Monthly Archives: November 2019

Update – Water restored to Benfer Road, Victoria Point


November 28, 2019

Update: 12pm Thursday 28 November 2019

Water has been restored to the Benfer Road area, Victoria Point following emergency repairs to a burst water main this morning.

Council crews are flushing the repaired main. You may see open hydrants with flowing water – this is necessary to flush pipelines. Please do not approach the hydrants or attempt to turn them off.

As water supply returns, there may be some air in residential pipes or some discoloured water when residents first turn on their tap. Residents are advised to let the water run for 2-3 minutes to clear.

Earlier: 9am Thursday 28 November 2019 – Unplanned disruption to water supply – Benfer Road, Victoria Point

Residents around Benfer Road, Victoria Point, are experiencing a water shut down as a result of a burst water main outside St Rita’s Catholic Primary School.

Council crews are on site excavating to locate the break. Reconnection of water supply is expected to be around lunchtime. Council apologises for this inconvenience.

 

 

Lyngbya at Wellington Point Reserve


November 28, 2019

Redland City Council has installed signs at  Wellington Point Reserve to advise residents and visitors of the presence of Lyngbya (Lyngbya majuscule), a naturally occurring, blue-green algae that can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritations if people come into contact with it.

The presence of Lyngbya is not uncommon for waters around Redlands Coast and Moreton Bay and all beaches and waterways remain open for recreational use.

The signs are precautionary only to inform people of the presence of the material, which often presents as mats floating on the surface of the water or as washed-up clumps on the beach.
Swimming and wading is not recommended where algae is present.

Council has also reinstalled signs advising of Lyngbya at Church Street, Victoria Point and Thompsons Beach, Victoria Point, after the signs there were vandalised and removed.

Council will continue to monitor Wellington Point Reserve and other Redlands Coast beaches, and will erect signs if Lyngbya is found elsewhere.

More information is available from the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection

 

Redlands Coast set to sing in the Christmas season


November 27, 2019

The time has come to warm up the vocal chords and lock in the date for the annual Christmas by Starlight concert, Redland Coast’s largest free community event.

Hosted by Redland City Council, the event will herald the Christmas season from 4pm on Saturday, 14 December at Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds, Cleveland.

Mayor Karen Williams said Christmas by Starlight had earned a reputation as one of Queensland’s best regional Christmas concerts.

“Christmas by Starlight draws families from well beyond the Redlands Coast boundaries to be enthralled by a line-up of popular artists and entertainment,” she said.

“There will be free children’s activities, including rides and face painting, free entry into Redland Museum – including Santa’s toy workshop – merchandise stalls, food trucks, a trackless train, a visit from Santa Claus, and, of course, some great Christmas carols.

Cr Williams said the star-studded line up of performers included well-known local artists, including swing and jazz star Craig Martin, Ten Tenors member Scott Muller, Dakota Striplin, Leah Lever, Mamma Mia’s Carole Williams, Naree Cole, Redland City Bands and many more.

She also urged residents to register for free Christmas by Starlight public transport.

“As with previous years, Council, in conjunction with TransLink, will provide free travel on selected routes to the event,” she said.

“For those travelling by car, free event parking will be available at the venue but some traffic conditions will be changed on the day, so I encourage everyone to allow plenty of time to get there.

“Island residents can catch buses from the marinas to the showgrounds or to Cleveland train station, then catch the connecting shuttle bus that will run on a loop and take passengers to and from the venue.

“Christmas by Starlight is an alcohol-free event but patrons can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as chairs and blankets.

“Entry is free but residents will be able to make a donation upon entry, with all funds raised going to help with Rotary’s drought relief efforts.”

For information about the event, including what to bring, and how to register for free public transport, visit the Christmas by Starlight page on Council’s website.

Santa Claus will take a break from his busy schedule to visit Christmas by Starlight.

Wheels now turning on Redlands Coast driverless bus trial


November 26, 2019

The RACQ Smart Shuttle hit the streets of Karragarra Island on Redlands Coast today, as part of a Queensland-first on-road trial.

