Member for Gregory Lachlan Millar has this week acknowledged Blackall’s 150th Celebrations in the Queensland Parliament.
Mr Millar, speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, talked about the nine day celebrations, marking the 150th anniversary of the founding of Blackall
“Last week I was delighted to be able to join in at least part of the nine days of celebrations staged to mark this historic birthday.” Mr Millar said.
“B150 included the renowned Shockwave youth festival, a Blackall Rugby League reunion—we won our first grand final in 30 years this year; well done to the Magpies— markets and special events for all ages, billycart races, a colour run and a visit by chef Matt Golinski.
“Despite the drought and tough times, people were able to put aside their worries and commemorate the courage and vision of the early settlers who founded such a far-flung township so successfully. It was fantastic to see the town full of people. There were those with personal ties to Blackall coming to celebrate, locals turning out in force, tourists and visitors joining us.
“I was also able to attend the first cattle sale in the new saleyards. These new saleyards are unique to Queensland. They are both EU certified and organic certified. In fact, they are the only yards in Queensland that are, and there are only two organic certified yards in the world. One is in Blackall and the other is in Alice Springs.
“Anyone who has visited Blackall knows how attractive and historic the Blackall township is and how gorgeous the landscapes are. The certified saleyards will ensure producers in Blackall and surrounding districts can target high-end markets globally and we will continue to do that.
“We need to maximise this opportunity. I am calling on the State Government to improve the road infrastructure in Western Queensland starting with the sealing of the Blackall Jericho Road. I will continue to bang on about that. We need to get that sealed. It is only another 30 km’s.
“I congratulate Mayor Andrew Martin, councillors from the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council and many community volunteers who worked so hard to make B150 an outstanding celebration” Mr Millar said.
The full transcript of the speech can be found on the Queensland Parliament’s Hansard for Wednesday 5th, 2018.