Monthly Archives: February 2019

Redlands Coast supports 2032 Olympic catalyst for essential local and regional infrastructure


February 22, 2019

Redlands Coast could play a key role in the 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games according to a Council of Mayors (SEQ) Olympic feasibility study released today.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the feasibility study indicated south-east Queensland could host the 2032 games, with Redlands Coast earmarked as a potential venue location.

“It is early days and there is still a lot of work to do before the region decides if it will proceed with a bid, but what this feasibility study shows is that we could host a Games that creates a legacy for future generations,” Cr Williams said.

“Importantly, the study shows the majority of venues needed for the 2032 Games either already exist, are already planned, or are identified as community facilities needed to cater for the anticipated growth of the region independent of an Olympics.

“This reduces the need for new stadiums, in turn reducing costs and creating community venues to be enjoyed by future generations.”

Cr Williams said having Redlands Coast earmarked as a potential venue provided the catalyst for the transport infrastructure needed to cater for our growing city.

“Importantly, both for us and the region, the feasibility study shows the Olympics could be a major catalyst for all levels of government to deliver the essential infrastructure the region has long been calling for,’’ Cr Williams said.

“The recent SEQ People Mass Movement Study highlighted many of these essential infrastructure needs and benefits for our region to keep pace with our future and an Olympics bid could help accelerate them.

“We need to plan for regional transport infrastructure that seizes the economic and social opportunity through a 45 minute connected region and we have been working with all levels of government on a City Deals proposal to fund the transport projects we need across the region.

“The real benefits of a possible Olympic bid is a catalyst to bring forward the delivery of true legacy and infrastructure projects, including better roads, rail and high speed public transport that connect and serves our communities now and well past any Olympic Games.”

Cr Williams said the feasibility study came on the back of a period of reform for the Olympic Movement, focused on reducing the cost and delivering increased economic and legacy returns from Olympic Games.

“Unlike past bids, the feasibility study is not based on a proposal for significant spend on new venues, rather it is based on a reduced cost and increased community return aimed at delivering a logical and cost effective solution,” Cr Williams said.

“This new approach makes a potential regional bid for SEQ an attractive proposition due to the potential economic return and infrastructure legacy for our communities.”

Cr Williams said the Council of Mayors (SEQ) would continue to investigate the possibility of a regional bid for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic games, with a final decision on whether to proceed with a formal bid expected early next year.

Tropical Cyclone Oma: Redlands Coast update at 2pm


February 22, 2019

Redland Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) remains at ‘Alert’ status as Tropical Cyclone Oma continues to track towards the Queensland coast.

Although the Cyclone Watch has been cancelled, a Severe Weather Warning for dangerous surf, abnormally high tides, and damaging wind gusts remains current.

There is potential for significant beach erosion.

Residents are asked to be prepared and stay informed:

Prepare an emergency kit, your homes and check in with neighbours.

Water transport
The below arrangements are subject to changes with weather conditions.
Residents and visitors should check with their ferry operator for changes.

North Stradbroke Island
– Stradbroke Ferries vehicle barges and passenger ferries run by Stradbroke Ferries are not running at all today between Cleveland and North Stradbroke Island due to high winds.
– Gold Cats passenger ferries between Cleveland and North Stradbroke Island are operating to normal schedule until 4.25pm.  The last service for today (Friday) will be 4.25pm from Cleveland, returning from One Mile at 4.55pm.

Southern Moreton Bay Islands
Vehicle barges to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands have also been cancelled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Currently the passenger ferries to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands are running on a reduced schedule. The last service for today (Friday) will be from the islands at 6.10pm departing Russell Island via the islands; and 6.50pm departing Redland Bay.

Coochiemudlo Island
Vehicle barges to the island are cancelled today. Currently, the passenger ferries from Victoria Point to Coochiemudlo Island are running as normal today until 7pm, when the last service will depart Victoria Point.

Beach closures
– Coochiemudlo Island will not have any beach patrols this weekend.
– All beaches will be closed on North Stradbroke Island except Cylinder Beach, which will be monitored throughout the day and closed as required.

Self-service Sandbag Stations are located at:
– Cleveland: Council Depot, South Street entrance, Cleveland; open 7am-7pm across the weekend.
– North Stradbroke Island: Outside the Council Depot, 11-37 Mitchell Crescent, Dunwich; open 24 hours.
– Macleay Island: 22-24 Scarborough Terrace, Macleay Island; open 24 hours.
– Russell Island: Outside the Council Depot, 6 High Street; open 24 hours.

Redland SES is able to deliver sandbags to elderly, frail or mobility-impaired community members.

Residents and visitors to the islands should contact the ferry operators to check on services.

To contact the SES, phone 132 500.

