Ipswich City Councillor Dave Martin has celebrated his first 12 months representing Division 4, reflecting on a year of service, community engagement, and rapid learning.
Speaking on West Bremer Radio, Councillor Martin said it had been a “humbling and rewarding” experience.
“It’s honestly an honour and a privilege to serve the people,” he said. “I love getting out into the community, meeting people, and helping to resolve issues.”
The councillor laughed that the role had added a few grey hairs, but said he wouldn’t have it any other way. “It’s all worth it,” he said. “I feel proud every time I’m introduced as a local representative.”
Martin also praised the city’s emergency crews and Energex workers following a series of intense storms and hail events.
“Thousands were without power, but the teams worked tirelessly around the clock to get the city back online,” he said. “They did a phenomenal job.”
However, he joined residents in criticising the Bureau of Meteorology’s new weather radar website, which he said was less user-friendly.
“People rely on that data for storm safety,” he said. “The old system was easier to read — this one’s just confusing.”
Councillor Martin recently attended the Ipswich Hospice 30th Anniversary Gala, where he commended the organisation’s three decades of compassionate service.
“Hospice provides such important end-of-life care,” he said. “The stories we heard that night were deeply moving, and the work they do supporting families is extraordinary.”
He also welcomed plans for a new 30-bed hospice facility at the University of Southern Queensland campus, describing it as “a perfect partnership” that will offer both care and clinical training for students.
On a lighter note, Martin celebrated the city’s outstanding young athletes, including Gout Gout, who continues to make waves on the national athletics stage, and Shalomso Oso, who recently won the NRLW Rising Star Award.
“Ipswich keeps producing champions,” Martin said. “It’s a privilege to see our young people achieving such incredible things.”
As the city heads toward the festive season, Councillor Martin said he’s looking forward to spending more time out in the community.
“It’s been a big year, but the best part of this job is being part of Ipswich life,” he said. “I’m proud to call it home.”
0 Comments