In 2020 Maranoa ratepayers gained seven fresh-faced council leaders who helped the region guide its way through a tumultuous year - now The Western Star has kicked off 2021 asking each leader three things they personally hope to achieve in council this coming year.

While majority of councillors said they will listen and work for the people they represent, others are wanting to see the Roma pool upgraded, roads fixed, outdoor parklands revamped and an attraction strategy created to entice people to move to the Maranoa.

Mayor Tyson Golder and Crs George Ladbrook and Mark Edwards did not respond before publication.

Deputy Mayor Geoff McMullen

1. After being re-elected for my second term I intend to continue working for the people of the Maranoa, to achieve the best outcome for the entire community.

2. Remain a part of a team prepared to set the strategic direction for council to operate more efficiently.

3. Advocate for more accountability across the entire council, at the moment it appears only the elected members are being held accountable.

Wendy Taylor

1. I would like to be more involved with Economic Development in the Maranoa, try and achieve great outcomes for our Business and Local Community. Help business to grow which in effect grows our region.

2. There are projects I would at least like to see get started in 2021 if the Maranoa Community like my ideas. I would love to see Campbells Park revamped as a parkland for families – BBQ, toilets, playground equipment maybe even some gym equipment which would then lead to my next project.

3. Would love to see a bike -walk – jog track from the Big Rig to Campbells Park, it’s just over 4km and would make for a great outdoor activity. The Roma Town Pool needs to be addressed, which I am hoping we can start on this year.

Julie Guthrie

1. To personally maintain a balanced viewpoint(s) with regards to matters affecting ALL sectors of our Maranoa region.

2. To consistently listen and strongly promote an advocacy “voice” for ALL residents within our communities.

3. To actively promote positivity and optimism in discussions and deliberations in council meetings.

Joh Hancock

1. Continue to listen to the community and represent the region with a passion for progress and a heart for the people.

2. Work with the community to develop a “Move to the Maranoa Campaign”.

3. The condition of the roads will continue to be a high focus of mine.

Cameron O’Neil

1. I’ll continue to be a strong and independent voice at the council table for the people of the Maranoa.

2. Council must address the upgrades to the Roma Pool. With low interest rates available to us there has never been a better time to tackle these upgrades.

3. I would like to see council refocused onto investing in our region’s future. I would like to see a renewed attraction strategy for people and businesses to grow every community.

John Birkett

1. To ensure all areas within the MRC are running efficiently, effectively to increase productivity.

2. Listen to ratepayers concerns, then work collectively as a TEAM to achieve the best outcome to address these concerns.

3. Continue to learn and grow as a councillor, to ensure that I can contribute to get the best outcomes for the region.