Monthly Archives: June 2015

Plan to revitalise Toondah Harbour given the greenlight


June 19, 2015

The following is a media release as issued from Deputy Premier and Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Jackie Trad.

The proposal to revitalise Toondah Harbour has been formally endorsed by the Palaszczuk Labor government with the $1.3 billion project set to generate more than 1,000 Queensland construction jobs.

Acting Premier Jackie Trad joined Redland City Council Mayor Cr Karen Williams today to announce the Queensland Government will move forward with the exciting project.

“The Toondah Harbour revitalisation project will create more than 1,000 jobs during construction and an estimated 500 jobs a year post construction,” Ms Trad said.

“The project will revitalise the local tourism industry by delivering a world-class ferry terminal and marina, waterfront retail and commercial space, apartments and public parks on the 67-hectare Cleveland site.

“The project will transform the gateway to Moreton Bay and North Stradbroke Island, supporting more ongoing jobs and business opportunities for locals.”

Local State Member for Capalaba Don Brown has been a strong advocate for the Toondah Harbour revitalisation project to provide a boost to the local economy and deliver jobs.

“This development will deliver high-quality public infrastructure to support the Redlands community and ensure the region has a strong, self-sustaining economy,” Mr Brown said.

Ms Trad said the Queensland Government will now work with the preferred developer, The Walker Group and Redland City Council to formalise a development agreement and to move forward on detailed project plans.

“The next step will be community engagement and critical environmental impact and development assessment processes and steps,” Ms Trad said.

Redland City Council Mayor Karen Williams said the project was the most important in half a century for the Redlands community.

“I heartily welcome the support by the new State Government for this game-changing project and preferred developer Walker Group,” Cr Williams said.

“From the outset Council has said the redevelopment of this key site should be taken up by the market rather than left to our ratepayers to foot the bill.

“By delivering this approach, we have ensured our community will gain all the benefits of better infrastructure, a deeper harbour and world-class waterfront boulevards and open spaces without the burden of having to pay for it.

“Council and the State undertook comprehensive community consultation from late 2013 through to mid-2014 and I am pleased residents can have a further say on the design when the developer lodges its environmental impact assessment and development application.”

Walker Group Holdings Queensland General Manager Peter Saba welcomed the milestone agreement being reached.

“We have an impressive development proposed for the Toondah Harbour site, which will draw people, business and activity to the area. You won’t simply go there to catch a ferry to North Stradbroke Island; our proposal is to create a destination in its own right,” Mr Saba said.

“Walker Group Holdings has a long track record of creating dynamic communities, where families can grow with a variety of amenities and infrastructure, while maintaining the land’s integrity.”

Walker Group Holdings will now begin the preparation of a range of local and state environmental and planning applications. Approval will also be required from the Commonwealth Government for this project.

The environmental impact assessment will inform the detailed design of the project, which could be available as early as mid-2016.

Deputy Premier’s Office:  0488 996 667

Redland Snapshot – Wednesday 17 June


June 17, 2015

Local school holiday fun!

With the school holidays fast approaching, the Redland Art Gallery, IndigiScapes Centre and Redland Libraries have plenty of fun-filled activities planned to keep the kids entertained over the break.

Come along to IndigiScapes on Friday 3 July and Seek Unearth Explore, a family fun day of outdoor, environmentally-focused activities, including waterbug discovery, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, plant bingo, face painting, biscuit making, weed weaving and a sausage sizzle – all free of charge!

Make a video game, a music video or a fairytale film at Redlands Libraries. With technology projects, art, craft, stories and song, their holiday program offers loads of creative and engaging activities for youngsters aged four to 16 years. Bookings essential and most activities are free of charge.

Visit www.redland.qld.gov.au/SchoolHolidayActivities for further details and booking information.

Meet author Helen Harrison

For the past four years, Helen Harrison has been running the Live Your Best Life workshop for the Redlands Centre for Women and her book Full Esteem Ahead grew from this experience. Come along for an informative, interactive session and learn some tools and techniques for improving your quality of life.

When: Saturday 20 June, 2-3pm
Where: Capalaba Library, 19 Noeleen St, Capalaba
Bookings: 3843 8010

Minor home modifications

Redland Home Assist Secure can help improve your safety and access at home.

  • Are you under 65 years of age?
  • Do you own or rent your home?
  • Do you have a disability or need assistance with daily living activities?

You may be eligible for financial assistance for minor home modifications that improve your safety and access in and around your home. Additional funding is now available but only until the end of June 2015.

