Normal traffic arrangements resume today at the entrance to Birkdale Recycling and Waste Centre and Judy Holt Recreation Reserve on Old Cleveland Road East, Birkdale.
A temporary speed limit reduction and traffic management had been in place during the traditionally busy Christmas holiday period.
Redland City Council would like to thank motorists for their patience and adherence to the directions during this time.
A new 100-hectare sport and recreational facility on Redlands Coast is another step closer, with Redland City Council set to invite Expressions of Interest (EOI) for construction of the first stage of the Redlands Coast Regional Sport and Recreation Precinct at Mount Cotton.
Stage 1 will include construction of the Bike Activity and Recreation sub-precincts and associated works, part funded by $4.5 million from the Queensland Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program in association with Redland City Council.
Mayor Karen Williams said the EOI process, which would open in early 2022, would allow for early contractor involvement and collaboration with the design consultancy team led by Bligh Tanner, who was recently awarded the contract to deliver the Preliminary and Detailed Design.
“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games has created genuine excitement across south-east Queensland and this project will ensure our sporting stars of tomorrow have somewhere to play the sports they love,” Cr Williams said.
“This milestone brings this fabulous community sport and recreation precinct another step closer and I’m looking forward to seeing designs for the new home grounds for Redlands BMX Club, Redlands Cycling and Multisport Club, Redlands Touch Association and Redlands Rugby League Club.
“We will also see plans developed for a regional level play area with water play and pump track; boardwalks around rehabilitated wetland areas; walking, horse riding and cycling trails and a kick-about area that could be used for small community events or fitness classes.”
Member for Springwood Mick de Brenni said the Stage 1 works would create or support an estimated 53 local jobs and provide an intergenerational community infrastructure project.
“I’ve long said that local families shouldn’t have to leave our neighbourhood to take part in sport, and with this investment they won’t have to,” Mr de Brenni said.
“This project builds on the first round of the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program which funded the development of the Eastern Escarpment mountain bike trails and facilities.
“It will provide sporting and active recreation assets, as well as conservation benefits for our local community.”
Cr Williams said the regional sporting facility was an example of true collaboration, with the State Government helping to fund the Master Plan and Stage 1 of the project.
“With Redlands Coast named as a venue city for the 2032 Olympic Games, Council is investing heavily in sporting infrastructure across the city,” she said.
“We have already invested more than $6 million in designing this exciting new facility, with the Queensland Government assisting with a Get Planning Spaces grant of $100,000.”
For more information about the EOI process and Council Tenders and Contracting, visit www.redland.qld.gov.au/info/20164/tenders_and_contracting.
For more information about the Redlands Coast Regional Sport and Recreation Precinct, and to see a fly-through video of the concept design, visit yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au
Consultation about the upgrade of William Taylor Memorial Sports Field at Thorneside has revealed strong community backing for the draft concept plan.
Mayor Karen Williams said the plan was developed by Redland City Council in collaboration with the primary tenant sporting clubs that call the sports field home – Mooroondu Sport and Recreation Club, Mooroondu Football Club, Wellington Point Cricket, Thorneside Community Tennis and Raiders Netball Club.
“It was reassuring to see club members, park users and locals felt confidence in the benefits the plan would provide, Cr Williams said.
“Nearly 300 survey responses, including written submissions, were received during the consultation period, and nearly three-quarters of those indicated support for the plan.
“Knowing the plan is on the right track, making the most of the space for the clubs and the wider community, is a strong step towards progressing the project.
“Council officers will continue to work with clubs, including smaller clubs like the Petanque Club Brisbane Southside, as the planning and design phases progress.
“Consultation outcomes also revealed that Redlands Coast is fairly evenly split between preferring a natural environment or sports theme for the new play space, with the project team appreciating the suggestion from numerous respondents of combining the two to create a natural/sports theme.
“For the BMX and skate park area, it was not too surprising to hear that the half pipe is a well-loved if ageing feature, with respondents also telling us they liked the range of elements, community-friendly feel, shady position, and co-location with other activities.
“Our skaters and BMX riders are excited about the prospect of better facilities, and we will soon be in touch with respondents who indicated interest in the targeted skate and bike facilities consultation that will be led by an external skate and bike park design consultant.
“Having users involved in the planning will help ensure a great space for people from all sections of the community, now and into the future.”
Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop said he appreciated the time that so many community members took to have their say about the upgrade.
