Monthly Archives: December 2017

Strategic purchase to ease SMBI residents’ car parking issues


December 19, 2017

Council recently purchased Moores Farm at Weinam Creek, Redland Bay, to assist in the delivery of a sustainable parking solution for the community.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council had identified this land as a potential car park a few years ago, and has been negotiating with the owner to secure the site for the community.

“This is a strategic purchase, which is designed to provide car parking we know the community needs,” she added.

Divisional Councillor Mark Edwards agrees and said, having additional car parking at the site will assist in alleviating the demand, while meeting the needs of the local community and Southern Moreton Bay Island residents.

“This car park is one of the solutions we are looking at to assist us in improving the transport and connectivity for the community at Weinam Creek,” Cr Edwards said.

Preliminary works on the design and configuration of the new car park have commenced, with the local community to be informed as it progresses.

Council team’s Christmas spirit


December 15, 2017

The Redland Community Centre’s campaign to put smiles on the faces of families less fortunate this Christmas has been given a boost by a generous group of Redland City Council employees.

Every payday from October, members of Council’s customer service team have dug deep to buy treats for the community centre’s Christmas Project 2017.

It is a cause that customer service team members have supported for the past 12 years in the hope they can broaden the smiles of local families at Christmas.

This year the team donated 15 baskets of Christmas goodies, as well as collecting another five baskets from Council’s libraries and art gallery teams – their biggest donation yet.

Integrated Customer Contact Centre service manager Kym Banks said the customer service crew relished the opportunity to help the Redlands community.

“Organiser Jacqui Murphy and her colleagues are thrilled that they can help the Redland Community Centre help others to experience the happiness and sharing of Christmas,’’ Kym said.

“The centre offers so much hope to so many families doing it tough and it makes us happy to know we have, in a small way, helped to put a smile on their children’s face.

“We want them to know that there are others in the community who really do care.”

Last year the centre put smiles on the faces of more than 650 children and helped 277 families enjoy a brighter Christmas because of community generosity, community giving and community caring.

Redland Community Centre’s Allison Wicks said it was hoped the Christmas Project 2017 would support more than 300 families and 900 children.

“We are so thankful for the ongoing support of people such as Council’s customer service team – it really does make a difference,’’ she said.

Members of Redland City Council’s customer service team hand over the Christmas baskets they collected to the Redland Community Centre

Council tags graffiti vandals in Court


December 15, 2017

Redland City Council has helped provide evidence leading to the successful charging of another Redland graffiti vandal.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the latest wilful property damage vandalism charges against tagger ‘famo’, underscores the benefits of police and community collaboration using the Vandaltrak system

“The latest charge now brings the total of graffiti vandals identified or charged to 32 since the introduction of a new Council tracking system in 2013.

“The irony for these graffiti vandals is that by leaving their unique signature we are able to follow their path of damage and ultimately include these details and costs in future criminal charges and reparation costs.

“Another serial offender using the tag RALF was charged back in August this year after an eighteen month investigation,” Cr Karen Williams said.

“Using hand writing analysis and linking the offenders’ tags in the back ground across different locations the tagger “Ralf” pleaded guilty in Cleveland Magistrates Court to 91 willful damage by graffiti offences with almost $2,000 sought in restitution costs.

“With the close cooperation of the Queensland Police Service, the community and the use of the Vandaltrak system, we are now able to provide the strong supporting documentation evidence to bring offenders to court.

“Since April 2013 when the system was fully adopted the level of monthly tagging has gradually declined from a high of 294 to 93 in 2016.

“While it appears a number of new graffiti vandals have become active in recent months, our investigative processes have moved with the times and offenders are being caught, said Acting Sergeant Brendon Winslow of the Bayside District Crime Prevention Unit.

He again warned of the serious penalties for defacing property with graffiti, which includes up to five years in prison.

“Possessing an aerosol spray, marker or other instrument which is used or suspected to be used for graffiti carries a penalty of up to $2523 or 1 year in prison.

“Community members who have had their property damaged are understandably upset and are only too willing to cooperate by providing information and also help identify offenders,” Acting Sergeant Winslow said.

“The increasing availability of both private and public security cameras along with eye witness reports is also helping.”

Mayor Karen Williams encouraged people to sign up and report graffiti using the very effective Vandaltrak App which allows Council to respond directly to the community much faster and more efficiently than other systems.

Help Clean up Graffiti in the Redlands – Report Graffiti using the VandalTrak website or mobile app

Redlands Healthy & Active Program … coming to a park near you!