More information call 3383 3030.

Water meter reading

Did you know that checking your water meter regularly can save water and money?

It’s easy to do – turn off all taps around your home and record all numbers from the water meter. Do not use any water for at least two hours then check to see if the meter dials have changed since your first reading. Check it every week or month to help monitor your usage and detect water leaks early.

Open meetings

General meeting: Wedneday 17 June 9.30am

Special meeting: Thursday 25 June 9.30am
(adoption of 2015/16 Budget)

Council adopts new Fees and Charges Discount Policy and Guidelines


June 17, 2015

Redland City Council has adopted a new Community Benefit Policy and Guidelines for Fees and Charges Discounts designed to ensure the consistent and equitable application of fees and discounts for use of Council products and services.

Redland City Mayor, Karen Williams said the new policy is necessary for good governance but Council also wants to ensure it avoids adverse affects on existing users.

“The new policy is designed to assist community groups and Council officers with the application of discounts, in particular the hire of Council owned halls and community venues and facilities.

“This includes the definition of discount eligibility status in four categories of Registered Charity, Non Profit or Not for Profit Groups, Commercial Users with Community Benefit and a Commercial Organisation.

“A review and complete analysis of existing hirers and users will be submitted to Council so we can fully monitor the new policy and avoid adverse impacts.

“The new discount policy and guidelines will be gradually applied to the fees and charges schedule adopted each financial year along with Council’s budget, while the application of annual CPI increases in fees and charges will become effective for all users from 1 July 2015.

Council’s Financial Services and internal audit spokesperson Councillor Mark Edwards said the new policy and guidelines provide a standard approach across Council.

“Developed with financial capacity and the broader community benefits in mind for the use of council products and services, the application of the new policy is expected to have neutral or positive benefit for a number of regular hirers on discounts.

“The new policy and guidelines also provide for current contractual arrangements with hirers and users to be honoured.

“Where user groups have a current hall hire agreement with Council, the current category fees and charges will be honoured and remain in place until the 31 December 2015, after which new hall hire fees and charges and discount arrangements will be applied.

“Where there are adverse affects, the new policy and guidelines include provision for an exceptional circumstances application to ensure continuation of the current level of discount if this is considered appropriate.”

Council will be directly contacting regular hirers and groups to explain the application of the new policy and provide assistance to groups that are uncertain of their status or able to take advantage of discounts.

Hirers are advised to contact Council on (07) 3829 8999 for information on the policy and guideline which will be monitored and updated as required.

New strategy and action plan to build tourism in the Redlands


June 17, 2015

Redland City Council today adopted the Redland City Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2015 – 2020.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the five-year tourism strategy and action plan sets out how the tourism industry and Council can work together to increase visitation and tourism spending in the City.

tourism

“Tourism is identified in the Redland City Economic Development Framework 2014 – 2041 as one of eight key growth sectors for Redland City,” Cr Williams said.

“Tourism currently accounts for 1.4% of Redlands’ Gross Regional Product and by 2041, it is expected that this figure will reach more than 3%.

“The Redland City Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2015 – 2020 provides the blueprint for growing tourism in our region into the future.”

Cr Williams said it would take Council working collaboratively with tourism operators to ensure Redland City offers world-class tourism experiences including commissionable tourism product, facilities, accommodation, attractions and events.

“We want to attract more visitors, encourage them to stay longer and spend more – but Council cannot do this in isolation.

“This Redland City Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2015 – 2020 highlights key opportunities that tourism operators and Council can focus on to activate and grow the industry in the areas of tourism investment and development, destination marketing and events as well as supporting infrastructure and coordination.

“Importantly, this tourism strategy also gives industry ownership of its future, with one of its key actions being the creation of a tourism subcommittee that represents all areas of our City.

“The tourism subcommittee will work closely with Council and the tourism representative on the Economic Development Advisory Board.

“The intent is that in the medium-term, the tourism subcommittee could become the local tourism organisation for the Redlands.”

Cr Williams said the Redland City Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2015 – 2020 was informed by tourism industry feedback and a market trend assessment to provide an overview of current visitor trends and a clear direction of where the Redlands should be encouraging new business product and related infrastructure investment.

“It includes more valuable tourism trend data than can be found in most other tourism reports in Queensland – and will be useful not only to Council but local tourism operators.

“The strategy and supporting action plan, which focuses on tangible outcomes for our community that can be achieved within realistic timeframes, has been informed by significant industry and community input. It has been wonderful to see so many tourism operators supporting its development.

