Monthly Archives: December 2013

New bulk bins boost Straddie recycling efforts


December 12, 2013

The recycling efforts of North Stradbroke Island businesses have been given a boost with new bulk bins being rolled out by Redland City Council.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the first businesses to sign up to the new initiative had received their new recycling bins.

“These new larger bulk recycling bins will make it easier for Straddie businesses to recycle and support the city’s already strong commitment to the environment,” she said.

“The new fortnightly service is being offered as either a 1.5 cubic metre or 3 cubic metre bulk recycling bin to cater for different quantities of recycling.

“As a city we are great recyclers within our own homes, now this initiative will help Straddie businesses extend that passion to the workplace.”

Cr Williams said Straddie Camping, Allure Stradbroke Resort and the Anchorage on Straddie were the first businesses to take possession of the new bulk recycling bins. Pt Lookout Hall also has a new bulk recycling bin.

Division 2 (NSI and Cleveland) Councillor Craig Ogilvie encouraged other Straddie businesses to get on board.

“It is estimated that nationally approximately 33 per cent of waste sent to landfill comes from the commercial and industrial sector, so these businesses should be congratulated for taking up this initiative,” he said.

“Council has also helped 30 holiday homes switch to a larger recycling bin to cater for the recyclables that are generated by visitors, as well as providing recycling calendars to local businesses and residents.”

Council’s environmental spokesperson Cr Paul Gleeson said the new bulk recycling bins were an affordable way to recycle many different items, including plastic, aluminium, cardboard, glass, steel and paper.

“At the moment approximately 950 truckloads of waste that could be recycled is being sent to landfill each year, so initiatives such as this are an important part of reducing this figure,” he said.

The Council service has been made available with matching funding assistance from Keep Queensland Beautiful.

For more information or to order bulk recycling bins contact RedWaste on 3829 8999.

Get the facts: Clarification on Thornlands development approval


December 11, 2013

A report in the Bayside Bulletin on Tuesday 10 December relating to Redland City Council’s approval of a development at Thornlands needs clarification.

Council approved the Ausbuild development application for the Boundary Road site last week based on advice that it met the planning scheme provisions for the site.

Council officers assessed the application against the Redlands Planning Scheme and the proposed development was considered to comply with the scheme provisions and align with the intent of the zoning for the site.  As such it was recommended that the application be granted a Development Permit subject to conditions.

It should be made clear that the existing planning scheme made it possible for a substantial number of townhouses to be built on the site.  Council officers worked with the applicant to reach an outcome that they believe is consistent with the Redlands Planning Scheme.

The application followed a previously refused application, which is being appealed in the Planning and Environment Court.

The application approved by Council includes increased green space and a reduction in the number of lots from 259 under the refused application to 244.  It also includes a condition requiring an increase of almost $3 million in infrastructure charges which will be used to further contribute to the costs of provision and upgrade of infrastructure which the development will impact on.

Be campfire safe this holiday season


December 10, 2013

Redland City Council is reinforcing the importance of campfire safety in the lead up to the holiday season.

Redland City Deputy Mayor Alan Beard has supported the Queensland Government’s campaign of extinguishing campfires safely, which they launched in the Redlands today.

“Redland City is a city of islands with plenty of campsites to enjoy over the holiday season,” Cr Beard said.

“During the peak holiday season there can be in excess of 2000 people camping on North Stradbroke Island beaches alone, so this is an important message for residents.”

Cr Beard said not extinguishing campfires safely presented considerable safety risks for visitors and residents.

“There have been a number of instances of people being burnt in local camp grounds by campfires that had been extinguished using sand or dirt rather than water,” he said.

“While sand or dirt appears to be successful in putting a fire out, the truth is the fire can continue to hold heat for up to 24 hours, so the campfire site has the potential to burn even though there is no visible fire.”

Redland City Mayor and head of the Redland City Local Disaster Management Group Karen Williams, said campfires also had the potential to spread to nearby bush land, posing a larger fire risk.

“With the onset of summer and the presence of a number of bushfires in the Redlands recently it is a timely reminder that we should all keep these risks in mind and be vigilant.”

“Campfires that have not been extinguished correctly could result in an ember sparking a larger fire, which could then put lives and property at risk.”

Council’s Open Space, Sport and Recreation spokesman Cr Lance Hewlett (Division 4) warned that lighting fires on Redland beaches or in the City’s parks without a permit could also be costly.

“The rule is simple – lighting fires without a permit in council parks and reserves, including on our beaches, is prohibited,” he said.

“On top of posing a real risk, lighting fires without a permit can be costly with infringement notices of $550 possible; with the potential for the penalty to increase to $5500 if the matter ends up in court.’’

Stay safe at Redlands beaches this summer


December 10, 2013

Redland City Council and Surf Life Saving Queensland are supporting the summer safety message by donating two surf rescue boards to local surf lifesaving clubs.

