As a local Councillor I believe it's important to keep in touch with residents. That's why I've established this web site. You can find out the latest news from the Brisbane City Council or just learn a little more about Central Ward. There's also information about upcoming events in our area and across Brisbane.

But this web site is about more than just information. I want to know what you think. There are lots of opportunities to let me know your views on a range of issues through my regular surveys and polls, or you can just send me an email. I'd also welcome any suggestions you might have for this web site.

Thanks for visiting!

VALLEY GETS AWARD FOR LITTER MANAGEMENT!
The judges of the Spotless Suburbs Award, John and Louise Carothers, have awarded Fortitude Valley for its litter management program. The judges said they had noticed a marked improvement in the last few months as a result of a constant campaign by local Councillor David Hinchliffe to remove litter and for businesses to improve their management of waste and property presentation.

The times they are a-changing…and that goes for the Ekka too!
Yes, the Westerly winds and the Ekka phenomenon have come and gone for another year. In addition to the intoxicating smells of dagwood dogs and fresh cow manure, sounds of side show alley, the sights of the rides, the showring and the ferris wheel, this year the RNA also unveiled its masterplan for the future. It's been a long time coming, but the masterplan reveals that the RNA board are determined to keep the Ekka as one of Brisbane's most beloved institutions…what's more it will become a much more viable suburb in its own right, with a residential community hub, markets and much much more. I can't give too much away, but I think as exciting as the Ekka has been in years past, the future looks just as exciting.

BEST PLACE TO WATCH RIVER FIRE ON NORTHSIDE!
Northside residents will still be able to take advantage of the best place to watch Riverfire this Saturday (September 4) despite it being a construction site.

Despite the fact Eildon Hill reservoir off Constitution Road, Windsor is under major reconstruction, the site will still be available to see Brisbane's most popular fireworks.

There'll be traffic controllers and security on site to make sure the public don't stray into the work zone.

There'll be less space than usual, but it will still be open for those who like their dose of Riverfire fever without having to venture in to the city centre.

A FAIR DAY OUT IN WINDSOR!
Thousands attended the recent Windsor State School Fair and enjoyed the food, drink, rides, animals and entertainment. I was pleased to conduct a little painting demonstration on site as part of the Windsor and Districts Historical Society display. 

COOKING LESSONS IN CHINATOWN
Anyone interested in learning the secrets of Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean or Thai cooking should line up on Tuesday nights in Chinatown for a cooking display by some of Chinatown's best chefs. Demonstrations start at 6pm each Tuesday night. 

SENIORS DAY IN NEW FARM PARK
National Seniors Week was celebrated under brilliant Queensland winter sunshine in New Farm Park on Sunday August 15. 

VALLEY LANEWAY MARKETS OPEN
The laneway between Doc Martens and Fabrik has been opened up for Sunday marketing. So too has the lane off Winn St at the back of the Zoo. Check it out and support Valley's vibrant laneways. 

VILLAGE LIFE PROJECT
A little bit of 'Woodford' has come to Brisbane. A project to encourage locally produced services and goods has been launched at Northey St City Farm in a festival environment. 

TENERIFFE - IT'S OFFICIALLY 4005!
After some debate, Australia Post has now allocated the newly gazetted suburb of Teneriffe the postcode 4005.

PARK PLANS FOR HSW -- BETTER BUT STILL NOT ENOUGH
The plans reveal that the only part of Howard Smith Wharves site that will be 'greened' with turf and trees is the New Farm side of the bridge next to the cliff-face. 

MARQUEE AVAILABLE FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS
Having a function/fete and would like to borrow a marquee? Central Ward Office now has a marquee available for community use. It's 4.5 x 3m - easy to transport and put up. Contact Central Ward office for more details. Ph 3403 0254 ; central.ward@ecn.net.au

STATE OF THE ART EXERCISE EQUIPMENT
Fabulous new exercise equipment is to be installed in some local parks. 

TENERIFFE FESTIVAL - An outstanding event!
Click here to see more images of this great celebration. 

KERBSIDE WASTE PICK UP SCHEDULES
Council has released the schedules for the annual large item kerbside pick ups for 2010/2011. To find out when the services will be coming to your suburb, see details in "News and Views". WILSTON PICK UP IN OCTOBER!!!!

New Farm Park playground re-opens at last!
New Farm Park playground is re-open to the public . Hundreds of children have been enjoying the re-vamped dragon-themed play equipment under the famous banyon trees. 

News & views
Interested in knowing what's going on in Central Ward? Here's our news section.