“It is designed to be a living document that will be reviewed during its implementation to make sure it is meeting tourism industry and community needs as well as captures evolving tourism opportunities that can provide jobs for local people and bolsters our economy.

“We live in a naturally beautiful place with a vibrant and welcoming community. The Redland City Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2015 – 2020 sets a plan in place to ensure the rest of the world knows it and pays us a visit.”

The Action Plan will be funded through a combination of Council funding, private business funding and other government funding. Many of the activities have already been included in Council’s 2015-16 Budget, due for adoption later this month. Council-funded actions beyond 2015–16 will be included in financial planning for future years.

Community to benefit from new land management company


June 12, 2015

Redland City Council has established an investment arm to generate income that will help fund infrastructure and services and minimise rates hikes.

Council financial services spokesman Cr Mark Edwards said the wholly council-owned subsidiary Redlands Investment Corporation’s (RIC) charter was to gain best value from surplus Council land and spur investment to benefit the Redlands community.

“Redland Investment Corporation is about realising the best possible value from some surplus land and giving those dividends to Council to provide better infrastructure and services for the community and put downward pressure on rates,” Cr Edwards said.

“It’s not about selling off surplus land to make a quick dollar.

“Council has worked hard since the 2012 election to contain costs of living and rate increases in a climate of rising costs and reduced revenue from other tiers of government.

“We have to be honest though and the fact is if we do not find new revenue streams the obvious consequence is to significantly raise rates – and we want to avoid that.

“Establishing council-owned investment arms is a tried and proven way to better manage surplus land, provide financial dividends to Council and relieve the pressure on general rates.”

Cr Edwards said RIC would enable Council to work smarter by actively engaging with the business community to kick-start the right type of local projects and better manage some surplus Council land.

“Until now, Council only had two options available to it to manage surplus land: secure it and maintain it at a considerable cost to ratepayers, or sell it as is,” he said.

“This has resulted in some land being sold for bargain prices and purchasers handed all the benefits from up-valuing the land.

“Now through Redland Investment Corporation, the dividends from up-valuing some of Council’s land through obtaining development and environmental permits and business licences before sale will return to Council as a new revenue stream.

“In Cleveland and Capalaba Central Business Districts alone, Council has about four hectares of underutilised land. With the centres in need of investment and rejuvenation and the community in need of jobs, Redland Investment Corporation will work to spur the right type of investment in these areas.”

Cr Edwards said RIC would also manage the development of Redlands’ two Priority Development Areas, at Toondah Harbour and Weinam Creek.

“This will ensure the Redlands community will receive the best possible deal in new infrastructure and upgraded public spaces from the preferred developer Walker Group as Redland Investment Corporation’s directors are expert business negotiators,” he said.

Redland Investment Corporation Chief Executive Officer Peter Kelley said the company will be led by Chairman Philip Hennessy, a businessman with 40 years’ experience.

“Mr Hennessy has worked as Queensland chairman of international accounting firm KPMG and sits on the board of the University of Queensland, MetroCoal Limited and Mater Hospital Foundation,” Mr Kelley said.

“He has considerable experience in driving good governance and maximising returns from non-performing assets, so will serve the corporation well.

“We have just opened expressions of interest for builders and developers interested in working with us and I encourage all reputable enterprises to apply.”

For more information visit the Redland City Council website.

Redland Snapshot – Wednesday 10 June


June 10, 2015

New artwork celebrates reconciliation

The Quandamooka Statement of Recognition has been officially unveiled at the entrance of Council’s administration building in Cleveland.

Designed by local artist Sandra Delaney, the two sculptural metal panels provide a unique insight into Quandamooka culture and heritage and stand as a permanent acknowledgement of the Traditional Owners of the lands, winds and waters of the Redlands.

Where: Redland City Council Cleveland Administration Building, corner of Bloomfield and Middle Streets, Cleveland

Proposed dual name for Russell Island

Have your say on the proposal to use the traditional indigenous name Canaipa Island for Russell Island. Submit your feedback, either in support of or against the proposal, online www.dnrm.qld.gov.au or write to Queensland Place Names, Department of Natural Resources and  Mines, GPO Box 2454, Brisbane Qld 4001, by 29 July 2015.

We’re in the hearing loop

Amplification systems that make it easier for hearing impaired residents to pick up the speaker’s voice and other important audio have been installed at the main community facilities across the Redlands, including Council Chambers, Customer Service Centres, mainland libraries, Redland Performing Arts Centre (RPAC), the Donald Simpson Centre and community halls at Capalaba, Thorneside, Redland Bay, Point Lookout (North Stradbroke Island), Macleay Island and Russell Island.

