Monthly Archives: October 2021

Annual fundraiser benefits domestic violence support services


October 29, 2021

Time is running out to purchase a ticket for a great night of entertainment and to help make a difference for people affected by domestic and family violence on Redlands Coast.

The annual Dîner en Rouge event, a live theatre production themed Musique en Rouge, will be held on Saturday 6 November 2021 at Redland Performing Arts Centre.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the Redlands Coast community was a very giving one, and it was important for people to come together to help those in need.

“Domestic violence is a terrible reality for too many local families,” she said.

“In 2020-21, there were 598 applications for domestic violence protection orders lodged with Cleveland Magistrates Court.

“Disturbingly, there were 430 charges of contravening a protection order in the same period.

“Domestic and family violence has no place in our community and this annual fundraiser is one small way the community can come together to make a real difference for people whose lives have been torn apart.”

Dîner en Rouge, now in its seventh year, has raised almost $400,000 for Redlands Coast domestic and family violence support services.

Maybanke Accommodation and Crisis Support Service President Jacky Burkett said the $250,000 received had made a huge difference to the organisation and its clients.

“We have been able to fit out the new units which were commissioned early in 2020, revitalise the other units, set up a social outdoor undercover area and, most excitingly, completely renovate the children’s playground,” Ms Burkett said.

The Centre for Women & Co CEO Stacey Ross said they received $100,000 which would allow them to employ a Domestic and Family Violence Integration Worker over the next 12 months.

“The difference we hope to make is that organisations and businesses are better equipped to recognise, respond to and support people who may be experiencing domestic and family violence, therefore keeping people safe,” Ms Ross said.

The Redland Community Centre also received $30,000 for their DFV Assist program to provide case management and address gaps in service and for people experiencing domestic and family violence.

This year’s Musique en Rouge fundraiser will feature entertainment by Australian recording artist Luke Kennedy, this year’s The Voice Australia singing sensation Irena Lysiuk, Australia’s premier pop-opera trio Belladiva and special guests from Phluxus2 Dance Collective.

There are also two special guest speakers:

  • Vanessa Fowler, who is co-chair of the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council, chair of the Allison Baden-Clay Foundation and sister of the late Allison Baden-Clay, and
  • Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner Brian Codd, who leads the recently established Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command.

The night also includes a silent auction and a major raffle with prizes including a diamond pendant valued at $2880 and an island getaway holiday valued at $740.

The pendant has been provided by Stephen Dibb Jewellery, which has been donating fine jewellery to Dîner en Rouge since the event’s inception in 2015.

For more information on Musique en Rouge, go to redland.qld.gov.au/dinerenrouge

Supporters of Diner en Rouge include:

Sponsors: Karreman Bros, Redland City Bulletin, Walker Group, Renaissance Retirement Living, Darwalla Group, Alex Gow Funerals, National Concrete Systems, Peak Services, Rotary Club of Cleveland, Southern Cross Protection, Villawood Properties.

Supporters: JJ Richards and Sons, Stephen Dibb Jewellery, Minjerribah Camping, Sealink, Capalaba Carnations, Koala Graphix.

Posted in Events and tagged .

Council takes proactive approach to bushfire season


October 25, 2021

Redland City Council’s proactive approach to identifying and reducing bushfire risks has been welcomed by residents visited by officers from its Bushfire Hazard Reduction Team.

Redland City Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Chair Councillor Karen Williams said Council was working in partnership with Queensland Fire Emergency Services (QFES) and the Rural Fire Service (RFS) to carry out audits across the city.

“Officers have visited individual properties to help identify overgrown vegetation and a build-up of fuel load that can increase fire hazard risk. They also provided residents with practical advice and direction on reducing risks.”

As well as the audits, Council is conducting a bushfire awareness campaign over the next few months funded under state and federal government grants. Council will collaborate with the QFES to deliver a number of information sessions as well as installing 10 permanent signs in high-risk bushfire areas reminding people to know the risk, prepare a survival plan and report any bushfire or arson to 000.

Deputy Mayor and Deputy Chair of the LDMG Cr Julie Talty (Division 6) said long-time Mount Cotton residents John and Lois Hughes had recently taken part in Council’s Fire Risk Management Program.

