Monthly Archives: January 2017

Temporary closure of Birkdale Waste Transfer Station


January 31, 2017

The Birkdale Waste Transfer Station will temporarily close from Monday 13 February to Sunday 5 March 2017 as part of the final stage of landfill remediation works at the site.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said residents should use the Redland Bay Waste Transfer Station at 761-789 German Church Road for residential waste and some types of commercial waste, recyclables and greenwaste while the Birkdale facility was closed.

“The Birkdale Waste Transfer Station will be closed for three weeks to enable the Birkdale Landfill Rehabilitation project to be completed without jeopardising the safety of those who visit the site,” she said.

“While the closure is unavoidable, it does mark an important environmental milestone for the Redlands, with the closed landfill cells now capped and re-vegetated to improve water and stormwater quality as part of the $7 million remediation project.

“Council appreciates the patience of residents during this project, especially during closure periods that inevitably result in some delays at the Redland Bay facility during peak periods.

“To minimise congestion at Redland Bay Waste Transfer Station over this period, I encourage residents to only visit when absolutely necessary, separate different types of waste before you go, and have your driver licence or proof of residency ready for the gatehouse.

“Those on the mainland with greenwaste may prefer to enjoy the convenience of a fortnightly kerbside collection service instead for around an extra $1 per week on their rates, with organic material collected being composted and used in the landscaping industry.”

Division 8 Councillor Tracey Huges said remediation works at the Birkdale site had a number of benefits for the environment and the community.

“Remediation works have reduced greenhouse gas emissions from the landfill by capturing the gases that occur as the waste breaks down and using these gases to generate electricity,” she said.

“Council has also improved access to the waste transfer station during the project, with a greenwaste bypass lane opening in late-2015 and a one-way, sealed ring road to be completed during the upcoming closure, which will improve operational flow and safety for those who use it.”

The Birkdale Waste Transfer Station, 537-609 Old Cleveland Road East, Birkdale, will reopen on Monday 6 March, weather permitting. Updates will also be published on Council’s Facebook page.

Order your greenwaste bin online or call 3829 8999.

Council says transformation of Cleveland rail station needs more parking


January 25, 2017

Redland City Council has asked for more parking to be included to support a residential, tourism and retail hub proposed for the Cleveland train station.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said that the result of a Council vote today states that car parking will need to increase by 25 percent, as part of a preliminary approval for the project.

“The proposal includes 118 residential units, six tourist apartments and a café to be built at the Cleveland train station, transforming it into a centrally located residential and tourism precinct,” Cr Williams said.

“While Councillors support the project in principle, we are concerned there aren’t enough car parks for the development, so we have today voted to issue a preliminary approval on the condition the developer amend the design to provide extra parking.

“The community has told us they are concerned about the impact on CBD car parking and we have listened by requiring extra car parks before we give final approval.

“Council had also already negotiated for the developer to provide 78 new temporary parking spaces at the Redland Performing Arts Centre during construction, with the option for them to be left in place after the project.”

Divisional Councillor Cr Tracey Huges said today’s decision also includes a condition for an historic tree to be retained at the front of the Cleveland train station, rather than it being removed for a refreshment establishment to be built as part of the project.

“This tree is significant, with a potential life of up to 200 years and offering local koalas food and shelter and today’s decision asks that the project be redesigned so it doesn’t have to be removed,” she said.

“This project will provide waterfront property overlooking the beautiful Raby Bay, in a location where residents and visitors just have to walk downstairs to the train to travel to work or their next destination.

“It is an accommodation type that has existed in Brisbane and other cities for many years and it will provide additional housing options for Redlanders.

“The project offers huge economic potential for the city, with jobs to be created during construction as well as tourism potential following its completion.

“There is currently a shortage of mainland tourism accommodation in the Redlands and this project will alleviate some of that by providing accommodation in a central location close to public transport.

“It fits into our CBD and tourism incentives package in that it will attract people to the CBD and provide ready access to tourism locations, making them even more accessible and delivering economic benefits to local businesses.”

Redland City Honours Local Heroes


January 25, 2017

Redlanders who have gone “above and beyond” in helping their community have been recognised at the annual Redland City Australia Day awards last night (Tuesday 24 January 2017), at the Alexandra Hills Hotel Function Centre.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the awards were a way for the community to thank the real heroes who every day helped to make the city a better place.

