Out and About with Ariana

As we move into April, it has been wonderful to see the continued energy and community spirit right across the electorate of Pumicestone. Our local calendar has been full of events, sport and opportunities for people to come together, which is always a reminder of what makes our community such a special place to live. Furthermore, as we celebrate Easter, we are reminded of the hope, renewal and promise that comes through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I hope families across Pumicestone have a safe and joyful Easter long-weekend.  

Over the past month I have been out and about across the electorate meeting with local businesses, connecting with community groups and listening to residents about the issues that matter most to them. 

Back in parliament, the government has been focused on delivering reforms that improve safety and opportunity for Queenslanders. Tough new laws to combat antisemitism have been introduced, alongside stronger youth bail monitoring laws designed to better protect our communities. 

Locally, I was pleased to join volunteers from the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association (BIEPA) for Clean Up Australia Day. Our community is fortunate to have passionate locals who take pride in protecting our beaches, parks and waterways. I was also joined by my colleague, Minister for the Environment Andrew Powell. It was fantastic to see so many people rolling up their sleeves to keep our region clean. 

Transport is another area where we are seeing positive developments. Bribie Island residents will soon benefit from a new On Demand Transport (ODT) service delivered by Caboolture Bus Lines as part of a three-year trial. The service will connect locals to work, healthcare, shopping and social activities and will operatealongside the government’s permanent 50-cent public transport fares. 

We are also working to address community concerns about illegal e-bikes and e-scooters. A parliamentary inquiry recently handed down its report with recommendations including age restrictions, stronger enforcement powers and tougher penalties for tampering with devices. The government will now carefully consider these recommendations to ensure safety for pedestrians and riders alike. 

There has also been positive progress in health, with ambulance ramping across Queensland falling to its lowest level in five years as work continues under the government’s Hospital Rescue Plan. 

Finally, I was proud to announce $170,000 in funding for the iconic Abbey Medieval Festival, which delivers a major boost for our local tourism industry and brings history to life for thousands of visitors each year. 

As always, if there is an issue you would like to raise or discuss, please contact my office via email at pumicestone@parliament.qld.gov.au or phone (07) 3474 2100. I look forward to continuing to work with our community in the months ahead.