“The Hughes have lived on their rural property for some 50 years,” Cr Talty said.

“A Council officer from the Bushfire Hazard Reduction Team visited them to chat about being prepared for the upcoming fire season and an inspection was carried out on their property to look at ways of reducing the risk of it being affected by bushfires.”

Mr Hughes said they were pleased with the quick response by the team.

“They really got the ball rolling,” he said.

Mr Hughes said he had built up detailed knowledge over the years of surrounding properties and landscapes, and about local conditions that affect the risk of bushfires.

And while they have never had a bushfire on their property, Mr Hughes, who maintains several fire hoses on his land, agreed it was important not to let complacency creep in.

“It wasn’t that long before the inspection by the officer that we went down to a local (community bushfire information) meeting and that was a really good night. We learnt quite a bit there as well,” he said.

“When we had the inspection at our place the officer asked us what our plan was in an emergency. Well, we had a plan about what we would take and which way we’d go in the car depending on where the fire was coming from. But then he asked us where we would go and stay.

“That got me thinking, and that night I came up with a plan for that part of our plan!”

Mr Hughes said issues around long grass near his property had been addressed by Council during the audit.

“I encourage all residents to arrange a visit by the Bushfire Hazard Reduction Team,” Cr Talty said.

Cr Williams also encouraged the Redlands Coast community to take advantage of the “incredibly important” information sessions on offer.

“They provide targeted advice and information to property owners in identified high-risk areas as well as offering bushfire-preparedness information across the entire region,” she said.

Bushfire awareness information nights will be held at the following times and locations:

  • 4 November, IndigiScapes, Capalaba, 6.30-8.30pm
  • 11 November, Sirromet Winery, Mt Cotton, 6.30-8.30pm

Council will also host an information stall at the IndigiScapes Eco Market (4 December, 8am-noon).

Registration for the information nights is via redland.qld.gov.au

Council also has a free opt-in emergency alert messaging service. Go to: disaster.redland.qld.gov.au

To arrange a visit by the Bushfire Hazard Reduction Team, email rcc@redland.qld.gov.au or call 3829 8999.

 

Redlands Coast on show for Ekka Show holiday


October 25, 2021

The postponed Ekka long weekend is set to pump millions into the Redlands Coast economy thanks to a successful Redland City Council tourism campaign.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the “Getaway closer” campaign had resulted in an 80-95 per cent occupancy rate for local accommodation providers.

“The tourism sector has been doing it tough during COVID, which is why Council invested in this campaign to help support local jobs,” Cr Williams said.

A short trip across the sparkling waters of southern Moreton Bay will deliver you to a diverse range of island experiences this Ekka long weekend in Redlands Coast.

“The campaign has yielded a great response with near capacity bookings set to pump more than $4 million into the Redlands Coast visitor economy.”

Cr Williams said that while Redlands Coast had its Ekka public holiday on August 9, a public holiday for Brisbane, Moreton Bay and the Scenic Rim on Friday October 29, presented a great opportunity to promote the naturally wonderful destinations of Redlands Coast.

“While the need to postpone the Brisbane Ekka long weekend at short notice meant Redlands Coast and other places had already had their holiday, it gives some of our neighbours the chance to experience the beautiful Redlands Coast,” she said.
“We’re just up the road, but a world away, and the ‘Getaway closer’ campaign is reminding the region that Redlands Coast is the perfect spot for an extended weekend getaway – all within a short 35 minute drive from the Brisbane CBD.

“Tourism is one of our most important industries, with more than 1.2 million visitors injecting more than $228 million into our economy each year and supporting more than 2,120 tourism jobs.”

Cr Williams said while occupancy rates were strong, there were still rooms available, as well as some great day trips.

“Council has been working with local tourism operators and businesses to ensure there are a range of exceptional COVID-safe experiences on offer for the long weekend and beyond,” she said.

“Redlands Coast is a ‘must visit’ destination brimming with naturally wonderful experiences worthy of anyone’s bucket list.

“We have 335km of stunning coastline which includes the world-renowned beaches, pristine islands, natural attractions, abundance of marine and wildlife, immersive Aboriginal Quandamooka cultural tours and galleries, and home to earth’s second largest sand island Minjerribah.

