Toowoomba Today: Future-Proofing the South-West and Celebrating Local Leadership

The Mood: Growth and Resilience

Toowoomba wakes up this Thursday, February 12, 2026, with a palpable sense of momentum. As the city settles into the rhythm of the new year, the atmosphere is one of focused growth. While there is a quiet caution following recent police investigations in the CBD earlier this month, the overarching sentiment is one of progress. Residents are seeing the results of long-term planning come to life, from the bustling development in our western suburbs to the high-level advocacy currently taking place in the council chambers. It is a morning for getting to work, characterized by a community that is increasingly aware of its role as a premier regional hub in Queensland.

Key Talking Point: Securing Our Water Future

The major headline dominating local discussions today is the Toowoomba Regional Council’s strategic move to secure the city’s long-term water security. This week, the Council confirmed the acquisition of a significant property in Westbrook, designated for a future water treatment plant. Mayor Geoff McDonald has been vocal about the necessity of this infrastructure, noting that while development interest in the south-west corridor—including Glenvale and Westbrook—is at an all-time high, "nothing happens without water."

This project is part of a broader program of works that includes nine kilometers of new trunk water mains and connections to the Mt Peel and Gabbinbar reservoirs. For residents in the high-growth south-west, this is a clear signal that the city’s expansion is being met with the necessary utility support. This acquisition is also a centerpiece of the Council's broader 2026/27 budget advocacy, where they are seeking millions in state and federal funding to ensure the region remains resilient against future droughts and population pressures.

A Feel-Good Story: HMAS Toowoomba Represents

There is a unique sense of local pride stretching far beyond our mountain range this week. Our namesake vessel, the Anzac-class frigate HMAS Toowoomba, has successfully arrived in Jakarta for its first international port visit of 2026. Representing the city on the world stage, the crew participated in a ceremonial sunset to mark the 15th anniversary of the Australia-Indonesia Defence Alumni Association. Closer to home, the city continues to celebrate the appointment of its 2026 Regional Youth Leaders, who have officially begun their term. These young ambassadors are tasked with providing a voice for the next generation, ensuring that the ambitious future being planned today reflects the aspirations of those who will inherit it.

Morning Briefing: Thursday, 12 February

• Weather: Expect a mild day with a high of 24°C. Some light showers are possible throughout the morning, so keep an umbrella handy for the school run.
• Business: Local manufacturing leaders and small business owners are gathering today for a One Day Lean Optimised Workflow Workshop, aimed at boosting productivity within our growing manufacturing hub.
• Infrastructure: Council is continuing its push for $110 million in government contributions for two major priorities: the Cressbrook Dam Safety Improvement Project and Stage 1 of the Toowoomba Region Sports Precinct.
• Community Safety: Police maintain a steady presence in the CBD following earlier incidents this month; citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in the Bell Street area.