The driverless bus, a joint initiative between RACQ and Redland City Council with the support of Council of Mayors SEQ, commenced timetabled services on the island, and residents and visitors were welcomed to step onboard for free.

RACQ Head of Public Policy Rebecca Michael said the Club was proud to introduce Queenslanders to the next generation of motoring.

“This trial will give us greater understanding of autonomous vehicles, their suitability to Australian driving conditions and how they interact with other road users,” Dr Michael said.

“It’s a critical step in the broader process of integrating this technology more permanently on our roads in future, but it’s equally as important that it’s trusted by Queenslanders.”

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the bus was a step forward for the region as much as it was for the future of motoring.

Dr Rebecca Michael, RACQ, Redland City Mayor Karen Williams and Greg Giraud, EasyMile

“The bus is the first ever form of public transport for the Karragarra Island community, which has some incredibly unique transport challenges that present a need for innovative solutions like this,” Cr Williams said.

“There’s a strong reliance on private vehicles, and the low traffic and low speed environment on the island makes it the perfect place to host this innovative trial.

“This is all about testing the technology to see if it can then be deployed to other areas, including our other residential islands.

“For me this journey began in 2017 when I got to experience this technology when in Singapore with the Council of Mayors (SEQ) and I knew then that this innovation could make a real difference to our island communities.

“We’re proud to be hosting this trial right here on our doorstep and encourage everyone to jump onboard and join us in making history.”

Further information about the trial can be found at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au/SmartMobilityTrial

Council tells State Government: No growth without infrastructure


November 26, 2019

Redland City Council has put the State Government on notice that it will not sign off on the South West Victoria Point Structure Plan until the State commits to the critical transport infrastructure needed to service the area.

Mayor Karen Williams said last week’s decision was about drawing a line in the sand by not accepting growth without the essential State infrastructure the community needed.

“The community has told us they are tired of development without the necessary State infrastructure to support the growth and this decision shows Council is listening to these concerns,” she said.

“Following last week’s decision we will continue to progress work on the South West Victoria Point Structure Plan, including submitting it to the State Government for review and consulting with our community, but we will not include it in our City Plan without the essential State transport infrastructure upgrades needed to support it.”

Division 4 Councillor for Victoria Point Lance Hewlett said Council’s resolution specifically identified the duplication of Cleveland-Redland Bay Road as critical in supporting new growth in the area.

“Specifically, we want the State to commit to upgrading Cleveland-Redland Bay Road between Victoria Point Centre and Redland Bay, giving residents in the south of the city the confidence the State Government is committed to delivering key transport infrastructure upgrades before new urban areas are developed,” Cr Hewlett said.

“The State Government has committed to duplicating part of this road already and today’s decision asks them to commit to full duplication between Victoria Point and Redland Bay before we agree to support new additional growth in the area.”

Division 6 Councillor Julie Talty said Council’s decision followed recent lobbying of the State Government with respect to infrastructure and development.

“Council is planning the local government infrastructure to support the growth of this area, such as water, sewer, local roads and parks, which will be funded by developers in the structure area,” she said.

“Residents told us through our recent community survey that they want State infrastructure to match development and this decision shows them that we hear them and we agree.

“Recently we also tabled a series of resolutions to the Local Government Association of Queensland, calling on the State for clearer planning legislation and longer term infrastructure plans so the community knows what to expect in their neighbourhoods.

“These resolutions combined with this decision puts the State Government on notice that our community will no longer tolerate new growth without appropriate State infrastructure upgrades being provided.”

New phone app to reward shoppers and boost local business


November 25, 2019

A free mobile phone app aimed at promoting local businesses and rewarding their customers is on trial on Redlands Coast.

The Redlands Coast Deals and Rewards App is an initiative of Redland City Council to encourage residents and visitors to shop locally and earn rewards in the process.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has urged businesses and residents to get on board and start using the app.

“We know Redlands Coast retailers already offer great value and exceptional services to shoppers but with this app, they can offer even more in return for customer loyalty,” she said.

“Shoppers earn points for each purchase and these can be used to unlock further in-store deals, redeem prizes and enter competitions.

“Using a smartphone to shop is becoming increasingly popular, so this easy to use app is a win for everyone.