Sandbag stations available on Redlands Coast


February 21, 2019

Redland City Council is establishing self-service sandbagging stations as Tropical Cyclone Oma continues to move slowly toward the Queensland Coast.

Redland City Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Karen Williams said while the full impacts and final path of TC Oma were unknown, Council was offering the service so Redlands Coast residents had the option to prepare for all possibilities.

“The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is currently forecasting large swells and strong winds coupled with high king tides, which could cause tidal inundation,” Cr Williams said.

“Rain is also forecast, possibly becoming heavy depending on TC Oma’s path.

“Council is offering sand bags to those who wish to prepare their properties for these possibilities.

“There is no need for panic but as the Cyclone’s path is difficult to predict, it is highly important for all residents to stay informed and seek out official updates.

“For weather forecasts visit the BOM website.

“For latest advice you can also tune in to 612ABC and Bay FM, visit disaster.redland.qld.gov.au or follow Redland City Council on Facebook and Twitter.”

The sandbagging stations will initially open from Thursday 21 February to 7pm Sunday 24 February (weather permitting).

Self-service sandbag stations are located at:

  • Cleveland: Council Depot, South Street entrance, Cleveland from 7am – 7pm daily (Council staff will be onsite to assist).
  • North Stradbroke Island: Outside the Council Depot, 11-37 Mitchell Crescent, Dunwich; open 24 hours.
  • Macleay Island: 22-24 Scarborough Terrace, Macleay Island; open 24 hours.
  • Russell Island: Outside the Council Depot, 6 High Street; open 24 hours.

Shovels, sand and sand bags will be supplied at the self-serve stations.

Residents are allowed a maximum limit of ten sand bags per household. Please note: enclosed shoes must be worn.

Redland SES is able to deliver sandbags to elderly, frail or mobility-impaired community members. To access this SES service, contact 132 500.

New sculpture set to ‘rays’ the bar in Wellington Point Streetscape upgrade


February 21, 2019

The streetscape beautification of Wellington Point (Cullen-Cullen) has hit another high, with a spectacular sculptural installation now adorning the roundabout at the intersection of Birkdale and Main roads.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the sculpture – by prominent Queensland public artist Braham Stevens – was modelled on the dynamic and captivating Eagle Rays that gracefully drift through the Moreton Bay waters.

“DRIFT – Sand, Sea and Sky is the first major work of public art to be installed under Council’s public art framework adopted last year, followed closely by the 2018/19 Public Art Commissioning Program,” Cr Williams said.

“Public art says a lot about a community and Council’s formal framework came at a perfect time, as we embraced our new Redlands Coast identity.”

Councillor for Division 1 Wendy Boglary said the artwork was commissioned to announce arrival at Wellington Point and add to the community energy and vibrancy of the village.

“It is the latest addition in the ongoing upgrade of Wellington Point streetscape, joining Dougie the Dugong and the pelicans in capturing the essence of the bayside location,” Cr Boglary said.

“Locals and visitors have long loved Wellington Point for its naturally wonderful wetlands and foreshore access to the bay.

“With bathing, boating and bird watching on offer, it is fitting that the streetscape increasingly reflects these attractions.

“There has been a lot of work in the area over the past year, particularly at the Village Green, to enhance the village’s charm and build on its reputation as a delightful place to visit during the day or at night for a unique dining experience.

“This sculpture is based on local aspects of our area – sand formation from the walk to King Island, vast blue skies from Geoff Skinner Wetlands and of course the turquoise waters of Moreton Bay.

“DRIFT has been designed with our valued environment incorporated. It is an example of art in practise – growing our local economy by attracting visitors,” Cr Boglary said.

Council security camera policy to include antisocial behaviour


February 21, 2019

Redland City Council has responded to a request from the community to broaden its security camera policy to include the term antisocial behaviour.

Mayor Karen Williams said the term had been added to the policy section that described the cameras’ purpose, with antisocial behaviour defined as: ‘riotous, disorderly, indecent, offensive, threatening or insulting behaviour, as described in Schedule 1, 1(a) of Subordinate Local Law No. 4 (Local Government Controlled Areas, Facilities and Roads)’.

“Our policy on security cameras recognises that while Council has an important role to play in creating safe communities, primary responsibility for the prevention and prosecution of crime rests with the State Government through Queensland Police Service (QPS),” Cr Williams said.

“The term ‘antisocial behaviour’ is subjective – what may be considered antisocial behaviour to one person may be seen as acceptable to another – so it was necessary for Council to also include a definition of what it means in a local law context and in terms of security camera use on Redlands Coast.

“Under the policy, the cameras’ purpose is to collect evidence to support prosecution for matters related to property crime on Council owned or controlled assets, local law infringements and interactions between the public and Council staff in and around Council buildings.

