A NEW strategic plan was released yesterday to protect lifestyle and manage growth in a region at the centre of a $40 billion resources boom.

PREMIER Anna Bligh has announced the release of a Surat Basin plan to manage growth and ensure the boom region continues to be a place were families can move and make their home.

The Queensland Government will consider the Federal Government’s $50 billion plan to take over health services, but the Opposition has rejected it.

The Qld Opposition says a federal takeover of health funding will create more red tape.

A PROPOSAL to build a new crematorium and funeral parlour could end up in court if rival companies can’t resolve a dispute.

A south-west Queensland mayor says a major transport study will help in the future development of the region.

Queensland Teachers Union won’t support a ‘flawed’ government initiative to fast-track teacher training.

MATT Eilers can stake his claim for a regular place in goal today when Toowoomba Raiders start their Premier League Division One season against The Gap.

THE plan to revitalise Toowoomba’s CBD remains in the hands of council despite being four months overdue.

THE Toowoomba region has a single vision and the strategies to get there after Toowoomba Regional Council adopted the starting point for a 2050 community plan.

TOOWOOMBA-BASED Pacific Seeds yesterday refused to confirm whether a planned restructure would mean a loss of jobs in the region.

The Somerset Regional Council will this year begin the task of developing a long-term plan for the expanding region.

A Queensland cane toad expert says he supports an idea to export the pest to China.

CROWS Nest IGA owner Peter Bradley is concerned the new supermarket complex opening on William Street could split the entire town.

The Federal Opposition says the Government needs to reveal the details of an agreement with the states on water-saving projects in the Murray-Darling Basin.

Irrigators are demanding a list of environmental assets the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) wants to protect under its new basin plan.

Emergency Management Queensland says residents across the state need to prepare an action plan in the event of a serious storm this summer.

A Queensland wine grower says a new partnership with the State Government will create new tourism opportunities.

TOURISM industry newcomer Lyndall Madden met with Minister for Tourism Peter Lawlor at Preston Peak Wines to discuss how to further their unique market.

ROCKVILLE State School principal Louise Ross is thrilled her students can learn about food production.