Summer Around The State: Why Mayor says the Balonne Shire is the ultimate outback escape

If you’re looking for world-class fishing and affordable living, the Mayor of Balonne Shire says it’s time to head six hours west of Brisbane. Find out how this river-rich region is using state and federal funding to build the homes needed for a growing workforce in 2026.

Summer Around The State: Why Brisbane locals are swapping the city for Bundaberg

Mayor Helen Blackburn revealed why the region is seeing a massive population surge as Southerners trade city life for 96km of pristine coastline. Find out how the council is managing the "Noosa-style" growth and what it means for local house prices.

Summer Around The State: Why 40,000 people now call the Whitsundays home

Move over, Hamilton Island, Mayor Ry Collins took us on a tour of the Whitsundays' "on-land" treasures, including the best fish and chips in Queensland.  From crocodile safaris on the Proserpine River to the iconic big mango in Bowen, find out where the locals go to play.

Summer Around The State: Why a former Geologist is putting politics on his resume

From life as an exploration geologist to the "last man standing" in the Mayor’s office, Gavin Dear revealed the unique struggles of governing Queensland's largest shire.  

Summer Around The State: The tiny Queensland town with a global connection to London and Paris

Bulloo Shire Mayor John "Tractor" Ferguson revealed why his region is the safest place to raise a family and why he could hire 14 people tomorrow if they walked through the door.  From plant operators to office staff, find out what life is like in the third-largest shire in Queensland.

Summer Around The State: Why Richmond is growing chickpeas to avoid raising rates

Mayor John Wharton revealed how Richmond Shire is ditching traditional rate hikes by turning into a commercial farming powerhouse, harvesting 1,000 tonnes of chickpeas to fund local services. 

Summer Around The State: Why this North QLD gateway is the size of Tasmania

Charters Towers Mayor Liz Schmidt revealed the staggering scale of her region and why it became a massive secret base for thousands of American troops during World War II. From hunting for gold to managing 3,500km of unsealed roads, discover why this "Gateway to the Outback" is far more than just…

Summer Around The State: Mayor Zoro’s vision for the future of Murweh shire

Murweh Mayor Shaun 'Zoro' Radnedge revealed why his famous nickname has a "10 million dollar" price tag and why you’re guaranteed to leave the West with a new name of your own.  It’s a light hearted look at the unique community spirit where everyone pitches in, and the Mayor is always ready for a …

Summer Around The State: Why Mayor Nev Ferrier can’t ‘throw out’ whingeing residents anymore

Former truckie and publican Mayor Neville Ferrier revealed why you have to be on your best behaviour in the mayor’s office compared to running a local pub. He shared a laugh with Carla about the transition from throwing out rowdy patrons to navigating the never-ending battle of regional road main…

Summer Around The State: Why Carpentaria Mayor is praying for a "light" wet season in the Gulf

From breathtaking plains filled with thousands of brolgas to the "missing link" bridge set to transform the North, Mayor Jack Bowden shares what makes the Carpentaria Shire the true heart of Australia. He also issued a vital warning for tourists planning a bucket-list trip to the Gulf: come prepar…