Somerset Regional Council Highlights – 20 March 2026
Published on 20 March 2026
Somerset Regional Council has joined the Local Government Association of Queensland to campaign for more road funding to build safer, stronger and more connected communities.
Somerset joins LGAQ campaign for more road funding
Somerset Regional Council has joined councils across the state in supporting Local Government Association of Queensland’s (LGAQ) campaign for increased road funding through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS).
Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt was one of many to speak out about the alarming number of poor-quality roads in regional, rural and remote areas.
“Here in Somerset, roads aren’t just lines on a map,” Cr Wendt said.
“They’re the arteries that keep our communities connected, our infrastructure moving, and our region thriving.
“Road construction costs have increased around 30 to 40% in the last three years in our region.
“This means that to build the same road, we need more funding.”
Cr Wendt said TIDS was designed to help councils like ours complete critical projects, improve safety and keep communities connected to the opportunities they need to thrive.
“By continuing to invest in our roads through programs like TIDS, Council may build a safer, stronger and more connected future for the Somerset region,” Cr Wendt said.
“Alongside the LGAQ, we’re calling on the State Government to increase funding to carry out urgent upgrades for our roads, not just in Somerset but across the state.”
First Aid for Seniors information sessions coming to Somerset
Somerset Regional Council will host First Aid for Seniors sessions across the region in 2026, delivered by St John Ambulance Queensland.
The information sessions are supported by Council’s seniors connection program, In Good Company.
The next session will be held on Wednesday, 22 April from 9am to 1pm at Star Community Hall, 43 Park Street, Lowood.
The session will discuss specific health conditions and vulnerabilities experienced by seniors, equipping seniors and carers with practical skills and knowledge to manage common age-related emergencies.
From handling falls and managing chronic conditions to recognising signs of heart attack, stroke, or sudden illness, the training focuses on the scenarios seniors are most likely to encounter.
Bookings essential, contact Council on 5424 4000 or mail@somerset.qld.gov.au
The In Good Company program is funded by the Queensland Government.
February rates notices due 31 March
Somerset Regional Council has issued rates notices for the period ending 30 June 2026, with payment due by Tuesday, 31 March 2026.
Any landholders who have changed address and any eligible pensioner residents who have not previously applied for a pensioner subsidy are asked to contact Council to confirm details.
Ratepayers who wish to receive future notices by email can sign up for paperless delivery using the eNotices Reference Number provided on their rates notice.
For more information contact Council on 5424 4000 or mail@somerset.qld.gov.au
Learn how to identify Glossy Black-Cockatoos in Fernvale workshop
Somerset Regional Council is partnering with Glossy Black Conservancy to deliver a free training session for bird lovers in Fernvale.
The workshop, held 9.30am on Saturday, 18 April at the Fernvale Visitor Information Centre, is designed to help bird watchers feel confident and ready for the Great Glossy Count in May 2026.
Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt encouraged the community to get involved in the event.
“This is an opportunity to get to know fellow citizen scientists and sharpen your skills in identifying Glossy Black-Cockatoos, one of Australia’s rarest birds,” Cr Wendt said.
“You’ll learn key techniques like how to identify Glossy Black-Cockatoos by sight and sound.
“You’ll also learn how to recognise and record important findings out in the field.
“The event speaker, Liz Gould, has been involved with the Glossy Black Conservancy for nearly 20 years and recently finalised the 2025 Glossy Black-Cockatoo Habitat mapping Update for South East Queensland.”
Nature lovers, volunteers, birdwatchers and anyone passionate about the conservation of a vulnerable species is encouraged to attend the workshop and to support the Great Glossy Count on 16 and 17 May.
To register for the Fernvale workshop, visit bit.ly/greatglossycount
This event is proudly supported by Somerset Regional Council.
Three arts and culture specialists sought for Somerset committee
Somerset Regional Council is seeking expressions of interest for three committee members for its Arts, Culture and Heritage Advisory Committee.
Committee Chair, Councillor Sally Jess, said Council was seeking one community members and two industry leaders.
“This committee provides advice to Council on the region’s arts, culture and heritage priorities,” Cr Jess said.
“We’re looking for passionate people who have both Somerset and its arts and cultural networks at heart.
“If this sounds like you, please make an expression of interest today.”
EOIs must be submitted by 1pm Thursday, 9 April 2026.
For more information visit somerset.qld.gov.au/ACHAC2026EOI
Come and Chat with your Somerset Councillors in April
Somerset Councillors are hosting an evening ‘Come and Chat’ session in Toogoolawah on Wednesday, 15 April.
The Come and Chat session will be held from 6pm-8pm at Alexandra Hall on Cressbrook Street, Toogoolawah.
Due to other commitments, not all Councillors may be in attendance.