Monthly Archives: February 2019

Temporary library closures in March


February 13, 2019

Redland Libraries mainland branches will close for refurbishments in March to allow for new and improved self-service checkouts and returns, which are set to enhance the customer experience.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said that each mainland branch will need to close for one week from Monday 4 March, but customers will still have access to all Redland Libraries services during this time.

“The closures will be staggered across the three mainland libraries so there will always be two branches open at all times,” Mayor Williams said.

“The 24/7 virtual library and online services will be available as usual as will be the Mobile Library.

“There will also be extended loan periods in place over the closure period.

“We value all our wonderful Redland Libraries customers and thank them for their patience.

“We hope customers will enjoy all the benefits of the new self-service checkouts and returns system, which will replace borrowing counters and allow people to more easily and quickly borrow their books.

“New check-in bookshelves will let customers return books as they enter the library, allowing those books to be immediately available for others to borrow.

“There will also be more public space for events and activities and staff on hand out on the branch floors to help customers with their needs,” Cr Williams said.

Closure dates:

Cleveland Library closed Monday 4 March, reopening on Monday 11 March
Capalaba Library closed Monday 11 March, reopening on Monday 18 March
Victoria Point Library and Customer Service Centre closed
Monday 18 March, reopening Monday 25 March

Customers are asked to please pick up any items they have on hold before the closure date.

For more information visit Council’s website or visit the Redland Libraries Facebook page.

Redlands Coast supports SEQ City Deal Proposal


February 12, 2019

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has thrown her support behind a Queensland Government and Council of Mayors (SEQ) joint proposal to the Federal Government for a City Deal.

The Transforming SEQ proposal – announced by Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad and Council of Mayors (SEQ) Chair Cr Graham Quirk today (Tuesday 12 February 2019) – calls on the Federal Government to enter into negotiations for a long-term City Deal to deliver better connectivity, more liveability and more jobs in the region.

Cr Williams said the Council of Mayors (SEQ) – of which she is an executive member – had been investigating the application of the City Deal model since 2013 as a way to ensure the long-term and coordinated delivery of infrastructure and supporting programs across the region.

“An SEQ City Deal would see the state and federal governments sign a long-term commitment with the Council of Mayors (SEQ) to deliver the projects needed across the region, providing security for our residents that the projects will be delivered even if governments change,” Cr Williams said.

“Redlands Coast would benefit greatly from a SEQ City Deal, with the potential to deliver better outcomes on the locally important issues of transport infrastructure, internet/mobile connectivity, health, and small business and innovation.

“My number one priority is Redlands Coast and I will always continue to represent our local interests.

“Using the power of all SEQ councils means we have the power to negotiate what would be a region-shaping deal for all SEQ communities.

“Some of the issues we are facing – such as the urgently needed Eastern Busway and Cleveland rail line duplication – demand a regional approach because they cross Council boundaries and require significant financial and infrastructure commitments.

“I believe south-east Queensland has a strong case for a City Deal, which would facilitate better collaboration between all three tiers of government and private enterprise.

“With a Federal election looming, the timing is right for the Council of Mayors (SEQ) to put this regional proposal forward and ask the Australian Government to begin formal negotiations to deliver an SEQ City Deal.”

“The announcement of the City Deal proposition follows Council recently urging all candidates for the seat of Bowman to support an advocacy document prepared by Council in the lead-up to the 2019 Federal election.”

The Transforming SEQ proposal is available on the SEQ Council of Mayor’s website:

https://seqmayors.qld.gov.au/initiatives/tLAdT8gpRDYncj1h72EQ

Hang up political colours for the sake of our city: Redland City Mayor


February 7, 2019

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has challenged all local State and Federal Members to put aside their political argy bargy and work together to improve health services for Redlanders.

In a passionate letter to State MPs Mark Robinson, Kim Richards and Don Brown and Federal Member for Bowman Andrew Laming; Cr Williams implored them to work together for the sake of Redlanders.

The request follows a recent spate of social media back and forth over hospital funding where respective MPs blamed the other level or political party for the lack of specialist medical services at the Redland Hospital.

“People are tired of politicking and finger-pointing, they just want improved health services and I call for a unified approach to making this happen,” Cr Williams said.

“The health and medical care available to residents should not depend on the colour of the government of the day, or that of the Federal or State representative where the hospital is built.”

Mayor Williams penned the letter after reading an open letter from Redland Hospital Emergency physician Michael Cameron in which he warns residents about the state of the Redland Hospital, saying it had not kept up with demand.

Dr Cameron’s letter warns of bed shortages, a lack of specialist medical services and long waits for emergency department beds.

“Dr Cameron’s comments echo those of residents and staff who tell me they are concerned about the state of our local hospitals,” Cr Williams said.

