Outback open for business

"The Outback is open and raring to go."

This is the message being spruiked by newly-elected Murweh mayor Shaun 'Zoro' Radnedge, who has declared his shire is ready for business with the easing of restrictions, and hopes the return of rugby league in his community isn't too much further away.

The effect of losing the 'glue that binds the community together' has had a bigger impact than just the healthy rivalry between Charleville and Cunnumulla.

"In the smaller regions like Murweh, rugby league and sport in general plays a huge part," Radnedge said.

"It's not financial. It's all about community engagement... the kids are playing, the parents are socialising ... it's definitely a day out, so COVID-19 has affected our community in that regard.

"Because of this, there's been a lot of talk that as soon as restrictions are eased further, a lot of positive people want to get our community sport and events 'back to normal' as soon as we possibly can."

The welcomed earlier-than-expected progression to Stage 2 of Queensland's Roadmap to Recovery has brought great positivity and optimism for the local economy beyond the black stump.

"It’s disappointing events like the Birdsville Races and Big Red Bash have had to be cancelled, but now with the restrictions lifted for travel intra-state, the bookings are flooding through already," Radnedge said.

"Pretty much since the Premier announced that restrictions were going to be eased, we've had an influx in enquiries and interest to travel to our region.

"Our hospitality industry has also taken a big hit, so I'm sure our local pubs and cafes are glad to be able to welcome locals and visitors to have a few beers and a nice meal."

As well as holding the top office in Charleville, the proud South West rugby league diehard takes the reins of the Charleville Comets and is excited at the prospect of his favourite game returning.

"There's been lots of talk about how we return to the field which has been really positive," Radnedge said.

"Unfortunately, we only got to play two games before COVID-19 struck but there's been a suggestion thrown up that we combine the two Western Rugby League teams (Charleville and Cunnumulla) and join the Roma A Grade competition.

"I also spoke to the president of the Charleville Junior Rugby League recently and they are very keen to get up and running.

"They have their annual Mulga Cup at the end of the year and are keen to hold their annual domestic violence round in conjunction with the seniors. 

"We're all just keen to play, so it's just a matter of following all the appropriate processes."

Despite all the doom and gloom COVID-19 has brought on, Radnedge believes the forced change to normality has had enormous benefits for the outback.

"Although COVID-19 has been a terrible thing to deal with, it has brought huge positives in where we live," Radnedge said.

"People have seen what a simpler lifestyle can do for you and you can work from pretty much anywhere now.

"We've got something special in the bush and hopefully people won't have to leave our shire for some employment opportunities and the like in the future."