Young leaders have brought fresh ideas and big‑picture thinking to the table as part of the Toowoomba Regional Council’s annual Mayoral Leadership Morning Tea.
Secondary students from across the Region travelled to Highfields to take part in a collaborative workshop designed to give young people a direct voice in Council’s thinking about the future of the Region.
Mayor, Geoff McDonald said the event focused on listening to young people and learning from their perspectives, as well as strengthening the relationships between schools.
“As Council leaders, it’s our responsibility to listen to the people who will inherit this Region,” he said.
“These students bring strong views and a genuine interest in their communities and we value the opportunity to hear what matters to them.”
This year’s Morning Tea introduced a workshop-style format with interactive discussions between students, Councillors and Council staff.
“We deliberately shifted away from talking at young people and focused instead on listening to them,” Mayor McDonald said.
“The conversations today help Council better understand the challenges and opportunities young people see for the future of our Region.”
Discussions focused on waste management, sustainability and long-term regional planning. Students worked in mixed-school groups, encouraging the exchange of ideas between different communities and backgrounds, before sharing key themes with Council leaders.
Mayor McDonald said involving young people early benefited both Council and the community.
“These are complex issues with long-term impacts,” he said.
“By engaging with young people now, Council gains valuable insights and students gain a better understanding of how local government works and the responsibilities we carry on behalf of the community.”
Mayor McDonald thanked students for their willingness to contribute.
“Leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about responsibility and service,” he said.
“The fact these students have stepped forward gives me confidence in the future of the Toowoomba Region.”