December 14, 2017

Keep your eye out for Council’s upcoming physical activity program set to hit parks across the Redlands in the new year.

Catering for residents aged 5 to 65+ years, the Redlands Healthy & Active Program will be free to Redland residents and is designed to get people moving and active.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said she was looking forward to seeing what group activities local health and fitness providers were able to offer.

“So far we’ve had a wonderful response to our call for expressions of interest from qualified professionals wishing to lead fun physical activities in outdoor spaces, from bushwalking to yoga and dancing.

“We won’t know what’s on offer until all the applications have been assessed but there is sure to be something for everyone,” Cr Williams said.

The group activities will be offered once a week for 10 week blocks to coincide with the first two school terms in 2018, with at least one program to be held in each of the 10 Council divisions.

While the program will cater for all Redlanders, specific activities are likely to target groups, such as mums with young children, seniors and children.

Cr Williams said that the Redlands Healthy & Active Program was the perfect way for locals to get back into healthy habits, particularly after the excesses of the holiday season.

“All will be revealed with the official launch of the program early next year.”

The Australian and Queensland Governments, through the Embracing 2018 Legacy Program for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, provided funding to Redland City Council to deliver the Redlands Healthy Active program.

Council Christmas closure dates 2017-2018


December 14, 2017

All non-essential Council services will close Friday 22 December 2017 from close of business, and reopen Tuesday 2 January 2018. This includes Customer Service Centres and mainland libraries.

The Community Piano will be located in the Cleveland Library during Council’s Christmas closure.

After hours emergency number: 3829 8999

Specific closures and information:

  • Redland Art Gallery, Cleveland will be closed from Sunday 24 December 2017, reopening Tuesday 2 January.
  • Redland Art Gallery, Capalaba will be closed from Saturday 23 December 2017, reopening Tuesday 2 January.
  • Redland Performing Arts Centre Box Office will be closed from 4pm Friday 22 December, reopening at 10am Monday 8 January 2018. Tickets can be purchased through the RPAC website during this time.
  • Redlands IndigiScapes and Visitor Information Centre (including Tea Garden cafe) will be closed Christmas day only.
  • Waste transfer stations will be closed Christmas day only.
  • Waste collection services will continue as usual, with Christmas day bin collections beginning 5am. Please make sure your bins are out the night before.
  • RecycleWorld will be closed from 26 December 2016, reopening Saturday 6 January 2018.
  • Animal Shelter will be closed Christmas day only. Limited hours apply (9am-12pm) from Saturday 23 December 2017 until Monday 1 January 2018.
  • Home Assist Secure will be closed from 4pm Friday 22 December, reopening at 8am Tuesday 2 January 2018.

Full list of library closures (During closures no items will be due and return chutes will be closed):

Mainland libraries: Capalaba, Cleveland and Victoria Point Libraries will be closed from 5pm Friday 22 December until 9am Tuesday 2 January.

Mobile Library closure: last stop will be Point Talburpin, closing at 10.30am Friday 22 December. The Mobile Library will reopen on Wednesday 3 January 9.30am at Redland Bay.

Island libraries

  • Amity Point Library: closed from 4:30pm Thursday 21 December until 9am Wednesday 3 January
  • Dunwich Library: closed from 5pm Thursday 21 December until 9am Tuesday 2 January
  • Point Lookout Library: closed from 5pm Friday 22 December until 10am Tuesday 2 January
  • Russell Island Library: closed from 5pm Friday 22 December until 9.30am Wednesday 3 January

 

Fresh global focus on economic development for Redlands


December 14, 2017

The Redlands Economic Development Advisory Board’s newest member needs little introduction.

John Aitken is well known for his achievements as former CEO of Brisbane’s economic development organisation, Brisbane Marketing including establishing Brisbane’s new world city positioning globally, and delivering $4billion in economic outcomes.

John Aitken

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said securing the extraordinary talents of John Aitken is a real coup for Redlands and will add enormously to the considerable expertise already sitting around the Board table.

“We want to thank Terry Morris of Morris International – and founder of Sirromet Winery at Mount Cotton – for his great expertise and contribution since joining the Board in 2016.  He has resigned the board for personal reasons and we wish him well in his future endeavours.

“John’s role as Managing Director of Inspiring Cities, and his specialisation in economic development of globally competitive cities; inspiring precincts, destinations, tourism and major events is a perfect fit for Redlands as we face the future with confidence, Cr Williams said.

Redlands Economic Development Advisory Board Chair Samantha Kennedy said the Board’s representatives span the region’s key industry sectors of construction, education and training, financial and insurance services, health care and social assistance, manufacturing, retail trade, rural enterprises and tourism (accommodation and food services).

