Monthly Archives: April 2013

Local tourism to receive international exposure


April 30, 2013

Redlands will gain international exposure through a new tourism campaign to be released from this weekend (Sunday 28 April).

Redland City Mayor Cr Karen Williams said the campaign would showcase the wonderful locations of the Redlands as well as the unique local tourism providers.

“The Redlands has it all. World class beaches, beautiful foreshores and picturesque hinterlands and all just 35 minutes from Australia’s third largest city,” Cr Williams said.

“This campaign will showcase these amazing locations to an international market with it being featured in New Zealand as well as throughout Australia.”

A partnership between Redland City Council and Brisbane Marketing the campaign will highlight the Redlands in print, online and television advertising. The first insert will appear in the Sunday Mail this weekend.

“A total of 30 local tourism providers are participating in the campaign that is the largest response ever for the Redlands,” Cr Williams said.

“This response is an indication of the passion of local providers and the variety of tourism services on offer.

“In addition to highlighting our beautiful natural environment, our rich cultural heritage and our unique locations the campaign will also include a variety of deals from Redlands tourism providers.

“Due to the enthusiasm of local tourism providers and the proactive approach by Redland City Council, the Redlands will be one of the best represented areas in this campaign.

Spokesperson for Council’s Tourism and CBD activation portfolio Councillor Craig Ogilvie said locations such as North Stradbroke Island, the Southern Moreton Bay Islands and the rural hinterland, meant the Redlands was an attractive and competitive destination of choice for visitors.

“The Redlands have been featured in international tourism publications and it is no wonder with the locations, climate and community feel we have on offer,” Cr Ogilvie said.

“Tourism attracts more than a million visitors to the Redlands each year and is a large contributor to our local economy.

“Visiting friends and relatives are a big part of our tourism sector and our residents are proud to showcase what we have on our doorstep to their visitors.

“The Redlands will also host the annual tourism summit in July and tourism awards in May. This activity means the Redlands and all of our great locations are well and truly on the national and international tourism radar at the moment.”

Check out deals from the Redlands.

More information on the campaign can be found at www.visitbrisbane.com.au.

visit-brisbane

Council on track to deliver savings and vision for City open for business


April 29, 2013

Redland City Council is continuing to deliver better value for money for ratepayers.

Mayor Karen Williams said one year on from the local government election she was honouring commitments to save Redland ratepayers’ dollars through a range of reforms, including a Council restructure last month.

“We are driving reform to deliver value for money. Our target is to keep rate rises at CPI or below,” Cr Williams said. “The CPI has just been announced as 2.5%, which is in line with our own financial planning.”

Cr Williams said while a culture change within Council over the past 12 months had successfully delivered a number of key achievements, there are still a number of challenges ahead.

“All Council staff and Councillors should be proud of what we have achieved over the past year, but we can’t lose focus as there is still more to be done,” she said.

“The Council restructure in March this year saw five departments reduced to three, and the grouping of ‘like’ areas to realise greater efficiencies and services for ratepayers.

“And the first Budget for the new Council last year delivered the lowest rates increase of comparable south east Queensland Councils. We are striving to do the same this year in June when the budget is announced.

“Cost of living pressures like electricity, fuel and groceries continue to rise and I am committed to making sure that in the Redlands any rates increase is no more than CPI so as not to add to that burden.”

During last year’s April election, ratepayers voted for a responsive Council who would listen to their concerns and take the necessary actions.

“We are doing this and achieving results including a greater focus on customer service and quicker turnaround times for Council services.

“Over the past year Council has realigned services to better meet the needs of the community including transitioning out of some services to allow them to be managed by specialist organisations who are more efficient and effective.

“We have also made considerable progress in reducing red tape and streamlining services, including implementing several planning initiatives to attract investment to the region.

“These initiatives include Council’s $1.5 million Cleveland CBD investment incentives package that was launched in March and aims to breathe new life into Cleveland.

“We have much more planned to revitalise areas across the City and will be working hard to bring these to fruition.”

Cr Williams said a continued focus on increasing economic development in the Redlands was one of the biggest challenges for Council moving forward.

“In order to secure the future of the region we need to encourage investment in the area so locals can benefit from a sustainable and vibrant local economy,” she said.

“We have the Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney coming to the Redlands next month (16 May) to show his support for our city’s future economic success – the message is that Redlands is open for business and investment.

“From that comes local jobs, better services, stronger communities and economic stimulation.

“Another priority is providing greater connectivity for our island communities.

“The emergency resilience plans currently being developed for our islands will help in achieving this, as will the introduction of Translink services to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, starting 1 July 2013.

