A 19-metre traditional Polynesian canoe will dock in the Redlands next week as part of a four-year journey to grow the global movement toward a more sustainable world.
Redland City Division 6 Councillor Julie Talty will welcome the vessel the Hokule’a, (which means star of gladness) when it arrives in Raby Bay next Friday (29 May).
“The canoe left New Zealand at the beginning of May and brings with it an important message of sustainability, one that will be carried across the globe as part of its four-year voyage,” Cr Talty said.
“The Redlands is renowned for its strong focus on conservation and environmental protection, so it is fitting that this important voyage will include the Redlands.
“Everyone is encouraged to the official welcome of the Hokule’a, which will dock at the pontoon between the Cleveland Railway Station and restaurants at the Raby Bay Marina at 10 am on Friday 29 May 2015.”
Division 2 Councillor for Cleveland Craig Ogilvie said the Redlands would roll out the red carpet for the crew during their week long stop-over in the Redlands, providing cultural tourism opportunities.
“The crew will be greeted by a traditional Quandamooka welcome, showcasing the Redlands’ strong cultural connection as well as our strong relationship to the environment,” he said.
“The community will also have the opportunity to see the traditional canoe, which will be displayed at the Raby Bay VMR at William Street, Cleveland Point over the weekend.
“During their visit the crew is also expected to visit local schools and give presentations on their voyage, including explaining the traditional Polynesian navigation techniques they will use to guide the Hokule’a to 26 separate nations during their global mission.
“While docked in the Redlands for a week the crew will restock supplies, providing the opportunity for us as a city to show them the strong community spirit of the Redlands, a message that will then go with them during their journey.
“Raby Bay is the only stop in Southern Queensland for the Polynesian crew, highlighting the significant cultural relationships our city continues to build.
“This significant cultural event occurs in the lead up to the Quandamooka Festival, which will share the traditional Quandamooka culture with the world from July – September.
“I would like to thank the Raby Bay VMR who is opening their premises for the crew to stay and keep their equipment while in the Redlands.”
