Glenden update from Mayor Anne Baker

The reason for my letter is to update you on recent matters concerning the future of Glenden.

Isaac Regional Council has long advocated for a strong and sustainable future for the Glenden community.

Together we have faced threats of mine closures, downturns in industry and impacts to the social fabric of Glenden. There were times when you could not get a coffee in town, and there was no access to basic medical services.

Through the Glenden DIG, we engaged in robust and honest discussions, which at times were difficult, but ultimately led to a stronger understanding of what matters to the community. 

We have been fighting alongside the community to get real commitments from government and industry around the long-term future of Glenden. 

Developments for community awareness:

On a positive note, in November 2021, Council successfully defended a planning decision that denied approval for a permanent camp out of town. I have stated on multiple occasions that as a Council, we will not support any development that fails to deliver a sustainable future for our towns and communities or removes the ability for people to have a genuine choice to live in the Isaac region.  At a special meeting on 28 February 2022, Council voted to grant a short-term extension to QCoal, allowing their temporary camp to continue until 31 January 2023. This extension was granted of the back of renewed interest from the State Government. It also provides an opportunity to bring community, State Government, industry and Council together for the purpose of planning for Glenden. 

No single agency, community group or organisation can deliver a sustainable future for Glenden. We must continue to work together side by side to ensure we achieve the best possible outcome for the community.

We will continue to keep you informed of developments and share opportunities to be part of the Community Reference Group for Glenden Futures over the coming months. If you require more information or wish to register an interest in being part of the reference group, please email [email protected]

Mayor Anne Baker

Isaac Regional Council

Published: 3rd March 2022