“Whether it is water-based activities, bush walks and mountain biking in our conservation areas, historic trails, gourmet food-based adventures or romantic escapes, there is something for everyone here.

“And complementing all this is a diverse range of accommodation options, from the luxurious to the boutique to the budget-conscious. There are waterfront cottages, beachfront resorts, hotels, apartments, camping and glamping.”

Find out more about Redlands Coast getaways by calling the Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre on 1300 667 386 or by going to visitredlandscoast.com.au

SIX QUICK PICK IDEAS

If you’re still thinking about what to do this Ekka long weekend – think no more. We’ve got you covered with a range of must-see experiences on Redlands Coast. There’s so much to explore and it’s right next door – no lengthy travel or traffic jams required! Here’s our pick of the top 6:

  • Adrenaline filled adventures

Wind your way along inspiring coastline and bushland tracks, exhilarating mountain biking terrain, dedicated horse riding trails and walking and cycle ways that navigate their way throughout the region. Our naturally wonderful tracks and trails offer the perfect outdoor adventures for families and fur-babies too, explore Bayview Conservation Area, Redlands Track Park, Eastern Escarpment Conservation Area, Don and Christine Burnett Conservation Area and more. You will love discovering the natural wonders of Redlands Coast. Plan a trip, put on your boots, and explore the outdoors next door.

  • The water’s perfect here at Redlands Coast.

Spend a day exploring the sparkling waters of southern Moreton Bay by boat with Aria Cruises or Brisbane Yacht Charters – go kayaking and stand up paddle boarding with Bay Island Water Sports, snorkelling and diving with Manta Lodge or catch a wave with North Stradbroke Island Surf School.

  • Experience island time in no time

Leave your mainland cares behind and head off across the waters of southern Moreton Bay for a Redlands Coast island escape. Stand on the shores of the earth’s second largest sand island North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), take a short ferry ride to Coochiemudlo Island (Goochie Mudlo) or head further south and depart Redland Bay for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands – Macleay (Jencoomercha), Russell (Canaipa), Lamb (Ngudooroo) and Karragarra. Spend your days enjoying beach picnics, going fishing, discovering diverse wildlife and stunning panoramas, exploring art galleries, bush walking or simply enjoying the peace and tranquillity of island life and the range of accommodation options available.

  • Naturally wonderful escapes

Nature lovers relish the natural environmental experiences of Redlands Coast, including whale watching from Point Lookout (Mulumba) on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), which has some of Australia’s best land-based vantage points for viewing these magnificent, migratory creatures. Among the Coast’s other marine wildlife are dolphins, manta ray, dugong and sea turtles. On land, see wallabies, koalas, possums and other native animals in their natural habitats. Redlands Coast also teems with more than 350 species of birdlife, much of which is of national and international significance. So plan your trip and come say hello to all our wild locals.

  • Picnic Perfect

Pack that picnic basket for Redlands Coast, the region is spoilt for choice when it comes to idyllic views, picture-perfect beaches, and lush bushland areas. Throw down your rug beneath the historic wooden lighthouse at Cleveland Point and enjoy the winter sun; travel to Coochiemudlo Island and make the most of the beachside barbeques; climb to the summit of Mount Cotton and picnic with elevated views across the region and out to Brisbane City; enjoy a gourmet hamper on Sirromet’s Lavender Hill overlooking a sea of purple flowers; or visit Wellington Point for sunset by the ocean with some good old-fashioned fish and chips. There are plenty of picnic perfect places on Redlands Coast to really let family time shine.

  • Find ancient traditions just minutes away at Redlands Coast.

The Quandamooka people having cared for these lands and waters for more than 21,000 years, the Quandamooka spirit flows strongly through the villages and islands of Redlands Coast and deep into our waters. Gain fascinating insights into the oldest surviving culture in the world while tasting regional bush tucker on a guided cultural walk with Yura Tours; enjoy artefact demonstrations with Matt Burns; experience world class land-based whale (yalingbilla) watching with Quandamooka Coast; and browse local wares and artwork by Aboriginal artists at Delvene Cockatoo-Collins Studio, Salt Water Murris’ Quandamooka Aboriginal Art Gallery and the Island Arts Gallery. Plan your trip and discover Quandamooka culture right on your doorstep.

