Monthly Archives: May 2020

A new bridge leads the way into the redevelopment of Weinam Creek


May 29, 2020

The first stage of the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area (PDA) is nearing completion, with the connecting footbridge between the north and south side of the marina expertly lowered into place recently.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the new footbridge would make a big difference to the lives of residents, providing a connection between the Weinam Creek ferry terminal and the new car park on Moores Road.

Mayor Karen Williams and Division 2 Councillor Mark Edwards

“We are very excited to see stage one of the Weinam Creek development coming to fruition,” Cr Williams said.

“This footbridge and the additional 500 car parking spaces provided at Moores Road will certainly help to ease the congested parking situation at the ferry terminal, as well as reducing congestion in local streets where people have been forced to park.

“Many residents have a car on the mainland as well as on the islands and this overflow parking area will be very convenient for longer-term parking, with an easy 5-10 minute walk over the footbridge to the ferry terminal.

“It will also enable somewhere for cars to be parked while work is carried out on the ferry terminal, allowing it to keep operating while the rest of the project is constructed.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the new car park and the connecting bridge would open in mid-June and were just the first stage of the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area.
“This ferry terminal is the gateway to our Southern Morton Bay islands (SMBI) and therefore a very important transport hub and this project will transform the area into an exciting and dynamic destination in its own right.

New footbridge going up and over Weinam Creek

“The Weinam Creek project will provide important community infrastructure for local families and retail options to attract visitors, as well as important community services such as medical facilities and employment opportunities.”

Cr Williams said the Council had a clear vision for the Weinam Creek PDA precinct that responded to the community’s needs.

“This staged development is being delivered in partnership with Redland Investment Corporation and includes more open space; new pedestrian and cycle ways; rejuvenation of existing parkland; more car parks with a multi-storey park proposed for the later stage of the development; improved drop off and storage facilities for island residents and visitors; a new boat ramp to separate emergency and public access; and a mix of residential and retail spaces including cafes, restaurants and potential for a medical precinct,” Cr Williams said.

“The next stage of the development is lodging the final master plan with Economic Development Queensland in mid-2020, followed by further public notification and communication from late 2020.

“This Priority Development Area will further improve liveability in this beautiful area of Redlands Coast and also create jobs and drive economic development.”

Temporary partial closure of Shore Street West for sewer maintenance


May 28, 2020

Redland City Council will temporarily close a section of Shore Street West, Cleveland to undertake sewer maintenance works overnight from Sunday 31 May to Friday 12 June 2020.

The west bound lane of Shore Street West, between Wynyard and Waterloo streets, will be partially closed from 7pm to 5am for this work, weather permitting.

The east bound lane is expected to remain open.

To complete the work, the contractors will need to use machinery and tools that will generate noise, and every effort will be made to keep noise levels to a minimum, with steps taken to mitigate noise wherever possible.

To contact Council, call 3829 8999 or email rcc@redland.qld.gov.au

Bay experience enhanced with saltwater aquatic recreation markers in Raby Bay


May 28, 2020

Keen swimmers will soon have an enhanced experience in Raby Bay with Redland City Council installing saltwater aquatic recreation markers adjacent to the foreshore at Masthead Drive, Cleveland.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the saltwater aquatic recreation markers would be a win for locals and visitors alike.

“I’m a strong advocate for public access to Redlands Coast’s foreshores and Moreton Bay,” she said.

“Bayside locations are always scrutinised for public access as these naturally wonderful areas should be there for all to enjoy.”

Image credit: Callam Craig

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the idea was first raised with him by members of a local triathlon group that train in the area.

“It was obvious to me that this such a facility would provide significant health and wellbeing benefits for whole community,” Cr Mitchell said.

“So I have allocated Community Infrastructure Project funding available to me as a Councillor to have these saltwater aquatic recreation markers installed.

“The recreation markers are being located within the tidal waters of Raby Bay, an area popular with swimmers, kayakers and paddle boarders.

“A 400 metre strip will be marked out with red and yellow buoys, each tethered to a specially design weight on the sea bed.

“Council has received a Queensland Government Marine Park Permit to undertake the work.

“Work has started and is expected to be completed by the Friday 5 June, weather and tides permitting.

“It might be a bit chilly in and on the bay right now but I’m sure that won’t deter our most enthusiastic water lovers, be they swimmers, paddlers, kayakers or lifesavers and Nippers .”

Redlands Coast to retain Monday EKKA Show Day Public Holiday


May 27, 2020

Redlands Coast will retain its current Ekka Show Day Public Holiday on Monday 10 August with Council having to inform the State Government by next week if they wanted to change the date of the local holiday.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said today’s decision followed a request from the State Government to advise by next week if Council wanted to change the current public holiday date following a State Government announcement last week the Brisbane Ekka Holiday would be moved to Friday 14 August as a one-off.