“They also tell me they are concerned about the current social media arguments and media stunts that achieve nothing other than driving a wedge between the State and Federal elected representatives, making a possible jointly funded upgrade to the hospital less likely.”

Cr Williams met with State Health Minister Dr Steven Miles last month to discuss the concerns surrounding the Redland Hospital and has also written to Federal Minister Greg Hunt seeking an urgent meeting when she is in Canberra next week.

“We need politicians to focus more on fighting for funding instead of fighting with each other,” Cr Williams said.

“The health of our residents is not helped by social media likes or headlines, it is helped by constructive, bipartisan commitment across different levels of government and I am calling for all local MPs to hang up their political colours for the good of the city.

“Council has joined Metro South and Mater to fund a Master Plan of the Redlands Hospital, which is currently being finalised and is expected to come to Council for consideration shortly.

“I hope the endorsed Master Plan will provide the opportunity for a unified approach to better health services for the Redlands Coast.

“The finalisation of this Master Plan also provides an opportunity for all elected members to sit down and discuss how we can work together to deliver the health services our community deserves.

“I hope to arrange this meeting at an appropriate time and hope that each elected member attends with an open mind and a commitment to setting aside their differences and ‘political colours’ to deliver for the community.”

Turn your idea into reality with a Council community grant


February 7, 2019

Apply now for a community grant from Redland City Council and let 2019 be the year your great idea for a community focused project comes to life.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the latest round of community grants is now open and for people who are interested to apply before the round closes Monday 4 March.

“Thanks to Council’s Community Grants and Sponsorship Program more than $785,400 of funding supported a diverse range of community projects and events,” said Mayor Williams.

“Last year’s projects brought great benefits to our city last year and include a Sensory garden at My Horizon as well as projects celebrating Quandamooka art and culture.

“Other great community initiatives supported by Council included the mentoring and upskilling of local Redland Bay Coast Guard volunteers and a program called Ruby (Rise up be yourself), delivered by the Queensland Police Citizens Youth Welfare Association – Redlands Branch, which supports women who are, have been or likely to be experiencing domestic and family violence.

“Council’s Sponsorship Program supported the 2018 Island Vibe Festival, which saw over 2700 people flock to North Stradbroke Island, and the successful Redlands Coast Fun Run, which attracted 824 registered participants.

“Various categories of funding are available, which means a range of projects are eligible to receive support.

“If anyone working in Redlands Coast has an idea for a project that will deliver clear benefits to the community I urge them to visit Council’s website while submissions are open to see if our Community Grants team can help them,” Cr Williams said.

Applications for this round of community grants opened Monday 4 February and will be accepted until Monday 4 March 2019 in the following categories:

  • Organisation Support Grant – for projects associated with becoming more sustainable and improving capacity to deliver services.
  • Project Support Grant – for projects that deliver short-to-medium term positive outcomes for the community.
  • Conservation Grants – for conservation projects that benefit the environment and wildlife.

Applications for the next round of Sponsorship will be accepted from Monday 18 February until Monday 18 March 2019 and will support community-based activities and events that provide measurable benefits to Council.

For eligibility criteria and to learn more about how to apply for grants or sponsorship, visit Council’s website or email grants@redland.qld.gov.au or call 3829 8999.

‘Come on Canberra’ call from Redlands Coast


February 6, 2019

Redland City Councillors have challenged Federal election candidates to put Redlands Coast first and join the fight to fast-track priority projects.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams urged all candidates for the Redlands Coast-based seat of Bowman to support an advocacy document prepared by Council in the lead-up to the 2019 Federal election.

“After speaking to the people, Council has prepared a list of projects Redlands Coast residents see as their priorities for future investment by government,” she said.

“We are asking all candidates for Bowman and their political parties for support to deliver essential infrastructure and services.

“We will publish their responses on our website, which may assist people as they prepare to go to the polls.

“Redlands Coast needs strong representation in the upcoming Federal election and we are seeking firm commitments to priority projects from candidates and asking them to lobby for funding for priority projects.

“Supporting our advocacy will prove candidates’ commitment to working with Council to deliver for our community.”

Priority projects in the advocacy document include:

  • Council acquiring the strategically important Commonwealth land at Birkdale;
  • improved mobile and internet connectivity across the city;
  • immediate investment in major transport infrastructure;
  • improved funding for Redlands Hospital;
  • establishment of tele-health or e-health services on Redlands Coast islands;
  • funding for the SLSQ Centre of Excellence;
  • assistance in growing the local economy;
  • attracting a university or other tertiary education facility;
  • increased Federal Assistance Grants to councils.

Cr Williams said Redlands Coast had not seemed a high priority for successive governments.

“While we acknowledge the support of the Federal Government and thank current and former Federal members and candidates for their support, there needs to be a much stronger focus if we are to overcome the funding deficiencies and shortfalls of the past,” she said.