“The selflessness, dedication and achievements shown by these Redlanders epitomise the community spirit of the Redlands,’’ Cr Williams said

“Our annual Australia Day awards give us the opportunity to recognise those who help make our city great through their generosity and commitment to helping others or through shining a light on all that is good about our wonderful community.

“Our Citizen of the Year, Denis Ryan, is a truly amazing man who has been a tireless contributor to the City for more than 50 years.

“He never asks for recognition but, as a member of St Vincent De Paul for more than 40 years, he has done so much to help those less privileged in our community.

“Denis is selfless and is always available to assist those less fortunate. He’s an inspiration to our community.

“Talented young singer Leah Lever is our Young Citizen of the Year. An inspiring role model to the youth of our City, Leah devotes much of her time volunteering in the community.

“Col Cunnington, awarded Senior Citizen of the Year, has been a committed community volunteer for many years, supporting cultural and environmental activities, as well as being active in business.

“Ian and Judy Wintle are deserving winners of the Local Hero Award. The Wintles have raised about $60,000 for charities through their ‘Giving Garden’.

“This year, two outstanding groups were honoured with the Community Organisation Award. Redlands Centre for Women and the Bayside Vehicle Restorers Club both go above and beyond each day to improve the wellbeing of Redlanders.

“Redland City’s honorary Town Crier, Maxwell Bissett, an integral part of our community’s cultural fabric, is the fitting winner of the Cultural Award.

“Michael Wilson, a dedicated carer of sick and injured wildlife who has transformed his home into a safe haven for animals, is the winner of the Environment and Sustainability Award.

“Swimming powerhouse Daniel Fox, who is also an ambassador for the sport, is a very worthy recipient of this year’s Sports Awards.

Cr Williams said Council received 31 nominations across eight categories for the annual awards.

“The calibre of nominations really shows the incredible community spirit that exists in the Redlands,’’ Cr Williams said. “I congratulate everyone who was nominated as well as those who took the time to nominate their fellow Redlanders.’’

The list of winners is as follows:

  • Citizen of the Year – Denis Ryan
  • Young Citizen of the Year – Leah Lever
  • Senior Citizen of the Year – Col Cunnington
  • Local Hero Award – Ian and Judy Wintle
  • Community Organisation Award – Redlands Centre for Women AND Bayside Vehicle Restorers Club
  • Cultural Award – Maxwell Bissett
  • Environment and Sustainability Award –Michael Wilson
  • Sports Award – Daniel Fox.

Images are available. Phone 3829 8874 for further information.

Wellington Point Australia Day arrangements


January 20, 2017

Special Australia Day parking and management arrangements will operate at popular Wellington Point Recreation Reserve again this year.

The Redland City Council measures, which are designed to ensure celebrations are enjoyed by all park users, include controlled entry to the reserve from 7am to 6pm on Thursday 26 January.

Deputy Mayor and Councillor for the area Wendy Boglary (Division 1) said Council officers would also be on site to help local families and visitors enjoy one of the Redlands’ best-loved outdoor destinations.

“Wellington Point has long been a popular spot to spend Australia Day but that means it gets  very busy, so these special arrangements help ensure it’s a pleasant day for everyone,’’ Cr Boglary said.

“Council and police officers will be on hand to help and ensure public safety, and once available parking spaces at the reserve are full, you will be directed to the Wellington Point Community Hall carpark on Birkdale Road, where you can catch a free shuttle bus.”

The shuttle will run from 7am to 6pm along Main Road between the reserve and Wellington Point shops.

People would still be allowed to walk dogs on-leash at Wellington Point Reserve before 9am and after 4pm on the day. Dogs are also allowed on-leash on the sandbar (that is exposed at low tide) between the reserve and King Island during these times. Between 9am and 4pm dogs are prohibited.

The reserve’s popular boat launching ramp will continue to be available throughout the day but, once the boat trailer parking spaces are full, users will be directed to use legal parking spaces outside the reserve. Cars without trailers are not to park in boat trailer parking spaces.

Mayor Karen Williams urged visitors to the city’s parks on Australia Day to be respectful of others and to use the bins to dispose of rubbish.

“And please remember that facilities such as barbecues are there for everybody, so be considerate of others, patient and enjoy the Redlands’ great open spaces and hospitality,’’ Cr Williams said.

For more information about the Wellington Point Recreation Reserve please visit the Redland City Council website or phone 3829 8999.

Redland City Council to undertake fire preparedness review


January 19, 2017

Redland City Council has begun a full review of fire preparedness in the wake of the fire on Russell Island in December.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the review would include engaging Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) to look at Council’s annual prescribed burn plan.