“It was really wonderful to hear that nearly 300 engaged local people took time to not only find out about the plans for William Taylor Memorial Sports Field but to let Council know what they think of them.
“Community feedback and input is invaluable when the aim is to create a space for everyone.
“I have been aware for some time that there has been a desire for changes in the area and am pleased that residents have expressed their views to council officers, so they can design for local needs.
“I thank every respondent for this expression of community spirit and participation.
“Consultation outcomes will now play a part in designing the new play space, further developing the site plan and informing the upcoming targeted consultation about the skate and BMX facilities.
“We know that many people really enjoy the relaxed feeling and natural environment within the area, while others like to exercise formally or informally at different times of the day, week and year.
“After feedback from clubs and individuals, I’m looking forward to seeing plans that make the best use of the space, with features that will maintain natural values yet also offer exciting options for skaters, scooters and BMX riders of varying ages and abilities.”
Redland City Council is planning an exciting upgrade for the popular Headland Park at Point Lookout (Mulumba).
Mayor Karen Williams said the upgrade would bring a new lease of life to the popular park.
“Next year will see some fabulous improvements in this wonderful park,” she said.
“A new play space with a dual-slide climbing unit, nest swing, spring rocker and shell cubby, themed to reflect local cultural connections and Minjerribah’s spectacular marine environment will be built on the larger clearing, closer to the amenities block.
“In the new play space we’ll also see picnic facilities including a shelter, table, seating and a barbecue, with connecting paths helping ensure this beautiful new community space is accessible for all.”
To make way for another shelter with a table and seating nearer the bus stop, ageing play equipment will soon be removed.
“Importantly, the 2022 upgrade will also include the sealing of the adjacent carpark to provide more formalised parking spaces and additional protection for environmental values,” Cr Williams said.
Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the upgrade would provide a community space for everyone.
“Headland Park is central to many of the activities locals and visitors to Minjerribah enjoy,” he said.
“It provides access to the recently reopened Gorge Walk and pedestrian connectivity to two of the island’s most popular beaches.
“The large, grassy, space has long been a go-to spot for picnickers and people enjoying gelati or fish and chips from the nearby cafes.
“The improvements next year will make the park an even more attractive recreation space now and into the future.”
To activate and enliven some of the city’s public spaces and create opportunities for local businesses, Redland City Council is now accepting Expressions of Interest for temporary commercial activities for a select group of Redlands Coast parks and open spaces.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council supported a range of such activities in selected parks, including:
“This is only for those parks selected where temporary commercial activities could be offered without impacting the amenity and safety of park users and neighbours,” Cr Williams said.
“Commercial vendors that complement nearby businesses by offering a different product or service are also preferred.”
“Temporary commercial activities are generally of a low-scale, and are restricted to a footprint of 30 sq m. Depending on the size and shape of the park, the number of commercial vendors is capped at between one and three.
“Activating our parks and public spaces in this way further enlivens them and creates vibrant, liveable communities as well as opportunities for local businesses.
“Vendors who want to operate in a park can now submit an Expression of Interest to Council. If short-listed, they will be invited to formally apply for approval and terms and conditions will apply.”
Information on how to lodge an EOI and for the list of the applicable parks and open spaces, go to: yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au
A new BMX track has opened as part of a $471,000 upgrade of a Wellington Point park.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the works carried out at EGW Wood Park at Wellington Point were funded under the second phase of the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program.
“This year Council is investing $7 million in local parks and playground, taking the spend in the past two years to around $20 million. And this funding from the Australian Government is part of more than $5.3 million being invested in Redlands Coast community infrastructure under phase 2 of the LRCI stimulus funding,” Cr Williams said.
“We have some of the best parks in South East Queensland and this investment will give local families even more reason to get out and enjoy time together.”
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams, left, and Cr Wendy Boglary check out the expanded and improved BMX track at EGW Wood Park, Wellington Point.
Division 1 Councillor Wendy Boglary said the new BMX pump track integrated into the existing track and included multiple loops.
“The upgrade also included installing sandstone blocks, a picnic table, seating and shelter, as well as a drinking fountain with bottle filler, and also a tap and dog bowl,” Cr Boglary said.
“Improvements were also made to the footpaths servicing the park and changes to the cricket nets, while more plants and turf were put in.”
It is stage 2 of recent upgrades for the park, with stage 1 funded through Council’s Community Infrastructure Program in 2019, Cr Boglary said.
The Australian Government’s LRCI program supports local councils to deliver priority projects while supporting jobs and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.
