LONG standing State Member for Ipswich West Jim Madden has announced he will retire at the State Election in October 2024.

Mr Madden was elected as the Member for Ipswich West in January 2015.

He said his decision was made “after careful consideration of his ongoing physical and mental health”.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to represent the residents of the electorate of Ipswich West in State Parliament,” he said.

“Unfortunately though, carrying out my duties as a Member of parliament will become more and more difficult due to my ongoing physical and mental health issues.

“Since being first elected, it has been great to see State Government infrastructure and services be improved in my electorate.

“This includes upgrades to the state controlled roads and better facilities at our state schools and currently in Rosewood, plans are well underway for a new police station.

“Refurbishments have also taken place during my time at the Rosewood Railway Station and a new Rosewood Fire and Emergency Station has been built.”

Mr Madden added that the Rosewood area was of special interest to him.

“Not only is this the area covered by my electorate, I was also born and raised here. “This is where my Mother’s McGuire and Father’s Madden ancestors chose to settle after arriving in the area in the 1860s.

“I have very much enjoyed working with community groups and individuals and I intend to continue to support these community groups after my retirement.

“My life has always been centred on my family and I look forward to spending more time with them once my duties cease in October 2024.

“Until then I am devoted to my electorate and its people.”