This Month's Highlights: Key Events and Updates It's been another busy month between the Groom electorate and Canberra! Here were some of the highlights👇 1. Telecommunications Forum Having trouble connecting? I recently conducted a telecommunications survey, following significant issues experienced across the Toowoomba Region. Unfortunately, too many people are experiencing too many problems. So, we're doing something about it. We're bringing the providers, to you. Join us for our free telecommunications forum on Monday, 8 July 2024. Telstra, NBN and the Regional Tech Hub will be in attendance to help explain telecommunications in the region, assist with issues and deliver solutions. 2. Hope Horizons Hope Horizons does some really amazing work in our community. The recent opening of the Jenny Black Cancer Wellness Centre didn't just 'happen'. It was the result of a momentous effort by local leaders, supported by the Black family and spearheaded by the brilliant Jo Capp. Hope Horizons embodies the spirit of philanthropy our region is so well known for. It was my pleasure to have Jo in Parliament House, to join her in advocating for Hope Horizons. 3. Australia's Energy Future Every Australian deserves and should expect access to cheap and reliable electricity 24/7. But under Labor this isn’t happening. Right now, in households and businesses around the country, the Albanese Government's expensive renewables-only approach is failing. And under their plan, we'll see 90% of Australia's baseload energy exit the grid by 2035, without a plan to replace it. The Coalition believes Australia must have a balanced energy mix to deliver cheap, clean and consistent 24/7 energy. A Federal Coalition Government will introduce nuclear to Australia’s energy mix, joining our key economic and security partners who have successfully used the technology. We believe Australians are up for this discussion and are open-minded about including nuclear technology as part of a balanced energy mix. Our plan will re-energise the Australian economy, build our sovereign capability, and set our country up for decades to come. For more information visit australianeedsnuclear.org.au 4. Delivering for Groom Many local families, businesses, non-profits, and community groups are facing challenges with the rising cost of living. Through the Volunteer Grant program, I'm thrilled to be able to support our local community groups and help them continue the invaluable work they do for our region. Visiting some of these recipients, it has been fantastic to see the difference these funds are making. The Toowoomba Croquet Club and St Monica's Catholic Primary School have been able to buy BBQs for their wonderful community events, and the Toowoomba Wesleyan Methodist Church has purchased a life-saving defibrillator. 5. How great is Oakey 🙌 It was an absolute pleasure to pop out to the Oakey Community BBQ, a brilliant event that brings the community together and a wonderful treat for all the kids after school! It wouldn't be possible without the amazing volunteers with the PCYC, who dedicate their time and energy to make every Thursday special for the Oakey community. 6. Vale View State School The kids at Vale View State School are so passionate about STEM education, and their teachers are doing an amazing job at fostering the next generation of problem solvers and innovators. I was able to catch up with them during their weekly robotics workshop, where they proudly demonstrated their current projects and showed me what they're learning. We also celebrated their successful Sponsorship Grant for Student Science Engagement and International Competitions, which will fund essential robotics equipment for this outstanding program. 7. Endeavour Foundation The Endeavour Foundation is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve the great Australian dream of owning their home. Last week, I had the privilege of attending the opening of their new duplex in Toowoomba. It was great to see these exceptional new modern and fully accessible homes, thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of people with a disability. Congratulations to the new residents! 8. Bringing the office to you! Thanks to everyone who dropped by for a chat at one of my Mobile Offices this month. If you missed me, please let me know which issues are important to you, via my survey here. I am always keen to hear your thoughts, concerns and ideas. As always, please let me know if I can assist you with anything. I'll be back in Canberra next week, continuing to advocate for our region. Kind regards, Garth Hamilton MP Federal Member for Groom |