“The change of date for Brisbane gave us the chance to look at when our holiday is held and we had started to ask the community for its feedback by opening a series of polls and engaging businesses from the end of last week,” Cr Williams said.

“However yesterday the Minister wrote to Council’s Chief Executive Officer asking for an answer by next week, which means today would be our last chance to pass a resolution to move our public holiday.

“Given the Minister’s request for a response by next week we will halt the engagement and retain the current date and advise the Minister accordingly.”

Cr Williams said Council had a standing resolution from 2013 which would stand following today’s decision.

“In 2013 Council asked the State Government to gazette the Monday before People’s Day as our Ekka Public Holiday each year to give residents and businesses certainty so they can plan holidays and resourcing,” Cr Williams said.

“Having our public holiday on a different day to Brisbane has historically allowed local businesses to attract Brisbane residents to the city through events such as the Cleveland Crazy Day Markets, providing an economic benefit.”

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell moved an urgent motion today in response to the Minister’s letter and said retaining the current public holiday would provide a benefit particularly for tourism businesses.

“Several local businesses have contacted me to say they would welcome the public holiday remaining on the 2013 planned date, which this year will provide two consecutive long weekends, helping to boost the local economy,” Cr Mitchell said.

“Tourism businesses on North Stradbroke Island, for example, have been shut down for several months and the State Government’s COVID-19 Roadmap predicts these businesses will be able to again host guests by August, giving them two long weekends to spread tourists over a longer period to support their businesses safely.”

Funding support for Redlands Coast sporting and community clubs


May 27, 2020

Local sporting and community clubs will get access to operational funding to help them continue supporting the local community.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams today received support from Councillors to amend the guidelines for Council’s Mayor and Councillors’ Community Benefit Fund so it could support clubs with operational funding.

“We know local community and sporting clubs are doing it tough and Council is committed to doing everything we can to support them,” she said.

“Historically the Mayor and Councillors’ Community Benefit Fund has been restricted to supporting events and one-off projects, which are not occurring given the COVID-19 situation.

“Today’s decision will allows Council to pivot and make the $50,000 remaining in this fund for this financial year available for operational funding, so local clubs are ready to welcome back members when restrictions are lifted.

“With the end of the financial year approaching fast, it is critical interested clubs get their applications in by 11.59pm on 14 June 2020 so they can take advantage of this operational funding, which at this stage only applies to the current financial year.”

Cr Williams said today’s decision followed Council’s $2 million COVID-19 stimulus package adopted in March, which included a one-off contribution towards electricity costs for clubs and associations registered under Council’s community electricity scheme.

“Local clubs are the backbone of our community and now more than ever they need our support,” Cr Williams said.

“Council is also continuing to work with any clubs suffering financial hardship to ensure they are supported through the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Act locally during National Reconciliation Week 2020


May 27, 2020

National Reconciliation Week – from 27 May to 3 June 2020 – is looking a bit different this year but there are still opportunities to connect digitally and immerse yourself in local cultural experiences as pandemic restrictions ease.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the 2020 National Reconciliation Week theme – In this together – was especially poignant during these unprecedented times of social isolation.

“We have seen some wonderful acts of altruism and kindness during the current COVID-19 pandemic right across the Redlands Coast community,” Cr Williams said.

“There has been a real sense of looking out for each other – that we truly are all in this together.

“I hope this realisation stays with us as the pandemic passes and we continue to acknowledge and celebrate our shared journeys.”

Cr Williams said the first day of National Reconciliation Week was the perfect time to acknowledge the Quandamooka People, the traditional custodians of the lands and seas of Redlands Coast.

“Wherever you are, choose your social media platform – or the privacy of your own space – to pay your respects,” she said.

“The Nughie, Noonuccal and Gorenpul peoples, collectively known as the Quandamooka People, have lived in careful balance with our region’s natural wonders for more than 21,000 years.

“If you know where to look, the evidence of this ageless connection surrounds you.”

Cr Williams said that in recent years Council had undertaken a number of joint projects with community organisations to promote reconciliation.

“Redland City Council’s first internal Reconciliation Action Plan, Kanara Malara – One People 2019 – 2021, was endorsed at a Council General Meeting on 31 July 2019,” she said.

“However, reconciliation is a journey for all Australians – as individuals, families, communities, organisations and a nation.

“We all have a role to play in healing the relationships between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

Cr Williams urged Redlands Coast residents to connect with and enjoy local cultural opportunities during National Reconciliation Week.