Council Deputy Mayor Alan Beard was joined by Des Kerr from Surf Life Saving Queensland to present the rescue boards to Point Lookout and Coochiemudlo volunteer surf lifesaving groups today.

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“Queensland is known for its beaches, so as we move into the summer holiday season it is important we keep beach safety in mind,” he said.

“The Redlands is a city of islands, and while our beaches provide residents and visitors with plenty of fun and enjoyment, they can also be dangerous.

“Last year saw a significant increase in visitors to Redlands beaches and with it an increase in the number of rescues that were performed.

“The most popular area for beach goers in the Redlands is North Stradbroke Island (NSI), with more than 100,000 people visiting Straddie beaches last December and January.

“Over this same period SLSQ surf lifesavers and lifeguards were kept busy, performing more than 60 rescues and in excess of 1,200 first aid responses on Straddie, which shows our beaches can be as dangerous as they are beautiful.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said with the prediction of a hot summer this year there was likely to be an increase in beach visits, meaning it was even more important for swimmers to swim between the flags and stay safe.

“The donation of these rescue boards to local volunteer lifesaving clubs at Point Lookout and Coochiemudlo Island will help combat these dangers,” Cr Williams said.

“Council also provides more than $400,000 per year to Surf Life Saving Queensland to supply life guard services on North Stradbroke Island all year and they do a fantastic job.”

SLSQ member services manager, and Coochiemudlo SLSC president, Des Kerr expressed his thanks for the donation and ongoing support.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, Surf Life Saving Queensland relies heavily on the support of our partners and members of the public,” he said.

“This donation will certainly help as we strive towards achieving our overall vision of zero preventable deaths on Queensland beaches. 

“As we move into the peak holiday period, I’d like to remind all beachgoers to take care in the surf this summer and only swim between the red and yellow flags.

“Always remember – if lifesavers can’t see you, they can’t save you.”

Don’t let dodgy decorations take the sparkle out of your Christmas


December 6, 2013

With Christmas less than a month away, Queensland Fire and emergency Services (QFES) have issued the following media release urging people to keep safety in the forefront of their minds when putting up lights and decorations for the festive season.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Lee Johnson said the last thing families need during the holidays is a mishap due to faulty Christmas decorations.

“Many families often forget the hazards that damaged or worn decorations can create in the family home,” Mr Johnson said.

“Fairy and Christmas tree lights are only used a few weeks each year and they can easily be damaged in storage. These decorations are part and parcel of Christmas celebrations, but at the same time they have the potential to become life-threatening hazards and cause undue heartache.”

Mr Johnson stressed the importance of testing lights to ensure their safe use throughout the festive season.

“Electrical cords often get tangled when the lights are bundled away and can end up cut or frayed,” he said.

“It’s important to test your lights before putting them on your tree or house. Simply do not use a cord or plug that is damaged in any way or wires that are exposed.

“Faulty or damaged lights not only put yourself and your family at risk of electrocution, they also create a fire hazard that can see your tree go up in flames in seconds followed quickly by your home.”

“Residents should also remember to only use Christmas lights which designed for external use outdoors. Internal lights exposed to the elements, such as morning dew and rain can quickly become fire hazards.

Mr Johnson also reminded residents to use candle decorations safely and to always keep candles burning within sight.

“Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep and never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire,” he said.

“Christmas is about enjoying the company of friends and family in a safe environment and by taking a few precautions you can ensure it will be a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

Council project helps to deck the halls


December 4, 2013

Community halls in the Redlands have been made more accessible and many have been given a facelift following a Council project.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the project , which was adopted at today’s Council meeting, was designed to review the utilisation of local community halls and implement ways to ensure they remain accessible and fit for use.

“These improvements have resulted in upgrades to most halls, including internal and external painting, new roofs and new kitchens,” she said.

“In some cases Council has also partnered with other levels of government to complete major upgrades of halls, such as work at the Point Lookout Hall.

“Council has also implemented new booking and management systems that have made halls more accessible for residents.

“The new centralised booking system makes it easier for people to use the halls, delivering greater efficiencies for Council and the community.”

Community wellbeing spokesperson Cr Wendy Boglary said the halls were an important part of local communities.

“Community halls are critical to the fabric of the community, providing the opportunity for social connection, community development, business enterprise and cultural development,” she said.

“The improvements have resulted in an overall increase in hall use across the city, which is fantastic news.

“Most local halls still have plenty of capacity to host local events, functions and meetings so I encourage everyone to make use of them because at the end of the day they belong to the community.”

As part of the project, Council investigated the long term future of local halls, with particular focus on the Birkdale School of Arts, the Cleveland Assembly Hall and the Alexandra Hills Community Hall.

“Council engaged with stakeholders to look at whether these halls should be retained and if so how we ensure they best serve the community,” Cr Boglary said.

“At the end of the day, these halls provide important benefits to the community so Council feels it is important that they stay within the community so they can continue to deliver these benefits.”

