Families - they come in all shapes and sizes, colours and religious persuasions. Each one is unique, yet at the same time, they’re all fundamentally alike.

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Peter Taylor spoke of the importance of a strong family unit when he officially launched Family Week at City Hall recently.

Well attended by key business and community group leaders, the launch focused on how Family Week is all about celebrating and supporting families and recognising how they are the cornerstone of our community.

“In this day and age, the need for strong family ties has never been more important,” Cr Taylor said.

“Society may well be changing with different philosophies and principles to when we were young, but the need to have a stable and loving upbringing will always remain the same. A close-knit family provides that love and support – it offers guidance and encouragement and the community is enriched as a result.

“From our parks to our sporting fields to our first-class educational institutions, Toowoomba and the region take great pride in being a family focussed and family friendly environment.

“These are the perfect surroundings to raise a family and, given our population continues to grow steadily, we can take immense satisfaction in knowing that people are coming to the region as a lifestyle choice. They see the area as ideal for nurturing a family because we have so much to offer – so, there is no better time than during Family Week to reinforce that message,” he said.

Family Week runs from October 17 to 25. For more information, visit the website www.familyweek.com.au