“Shoppers can set up notifications to their phone so when they travel past a business they will receive an alert about the deals being done in-store.

“We believe it’s one of the first apps of its type to be delivered by a Council to businesses across an entire local government area.”

The app is easy to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play and will also give shoppers a local business directory and information on how to enter competitions.

Cr Williams said all information collected by the app would remain private.

“All data will be securely stored and only used to offer deals and other services to the user,” she said.

“It’s free for businesses to sign up for the initial three month trial and discover the world of benefits the app will bring them and their business on our naturally wonderful Redlands Coast.”

Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce president Rebecca Young has urged business to support the new initiative.

“The app is a positive addition to our business community, giving the opportunity for retailers  to connect not only to potential customers but to one another,” she said.

“We would encourage all businesses to engage in the app to use it as a useful marketing tool.”

For further details, visit Council’s website.

Trail creates new southern Russell Island evacuation route


November 25, 2019

 Works have begun this week on hardening a trail along Lagoon Road, Russell Island to create an alternate evacuation route on the southern end of the island.

Redland City Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Karen Williams said the works to the existing fire trail would ensure it could be used as an evacuation route if needed.

“The works to the 300m trail, along Lagoon Road, will involve adding rocks and gravel to harden and widen it to 2.5m to improve accessibility,” Cr William said.

“It is not designed to be a new road, but once upgraded the trail can be opened to access by emergency agencies and resident evacuation should the need arise.

“The trail work, expected to be complete by early December, is the latest in our emergency planning on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands and will provide an added evacuation option, linking Rocky Point to Centre Road.

“This adds to our other 2019 fire preparedness efforts across the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, including clearing reduction zones, slashing blocks, controlled burns, community education campaigns and new signage.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the works, were a timely reminder for people to also take their own precautions.

“Council continues significant disaster preparation works, and to collaborate with other levels of government, to ensure we are ready of the storm and bushfire season ahead of us,” Cr Edwards said.

“As residents we all need to be part of that collaboration, and take household measures to ensure the safety of our loved ones and assets.

“It is important that all residents, but particularly islanders who have the added complexity of geographic isolation, take the time now to prepare their homes and set up an emergency kit and plan.

“Knowing evacuation routes in advance, such as the additional one we are creating now along Lagoon Rd, could make all the difference in an emergency situation.

“I encourage everyone to jump on to Council’s dedicated Disaster Dashboard disaster.redland.qld.gov.au for details on how to be prepared for what could be testing season ahead.”

Tips for helping to fireproof your property include:

  • keeping grass and undergrowth trimmed
  • raking up and reduce leaf litter and overgrown shrubs
  • removing branches overhanging buildings and leaf litter from roofs and gutters
  • storing fuels and chemicals away from dwellings
  • moving woodpiles away from buildings
  • preventing embers from entering a building by sealing gaps, vents and roof spaces
  • displaying house numbers clearly and provide access for fire trucks.

Recent fire mitigation work across the SMBI’s includes:

  • six prescribed burns completed on Russell Island 2019
  • six prescribed burns completed on Macleay Island in 2019
  • 300  (212313 m2) blocks slashed
  • 544  (122,794 m2) fuel reduction areas slashed
  • 23 (8km) new fire trails constructed on Russell Island
  • Design work underway to consider forming Glendale Rd from Rocky Point to Sandy Beach
  • Consideration of a secondary evacuation route north of Sandy Beach Rd
  • Fire Danger Rating signs across each island
  • Emergency signage placed on SBMI and Coochiemudlo Islands
  • Fire preparedness information distributed at mainland ferry terminals
  • Posters and information flyers available at ferry terminals
  • Community Champions have been readied to provide fire preparedness information to the community at SMBI ferry terminals or operate Evacuation Centres if needed.

Council powers on towards green energy solutions


November 22, 2019

A local green hydrogen economy on Redlands Coast is one step closer following a gathering of experts in Cleveland this week.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council facilitated the roundtable of scientists, government researchers and representatives from private enterprise at the State Government’s Redlands Research Centre in Cleveland on Thursday, 21 November.