“Council has an annual conservation management plan based on expert fire preparedness knowledge to help reduce fuel loads across the city and protect life and property during a fire,” Cr Williams said.

“Through this review we will ask QFES to review our annual plan to ensure it continues to protect Redlanders.

“While the review follows the Russell Island fire, it is not restricted to just the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, it will look at our fire preparedness across the whole city, ensuring all suburbs and communities are well-prepared in the event of a fire.”

“QFES is the expert in fire management and so having them review our annual plan will give us the confidence that it is robust enough to stand up to any fire threat.”

Redland City Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said this review would look at fire management on Council owned land, with Council also separately reviewing the process of getting landowners to clean up privately owned vacant lots.

“There is no doubt overgrown private properties on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands contribute to the potential fire risk, with a number of vacant lots not maintained by owners for extended periods,” he said.

“Last year Council responded to 229 enquiries relating to overgrown properties on Russell Island, with similar figures on the other Southern Moreton Bay Islands.

“For each of these requests officers go to the property to assess the risk, where there is a risk they then issue a notice to the landowner asking them to tidy up the property and if this is not done Council cleans up the property and bills the owner.

“Council is committed to the safety of the island and we are looking at ways we can streamline this process and make private landowners more aware of the consequences of letting their properties become overgrown.

“The Southern Moreton Bay Islands are an active and resilient community who quite rightly want to protect each other and for this to happen all landowners need to do the right thing, including those who don’t live on the island.

“I will be attending the next Moreton Bay Combined Islands Association meeting along with our Local Disaster Coordinator Mike Lollback to discuss these reviews with residents and answer any questions.”

Mayor Williams said Council had listened to community feedback following the fire and enacted the reviews in response.

“This is all about community safety and a major part of protecting the community is listening to them,” she said.

“At the community briefing held during the fire we asked the community to contact us with feedback and questions and so far we have responded to more than 35 enquiries, including delivering 150 copies of Council’s Disaster Management Plan to island residents.

“The disaster management plan provides an emergency management response specific to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands and anyone who still doesn’t have a copy should contact Council so we can send one to them.

“We want to make sure everyone is prepared for an emergency, whether it is a fire, flood or another event; and the best way to do that is to get a copy of the disaster plan and use it to develop your own household plan.”

Notorious pirate ship targets Raby Bay


January 17, 2017

First it was The Dying Gull and now another notorious ship is about to transform Raby Bay Harbour into a pirate’s cove.

The Notorious, a recreation of a 500-year-old caravel, will be open for inspection from 10am-4pm daily from Friday 20 January until Sunday 22 January.

The Notorious ship at sea.

Quandamooka dancers will perform a Welcoming Ceremony on Friday 20 January at 10am. 

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the visit was another wonderful opportunity for Redlanders to step back in time into a world of pirates and ancient seafaring.

“The Dying Gull was quite an attraction when it sailed into Raby Bay during filming of The Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales about 18 months ago but this time residents get the opportunity to jump on board The Notorious and feel what it’s like.

“It is quite an amazing sea-going museum, a full-sized wooden sailing recreation of a 1480s Portuguese or Spanish caravel and the only one in the Southern Hemisphere,” Cr Williams said.

“The Notorious was a very popular visitor to Queensland waters last year so we are pleased owners Graeme and Felicite Wylie are now headed our way.’’

The 17.5 metre Notorious was designed and constructed by Graeme Wylie and launched in February 2011. Graeme used 300 tonnes of recycled timber to create the caravel, a design favoured for coastal exploration and other nefarious seafaring deeds as they were highly manoeuvrable and capable of sailing to windward.

Entry: adults $5, children $2 (must be accompanied by a supervising adult). Visitors are welcome to dress in their best swashbuckling pirate gear. More information available on Facebook.

For details of what’s happening in Cleveland and across Redland City, check out the What’s On Calendar.

Redland City seeks land for sport


January 13, 2017

Redland City Council is looking to buy land for new sports grounds and amenities in the city.

It follows studies which show Council has a shortage of suitable land to meet residents’ future sporting and recreational needs.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council wanted to talk with landowners who might be interested in selling their land for future sports parks.

“This invitation to landowners aims to identify, investigate and, if agreed, acquire land that could be used for sporting fields, courts, facilities and associated uses such as carparking,’’ Cr Williams said.

