Redlanders will finally get real-time weather information with a local Bureau of Meteorology observation station due to begin operating late next year.

The weather station will be funded through a $150,000 grant from the State Government’s Natural Disaster Mitigation Program after Redland City Mayor Karen Williams lobbied for the funding.

“At the moment real-time weather information to Redland City is not available and information is delivered from the Brisbane Airport and ‘approximated’ for Redlands,’’ Cr Williams said.

“I thank the State for responding to our requests for this service and our local Members of Parliament for supporting our submission for funding.

“I have no doubt that timely and accurate weather information will greatly assist us in being prepared for the worst nature can throw at us and, therefore, help make us a more resilient City.

“Having local real-time information will not only be of great help the residents and those planning to visit our beautiful part of the world but will also provide contemporary information to the broader Southern Moreton Bay area, Southern Brisbane, Logan and Ipswich.”

“There can now be no excuse for the Redlands not being on the weather map.”

Cr Williams said the benefit of being recognised at a national level in weather forecasting and broadcasting could not be overstated as the Redland tourism industry grew.
 
“I also suspect it will show what locals have long known – that the Redlands does indeed have the best weather in Queensland,’’ she said.
 
Cr Williams, who is also chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, said Council would provide suitable land for the station, likely to be on or around the Cleveland Waste Water Treatment Plant.

“Redland City Council will directly partner with the Bureau of Meteorology, who will build the station,’’ she said. “It is planned to be fully operational in time for next summer.’’