“Council brought this group of people together to look at the local benefits of green hydrogen across business, industry and community,” she said.

“Redlands Coast is in the enviable position of having Queensland University of Technology’s pilot plant already located here, led by  Professor Ian McKinnon, who was also recently appointed to the position of strategic hydrogen advisor for the Queensland Government, so it makes sense to explore local opportunities.

“Green hydrogen is produced through a process that electrifies water with renewable energy to provide a safe, green power solution.

“Council is always seeking innovative ways of saving money while helping both the environment and local economy; and green hydrogen offers great potential for both.”

Cr Williams said green hydrogen technology was already used to power satellite electronics and hydrogen had been used to fuel buses in the London CBD for almost a decade.

“The most immediate use of green hydrogen is an emissions-free mobility solution, and some car and bus manufacturers are delivering hydrogen fuel cell vehicles on the Australian market,” she said.

“This clean, safe technology could also ultimately be used to supply renewable energy to electricity grids, power ferries on Moreton Bay and convert waste products into green power.”

Cr Williams said the roundtable at Cleveland helped showcase Council’s interest in this emerging technology.

“The gathering demonstrated how Redlands Coast can help other areas understand the role they could play,” she said.

“Having these experts confirm the importance of developing a local green hydrogen economy provides the confidence that Council’s investigations should continue to progress and will assist in taking the next steps towards activating this green energy solution.”

Nominations closing soon for Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards


November 22, 2019

Redlands Coast is filled with people achieving the extraordinary across all sectors of the community, and Council’s Australia Day Awards are your chance to shine a light on them and their endeavours.

Be quick, however, as nominations for the 2020 Australia Day Awards close on Friday, 29 November.

Mayor Karen Williams said the awards recognised the initiative, contribution and hard work of Redlands Coast residents of all ages.

“There may be a work colleague, family member or friend doing something naturally wonderful and who you feel deserves recognition,” she said.

“If you think their efforts should be recognised by the rest of the community, nominate them now by visiting Council’s  Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards web page.”

Online nominations are open for the following categories:
• Citizen of the Year Award
• Young Citizen of the Year Award (30 years and under)
• Senior Citizen of the Year Award (60 years and over)
• Local Hero Award
• Community Organisation Award
• Cultural Award
• Environment and Sustainability Award
• Sports Award
• Reconciliation Award

To make a nomination, visit redland.qld.gov.au/awards

For other enquiries about the awards, contact Council on 3829 8999.

The Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards presentation for finalists will be held in January 2020.

Christmas tree to light up Redlands Coast festive season


November 21, 2019

Christmas will come to Redlands Coast with the flick of a switch when the city’s Christmas tree lights up in Library Square, Cleveland on Friday, 29 November.

Redland Mayor Karen Williams said the lighting of the tree would include twilight markets, entertainment, Santa’s post box and children’s activities.

“The lighting of the Christmas tree is a wonderful, Redlands Coast tradition; and I am thrilled to be flicking the switch again this year,” she said.

“Bringing our city together to see the tree light up is one of my favourite events of the year; and one that brings out the Christmas spirit in all of us.

“This is a tradition that residents look forward to and this year’s lighting and free entertainment will be nothing short of spectacular.”

Cr Williams said the event would start with Christmas twilight markets at Raby Bay Harbour from 4pm and live entertainment, free face painting and other children’s activities until the lights were turned on at 7pm.

“Children can post their letters to Santa at Cleveland Library during the event, and every letter will receive a personal reply,” she said.

“Families will have an opportunity to have a photo with Santa before the countdown to the tree lighting begins.

“The Christmas tree is a key symbol of the holiday season and ours will be big and bright to bring lots of cheer to our community.

“Also, Council, in partnership with Translink, is providing free rail transport from Park Road to Cleveland from 4pm to the last service.

“To take advantage of this, passengers must be in possession of a valid Lightup Your Christmas Eventbrite ticket, which is available on Council’s website.

For more information or to register for the free public transport, visit Council’s Light up your Christmas web page.

The Christmas season will light up on Redlands Coast from 4pm on Friday, 29 November at Library Square, Cleveland.