“Their purpose has not changed and the inclusion of the term ‘antisocial behaviour’ does not mean cameras will be installed everywhere on Redlands Coast.

“Council must still be able to meet the costs of sustainably operating and maintaining the equipment.”

Councillor for Division 1 Wendy Boglary requested the policy amendment in response to continual requests and a petition from residents.

Cr Boglary said she would like to thank Council Officers and Councillors for responding to the request.

“I hope the inclusion and definition of antisocial behaviour will give Council greater powers to work with QPS to respond to community requests,” she said.

“Council draws on QPS crime statistics to determine security camera placement, so it is vital that community members contact the police via the various numbers to report all incidents.

“Council is endeavouring to use all tools available for the safety of our community and this is an extension of our ongoing work.

“Council is currently working on a Memorandum of Understanding with QPS and the State Government that would allow cameras in certain areas to be monitored by State agencies where there are existing arrangements.”

Cr Williams said Council remained committed to referring any complaints about antisocial behaviour, traffic related offences and other criminal activity to QPS for appropriate action.

“I don’t want the community to think that because of this change Council is taking responsibility for crime prevention or community safety, as this remains the jurisdiction of QPS and Council will always work with the police to ensure our community is safe,” she said.

Council calls on State to prioritise Redlands Coast transport projects


February 21, 2019

Redland City Council is calling on the State Government to include in its Draft Regional Transport Plan an extension to Capalaba of the Eastern Busway and duplication of the Cleveland rail line as priority projects.

Mayor Karen Williams said Councillors unanimously supported a formal submission to the State’s draft transport plan that asked for a commitment to delivering these crucial projects and others of importance to Redlands Coast.

“State-controlled roads and public transport are key aspects of the transport network on Redlands Coast,” Cr Williams said.

“The Council of Mayors (SEQ) People Mass Movement Study released in January showed State and Federal Government investment in transport needed to be increased to accommodate growth across the region, and it especially identified the Cleveland rail duplication and Eastern Busway as critical for the future of Redlands Coast.

“This echoes what we hear from residents every day, so it is disappointing that there is currently no commitment in the State’s Draft Regional Transport Plan to deliver these projects.

“The People Mass Movement Study identified Old Cleveland Road as already being beyond its capacity, but the State’s draft plan only includes a bus transit way from Coorparoo to Carindale and 10-year planning for the protection of the Cleveland rail line corridor.

“The major transport corridors into and out of Redlands Coast are owned by the State, traffic congestion on them is growing, and there are no plans to deliver significant improvements.

“Our submission will make it clear that we want the State Government to focus on upgrading their roads, including Cleveland-Redland Bay Road, as well as providing better island transport.

“Previously we have asked for the State Government to implement Translink bus services on our islands so our residents can get around faster, but so far our request has fallen on deaf ears, so we will ask again in the hope the State Government listens.

“This is a regional plan and there needs to be a regional solution that will help Redlands Coast residents, including islanders, get to Brisbane and beyond and help our neighbours come to visit and enjoy Redlands Coast.”

Call for Redlands Coast to prepare for bad weather


February 20, 2019

Redlands Coast residents are being urged to take precautions now against expected bad weather in coming days, as Tropical Cyclone Oma tracks toward the Queensland Coast.

Redland City Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Karen Williams said the Bureau of Meteorology was keeping a close eye on the cyclone’s path.

“While there is still uncertainty around where Tropical Cyclone Oma will cross the Queensland Coast, in coming days we can expect rain, very strong winds and large swells, coupled with king tides, across Redland City,” Cr Williams said.

“While there is no need for panic, it is important that we all take steps to be ready should the weather take a turn for the worse – clean your gutters, secure loose items around your yard, check in on your neighbours and have an emergency plan.

“It is particularly important that our island residents have an emergency kit and supplies, as we have heard from ferry operators that passenger and vehicle ferry services will be limited during the high winds.

“We are suggesting that people avoid non-essential travel to and from the bay islands from Thursday through to Sunday, and to check with service operators before finalising travel plans.

“I also ask that people heed beach closures and the advice of our surf life savers and other emergency agencies.”

Cr Williams said it was important that people stayed up-to-date with weather reports and messages from authorities.

“People can head to our Disaster Dashboard website for updates and also more information on preparing for emergency weather events,” she said.

Be informed:

Redlands Coast joins neighbouring councils to explore new waste management options


February 18, 2019

Redland City Council has joined four other south-east Queensland councils in seeking regulatory approval to explore options for future waste management services.

Redland City Council, along with Ipswich City Council, Logan City Council, Lockyer Valley Regional Council and Somerset Regional Council, has applied to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for authorisation to invite expressions of interest (EOI) in the provision of future waste disposal and/or resource recovery services.