“Council has been lobbying government for years and it is now time to ‘come on Canberra’ and invest in these priority projects.”

Cr Williams said the Council of Mayors (SEQ) People Mass Movement Study listed the Eastern Busway and Cleveland line rail duplication among transport priorities for south-east Queensland.

“The regional transport blueprint showed Federal and State Government investment in transport needed to be increased to accommodate growth,” she said.

“Transport is about much more than convenience.

“It drives economic growth and regional opportunities and is critical for our community.

“The study shows this can be achieved on Redlands Coast by duplicating the Cleveland rail line and delivering the Eastern Busway, in turn encouraging public transport use and taking private vehicles off the road.

“The people have told us clearly that they want a better transport and road system for Redlands Coast, improved health funding, better internet and mobile connectivity and more jobs for locals.

“We need the support of Federal politicians and would-be politicians if this is to ever change.

“A logical step would be to have all election candidates commit to joining Council in the ongoing fight for funding for essential transport and other projects for Redlands Coast.

“I call on all candidates to give that commitment today.”

Redlands Coast Federal Election Priorities [PDF, 2.0MB]

Council on court for renewal of Redlands Coast sports facilities


February 5, 2019

Mayor Karen Williams officially opened renewed netball courts at Keith Surridge Park, Alexandra Hills on Saturday 2 February 2019, scoring another goal for sport on Redlands Coast.

One of four projects under Council’s Renewal Program – Sports, the renewed netball court facilities include two concrete netball courts with sports surfaces, line marking, netball posts and nets to competition standard, new turf and fencing, lights, tiered seating, and a concrete path linking the Bombers AFL and Meteors Netball clubs.

Cr Williams said Council had invested approximately $500,000 at Keith Surridge Park to complete the project.

“Other projects within this program include the renewal of two multi-purpose courts at Ron Stark Oval, Dunwich, which was completed before Christmas, the renewal of the Rage Cage at John Fredricks Park, Capalaba and the renewal of the court facility at Pioneer Park on Lamb Island, which are planned to be undertaken before the end of this financial year,” Cr Williams said.

“Sport is an important part of the community on Redlands Coast and we all love the sports facilities and open spaces we have here.

“The renewal of these facilities will help with the development of rising, young Redlands Coast sport stars and will also help the wider community lead healthy lives through sports participation.”

Mayor Karen Williams, Division 7 Councillor Murray Elliott, and Meteors Netball Club players celebrate the opening of the club’s renewed courts.

Councillor for Division 7 Murray Elliott said the renewed netball courts were a welcome addition to the Alexandra Hills community.

“Critical works on this project included removal of existing cricket nets, the reshaping of an unusable embankment, and the installation of blocks to create a safe, tiered seating area, as well as high performance court surface and the installation of LED lighting with capacity to increase the number of light fittings,” he said.

“These projects under Council’s Renewal Program – Sports will no doubt bolster the community’s strong commitment to the development of local sports people.

“Most sports clubs across Redlands Coast are run by volunteers, and renewed facilities such as this are a great help to these people in their tasks.”

Mayor Karen Williams and Division 7 Councillor Murray Elliott with Meteors Netball Club president Liz Heagney.

Redlands Coast volunteers pay it forward in Townsville


February 5, 2019

Redlands SES crews are paying it forward in Townsville, working alongside locals and state agencies to help that community deal with unprecedented flooding.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said four Redlands SES volunteers arrived on Saturday with seven more due for deployment on Wednesday.

“Our orange angels never fail to step up when people – both on Redlands Coast and further afield – are in need of help,” Cr Williams said.

“North Stradbroke Island’s November 2018 fire saw Redlands SES members working hard to move fire fighters around the island, keep them fed and staff road and track closures.

“Jumping from fire to flood, they are now helping tarp Townsville homes, perform emergency roof repairs and clear fallen trees and debris.

“With many Townsville residents still sheltering in evacuation centres, the seven extra Redlands Coast volunteers heading north will be welcome.

“This team includes experienced hands as well as newly qualified operators, who will learn a great deal working under these emergency conditions.

“Also heading to Townsville are Redlands Deputy Local Disaster Coordinator Mike Tait and three of our Southern Moreton Bay Island Community Champions, the latter deployed by the Australian Red Cross to help set up more evacuation centres.

“On their first deployment outside Redlands Coast, our Community Champions will use their experience of evacuation centers gained during Russell Island and North Stradbroke Island fires.

“This is yet another sign of how successful Council’s Community Champions program has been.

“Thank you to everyone heading to North Queensland to help out; you take with you the thoughts and best wishes of the whole Redlands Coast community.”

Already in the field are Redlands SES volunteers Blake Tomlinson, Tim Willis, Jean Breeden (team leader) and Patricio Fluxsajoras.