatton Fire Station).
We’ve temporarily relocated while the Gatton Administration Building undergoes a full roof replacement, funded by Council’s insurers.
Opening hours are still the same – 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday - and all the usual front counter services will be available.
Due to staff working in different locations while the hail damage repairs are underway, please ensure you book ahead if you need to meet with a specific Council officer.
Weather permitting, the roof replacement is due to be completed by 12 December 2025.
Learn more at www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/roof-repairs
