The region's natural gas industry is the focus of a new study into community attitudes. Researchers from the Australian National University and CSIRO are working with Council to study the effects of the gas boom on the region. If you would like to share your thoughts on how these developments have impacted the region simply fill out the online survey. The survey is open until March 16. To request a paper copy call (02) 6125 8765.

Gladstone Region photographers are invited to capture the spirit of Central Queensland's lifestyle, people and environment for 2014 Intercity Images: Gladstone Saiki Photographic Exchange. Entry forms are out now and photographers are encouraged to enter up to two images each by 5pm, Tuesday, April 1. All entries will be displayed during the exhibition with 30 selected by a panel of judges to be enlarged and sent to Saiki City, Japan for display in June. Download an entry form with terms and conditions for the Gladstone Saiki Sister City Advisory Committee initiative, supported by the Gladstone Regional Council.

Sign up to assist Clean Up Australia Day on March 2 and help rid our parks, creeks, beaches and neighbourhoods of rubbish. Residents can help by either organising a site that is in need of a Clean Up, volunteer to help at an existing site or assist through the placement of skip bins and ute pick up services. Click here to search for a Clean Up near you, register online or phone Council's Sustainability and Environment Officer Heather Richards on 4977 6530.

Councillors will expand on their Councillor Booth sessions this year, alternating between Calliope, Tannum Sands and Boyne Island shopping centres on a rotational basis. First visit will be to Calliope Shopping Centre outside Calliope IGA on February 27.

The next Council general meeting is on March 4. Residents are welcome to attend general meetings from 9am at 101 Goondoon Street, Gladstone.

Keep an eye out for the next edition of eConnect, as we make changes to our online newsletter. We're refreshing the format to include more stories and imagery as well as great Council events and activities. eConnect will continue to be delivered to your inbox fortnightly. Feedback is always welcome; please contact Council's Communications & Marketing Unit via email.

Are you interested in volunteering at the 2014 Agnes Water Blues and Roots Festival from February 27 to March 2? Duties include working at the bar, issuing wrist bands and programs at the main gate or helping with the set up and pull down. Bar volunteers will be briefed in the Responsible Service of Alcoholand will have a clear view of the stage to catch all the action. Volunteers will receive a complimentary ticket to the festival on the day of their shift and discounted tickets to the festival on the days they don't work. Email to register your interest or find out more.

A 10-day program featuring more than 20 activities is being planned as part of local Youth Week celebrations for 12 to 25 year olds from April 4 to 13. Activities range from putt-putt golf to art workshops, raft building, world trivia night, cooking classes and a gaming competition. The celebrations will close on April 13 with a Dance for Fun as part of 2014 Gladstone Harbour Festival opening celebrations. A Youth Week program will be available closer to the date on Council's website.

Councillors will resume CouncillorConnect community visits for the year starting on February 27. Morning tea is scheduled from 9.30am to 10.15am followed by pre-booked 20 minute meetings with Councillors from 10.15am to noon. Upcoming visits are scheduled for Mount Larcom QCWA Hall, Miriam Vale QCWA Hall and Agnes Water Community Centre. To book an appointment phone Council's Communications & Marketing unit on 4970 0700 or email a booking request.