All because a river runs through it. Or a border.
The LNP will introduce a Cross-Border Commissioner if they gain power at the next election. It’s good news according to Goondiwindi Regional Mayor, Cr Graeme Scheu who has taken the “anomalies” faced by communities such as Goondiwindi to politicians in Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra.
“Unless you live in a border precinct like we do, you simply can’t appreciate the angst that is caused in the region,” Cr Scheu said. “Undoubtedly, the biggest hurdle is the cross border policing issue.”
Cr Scheu, speaking at a general meeting today (Wednesday), said it was “pretty disppointing when Queensland Police have enormous will to get the job done, but don’t get the back-up they need from across the border...Moree more than an hour away is the closest large centre with only a small (police) presence at Boggabilla, he told councillors.
“Our Sergeant (Richard McIntosh) and local Police are left in the lurch.
Our Sergeant (Richard McIntosh) and local Police are left in the lurch.
- GRC Mayor, Cr Graeme Scheu
“Whilst the concept of a cross border policing trial has been discussed since I was first elected as Mayor, it has never come to fruition. This is the biggest single inhibitor for our region, ask any member of the community,” Cr Scheu said.
“However, many other little day-to-day items continually come up from fishing licences and varying rules on either side of the border through to planning and licensing requirements for builders. It is simply endless, every industry is affected in one way or another. And then there’s the huge duplication of services provided simply because a river flows between two communities.
“We strongly support the concept of a Cross Border Commissioner and look forward to some urgent negotiations that need to take place immediately with the current NSW Commissioner. “
On a visit to Southern Downs today, LNP Leader Tim Nicholls made the announcement alongside LNP Candidate for Southern Downs James Lister. “To many communities, the Queensland border is a line on a map which does not reflect their daily lives or habits,” Mr Nicholls said. “Whether you live in Currumbin, Stanthorpe, Goondiwindi, Quilpie or Birdsville, you interact with people in other States on a daily basis, and often your closest major service centre is located in another State.
“The daily realities of life such as property matters, tourism marketing, transport, licensing, departmental services and the sharing of information don’t stop simply because there is a line on the map. A LNP Government will create the position of Commissioner to assist communities across Queensland in dealing with issues as they arise.
