Balonne Shire Council and Goondiwindi Regional Council have welcomed the appointment of Bob Gee APM as the new Cross Border Commissioner, following the passing of the late Commissioner Ian Leavers in November last year.
Mr Gee has broad government experience, previously serving as Director-General of various departments including Youth Justice and Victim Support and senior Queensland Police roles including Deputy Commissioner and State Disaster Coordinator.
“We can see from Mr Gees extensive experience in the highest levels of government that he will be well suited to assisting our cross-border communities,” said Balonne Mayor, Samantha O’Toole.
“The Cross Border Commissioner role serves such an important function for our communities that live close to the border, as they face a range of unique challenges due to different government services being provided on either side of the border.
“A great example of the cross-border challenges is that in many instances people require dual licensing under different regulations to either work or support local sporting and community groups.
“The town of Mungindi is split by the border, with the hospital, schools and other government services delivered to the one community by governments from different states.
“As a Council and as a community, we are looking forward to welcoming Mr Gee to the Shire and building on the strong foundation of work already commenced by the late Commissioner Ian Leavers.”
Mr Gee’s first official visit as Cross-Border Commissioner was to Goondiwindi this week, where he met with local stakeholders and councillors.
“This appointment provides confidence that the issues impacting border residents and businesses will continue to be understood and addressed at the highest levels,” said Goondiwindi Mayor, Lawrence Springborg AM.
He said Mr Gee’s background provides a strong understanding of cross-border issues affecting the Goondiwindi region.
“This includes understanding policing and other agency challenges, having previously attended a Goondiwindi Region cross-border crime prevention meeting as Director-General of the Department of Youth Justice and Victim Support.”
Queensland Premier, David Crisafulli said Mr Gee bought extensive experience to the role.
“Mr Gee has many years experience working across government as well as more than three decades serving the community as a Queensland Police Officer,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“He has a long, proven track record and hands-on experience that communities and businesses along our borders will benefit from.
“Mr Gee will continue to build on the strong foundations created by the late Ian Leavers.”
Mr Gee said he was proud to take on the appointment and committed to providing strong leadership for Queensland border communities.
“The Cross-Border Commissioner is central to improving and resolving issues that affect communities and industries operating across Queensland’s borders,” he said.
“I am looking forward to working with those communities to achieve the best possible outcomes relating to the real issues that impact their daily lives, while respecting the great work of the late Ian Leavers.”
