By Member for Macalister Melissa McMahon
Holmview Train Station
The future of Holmview Train Station has become a significant topic of discussion within our community, with many local residents concerned about proposals that could see changes to the station and surrounding transport infrastructure.
I have consistently advocated for meaningful community consultation on all projects affecting Macalister residents and will continue to stand up for the voices of those directly impacted by decisions surrounding the station.
In comments published in the media, I highlighted the importance of retaining smaller stations that provide vital transport links for residents who may not have access to alternative transport options.
With Holmview’s population continuing to grow, ongoing development around Spanns Road, and hundreds of apprentices attending a nearby trade training centre, there is strong potential for future increases in patronage.
As I have said previously, once a station is gone, it is unlikely to ever return.
Holmview is not Queensland’s quietest station, nor is it the quietest station in south-east Queensland.
If station closures were to be determined solely by current patronage levels, there are many other stations that would face greater scrutiny before Holmview.
On 10 September 2026, I hosted a community forum where local residents shared their views and concerns regarding the project.
It was encouraging to see so many passionate community members participate and contribute to the discussion.
Public consultation remains open, and I strongly encourage residents to make submissions and provide feedback on the proposal.
Earlier this month, I also expressed concern about calls to close the station without first engaging directly with the people who would be most affected.
Decisions about public transport infrastructure should be guided by genuine consultation and a clear understanding of community needs.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to engage in this important conversation.
I will continue advocating for transparency, proper consultation and outcomes that best serve our growing community.
To stay informed about the Holmview Train Station project and other local rail upgrades, subscribe to quarterly project updates delivered directly by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Dinner on the deck 2026
Every year, I have the privilege of hosting student leaders from local primary and high schools at my annual Dinner on the Deck at Queensland Parliament.
This year was no exception, with a wonderful evening bringing together student leaders, principals, staff and parents from schools across our community.
Representatives attended from Edens Landing State School, Mount Warren Park State School, Windaroo State School, Eagleby State School, Beenleigh State School, Beenleigh State High School and Windaroo Valley State High School.
The annual event is always a highlight on the calendar, providing an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding young leaders who are making a positive impact in their schools and communities.
It also gives students a unique chance to experience Queensland Parliament firsthand and learn more about the important role it plays in our state’s democracy.
The evening began with students, teachers and families gathering on the deck to mingle and connect with one another.
Formal proceedings followed, including a special address from Shadow Education Minister Di Farmer.
Drawing on her experience as the former Education Minister, Ms Farmer spoke about the importance of education, leadership and the opportunities available to young people as they pursue their goals.
Guests then enjoyed dinner while sharing stories and experiences from their schools.
The evening concluded with a guided tour of the historic Old Parliament House, providing students with a fascinating insight into Queensland’s parliamentary history.
It was inspiring to see so many young people who are already demonstrating strong leadership qualities and a commitment to serving their school communities.
These students represent the future and it was a pleasure to recognise their achievements and contributions.
Thank you to all the students, parents, teachers and school leaders who joined us for another fantastic Dinner on the Deck.
I look forward to continuing this tradition and celebrating the next generation of leaders in the years to come.
Five years since Queensland passed voluntary assisted dying laws
This month marks five years since the Queensland Parliament passed the Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2021, a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare and end-of-life care framework.
Since the laws came into effect, Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) has become an established option for eligible Queenslanders facing a terminal illness.
The scheme was designed to provide individuals with greater choice, autonomy and dignity at the end of life while ensuring strict safeguards remain in place throughout the process.
Under Queensland’s legislation, people wishing to access VAD must meet specific eligibility requirements and undergo multiple assessments by trained medical practitioners.
The process includes a range of safeguards aimed at protecting vulnerable people and ensuring decisions are made voluntarily and free from coercion.
Importantly, participation in the process remains entirely voluntary.
Individuals can withdraw from the assessment process at any stage and for any reason.
Many people who are assessed as eligible for Voluntary Assisted Dying ultimately choose not to proceed, highlighting the role of the scheme as an end-of-life option rather than an obligation.
The laws also recognise the rights of healthcare professionals who choose not to participate in providing Voluntary Assisted Dying services.
As required under the legislation, Queensland’s Voluntary Assisted Dying framework is scheduled to undergo a statutory review this year.
The review will examine how the laws have operated since their introduction and consider whether any changes may be required to improve the scheme.
Over the past five years, Voluntary Assisted Dying has become a significant part of Queensland’s end-of-life care system, providing another option for eligible people experiencing suffering associated with a terminal illness.
The upcoming review will provide an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the legislation, ensure safeguards remain appropriate, and consider the experiences of patients, families, healthcare professionals and the broader community.
As these discussions continue, many Queenslanders will be watching closely to see how the state’s Voluntary Assisted Dying laws evolve into the future.
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