 

Council advises what to flush and not to flush


October 25, 2021

Redlands Coast residents are urged to be aware of what is being flushed down their toilets after recent sewerage pump station blockages caused by children’s underwear.

Mayor Karen Williams said the clothing pulled out of machinery at the Victoria Point pump station was the latest in a long list of inappropriate items making their way through the city’s sewerage system.

“Children’s underwear has been appearing every couple of weeks at the Victoria Point pump station,” Cr Williams said.

“Council is encouraging parents and caregivers to keep an eye on what children may be flushing and of course, not to flush these items themselves.

“If a child has soiled their underwear and you don’t want to wash the items they should go in the bin.”

Children’s underwear pulled from a pump station at Victoria Point.

Cr Williams said that over the years Council staff had pulled out of the pumps everything from large lumps of solidified and hardened fat (known at fatbergs), disposable wipes, paper hand towel and cotton buds to wallets, money, jewellery and spectacles.

“None of these items should be disposed of through toilets as they are not designed to break down,” Cr Williams said.

“The sewerage transport system consists of pipes, manholes and pump stations that are designed to carry only free-flowing wastewater with no large solid matter.”

The wastewater treatment plants are designed to treat only human wastewater from toilets, and low-level biodegradable food residue.

If in any doubt on what can be flushed down the toilet, just think of the three Ps (Pee, Poo and toilet Paper).

Cr Williams said flushing incorrect items down toilets could have a number of serious ramifications.

“Flushing anything other than the three Ps down the toilet can cause damage to the sewerage infrastructure, which can result in increased costs to ratepayers,” she said.

“A blockage may also cause sewage to back up onto a resident’s property and it can bubble out of nearby toilets.

“Back pressure may also cause the lid of a sewer maintenance hole to lift, causing sewage to flow into the environment.”

Cr Williams said blockages could also interfere with the treatment process, result in regulatory non-compliance, or reduce the ability to recycle biosolids – all of which could lead to increased costs to ratepayers.

Redland City SES Unit honoured in regional and state awards


October 22, 2021

Top Redland City State Emergency Service Unit volunteers have been recognised with six regional awards, six service medals and one state award at ceremonies held recently during SES Week.

The week is held to acknowledge the outstanding service SES volunteers provide to their own and other communities during times of crisis.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said all 154 Redland SES volunteers were highly respected for their tireless efforts in helping to keep people safe.

“We are very fortunate here on Redlands Coast to have such a dedicated, hardworking group of people who are not only willing to put the safety of others ahead of their own, but as volunteers they do so freely,” Cr Williams said.

“Over the past 12 months, the Redland SES Unit attended 490 jobs.

“This included land searches for missing people, responding to storm damage, supporting police with COVID-19 border security at the airport, assisting Queensland Health with COVID-19 vaccination and testing hubs, community support, and public education.

“The commitment of these volunteers to community safety is greatly appreciated.

“I’m sure the Redlands Coast community would join me in thanking all our Redland SES volunteers for the vital role they play in our community, and congratulating those who were recently recognised with awards.”

The 2021 Brisbane Region SES award recipients from the Redland City SES Unit were:

State Award

Queensland Volunteer of the Year

Alex Johnson, Redland Bay SES Group

Redland Bay SES Group volunteer Alex Johnson was awarded Queensland SES Volunteer of the Year.

Regional Awards

Brisbane Regional Operation of the Year (missing person search) – Highly Commended:

  • Redland City SES Unit

Brisbane Region Volunteer of the Year:

  • Alex Johnson, Redland Bay SES Group, for distinguished service to the SES through leadership, dedicated service to the community and continually developing the knowledge and skill level of fellow members, providing the service with longevity.

SES Week Certificate Award for individual significant contribution:

  • David Frarricciardi, Cleveland SES Group, for distinguished service to the SES through outstanding leadership, commitment, and dedication to training delivery, planning and member development. For excellent professionalism within SES and commitment displayed to the community.
  • Enrica Brazzelli, Cleveland SES Group, for distinguished service to the SES through outstanding commitment and dedication to Group, Unit and community.
  • Heather Davis, Cleveland SES Group, for distinguished service to the SES through outstanding commitment and dedication to Group, Unit and community.
  • Di Vandermeer, Cleveland SES Group, for significant contribution to the SES through outstanding commitment and service; and for strategic support for operations and training.