“Redland Art Gallery (RAG) has created an online program of events for the week,” she said.
“Each day from Wednesday 27 May to Tuesday 2 June on Facebook and Instagram, you can enjoy a new offering, including featured artworks from the RAG collection, films Seeing Country and Gathering Strands, and artist interviews.

“Why not take a trip to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) to see two stunning examples for Quandamooka culture in the form of public art place markers at Cabarita Park, Amity Point (Pulan) and Point Lookout (Mulumba).

“The Amity (Pulan) sculpture, designed by Quandamooka artist Belinda Close, depicts the sea eagle Mirriginpah soaring high above the waters of Moreton Bay in search of food, alerting the Quandamooka People to the annual arrival of mullet – a story that is millennia-old.

“Delvene Cockatoo-Collins designed the Point Lookout (Mulumba) sculpture, which captured perfectly the timeless links of the eugarie shell to the Quandamooka people.”

Funded by the Queensland Government, the artwork projects were led by Council in collaboration with the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) and the artists.

Cr Williams said there was a range of Aboriginal cultural activities available on Redlands Coast including guided land-based whale and cultural walks, art galleries and food experiences.

“Camping on Main and Flinders beaches is expected to reopen in line with Stage 2 of the State Government’s easing of restrictions,” she said.

There are many national events offered across National Reconciliation Week, starting with a National Acknowledgement of Country from 12pm, Wednesday 27 May.

To join the National Acknowledgement of Country and get involved with other National Reconciliation Week events, visit nrw.reconciliation.org.au

For local cultural activities and experiences, contact Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre on 1300 667 386 or visitredlandscoast.com.au

Community Champions and STAR Community Services agreement supports vulnerable SMBI residents


May 25, 2020

Under a new agreement with STAR Community Services, the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) volunteer Community Champions will be able to help even more of the vulnerable residents in their communities.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said that during disasters and local emergencies, the highly regarded Community Champions could now help to support the safety, wellbeing and needs of STAR clients living on the islands.

“As Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, I am proud of the extraordinary efforts of our SMBI Community Champions in supporting island residents,” Cr Williams said.

“The agreement with STAR will enable the Champions to provide even more support, by allowing them to contact socially or physically isolated STAR clients to check on their safety,” she said.

“Essentially, it allows the Community Champions to help make sure everyone on the island has been accounted for and is being cared for in an emergency.”

STAR General Manager Patsy Wilshire said the agreement would help ensure the safety of their island clients.

“Isolated, elderly people are already vulnerable, so during a disaster we call over 600 Bay Island clients to make sure they are safe, and have access to fresh food and water as well as vital medications,” Ms Wilshire said.

“In any future disaster, if anyone on the SMBI needs immediate help, STAR will contact the Community Champions who will be able to visit the person’s home to assess their needs,” she said.

“We strongly believe that communities that work together are stronger.”

Ms Wilshire wanted to thank the Redlands Foundation for providing a phone and laptop to support communications between STAR and the Community Champions.

“Equipment like this is a basic need during emergencies, so we extend sincere thanks to Redlands Foundation for their generosity.”

Community Champions Coordinator Marie Dalton said the group’s main aim was to care for vulnerable people.

“In emergencies, the Community Champions work together to make sure everyone on the islands is safe,” Marie said.

“Working with STAR will help us identify and reach more vulnerable people more quickly,” she said.

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the agreement reflected how Redlands Coast organisations are finding ways to work together to assist the wider community.

“STAR has provided vulnerable members of our Redlands Coast community with safe, affordable and reliable services for many years,” Cr Edwards said.

“I am delighted that by working with STAR, our Community Champions will be even better resourced to support their island communities,” he said.

“We know that the very best disaster management programs involve local people, and that’s why our Community Champions have been so successful.

“This agreement will strengthen our SMBIs’ resilience and is a great example of the power of the Redlands Coast community working together.

“If you would like further information regarding the work carried out by STAR Community Services, please call 3821 6699 or the Southern Moreton Bay Island Community Champions on 0423 162 723.

Planned burns scheduled – Tuesday 26 to Friday 29 May 2020


May 25, 2020

Redland City Council’s Parks & Conservation Crews are intending to undertake the following hazard reduction burns (weather permitting):

  • Squirrel Glider Conservation Area, 8-66 McMillian Road, Alexandra Hills – Tuesday 26 May
  • Scribbly Gums Conservation Area, 57A Winchester Road, Alexandra Hills – Wednesday 27 May
  • Heinemann Road Conversation Area, 277-293 Heinemann Road, Mount Cotton – Thursday 28 May
  • Sanctuary Drive Conservation Area, 35 Sugarglider Court, Mount Cotton – Thursday 28 May
  • Bayview Conservation Area, 487-503 German Church Road, Redland Bay – Friday 29 May

Maps of each location below.