“We will continue to work with the community to identify and meet additional needs.”

Top five achievements:

1. Efficiency improvements and cost savings including a Council restructure in March 2013 that saw five departments reduced to three, and the grouping of ‘like’ areas to realise greater efficiencies. This will deliver $960,000 in savings for ratepayers.

2. Increased support for local businesses to help attract investment and ensure the economic sustainability of the City, including:

  • the launch of a $1.5 million incentive package to revitalise the Cleveland CBD
  • commencement of CBD redevelopment meetings between Council and business
  • a red tape reduction taskforce to improve Council services and make it easier to do business in the Redlands

3. The lowest rate increase for comparable SEQ Councils, including:

  • A general rates increase of only 0.691%, compared with the previous Council proposal of 4.5%
  • Total rate revenue capped at 1.9%
  • No general rate revenue change for commercial properties

4. A resilient and united response to local storm events including:

  • kerbside collection of 17 km of green waste (one metre high and one metre wide) from more than 3000 local roads and streets following the Australia Day storms
  • the commencement of individual disaster management plans for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands

5. The abolition of gate fees at Council transfer stations.
Key priorities/objectives for the next 12 months include:

1. Attract investment to the Redlands by making it easier to do business and providing incentives.
2. A focus on the development of Toondah Harbour and Weinam Creek Transport Hub.
3. Promote the first class tourism locations within the Redlands.
4. Continue to provide core services in the most efficient method to deliver value to ratepayers.
5. Review Council processes to further improve community and organisational outcomes.
6. Keep rate rises at CPI or below.

 

Scheduled hazard reduction burns: Capalaba, Thornlands, Redland Bay, North Stradbroke Island


April 29, 2013

We will be carrying out hazard reduction burns (weather permitting) on the following days: 

  • Tuesday 30 April – Howlett Road, Capalaba.
  • Tuesday 30 April – Illawong Crescent, Dunwich (in conjunction with the Queensland Government Department of Natural Resources and Mines).
  • Tuesday 30 April – East Treatment Plant, Point Lookout (in conjunction with the Queensland Government Department of Natural Resources and Mines). 
  • Thursday 2 May – Dinwoodie Road, Thornlands.
  • Tuesday 7 May – Serpentine Creek Cemetery, Serpentine Creek Road, Redland Bay. 

While all attempts will be made to limit any smoke hazards, there may be partial road closures and minor delays.

For further information, please view the Fire management page on our website or phone our fire conservation officer on 3829 8456

planned burn

Snapshot – 30 April 2013


April 29, 2013

Healthy Waterways People’s Choice Award
Vote for us online!
Redland City Council has been announced as a finalist in two categories of the Queensland 2013 Healthy Waterways Awards! Our Waterways Recovery Program is a finalist for the Sustainable Development Award. This program involved six years of monitoring, evaluation and reporting on Redland City waterways.

It also incorporates targeted investigations, trials, works and collaborative community waterway projects. This effort led to our best ever regional report card result. Our Floating Wetlands Project is a finalist for the Product and Manufacturing Award. This project is a trial to see the effects on water quality by installing low-cost ‘do-it-yourself’ wetlands on private property and small scale commercial wetlands on council water bodies.

Both projects have required collaboration between other government organisations, business, landowners and community volunteers. We share this success with everyone involved and thank them for their efforts. Both projects are also eligible for the Healthy Waterways People’s Choice Award. You can vote for them online.

By voting you will go in the draw to win 1 of 5 $200 Coles Myer Gift Vouchers. Healthy Waterways will announce a voucher winner each week on Facebook until voting closes on 20 May 2013. Please note, only one vote per person will be counted. The winners of the Healthy Waterways Awards will be announced on 31 May 2013.

Redlands 2030 Community Plan – Have your say
From now until Friday 7 June you can have your say on the progress of Council’s Redlands 2030 Community Plan by completing our online survey.You can also access a copy of the plan and fill out and submit a printed survey form at Council customer service centres and Redland libraries.

The plan is a blueprint for residents, businesses, community organisations, Council and other levels of government and outlines the community’s vision for Redlands in 2030.Adopted by Council in 2010, the plan is regularly reviewed to make sure it meets the needs of the community.

Hazard Reduction Burn
Thornlands and Redland Bay
Council will be carrying out the following hazard reduction burns (weather permitting) at:

•Tuesday 30 April – Howlett Road, Capalaba.
•Tuesday 30 April – Illawong Crescent, Dunwich (in conjunction with the Queensland Government Department of Natural Resources and Mines).
•Tuesday 30 April – East Treatment Plant, Point Lookout (in conjunction with the Queensland Government Department of Natural Resources and Mines).
•Thursday 2 May – Dinwoodie Road, Thornlands.
•Tuesday 7 May – Serpentine Creek Cemetery, Serpentine Creek Road, Redland Bay.

