Redland City Council’s Walk and Talk days, held 16-17 June, were a resounding success. Over 100 residents took part and gave vital feedback, both verbally and by completing over one hundred neighbourhood surveys and eight walkability surveys.

The Walk and Talk days were a community engagement activity for Open Space Strategy, the City’s open space planning blueprint for the next 14 years.

As part of the event, people were invited to checkpoints at Cleveland, Alexandra Hills, Victoria Point and Wellington Point to give their views on our parklands and open spaces, and the strategy recommendations. They could then go for a walk with council officers, complete a Heart Foundation walking checklist and have a chat.

There was also a children’s activity station, where kids could draw what they loved about local parks.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the Walk and Talk days were a great example of Council seeking new ways to speak to residents.

“This project highlights Council’s commitment to listening to residents and finding different ways to gather information about our community’s needs and expectations.

“The Walk and Talk Days are a culmination of four months of community engagement on this project, and their success is a clear indication of how deeply people care about our neighbourhood parklands and open spaces.”

The Walk and Talk days were co-funded with the Local Government Association of Queensland, after Redland City Council successfully applied for a grant.

This project is one of only five to receive funding in Queensland, and will be used as a Healthy Communities demonstration project for local councils throughout the state.

Community engagement on the open space strategy is due to close on 30 June. Mayor Karen Williams extended her thanks to all those who have provided feedback.

“Whether you have commented on the strategy, completed a walkability checklist or shared your views at a Walk and Talk day, your feedback is valued and will be taken into consideration when the strategy is finalised for Council approval,” the Mayor said.