Contact staff at these centres for assistance using the amplification system.

Water meter reading

We are reading water meters in Victoria Point this week. Please ensure meter readers have clear access to your water meter.

A double dose of Depp!

Come to Raby Bay for FREE MOVIES in the park and see two Johnny Depp blockbusters:

  • 4.30pm-6.30pm – Charlie and the Chocolate factory (PG)
  • 6.30pm-8.45pm – Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (M)

When: Saturday 13 June 2015

Where: X marks the spot – Raby Bay Harbour Park, corner of Harbour View Court and Shore Street West, Cleveland (near Cleveland train station)

In true Willy Wonka style there will be sweet treats available for purchase and plenty of food available from nearby restaurants and cafes.

Bring your blanket and chair but leave ye treasure and golden tickets at home – this adventure is free.

This night of big screen entertainment is presented by Redland City Council.

Wear your onesie and support St Vinnies homeless appeal.

Open meetings

General meeting: Wedneday 17 June 9.30am

Special meeting: Thursday 25 June 9.30am
(Adoption of 2015/16 Budget)

FREE ‘Double Depp’ outdoor movie marathon!


June 9, 2015

Round up the family and head on down to Raby Bay Harbour Park Saturday June 13 for a FREE ‘Double Depp’ outdoor movie marathon!

The entertainment will begin at 4.30pm with family favourite Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (PG), followed by Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (M) at 6.30pm.

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Organised by Redland City Council, this event will provide sweet treats for purchase, as well as plenty of other options available from nearby restaurants and cafes.

Be sure to come along in your warmest onesie in support of the St Vinnies Homeless Appeal and don’t forget a blanket/ chair for what is sure to be a superb night of blockbuster entertainment!

When: Saturday 13 June, 2015

4.30pm – 6.30pm Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (PG)

6.30pm – 8.45pm Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (M)

Where: Raby Bay Harbour Park, Cnr Harbour View Court and Shore Street West, Cleveland (near Cleveland train station).

School holiday activities: June-July 2015


June 5, 2015

This school holidays Redland Art Gallery, IndigiScapes Centre and Redland Libraries will be hosting a number of fun-filled activities for young people aged 4-16. The holiday program offers loads of creative and fun activities sure to keep kids of all ages entertained over the break.

Come along to IndigiScapes’  family fun day, Seek Unearth Explore, on Friday 3 July.  There’ll be a range of outdoor and environmentally-focused activities, including waterbug discovery, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, plant bingo, face painting, biscuit making, weed weaving and a sausage sizzle – all free of charge!

Redland Art Gallery and Redland Libraries will also be hosting a number of exciting activities – from making music video and video games to dress-up events, songs and stories.

All activities are offered at a low cost of free of charge but may require bookings prior to attendance. For further details and booking information visit www.redland.qld.gov.au/SchoolHolidayActivities.

 

Get ready for the ride of your life!


June 5, 2015

In a spectacular first, the crew from Bikes and Bulls Unleashed are bringing Redlands an action packed sports showdown like no other!

On Saturday June 20, Australia’s top cowboys and the team from Aussie FMX will ride and rodeo their way around Cleveland Showgrounds in a night for all ages!

The event will include fireworks, mechanical bull rides, jumping castles, live instant replays, giveaways and food/ licensed liquor options.

Gates will open at 4pm to ticket holders, with the official event scheduled to start at 6pm and concluding by 8.30pm. Thrill seekers be sure to get online now and grab your tickets.

For more information, visit Council’s What’s On Calendar.

Quandamooka People and Redland City Council: working in partnership


June 5, 2015

Council and the Quandamooka People have strengthened their partnership through a number of events during National Reconciliation Week (27 May- 3 June).

Standing Together: The Art of Reconciliation saw Council engage local Aboriginal artists to work with community members to create artwork symbolising reconciliation, rights and respect. Some stunning artworks were created, with the entire collection to be officially unveiled during NAIDOC week in July.

On Wednesday 3 June Council and QYAC unveiled the Quandamooka Statement of Recognition at Redland city Council’s Cleveland Administration Building. The statement is displayed on two panels at the front of the Council building along with beautiful artwork from local artist Sandra Delaney.

Both events celebrate the rich local Aboriginal culture and the partnership between Redland City Council and the Quandamooka People.  Quandamooka culture will also be in the spotlight during the Quandamooka Festival from July – September 2015.