While all attempts will be made to limit any smoke hazards, there may be partial road closures and minor delays. More information: 3829 8456

Rates Notices have now been issued
Residents are reminded rates are due Wednesday 8 May 2013. After this date, compound interest at the rate of 11% per annum is calculated on overdue daily balances. A full list of payment options is on the front of your rates notice. If you did not receive your rates notice, have moved address or you would like to discuss your payment options please call 3829 8446.

Koala Community Planting – 18 May
Everybody welcome!
Get your hands dirty and enjoy the great outdoors at this annual event.
By planting koala food trees you will be creating future wildlife habitat.
Join in the fun afterwards with a free sausage sizzle and take home a native plant.
Where: Norm Dean Park, Smith Street, Cleveland
When: Saturday 18 May, 8.30am – 10.30am
UBD: 185, K19
Bring: Enclosed shoes, sun protection and drinking water
Provided: Plants, tools, gloves and sunscreen.
More information: 3824 8611

2013 Redlands Koala Fun Run
Register now!
Enjoy a range of entertainment, fun activities and great prizes for the whole family.
When: Sunday 26 May
Where: Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds, Cleveland
Details: Three circuit lengths are available, catering for all ages – 3.5km, 5km and 10km.
To register visit www.redland.qld.gov.au or www.koalacentral.com.au.
Registration forms are also available at Council’s Customer Service Centres or 3829 8288.

Council meetings
Wednesday 1 May – General Meeting (incorporates Coordination Committee Meeting) – 10.30am

Tourism providers encouraged to comment on draft ecotourism plan


April 24, 2013

Redland City Council is encouraging local tourism operators to review Queensland’s draft ecotourism plan recently released for comment by the State Government.

Spokesperson for Council’s Tourism and CBD activation portfolio Councillor Craig Ogilvie said it was important local providers reviewed the Government’s plan.

“Our unique location and beautiful natural attractions are a major drawcard for tourists and bring strong economic benefits to the Redlands,” he said.

“The Redlands is well positioned as a destination of choice and our many attractions include the pristine environment of North Stradbroke Island, our southern Moreton bay islands and our hinterland locations,” Cr Ogilvie said.

Cr Ogilvie said as tourism provided a number of benefits to the Redlands, it was important to keep the industry strong.

“Our location provides strong potential for nature based tourism and is a differentiator that sets us apart from some of our competition, so this plan needs to provide the necessary support to ensure our local industry continues to attract visitors to the region.”

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council strongly supported the growth of nature-based and ecotourism in the Redlands with key goals including environmentally sustainable buildings.

“One example of this is Council’s approval of the Mt Cotton eco cabins.  Initiatives like this by local tourist operators help promote the region’s natural beauty and are part of the reason more than one million visitors come to the local area each year,” Cr Williams said.

“Our natural environment in the Redlands is our local industry’s strength and we have to be constantly looking for new ways to improve what we do and new opportunities to expand our tourism product.”

Sue Panuccio from Mt Cotton Guesthouse said the eco cabins approved by Council were nearing completion and would add to an already strong local ecotourism industry.

“There are some good examples of ecotourism in the Redlands, including parts of North Stradbroke Island, Moreton Bay and Mt Cotton bushland,” she said.

“I think there is huge opportunity to capitalise on the location and natural beauty we have available so I would encourage everyone to read the draft plan and comment.”

The draft plan is available for viewing and comment until Friday 31 May 2013 on the department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing website www.nprsr.qld.gov.au.

Weed of the Week: Singapore Daisy


April 24, 2013

Name: Singapore Daisy

Scientific name: Sphagneticola trilobata

How to identify the weed: A vigorous ground cover forming a mat, usually in disturbed areas.  It has glossy green leaves growing opposite from the stem and the leaves are usually three-lobed with toothed margins.  It has a yellow-orange daisy flower approximately 2-3cm across with 8-13 petals that are finely toothed at the tip.  Flowers are prominent all year round.

Why is the weed a problem: Introduced from native tropical America this plant has spread rapidly in the coastal parts of south-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales.  It is regarded as a significant environmental weed in Queensland due to it’s invasiveness and abilty to smother native vegetation.  The plant is spread by stem fragments and cuttings, rarely by seed.

