Media | Local News

Local News - September 2025

Local Groups Share in Deb’s Local Hero Grants

18th September 2025

Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington has announced the latest recipients of her Local Hero Grants program, with four community groups sharing in Round 26 of the funding initiative.

The Local Hero Grants program supports not-for-profit groups and individuals across the Nanango Electorate by providing small grants to help them continue their valuable work or pursue important opportunities.

Each round delivers four $250 grants to assist with grassroots projects, local events, or to help individuals travel to sporting, cultural, or educational competitions.

Round 26 recipients are:

·         Kilcoy Hammers Softball Club – assisting with uniform costs

·         The Mindful Harvest Blackbutt – contributing to the Green Connections for Veterans event

·         Kilcoy Pony Club – helping the club to host QLD State Championships

·         Esk State School P&C – contributing to Esk SS 150th anniversary

“These grants continue to be a simple but meaningful way to support our hard-working community groups and to back local individuals reaching for their goals,” Deb said.

“It’s inspiring to see the variety of projects and events that these grants help bring to life, from grassroots volunteering through to state and national level representation.”

Mrs Frecklington congratulated the Round 26 recipients and encouraged others to apply for the next round, which closes on 30 November 2025.

For more information and application forms, visit www.debfrecklington.com.au or contact the Nanango Electorate Office.

Deb Welcomes Long-Awaited Upgrades to Blackbutt Police Station

16th September 2025

Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington has welcomed the commencement of long-overdue upgrades to the Blackbutt Police Station, marking a significant win for the local community and frontline policing.

The $150,000 refurbishment, delivered by the Crisafulli Government, will provide modernised facilities that better support local police and ensure safer spaces for victims of domestic and family violence.

“I have fought to upgrade the Blackbutt Police Station for many years, and I’m proud to announce that we are delivering,” Deb said.

“After 10 years of decline under Labor, we’re delivering real results for regional communities - the kind of support our officers and locals need and deserve.”

To allow construction works to proceed, officers have temporarily vacated the station and relocated to Yarraman. Police will continue to provide mobile patrols and maintain a presence in the Blackbutt area throughout the upgrade period. 

The project is expected to be completed by mid-December 2025.

“This upgrade means officers will have access to the facilities they need to do their jobs effectively, while also creating a private and secure environment for those seeking help, especially victims of domestic and family violence,” Deb said.

Community members are reminded that police services remain available during this time.  If you have information for police, please contact Policelink on 131 444 or submit a report 24/7 via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/policelink-reporting. In an emergency, always call 000.

 

Deb Welcomes Minister Ann Leahy to Cherbourg

Deb Welcomes Minister Ann Leahy to Cherbourg

6th September 2025

Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington was thrilled to welcome the Honourable Ann Leahy, Minister for Local Government and water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers to the Cherbourg community.

The visit, organised following an invitation from the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, included a productive meeting with Council representatives and a tour of the region. It was a positive and encouraging visit, highlighting the many great initiatives already underway in the community, as well as exciting plans for the future.

“It was a pleasure to host Minister Leahy in the Nanango electorate and to showcase the important work being done in Cherbourg,” Deb said.

“Minister Leahy’s willingness to visit and engage directly with the community demonstrates her strong commitment to supporting regional Queensland.” Said Deb.

The visit provided valuable opportunities for discussion around infrastructure, essential services, and future development. 

Both the Crisafulli State Government and Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council reaffirmed their shared commitment to ongoing collaboration and investment in the region.

Art Gallery Extension Officially Opened in Wondai

Art Gallery Extension Officially Opened in Wondai

6th September 2025

Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, is proud to have delivered on her election commitment to support the Wondai Regional Art Gallery with a much-needed extension now officially opened.

The Honourable John Pau Langbroek, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Education, joined Mrs Frecklington for the opening of the expanded facility, which marks another major milestone for arts and culture in the South Burnett.

“This is a fantastic addition to a thriving regional gallery,” Deb said 

“It is an investment in local talent and a space that brings our community together through creativity and culture.”

“The Crisafulli government is committed to delivering for regional Queensland by supporting our growing communities and ensuring they have access to the same high-quality facilities as metropolitan areas,” said Deb.

Mrs Frecklington also paid tribute to Elaine Madill, President of the Wondai Regional Art Gallery, for her leadership throughout the project.

“Elaine’s dedication to the arts and to this gallery has been instrumental. I thank her sincerely for the work she has done to bring this vision to life.”

The project includes new undercover infrastructure and improved accessibility, making the gallery more inclusive and functional for artists, visitors, and community groups alike.