Squirrel Glider Conservation Area, 8-66 McMillian Road, Alexandra Hills – large yellow highlighted area to the west scheduled for Tuesday 26 May

Scribbly Gums Conservation Area, 57A Winchester Road, Alexandra Hills – 8 hectare yellow highlighted area scheduled for Wednesday 27 May

Heinemann Road Conservation Area (yellow highlighted area to the west) and Sanctuary Drive Conservation Area (yellow highlighted area to the east) are scheduled for Thursday 28 May

Bayview Conservation Area, 487-503 German Church Road, Redland Bay – 4 hectare yellow highlighted area scheduled for Friday 29 May

Preparation of the sites will be undertaken in the days leading up to the date of the burns, and will consist of clearing around significant logs and habitat trees. Some limited test burning may be conducted during this time.

It is appreciated that these burns may cause some inconvenience, however all attempts will be made to limit any smoke hazards. The planned burns are necessary to reduce the volume of forest litter fuel, which will assist with hazard reduction. Planned burns assist to reduce the fire danger and provide conditions essential for native regeneration.

For more information about Council’s planned burn program, please visit redland.qld.gov.au/PlannedBurns or contact Council on 3829 8999.

Council poll on Redlands Coast Ekka Show day


May 22, 2020

Now is the time to vote on your next long weekend, with Redland City Council running an online poll to help decide what date Council should ask the State Government to gazette as the Redlands Coast 2020 Ekka public holiday.

The move follows State Government approval for Brisbane City Council to move their Wednesday People’s day holiday to Friday 14 August, and invite other south-east Queensland regions to examine their options.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council was asking residents and businesses if they would prefer to keep its holiday on Monday 10 August or move it to the same Friday as Brisbane.

“People can head to our Facebook page or website and vote for their preferred public holiday – do they want to stay with our traditional Monday off or move to join Brisbane residents in having Friday off for the first time,” Cr Williams said.

“We’re in the fortunate position that either way we have a long weekend, but the decision is one we need to consider carefully as there will be flow-on effects for tourism and local businesses, as well as families with members working in different Council areas.

“As with Brisbane, the change will be a one-off, but we want to give our residents a chance to voice a preference.”

Mayor Karen Williams said whatever the outcome, the change of the Brisbane City Public Holiday would provide an opportunity for local businesses to leverage the tourism opportunities.

“With the change to Brisbane’s public holiday we’ll be encouraging people from around south-east Queensland region to swap show bags for a long weekend enjoying the little adventures and hidden treasures of Redlands Coast.”

“While the economic possibilities are important, so too is the health and safety of residents and visitors so I’d also ask that anyone looking to visit Redlands Coast over the Ekka holiday remembers to practise social distancing and remember that COVID-19 remains a risk, particularly for our vulnerable communities.

To have your say, head to Redland City Council Facebook or yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au

Post-COVID recovery discussion during economic round table


May 22, 2020

Laying the foundations for a local post-COVID economy was a key point of discussion during a meeting of the Redlands Coast Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) this week.

EDAB Chair Sam Kennedy said this week’s round table discussions showed a large amount of work had already been done to lay the foundations for how the Redlands economy could rebound from the current pandemic.

“The meeting was a real eye-opener and shows the importance of collaboration in responding to the current economic challenges being faced through the COVID pandemic,” Ms Kennedy said.

“It is clear Council has already done a great deal of work on the city’s social and economic response and on behalf of the Board I congratulate them for moving so rapidly to respond.

“We heard about a number of success stories that have come out of Council’s $2 million stimulus package, including businesses that have used Council’s repurposed grants program to pivot and access professional services so they can continue serving the community.

“The Board also built on that work with some exciting discussions including internet connectivity across the city and how we can use the current situation to keep Redlanders in the Redlands through better connectivity, delivering an economic boost to local businesses. 

“We also discussed some exciting projects that are taking shape and have the potential to be a real game changer for the city.”

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said having some of the nation’s leading economic minds focussed on the Redlands would ensure we were well placed to not only recover from COVID-19 but to grow the local economy beyond the current pandemic.

“We know recovering from the current situation will be a marathon not a sprint, so having the foundations and collaboration is going to be critical,” Cr Williams said.

“The Board this week was able to provide decades of economic experience and suggest a number of key partners who can support Council in helping our initiatives and projects become a reality, ultimately delivering benefits for the broader community.

“This week’s EDAB meeting follows a round table I hosted with local shopping centres recently and a second meeting I convened to discuss how to ensure any projects built in our city deliver jobs for locals.

“It is critical this work gets done now so the plans are in place and ready for when restrictions are lifted so our local economy can benefit.”

Details of Council’s COVID-19 Support for businesses and the community are available at redland.qld.gov.au/info/20166/support