How to manage the weed: Manual removal of the entire plant is one method of control for small infestations. Foliar spraying with appropriate chemicals is also highly effective.  If using chemical control, ensure there is no run-off of the herbicide and no contact with other desirable species. For more information, please contact IndigiScapes on 3824 8611.

Any other interesting facts: Singapore daisy is native to tropical America.

Singapore Daisy

Singapore Daisy

Koala Fun Run – a family affair


April 22, 2013

Chances are you won’t see the James family running at the Olympics any time soon, but that won’t stop the local family lining up for next month’s Redlands Koala Fun Run.

Clayton James admitted none of the family (daughters Lucy 7 and Chelsea 10 and wife Kylie) were elite athletes, but said it was the idea of spending a fun morning together that encouraged them to register in the annual event.

KFR-facebook

“You don’t have to be an athlete, it is just a fun and active experience that our family can enjoy together while raising awareness for Koalas in the Redlands,” he said.

“The social aspect is definitely why we are taking part rather than the competition; it will all be about fun and participation for us.”

Clayton said it was the second year the whole family had taken part in the fun run and daughters Lucy and Chelsea were looking forward to the event again this year.

“We all competed in the fun run last year. We met up with some other families at the event and had a great time so thought that we would take part again,” he said.

Mayor Karen Williams said the event would be held on Sunday 26 May at Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds, Cleveland.

“The event is designed for participants of all ages. We have school-aged children through to people in their 70s who have registered so far,” Cr Williams said.

“Fun run enthusiasts can walk, jog or run the 10km, 5km or 3.5km circuits making their way through the picturesque streets, natural beauty and spectacular scenery of the Redlands,” Cr Williams said.

Cr Williams encouraged people to register early for the fun run, with on line registrations available at a discounted rate leading up to the event.

“Now in its third year we hope to see more than 2000 entrants take to the courses this year so I would encourage people to register early to ensure they don’t miss out,” Cr Williams said.

“Attracting participants from all over south-east Queensland, the event not only raises awareness for koalas and other environmental initiatives, but it also helps showcase the beautiful Redlands as well as boost the local economy.

Entrants can sign up as individuals or get a group of friends, work colleagues or family together to enter as a team.”

The event will also include prize presentations, free family fun activities and information stands following the fun run.

Registrations for the Koala Fun Run can be made until 5pm Thursday 23 May online at www.koalacentral.com.au. Late registrations will be taken at Norm Price Park on Saturday 25 May from 11am-2pm and on the day (Sunday 26 May) of the event from 6am. Late entry fees apply.

Register now for the 2013 Koala Fun Run!

KFR-family

 

Snapshot: 23 April 2013


April 22, 2013

Glossy Black Cockatoo survey
Council is calling for volunteers to help with our annual survey on Sunday 19 May 2013. The Glossy Black Cockatoo is one of the more threatened cockatoo species in Australia and is listed as a vulnerable species in Queensland. To find out how to get involved visit www.indigiscapes.com.au or phone 3824 8611.

Rates Notices have now been issued
Residents are reminded rates are due Wednesday 8 May 2013. After this date, compound interest at the rate of 11% per annum is calculated on overdue daily balances. A full list of payment options is on the front of your rates notice. If you did not receive your rates notice, have moved address or you would like to discuss your payment options please call 3829 8446.

Mother’s Day at IndigiScapes
Treat your Mum at the IndigiScapes Tea Garden Cafe.
Bookings are now being taken for Mother’s Day on Sunday 12 May.
Sittings:
Morning Tea 10am
Lunch 11.30am
Afternoon Tea 2.45pm
Bookings 3824 8611.

Redlands 2030 Community Plan – Have your say
From now until Friday 7 June you can have your say on the progress of Council’s Redlands 2030 Community Plan by completing our online survey. You can also access a copy of the plan and fill out and submit a printed survey form at Council customer service centres and Redland libraries. The plan is a blueprint for residents, businesses, community organisations, Council and other levels of government and outlines the community’s vision for Redlands in 2030. Adopted by Council in 2010, the plan will be regularly reviewed to make sure it meets the needs of the community. Sewer inspection works – Victoria Point

Night works start 
Inspection works continue on the sanitary sewers in Victoria Point, to identify sources of water infiltration during wet weather. To undertake the inspection, CCTV equipment is being inserted and retrieved through manholes. In addition to the existing daytime works, two weeks of night time works will commence from 23 April. Works will be undertaken from 9pm to 6am week nights in Colburn Avenue (from Daysland Street to Redland Bay Road and from Link Road to Benfer Road), Ironwood Avenue, Red Gum Drive, Tea Tree Court and Darren Close. Local residents can expect to see a van parked on the kerb near their properties during these night works. Most of the manholes Council needs to access will be on public land but residents will be individually advised if Council needs access to their properties. When entering private properties, Council officers and contractors will carry official identification and take care to ensure minimal disruption to residents.

