Since the bushfire crisis began last weekend, I've visited Canungra in the Gold Coast hinterland, Stanthorpe on the Darling Downs and Peregian on the Sunshine Coast.

The devastation and destruction I saw in these communities was confronting.

But what I'll never forget is the spirit Queenslanders showed in the face of disaster.

There were no strangers in the communities I visited.

Everywhere I went, Queenslanders were doing all they could to help and comfort others.

And no-one did more than the firies and police who were on the frontline of the fires.

They fought the flames round-the-clock, day after day, despite all the danger and hardship that they faced.

The bushfire season is only just beginning. We may face fires even worse than the ones we have just seen.

I urge all Queenslanders to stay safe and look out for each other.

And I also ask them to say thanks to the firies, police and other emergency workers and volunteers who have saved homes and lives this week.

They don't want or expect praise and gratitude - but they deserve it from all of us.

Deb Frecklington

LNP Leader

As I was one of the first to castigate the current Council for changing their Water Charging Policy, I think it only fair that I be one of the first to eat Humble Pie and admit I may have been a little hasty.

I recently paid my Water Bill and was not overly happy, so I thought it time to do my sums and find out how much extra I am paying over previous years.

I was somewhat surprised to find on one property I am paying an extra 80 cents a week, and on the other 40 cents a week less.

With deference to Banjo Patterson, I hope the other "Hanrahans" do the same exercise and find out we will not all be "ruined".

Ron McCullough,

Mount Isa

This World Suicide Prevention Day Mates4Mates is calling on veteran-service organisations to band together to raise awareness of, and reduce, the risk of suicide.

In Australia, men make up 75 per cent of all suicide deaths. Among veterans, men aged under 30 have a suicide rate 2.2 times that of Australian men the same age.

The need to invest in early intervention strategies to improve health and wellbeing outcomes is greater than ever, and we're committed to working with organisations and community groups to provide adequate support services to those in need.

By working together, we can better support veterans and their families psychologically and socially through transition and beyond.

Mental health issues can affect anyone at any time - regardless of age, gender, career choice or life experiences. But with the right treatment and support, individuals can go on to successfully manage their symptoms and lead purposeful and meaningful lives.

Sadly, many people still don't speak up when faced with mental health challenges due to the stigma that can be associated with it.

This week we can all make a difference by talking openly about mental health and suicide and encouraging our friends and family to speak up if they're struggling.

If you know of veteran of family member who needs support, or need help personally, please reach out to Mates4Mates, speak with a trusted GP, or call Open Arms or Lifeline.

Georgia Ash

Psychology Services Manager, Mates4Mates