A popular Alexandra Hills park is the first in Redlands Coast to feature dedicated parkour facilities and a giant climbing structure that spins, following a $1.5 million upgrade.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council’s upgrade of Hanover Drive Park included a range of play equipment aimed at being both fun and challenging.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams, right, and Cr Rowanne McKenzie at Hanover Drive Park in Alexandra Hills.
“Redlands Coast is earning a reputation as having some of the best parks in South East Queensland and this year we will invest $7 million into local parks and playgrounds – which takes the spend in the past two years to around $20 million – to give local families even more reason to get out and enjoy time together,” Cr Williams said.
“Parkour is a great way of developing strength and physical control as you interact with a combination of structures; and it forces you to come up with creative moves.
“While the giant spinning climber is sure to become the firm favourite with children.
“As well as these, Hanover Drive Park now has a new play area for toddlers, primary play area, sand play – including a ‘dino dig’ – net climbing tower, combination soccer/rugby goal, sandstone tunnel, see-saw, rubber domes, monkey bars, double swing, a ‘Pillar of Hercules’ swing and some gorgeous pavement patterns including a caterpillar hopscotch.”
Division 7 Councillor Rowanne McKenzie said the upgrade also included new picnic facilities such as shelters, a table and a double barbecue.
“The work also delivered new public amenities, additional seating, a drinking fountain, shade sails over some play elements, bin enclosures, plantings and footpaths,” she said.
Two line-marked accessible car park spaces have been established, Cr McKenzie said.
Redland City Council is providing an extra two weeks during which those interested in the future of Thorneside’s William Taylor Memorial Sports Field will be able to have their say.
Mayor Karen Williams said that, while more than 180 people had already provided input, extending the survey period to 24 September would give more people the opportunity to review the draft site layout and improvements to the recreation area.
“The proposed upgrade at William Taylor Memorial Sports Field follows a recent renewal of the tennis courts and public cricket nets,” Cr Williams said.
“Council is still keen to hear what park features users enjoy. The two-minute survey focuses on the recreation area, including the theme of the play space and skate park, which includes the bike skills track, with space to provide views on the proposed site layout.
“While the survey will remain open until 24 September 2021, the competition to win one of three $100 gift cards will still end on 10 September 2021, so I would encourage people to get in early and not miss that opportunity.”
Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop said numerous locals and other users had contacted him in support of the consultation and wanting to share their views about this sports park upgrade.
“William Taylor Memorial Sports Field is beloved in the Thorneside community. Having extra time for consultation will allow local residents, youth and families to offer feedback during week one of the holidays, which is very important,” Cr Bishop said.
“Officers have worked together with tenant clubs and identified some drainage, access and layout issues that need to be managed, with some changes proposed across the balance of the site. Local residents also have a lot of knowledge and wisdom that can help Council plans for this open space area, which includes Charles Toni Reserve.
“I’m pleased there will be further conversations with other user groups once the consultation period is finished.”
It is expected the detailed design for the William Taylor Memorial Sports Field will be finalised by June 2022, ready for construction when funding becomes available.
To complete the two minute survey and to find out more about the William Taylor Memorial Sports Field Upgrade, visit yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au.
The competition to win the three $100 gift cards will close on 10 September 2021, with gift card winners being selected via random draw.
Redlands Coast residents can help shape the future of Thorneside’s William Taylor Memorial Sports Field, with those who complete a two-minute survey by 10 September 2021 able to go into the draw to win one of three $100 gift cards.
Mayor Karen Williams said the survey, which opens on Friday 27 August, would help Council better understand what locals, tenant sporting clubs and other park users would like to see at the popular park.
“We know that Redlands Coast residents value their open spaces and will be enjoying the new tennis and cricket facilities which opened at William Taylor in June and are looking forward to the upgraded public toilets, picnic facilities and a bike skills zone, as well as the renewed play space, skate park, BMX/cycling, petanque court and carpark,” Cr Williams said.
“This survey now gives Thorneside locals and other park users, including sporting clubs, the opportunity to influence a sports, natural environment or discovery theme for the new toddler-primary play space, as well as the option to suggest other ideas.
“Similarly, by letting us know what they like about the existing skate park, our growing skating community will help design a facility with features they would like to use.
“Detailed design of the recreation area will start later this year and will consider the survey results together with the site plan already developed in collaboration with the sporting clubs that call William Taylor home.
“The detailed design will be finalised by June 2022, ready for construction when funding becomes available.”
Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop said Council was eager to hear from Thorneside locals and other park users, after having recent formal discussion with committee members of the tenant sporting clubs about the proposed improvements.
“The renewed tennis courts and public cricket nets have already brought a new lease of life to this local sport and recreation hub at William Taylor Sports Reserve,” he said.
“Over the years, I have heard requests for upgrades and changes to reflect diverse needs within our local area. Now, council has committed to provide a play space the neighbourhood will enjoy using as well as a revamped skate, scooter, BMX facility that might encourage even more young people to get outdoors and get active within a safe and family friendly environment.
“We will be letterbox-dropping paper copies of the survey to residents around William Taylor as an additional way for those who live nearby to let us know their views. However, the easiest way to complete the survey is online at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au
“As local councillor, I really urge locals to share your views. After the survey closes on 10 September, it would be great to have received a high number of participants in this consultation activity, as this is what will help ensure an open space that the entire community can enjoy for years to come.”
To complete the two minute survey and enter the draw to win one of three $100 gift cards, and to find out more about the William Taylor Memorial Sports Field Upgrade, visit yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au. Gift card winners will be selected via random draw.
Naturally wonderful Redlands Coast is having a big weekend in October and the rest of Greater Brisbane is invited.
Redland City Council is rolling out a tourism campaign highlighting great Redlands Coast getaway ideas which are “just up the road yet a world away” for neighbouring communities whose Ekka long weekend was delayed.
Mayor Karen Williams said Redlands Coast was the perfect spot for Greater Brisbane residents to spend the big break from Friday 29 October, with Council working with local tourism operators and businesses to ensure exceptional COVID-safe experiences.
She said island and coastal escapes in the heart of Quandamooka traditional country were a specialty.
“We have an amazing 335km of coastline and, with fast ferry services available to all our islands, it doesn’t take long to immerse yourself in a whole new world, whether it is taking in the stunning beaches, wildlife and rich cultural history of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), heading for a family beach holiday on Coochiemudlo Island (Goochie Mudlo) or relaxing at the bowls club with the best-ever view on Macleay Island (Jencoomercha),” Cr Williams said.
“While on Minjerribah, it really is worth joining an Aboriginal Cultural Walk with a Quandamooka guide and hearing sacred stories dating back more than 21,000 years.
“For water sports lovers, there are a number of canoe and kayak launching pontoons if you have your own water craft or you can hire a standup paddleboard, canoe or kayak from one of the local waterfront businesses, join a guided tour or sign up for a sailing adventure.
“There’s also a three-day long weekend visitor itinerary to guide you around our tourism treasures.”
Redlands Coast’s thriving food scene offers on-trend bars, micro-breweries and outstanding dining options.
“There’s no doubt you will find something to satisfy everyone’s taste, with the Redlands Coast online food trail directory a great place to start,” Cr Williams said.
“Visitors hoping to reconnect with nature also won’t be disappointed, with plenty of great experiences from guided eco-education tours by Ranger Stacey at Redland City Council’s IndigiScapes Centre, to bayside and hinterland wildlife spotting, and Point Lookout (Mooloomba) boardwalk on Minjerribah from where you can see an incredible array of marine creatures.
“October is also a great time for divers to see the famous annual visitors to Minjerribah’s Manta ray Bommie, while humpback whales continue on their annual migration past Point Lookout (Mulumba) – one of Australia’s best land-based whale-watching destinations.
“Those who prefer more energetic land-based pursuits, Redlands Coast is blessed with some of the region’s best hinterland mountain bike, hiking and horse riding trails, with more than 60km of tracks in the Bayview Conservation Area alone, which is home to koalas, goannas, glossy black-cockatoos, wallabies and powerful owls. There is also almost 240ha of natural conservation bushland at Redlands Track Park, along with the many kilometres of off-road cycling routes across Redlands Coast.”
Redlands Coast offers a range of accommodation options from island waterfront cottages and camping and beachfront resorts on Minjerribah to glamping at Mount Cotton’s (Boolimba) Sirromet Winery and hinterland getaways.
Half a dozen of the best
Redlands Coast’s October long weekend getaway options can be as relaxing or adventurous as you like. Here’s six to get you started.
Enjoy local arts on the Minjerribah arts trail.
Wales off North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).
The Don and Christine Burnett Conservation Area is great for bush walking.
Macleay Island
Find out more about Redlands Coast getaways by calling the Visitor Information Centre on 1300 667 386 or by going to visitredlandscoast.com.au