“John’s business acumen and extensive experience across several industry sectors and economic development more broadly will be invaluable in helping to identify opportunities for new investment in Redland City and to enhance business relations within Australia and internationally,” Ms Kennedy said.

Mr Aitken said he has had the pleasure of working with many of the Redlands Economic Development Advisory Board members in past roles.

“Redlands is strategically pursuing its economic future to deliver many of the things that the Greater Brisbane region needs to succeed internationally. This includes tourism attractions, education and medical services, specialised manufacturing and a high quality lifestyle located next to Moreton Bay and the islands, and I’m delighted by the opportunity to play a role.”

Since 1980 John founded many of Queensland’s major event traditions before overseeing the Sydney Royal Easter Show. He has created Brisbane’s Digital Strategy including The Capital innovation hub and was responsible for Brisbane’s G20 leveraging strategy.

John is currently a board member of Tourism Transport Forum, Brisbane Urban Futures Board, AICC (Qld) Advisory Board (Chair), Global Games Brisbane 2019 (for people with intellectual disabilities) and Queensland Community Fund Board of Governors.

Amity Point erosion update – December 2017


December 14, 2017

Redland City Council has completed works to Council-owned land used to provide track and beach access near Toompany Street, Amity Point following a shoreline erosion event in November.

The main rock wall at the site of the erosion event has had a substantial amount of rock placed behind the face and a 27m wall extension has been constructed at its northern end.  Around 1122m3 of rock has been placed at the site.

Council is also undertaking works to topsoil the area and install signage and temporary fencing.

At this stage, the site will remain closed to public access for approximately three months until it is further rehabilitated and permanent fencing and signage installed. Ongoing access to private property through the site will be reviewed and discussed with landowners early in the new year.

We ask residents and visitors to follow signage and keep out of the closed area for their own safety and the protection of the site.

Amity Point is identified as one of Queensland highest areas of coastal erosion risk.  During the past three years Council has established a high level working group with State and private sector experts and a local community reference group to develop plans to mitigate future impacts of local erosion.

See previous Amity erosion event updates:

Council acts on North Stradbroke Island erosion and safety

Beachfront closed at Amity Point due to erosion

 

Jetty jumping a leap of faith


December 11, 2017

An incident involving a man leaping from the Coochiemudlo Island Jetty in recent months has sparked warnings that serious injuries can result. As the man jumped he hit the dock, dislocated his shoulder and was pulled unconscious from the water by local Surf Lifesaver personnel.

Redland City Divisional Councillor, Lance Hewlett said that adults present a strong role model for children and is urging parents and other adults to demonstrate safety on the water this summer, particularly on jetties.

“No one wants to be the fun police, but with fifteen jetties in the City, it’s important to remind people of the serious and life-changing injuries that can be sustained by jumping or diving into water from heights.

“In particular, jumping into shallow water or water with poor visibility offers potential to hit sunken objects and suffer spinal injuries.

“These docks are also busy ferry terminals and children are jumping straight into harm’s way or leaving the gate open for smaller children to be put at risk of drowning.

“High use jetties such as Coochiemudlo Island jetty have been given an extended gangway roof to prevent access, and additional signs are being installed to discourage jetty jumping,” Cr Lance Hewlett said.

Quite apart from the health risk for those involved and damage to infrastructure, it is an offence under Local Law 4 to jump from a jetty and carries a maximum penalty of $2523, with an on the spot fine of $252.

Coochiemudlo’s Surf Lifesaving Queensland Vice President, Col Sloane said, “Dislocations from hitting the dock, damage from falling from heights, and lacerations from razor-sharp barnacles and oysters growing on the structures around the water’s edge are all typical injuries from this type of activity.

“We want Redlanders to play it safe and not put themselves at risk in the water,” Mr. Sloane said.

In 2016, 90 people in Queensland¹ were diagnosed with spinal chord injury, some of which were diving and water related.

Members of the public who witness dangerous behaviour on jetties are urged to report it to Council through the Customer Service Centre on 3829 8999 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 100.

¹ State of Queensland (Queensland Health), Statewide adult spinal cord injury health service plan 2016-2026, Brisbane Queensland, April 2016.

Stars to shine bright at Redlands’ carols


December 8, 2017

Christmas by Starlight, the Redlands’ biggest free family event, returns to Cleveland on Saturday 16 December 2017 with a showcase of local stars among a stellar line-up of acclaimed performers.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said this year’s community Christmas celebration, from 3pm at Cleveland’s Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds, included arguably the best line-up of top-class local talent ever assembled on the one stage.