Community halls can be booked by phoning 3829 8999.

North Stradbroke Island bushfire update: 2.45pm Wednesday 4 December


December 4, 2013

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) have issued the following update regarding the bushfire burning approximately 2km south of the Yarraman Mine on North Stradbroke Island.

The fire is burning safely within containment lines and is expected to burn for some time.

Blue Lake National Park and Fishermans Track have been closed for precaution and Martin Way (formerly Tazi Rd) may need to be closed if smoke becomes a hazard, QFES will continue to monitor the situation.

If Martin Way is closed due to smoke Beach campers on Main Beach can still exit the beach via George Nothling Drive, to the north of the Keyholes.

Residents and visitors are advised to close windows and doors and, if suffering from a respiratory condition, keep medication close by. Motorists are advised to drive carefully and to conditions.

A smoke plume from the fire is expected to become more visible this afternoon due to a strengthening north-easterly wind.  Multiple QFES crews remain on scene and will remain on site through the night.

Residents and visitors should stay up-to-date with emergency information by following QFES, Redland City Council Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams reminded residents of the importance  of preparing a bushfire survival kit including; protective clothing, a torch, gloves, bottled water, medication, a battery-operated radio, spare batteries, a mobile phone and charger, a first aid kit.

“While there is no current threat to life or property being prepared is important and staying informed by tuning into local media, QFES and Council websites’ She said.

“Get to know your neighbours and familiarise yourself with possible evacuation routes in case an evacuation is necessary.”

“You should also have a fire strategy in the event a fire does threaten your property.

To report emergencies and requests for assistance:

  • Life threatening emergencies: 000:
  • State Emergency Service (SES) 132 500: For emergency repairs or assistance:
  • Call Energex on 13 19 62: to report any fallen powerlines or network damage.

 

Redland Snapshot: 3 December 2013


December 4, 2013

Free Christmas by Starlight Concert

Saturday 7 December

Don’t miss the FREE Christmas by Starlight concert at Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds in Long Street, Cleveland. There’ll be Santa, food stalls, roving performers, an animal farm, displays and activities from 3pm, followed by a children’s concert at 5.30pm. Traditional twilight carols begin at 6pm and end around 8pm with a fireworks finale! For more information and details on free buses visit www.redland.qld.gov.au/cbs. The event is run by Redland City Council, with the generous support of Energex, Bayside Bulletin, JJ Richards, Fiteni Homes, Stradbroke Flyer, SS Signs, Mr Fireworks, Viking Elite, Koala Graphix and Christmas Festivities. Christmas by Starlight is an alcohol-free event.

 

2012 – 12 Annual Report available online

To view council’s recently adopted annual report visit our website. The report details the performance and financial reports of the diverse range of activities undertaken by Council during the past financial year. Some of Council’s achievements detailed in the report include:

  • Cash balance increase to $82.5m – nearly five months of cash reserves
  • Declaration of two Priority Development Areas for the Redlands
  • Increased focus on customer service and efficiency
  • Lowest general rate increases of any comparable south-east Queensland council.

 

And the winner is … IndigiScapes

Queensland Tourism Awards

Congratulations to IndigiScapes for taking out one of this year’s prestigious Queensland Tourism Awards. IndigiScapes and its Tea Garden Cafe won the Excellence in Food Tourism category for their Bush Tucker Experience that incorporates an edible native plant tour with mouth-watering bush-themed cuisine. Congratulations also to the other award-winning local tourism enterprises represented at the State awards: Mt Cotton Guesthouse, Stradbroke Island Events and Redlands Kayak Tours.

 

School holiday activities

Bookings now open!

This summer school holidays, Redland Libraries, Redland Art Gallery and Redlands IndigiScapes
Centre are all hosting exciting activities to keep youngsters entertained! From print-making art workshops to Christmas craft and wildlife activities, there is a lot happening to keep kids happy in December and January. All activities are free or low-cost but many require bookings. For dates, details and booking information go to:

 

Water meter readings

Let’s get to the point! We are reading water meters in Victoria Point this week. Please make sure our meter readers have clear access to your water meter.

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND BUSHFIRE UPDATE: 10.15am Wednesday 4 December


December 4, 2013

Fifteen Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crews remain on scene at the bushfire burning approximately 2km south of the Yarraman Mine.

Crews worked through the night to conduct backburning in the area. The fire is burning within containment lines and poses no threat to property.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has closed Blue Lake National Park and Fishermans Road as a precaution.

There is a significant amount of smoke about on Straddie – residents of Amity Point and Dunwich are advised to close windows and doors. Residents suffering from a respiratory condition should keep medication close by.

Motorists are advised to drive carefully and to conditions.

Further advice about Staying safe in smoky conditions can be found in this Queensland Health  fact sheet http://www.health.qld.gov.au/disaster/documents/bushfire-smoke.pdf