Our 2018-2023 Corporate Plan outlines five main priorities: to establish safe and healthy communities with a strong identity; to develop a prosperous and diverse local economy to support industry and encourage new business; to establish innovative and efficient infrastructure networks to service communities and industries; to recognise, protect, manage and promote our unique natural environment; and to practice inclusive and ethical governance.

This Council has resolutely adhered to these priorities and ensured they have guided our decision-making, reflected in a range of successful initiatives and projects.

We have also adhered to the vision of improving the liveability of Mount Isa.

They include 10 new CCTV security cameras and upgrade of existing cameras; the upgrade of the Splashez Aquatic Centre and the Family Fun Precinct; upgrades of local parks; improvements to the Waste Management Facility, including the Recycling Tunnel; the new Isa Street Bridge; upgrade of the Animal Management Facility; more free public and community events; advocating against being included in the State Government's Waste Levy; and the revitalisation of the Riversleigh Fossil Centre.

Our 2017-2020 Economic Development Strategy also outlines 30 initiatives that we have been committed to actioning.

These have included the creation of the Australian Mining Cities Alliance, which also counts Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Moranbah and Broken Hill as members and champions the economic and social development of Australian mining cities; progressing the Mount Isa Transport and Logistics Centre; and the creation of a Mount Isa Investment Prospectus.

As an active member of the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils, we have also been a strong advocate for a better deal for, and fair Government investment in, our region for the betterment of our communities.

We also recognise the importance of tourism in our region's economy and have developed a 2020-2025 Mount Isa Tourism Development Strategy that will assist Council and the local tourism sector to plan for the future sustainable development and marketing of the tourism destination of Mount Isa.

My love of this great outback city has never waned, and we have taken every step ensure constant engagement and feedback opportunities for our residents to ensure everyone's needs are met.

We are proud of our achievements thus far and thank the community for their continued support over the years, and I very much look forward to a healthy and prosperous future for Mount Isa.

Mount Isa Mayor Joyce McCulloch