“Australian Idol’s Damien Leith and X Factor’s Isaiah Firebrace headline an awesome cast which includes sensational local talents Alexa Curtis, winner of The Voice Kids 2014, and America’s Got Talent finalist Dakota Striplin under the baton of the acclaimed musical director John Foreman,’’ Cr Williams said.

“Alexa and Dakota are among more than 60 local artists, with exceptional Redland talents Jacqueline Duckworth, Jeremy Saywell, Leah Lever, Scott Muller and Craig Martin also performing.

“The wealth of local talent also includes the members of ROCKIT Productions, Redland City Bands, Redland Rhapsody Chorus and the Vocal Manoeuvres Academy.

“To have so many highly talented young Redlands artists performing in the one concert is a rarity and something well worth seeing. You would be hard pressed to find such a great line-up for free anywhere.

“It is no wonder that Starlight, which will be co-hosted by Channel 7 personalities Luke Kennedy and Jessica Skarratt, has a reputation as among the best free community Christmas concerts in Queensland.’’

This year there will be an expanded program of children’s entertainment along with the introduction of the Starlight Express, a trackless train that will shuttle guests around the event. The much-loved animal farm will return, along with Starlight’s usual face painting, jumping castles and rock climbing wall. The Redland Museum will also present a free display of vintage toys in “Santa’s workshop”.

All rides are also free and will run from 3pm to 8pm.

Free shuttle buses will head to the event from stops throughout the City, with return services from 8.20pm (details at www.redland.qld.gov.au/cbs).

The event will also boast plenty of food stalls and, from 5pm, a special children’s Christmas show. The main event and its dazzling lighting effects will beam across the showgrounds

from 6pm, with a spectacular fireworks finale to light up the sky from about 8:15pm.

Cr Williams said that while entry was free, a gold coin donation would be appreciated to support programs combatting domestic and family violence in the Redlands.

“Our band of volunteers in their blue shirts will be collecting donations to help Redlanders affected by domestic and family violence so, if you can, a donation would be much appreciated,’’ Cr Williams said. “No matter how small, it will go a long way to providing some cheer for those in real need of support at this time of year.”

Other highlights will include:

  • Singer-songwriter couple and X Factor finalists Jess Dunbar and Matt Price;
  • Jazz, soul and blues singer Angela Fabian;
  • Internationally acclaimed Polo, a former member of the phenomenal US a capella beat-boxing group, Naturally 7;
  • The Voice Australia finalist Ellen Reed; and
  • Folk/indie/rock/pop band The Fergies.

Check www.redland.qld.gov.au/cbs for more information and updates.

Redlands beach tops SLSQ best list


December 1, 2017

North Stradbroke Island’s Cylinder Beach has topped this year’s list of best beaches released by Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) to mark the start of summer.

The state’s peak authority on coastal and aquatic safety rated the Redland City beach ahead of Noosa Main Beach (Sunshine Coast) and Greenmount Beach (Gold Coast) in its third annual ratings.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the SLSQ rating highlighted what locals had known for generations.

“Straddie really is unique when it comes to beautiful beaches as there is a sheltered spot in most conditions, with Point Lookout’s Cylinder Beach a simply awesome spot because it is so protected,’’ Cr Williams said.

Cylinder Beach, North Stradbroke Island

Cylinder Beach, North Stradbroke Island

“With easy access, such stunning views, expanses of sand and the services of Point Lookout nearby, it can justifiably lay claim to being one of the best swimming and family beaches anywhere.

“Being officially rated the best by those who patrol the region’s beaches is a wonderful endorsement for what is an exceptional place … it really is worth heading over to Straddie to see why.

“Straddie already has a reputation for fine surf which lures boardriders from around the country.”

SLSQ chief operating officer George Hill said Cylinder Beach was a clear and worthy winner of this year’s best beach title.

“Safety is obviously our primary focus and, with that in mind, we considered a wide range of factors including everything from patrol times and services, right through to its incident history, coastal conditions and the quality of visitor information on display,” he said.

“After that we looked at other areas such as how user-friendly we thought the beach was, and this included things such as its location, access to parking and public transport, facilities and cleanliness. Cylinder was a clear winner this year.”

Cylinder had fewer strong sweeps than other popular beaches and was also patrolled around the year.

Last year’s winner of the SLSQ’s top 10 Queensland beaches was Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast.

For more information go to lifesaving.com.au.