Proposals would be invited for a regional solution, or for solutions which will suit one or more council areas. The proposals could range from small scale through to large scale integrated regional solutions and can be focused on one or more of available waste streams offered by the councils.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said she supported a regional approach to meet the challenges of the changing waste sector and to move to a more sustainable circular economy.

“My role as Deputy Chair of the Council of Mayors (SEQ) Waste Working Group has highlighted to me the potential benefits of such collaboration for Redlands Coast, especially since the 2011 closure of our last local disposal site at Birkdale,” Cr Williams said.

“Redland City Council has been actively exploring regional collaboration opportunities since 2010 and has a waste disposal agreement with Brisbane City Council until June 2020.

“With a good recycling rate for municipal solid waste, Redlands Coast residents have been increasingly embracing optional household green waste bins and upsizing to larger recycling bins.

“However, there is always room for improvement and the time is right for Redland City Council to embrace regional waste and resource recovery opportunities that may not be viable to consider alone.

“Like our neighbouring councils, we need ongoing engagement with a range of industry players to identify innovation and proposals to keep valuable resources out of landfill.

All documentation relating to the joint application will be made public and published on the ACCC’s Authorisations Register.

It is expected the EOI will be advertised by the end of March.

Council calls on State for free bus loop to ease hospital parking pressures


February 15, 2019

Redland City Council is calling on the State Government to implement a free bus loop servicing Cleveland, marine transport hubs and Redland Hospital.

Mayor Karen Williams said she wrote to Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey, asking him to consider implementing the service to help alleviate the parking pressures at the hospital.

“There has been a lot of discussion about the hospital recently, prompting me on behalf of Council, to meet with the Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Dr Steven Miles,” she said.

“During the meeting we discussed the parking situation at the hospital and I acknowledge and welcome the Minister’s commitment to completing a car park review at the hospital, which I hope will provide relief in the long term.

“However, a parking review won’t provide any relief for patients for a number of years and we need action now; and one simple solution is a free bus service transporting people from the Cleveland train station, Cleveland CBD and other transport hubs directly to the hospital.

“This would provide immediate relief for patients and their family members who visit them at the hospital while the parking review was being completed.”

Cr Williams said Council had received positive feedback from a 2015-16 trial of a free city bus service that included transport from Cleveland railway station to Redland Hospital.

“The Council-led trial was well received and provides the evidence that this service is needed,” she said.

“State legislation makes it difficult for Council to operate new transport routes so I am calling on the State Government, as the operators of public transport across Queensland, to commit to implementing a free bus loop from key transport hubs to Redland Hospital.”

Cr Williams said Council was also currently working with the State on a master plan for the hospital, which she hoped would provide a plan to deliver better health services for Redlands Coast.

Council tells Federal Government to “put a bow on it” and gift Birkdale land to Redlands Coast


February 13, 2019

Redland City Council is calling on the Federal Government and Opposition to publicly commit to gifting the Commonwealth land at 362-388 Old Cleveland Road, Birkdale to the Redlands Coast community.

Mayor Karen Williams is currently in Canberra lobbying for federal funding and has met with both the government and opposition seeking a public commitment that if elected, both parties will gift the land to Council for community use.

The meeting in Canberra follows Cr Williams giving Prime Minister Scott Morrison, on his recent visit to Redlands Coast, a petition with more than 6000 signatures calling for the land to be given to the community.

Cr Williams has also written to Prime Minister Morrison and Mr Shorten requesting that a public commitment be made urgently.

“The residents of Redlands Coast have a clear message for the Federal Government – do not turn this precious public asset into a housing estate,” she said.

“The community has spoken and is vehemently against this 80 hectares of land being used for housing.

“The evidence was clear in the petition I started that gathered more than 6300 signatures and gave to the Prime Minister recently.

“Council has been trying to secure this land for community purposes, since we first became aware more than three years ago that the Federal Government was planning to offload it.”

Cr Williams said she had met with a succession of Federal Ministers and MPs over this matter and had pushed for a commitment that the land would not be sold for housing.

“There were indications in 2016 that the Federal Government was supportive of a sale to Council, with the sale expected in 2017,” she said.

“However, in May 2018 the land was identified in the Federal Budget for divestment, and earmarked for housing.

“We are asking the Federal Government for a formal commitment to end this game and gift or sell the land for a minimal cost to Redland City Council.

“This would be a very positive investment by the Commonwealth into our community.”

Cr Williams said if Council was successful in acquiring the land they would ask the community what they thought the best use of the land was.

“Our priority is to save it from being used for housing; after that we will ask the community what they would like to see done with the land while committing to protecting the environmental and heritage values of the property,” she said.