Somerset Regional Council Meeting Highlights – 24 June 2026

Published on 26 June 2026

The Linville Progress Association has been approved to use the old Linville Railway Station Building for a creative hub and visitor destination.

Concrete manufacturer paves the way for Lowood industrial area

More than 15 employment opportunities will be created after Somerset Regional Council approved a development application for a concrete manufacturing site on Noland Street, Lowood.

The industrial site will produce concrete products such as troughs, cladding and pavers using a small mortar mixing machine, and will primarily operate between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Somerset Deputy Mayor Helen Brieschke said the facility would pave the way for more industrial businesses in Lowood.

“We’re quite excited by this development, and we appreciate the level of detail which has gone into the application,” Cr Brieschke said.

“This building alone would create 15 to 20 employment opportunities.

“We hope this new business will help activate the Lowood industrial area and attract more businesses to town.”

New life for Linville Railway Station

The Linville Railway Station Building will get a new lease on life, following Somerset Regional Council’s approval for use of the site by the Linville Progress Association (LPA).

The LPA submitted an Expression of Interest for a Licence Agreement, with the intent to create a creative hub and visitor destination which supports artists, workshops, tourism and community participation.

Somerset Councillor Michael Bishop said the Linville community was interested in the outcome of the expression of interest process.

“They’re a very vibrant community, and it’s a growing tourist destination,” Cr Bishop said.

“This new project will enhance Linville’s tourism standing and we thank the groups who expressed their interest.”

Council manages the property on George Street, Linville under a sub-lease with the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Council will enter into a Licence Agreement with the LPA for a period of three years.

	Tom Yaxley and THAT Production Company will hold a drama workshop for 10- to 17-year-olds at the Somerset Civic Centre over 2-3 July.

Regional Arts Development Fund supports three Somerset initiatives

Three Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) applications were approved by Somerset Regional Council at its 24 June Ordinary Meeting.

The Stonehouse Heritage Open Day Weekend, to be held 25 and 26 July 2026, will receive $9,015 through the RADF.

Somerset Councillor and Arts Culture and Heritage Advisory Committee Chair Sally Jess said the event celebrated the region’s rich history.

“This event highlights Stonehouse as the only bush-stone-built stagecoach station and inn remaining in Queensland,” Cr Jess said.

Council approved $6,049 for an installation at The Condensery – Somerset Regional Art Gallery by Kuweni Dias Mendis to be exhibited from September to November 2026.

“The installation, Pulse of Place, is rooted in Sri Lankan women’s cultural and ritual histories, includes video, sculptures, and live ritual performances,” Cr Jess said.

To increase opportunities for performing arts in Somerset, Council has approved $5,500 for a two-day youth drama workshop on Thursday and Friday, 2-3 July at the Somerset Civic Centre.

“We’re excited to have THAT Production Company and facilitator Tom Yaxley providing a drama workshop for young performers, helping them bring a script to life through character development, storytelling, movement, voice, rehearsal and performance,” Cr Jess said.

“The program also includes a performance of ‘Every Brilliant Thing’ by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe.”

The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Somerset Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.