Free mobile marketing workshop
Discover the secrets of mobile marketing and learn how to better communicate with current customers and build relationships with new ones. Find out about new trends in mobile usage and how they affect you.
When: 2 May 2013
Where: Redlands IndigiScapes Centre, Runnymede Road, Capalaba
Time: 7–9am
RSVP: by 26 April
karen.brown@redland.qld.gov.au or 3829 8507 (places are limited).
A light breakfast will be served.

2013 Redlands Koala Fun Run
Register now!
Enjoy a range of entertainment, fun activities and great prizes for the whole family.
When: Sunday 26 May
Where: Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds, Cleveland
Details: Three circuit lengths are available, catering for all ages – 3.5km, 5km and 10km.
To register visit www.redland.qld.gov.au or www.koalacentral.com.au.
Registration forms are also available at Council’s Customer Service Centres or 3829 8288.

Council meetings
Wednesday 1 May
General Meeting (incorporates Coordination Committee Meeting) – 10.30am

Red-tape cut with latest Redland Planning Scheme amendments


April 18, 2013

Redland residents can look forward to a more streamlined planning assessment process thanks to new amendments to the Redland Planning Scheme (took effect on 15 April 2013).

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the minor amendments would improve the planning process by reducing red-tape and duplication with other legislation, such as the Queensland Development Code.

“Applicants will find the latest version of the Redlands Planning Scheme more user-friendly – with a reduction, and in some cases total removal, of planning requirements for certain types of development.

“I am delighted to be able to deliver on my promise to the people of Redlands to reduce unnecessary red tape wherever possible.

“As a Council we are about making it easier to do business, not harder.”

Redland City Council spokesperson for Planning and Development Cr Julie Talty said Council planning applications would no longer be needed for most domestic additions, outbuildings and swimming pools in residential areas.

“This type of building work will be assessed against the Queensland Development Code so in most cases all you will need from Council is a building approval,” Cr Talty said.

“Similarly, relative’s apartments (e.g. granny flats) are now included in state legislation as a secondary dwelling under the Dwelling House Code, so they won’t usually need a Council planning application either.

“We encourage applicants to check on our website or with officers on building application requirements.

“Reconfiguring lot sizes will be easier with the minimum standard lot size now 450 square metres, down from 500 square metres, in line with the rest of the state.

“All this means it will be quicker, easier and less costly for Redland families to make changes to their own homes and residential properties.”

Planning Scheme changes include:

  • Council planning applications no longer required for most domestic additions (e.g. home extensions), outbuildings and private swimming pools.
  • Council planning application no long required for most relative’s apartments (granny flats).
  • Minimum standard lot size reduced from 500m2 to 450m2.
  • Relaxation of requirements for car parking in commercial centres.

View the latest version of the Redland Planning Scheme (Version 5.2) on our website.  

Weed of the Week: Salvinia


April 17, 2013

Name: Salvinia

Scientific name: Salvinia molesta

How to identify the weed: A floating aquatic fern with green, spongy oval leaflets from 0.5cm – 3cm wide. Leaves are covered with water-repellent hairs which give buoyancy to the plant. Mature leaves have a mid-rib fold. Juvenile plants are a lot smaller, lay flat on the surface of the water and look very different to the mature plants. The mature plants have long filamentous roots which when pulled from the water look like wet hair.

Why is the weed a problem: Introduced from South America and is spread by fragmentation. This plant has the ability to choke wetlands, displace fauna, reduce water quality and harbour disease-bewaring vectors such as mosquitos. The plants can form thickets on top of the water which can restrict water flow and irrigation as well as increasing the risk of entaglement for people and livestock. This plant also increases water evaporation fourfold during summer.

How to manage the weed: Preventing the sale and distribution, as well as stopping the introduction of the weed into waterways from aquariums, are the best forms of control. An intergrated approach using mechanical (hand and machine), biological (salvinia weevil) and herbicide being the most effective way to eradicate this weed. For more information, please contact IndigiScapes on 3824 8611.

Any other interesting facts: Salvinia was known to be used as a tactical tool in war times. It was grown over dams and set-up to look like helicopter landing pads. When the enemy landed they would sink into the water body.

Salvinia molesta

Salvinia molesta

Salvinia molesta

Salvinia molesta