“I want to stress that Council is in no way looking to acquire land without agreement from the landowner but we feel it is important that we move now to identify what is available and, where agreed, preserve that land for community sports facilities.

“Redland Bay, Mt Cotton, Sheldon and Capalaba West have been identified as ideal areas.’’

Council is looking for large parcels of land, such as three or more adjoining 10ha to 20ha blocks up to single blocks of 100ha-plus.

“The land needs to be mainly flat, largely cleared and on a main road with good access and plenty of road frontage,’’ Cr Williams said.

“The bulk of the land should be flood-free and not need significant earthmoving.

Following a site investigation, Council will seek its own property valuation, with any sale dependent on the approval of Councillors.’’

Interested landowners can contact Council at rcc@redland.qld.gov.au or by calling the Property Office on (07) 3829 8494. Invitation will remain open until 3 February.

Change in process for unpaid fines


January 11, 2017

Redland City Council wishes to advise a revised process is now used to recover unpaid fines.

All fines are issued with detailed payment information. Where people have failed to pay their fine and have not responded to reminders to do so, Council may seek to recover the fine through the Magistrates Court, which may result in increased costs for those people.

Most residents remain unaffected by this change, as it only applies to those who have not taken action to pay their fines following reminder letters.

Local councils are responsible for enforcing their local laws and some state legislation, and issuing fines deters re-offending.

Council is trialing the process through the Magistrates Court to ensure it is meeting its responsibility to the community to reduce the City’s current unpaid fines of around $750,000, as well as change behaviour.

For more information on this process, or if you are having difficulty paying a fine, please call Council on 3829 8999.

Redlanders urged to be wary of stonefish


January 10, 2017

Redlanders and visitors should take care when wading in the bay and estuaries due to the possible presence of stonefish.

It follows an unusually high occurrence of stonefish last January, particularly at Raby Bay. Tourism operators have advised of recent sightings at Peel Island.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council was erecting warning signs at popular wading and swimming spots as a precaution.

“We just need people to be aware that stonefish can be in our waters at this time of year, so I urge all beachgoers to wear thick-soled shoes if wading in the Moreton Bay,” Cr Williams said.

“While last year’s high numbers right along the southeast Queensland coast were quite unusual, public safety is paramount and we want to make sure people understand that stonefish can be prevalent at this time of year.”

The sting from a stonefish is very painful and victims should seek immediate medical attention. Check our website for updates.

Cleveland gets active with free yoga in the park


January 9, 2017

Redlanders can add a little zen to their New Year with a free 10-week yoga program at Cleveland.

The free classes, run by Redland City Council in conjunction with Divine Jewel Yoga, start at 7.30am on January 13 in Bloomfield Street Park in the heart of the Cleveland CBD.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the free yoga in the park program was part of Council’s commitment to revitalise the Cleveland CBD.

“The Cleveland city heart offers so much because of its laid-back village atmosphere and Council is keen to build on that by making it more attractive and inviting to all through activities in the park and other community initiatives, as well as supporting our CBD businesses,’’ Cr Williams said.

“The yoga classes are part of our active-communities focus and among more than 100 ideas received from the community, so stay tuned for more action in the Cleveland CBD soon.’’

Cr Williams said Council was also planning to provide extra shade and seating options for Bloomfield Park as part of its moves to boost the Cleveland CBD.

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell (Cleveland, North Stradbroke Island) said the yoga classes and other planned activities would give Redlanders and visitors even more reason to head into Cleveland to shop, dine, meet for a coffee and relax.

“Locals have given us some great ideas and suggestions for activating the Cleveland CBD and supporting the top-class programs already run by the Redland Performing Arts Centre and our art gallery and library,’’ Cr Mitchell said.

“I am keen to hear more ideas so please don’t hesitate to let me know.’’

Cr Mitchell said another program already scheduled promised to be a big drawcard for families, especially children.

“We’re also hosting the Snake Boss Reptile Show on 17 January at which the star of the TV series Animal Planet, Julia Baker, will show off some of her favourite pet reptiles. Youngsters will get to meet some very interesting visitors,” Cr Mitchell said.

The free yoga classes will run from 7.30am-8.15am on Fridays from 13 January – 17 March. Please arrive early to ensure your spot and bring a towel, water bottle and yoga mat.

The Snake Boss Reptile Show will be at Cleveland Library from 10am-11am on 17 January.

For details of what’s happening in Cleveland and across Redland City, check out the What’s On Calendar.