New sub groups address cyclone recovery

Somerset Regional Council has launched three Recovery Sub Groups to address the impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt reflected on the weather event at the ordinary meeting on Friday, 14 March.

“Our region has escaped reasonably well compared to our neighbouring councils,” Cr Wendt said.

“However, there is a significant amount of work to be done to bring Somerset back to where we were before the cyclone.”

Council moved to facilitate locally led recovery group meetings chaired by Councillors, which began following the ordinary meeting.

“We have the Human Social Recovery, Economic Recovery, and Infrastructure and Environment Recovery Sub Groups,” Cr Wendt said.

“These groups will facilitate the repair of our public assets like roads, drains and parks, while also guiding locals, business owners and the agricultural sector in accessing assistance from the State and Federal Governments.”

Cr Wendt said Somerset would emerge from this disaster stronger than before.

“We want our community to get back on its feet quickly” Cr Wendt said.

“We will keep the community up to date as we continue the recovery process.”

Recovery Hubs activating in Fernvale and Kilcoy

Somerset Regional Council’s request to the Queensland Government for Social Recovery Hubs has been approved, with two hubs opening on Saturday, 15 March.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt said residents impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred who were struggling with recovery should consider visiting one of the hubs.

“The Fernvale Visitor Information Centre and the Kilcoy Memorial Hall and Cultural Centre will provide Somerset residents access to recovery services,” Cr Wendt said.

“These hubs are locations for government agencies and community outreach programs to directly assist individuals impacted by disasters by providing financial assistance, material aid and emotional support.”

While Somerset had plenty of time to prepare for the weather event, Cr Wendt said the region was still impacted in many ways.

“We had extended power losses and road closures across the region which can impact people’s ability to live and work,” Cr Wendt said.

“We have been contacted by many residents who were unable to attend workplaces and have felt monetary pressure.”

Residents do not need to attend the Social Recovery Hubs to access financial assistance, however the guidance provided by agencies can help ensure residents receive the support they need.

The Fernvale Visitor Information Centre is located at 1483 Brisbane Valley Highway, Fernvale, and the Kilcoy Memorial Hall and Cultural Centre is located at 18 Kennedy Street, Kilcoy.

New Communications Strategy unites council voice

Recognising the importance of effective communication in building and enhancing trust in the community, Somerset Regional Council has adopted the Communications Strategy 2025 – 2029.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt said the new strategy focused on positive interactions.

“The strategy is embedded with council’s core values,” Cr Wendt said.

“We want to be open and honest, consistent, timely, accurate and purposeful in our message.”

Cr Wendt said communication was an important issue for Somerset residents.

“We have increased our Communications team’s capacity, and the result has been significant,” Cr Wendt said.

“We want to keep the community informed as we develop significant projects like Lowood Futures or the Kilcoy Streetscape.

“We are producing more video content, reaching residents who may not have previously engaged with council.

“Our Communications team also played a pivotal role as Somerset braced for ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.”

Cr Wendt said the Communications Strategy outlined a strong, strategic approach to communication.

“This strategy provides a structured, forward-thinking framework, allowing council to better connect and serve the community.”

Memorial Drive coming to Archer Falls Airfield

Somerset Regional Council has approved the Jackson Hepner Foundation to hold its 2025 fundraising event at Archer Falls Airfield, Mount Archer on Saturday, 29 March.

The Jackson Hepner Foundation is a non-profit organisation which provides hampers to patients and families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

The Jackson Hepner Foundation Memorial Drive celebrates the life of former Somerset resident Jackson Hepner, while raising awareness and funds to support childhood cancer patients and families.

The event includes a show and shine for car and bike enthusiasts, as well as pig races, auctions, food stalls and live music.

Next Somerset Council Meeting

Somerset Regional Council will hold its next ordinary council meeting on Friday, 14 March in Esk.

NB: Somerset Regional Council held its ordinary meeting in the Simeon Lord Room at the Esk Library on Wednesday, 26 March 2025 at 9am.