This report contains the name of a person who has passed.
Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council is reaching out to the community after facing challenges that have weighed heavily on residents in recent months.
Vandalism to new homes, vehicle theft and violent incidents have upset many people and delayed housing for families who have been waiting years for a place to call home.
Mayor Bruce Simpson and council members feel this deeply because they care about building a stronger future for Cherbourg.
The community is also grieving right now, with sorry business affecting many families at the moment.
The passing of Uncle Gordon Langton, a proud Gungarri, Ghungalu, Koa and Noonuccal man from Cherbourg and Murgon, has left the community mourning the loss.
Uncle Gordy was a respected sportsman, mentor and community leader whose influence spanned generations, remembered as a true legend with a big heart.
Chief Executive of Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, Chatur Zala, understands the weight of what the community is carrying right now.
"We have a lot of sorry business at the moment in the community," Mr Zala said.
The council recognises that some of the behaviour troubling the community may come from deeper struggles such as trauma, pain and calls for help.
"Reaching out for support is not weakness," the Council said in a statement.
Mr Zala emphasised that help is available and encouraged people to ask for it.
"If you have trouble, come and see us," he said.
"Come and see all the services that we got in the community and ask for the help.
"But we just can't do it ourselves as a council because if we get community on the board, it will be good for all of us," Mr Zala said.
Health services, counsellors, youth workers and community organisations are here to support those who are struggling.
The council has also started a Youth Advisory Group run by local leaders Uncle Neil Simpson and Auntie Edwina Stewart, with a sports complex offering activities during school holiday and beyond.
Mr Zala explained why these programs matter so much.
"Every study proves that when the youth haven't got anything to do, that's where they end up doing silly things," Mr Zala said.
"But one of the biggest things - from council perspective is the drugs in our community."
Mr Zala notes drug dealing and criminal activity should be reported through proper channels.
"Real change happens when everyone works together," he said.
Mr Zala spoke about moving forward while honouring what the community has endured.
"We have to do the right thing to improve ourselves... we do understand there are lots of trauma in the past but at some stage, we need to move forward," he said.
"I had so many discussions with our aunties and uncles in the community and they have all told me the same thing - that the time has come that we need to take the harder stand for the betterment and welfare of our youth."
The council remains committed to supporting Cherbourg through both the immediate challenges and the longer journey ahead.
If you, or someone you know are feeling worried or no good, we encourage you to connect with the following services.
Yarning Safe N Strong (24/7) | 1800 959 563
Thirrili - The National Indigenous Postvention Service - After Suicide Support (24/7) | 1800 805 801
13YARN | 13 92 76 (24/7)
Lifeline Australia (24/7) | 13 11 14