SES National Emergency Service Medal:

  • Anthony Daniels, Redland Bay SES Group, recognising 45 years of service.
  • Rex Wigney, Cleveland SES Group, recognising 45 years of service.
  • Alex Johnson, Redland Bay SES Group, recognising 15 years of service.
  • Jason Atherinos, North Stradbroke Island SES Group, recognising 15 years of service.

SES Meritorious Service Medal

  • Anthony Daniels, Redland Bay SES Group, recognising 45 years of service.
  • Jason Atherinos, North Stradbroke Island SES Group, recognising 15 years of service.

Council celebrates Olympians and Paralympians


October 20, 2021

Redlands Coast athletes who competed at last month’s 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games have been officially congratulated by Redland City Council.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams hosted a morning tea today in honour of local athletes who were part of the Australian Olympic and Paralympic teams.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams with (from left) Redlands Coast athletes Paige Leonhardt, Jake Michel, Alannah Mathews and Taylor Worth.

“The Redlands Coast athletes not only performed sensationally in their individual sports but they also performed faultlessly in their display of fairness and respect, in and out of competition,” Cr Williams said.

“The Olympics and Paralympics Games have a galvanising effect; they tend to bring the world together. It did fill me with pride to watch our city’s athletes front and centre of that showcase of excellence.

“After seeing just how the Games managed to harness, present and celebrate the unifying spirit of sport during such difficult times globally, it is exciting to know that we will have them literally right in our back yards in 2032.

“Redlands Coast will be an event venue city for the Canoe Slalom competition at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. They will be held at a purpose-built Redland Whitewater Centre as part of an integrated aquatic and adventure sports facility within Birkdale Community Precinct.

“The 2032 Games will be one of our greatest opportunities ever to showcase our naturally wonderful Redlands Coast to the world.”

Cr Williams addressed the local athletes who attended the morning tea, saying their achievements at the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games were another reminder of the level of excellence being reached by sporting clubs right across Redlands Coast.

“Well done to all the coaches, supporters and of course the families who have helped these wonderful athletes do us proud,” she said.

Redlands Coast athletes in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics included:

  • Mara Stransky of Russell Island finished 14th in the Women’s Laser Radial class.
  • Cassiel Rousseau of Ormiston showed promise in the men’s diving 10m platform, finishing 8th in the final.
  • Former Redlands Coast resident Mellisa Wu scored a bronze medal in the women’s diving 10m platform final.
  • Taylor Worth of Birkdale made it to round 16 in the men’s archery individual event.
  • Alannah Mathews of Sheldon competed as part of the five-member rhythmic gymnastics group.
  • Shannon Parry of Cleveland was part of the women’s rugby sevens squad who unfortunately were unable to replicate their gold medal win in Rio 2016, losing to Fiji in the quarter finals.
  • Emily Gielnik of Alexandra Hills was part of the Matildas Olympic squad who made it to the semi-finals and narrowly missed bringing home a bronze medal.
  • BMX rider Logan Martin from Maudsland and trains in Redland Bay took the gold medal in the men’s BMX freestyle.

Redlands Coast athletes in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics included:

  • Swimmer Jake Michel of Birkdale scored silver in the men’s 100m breaststroke.
  • Swimmer Paige Leonhardt of Thornlands scored silver in the women’s 100m butterfly; finished 6th in the women’s 100m breaststroke; and 6th in the women’s 200m individual medley.

Council pursues Games ‘decade of opportunity’


October 20, 2021

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has called on the power of the community to ensure Redlands Coast enjoys the benefits of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mayor Williams today tabled a motion asking for Council to investigate a Redlands Coast Olympic and Paralympic Legacy Working Group.

“The 2032 Games are an exciting opportunity for our community and this group will ensure we make every post a winner and create ongoing opportunities for local families, businesses and sporting clubs,” Cr Williams said.

“Redland City Council is proud to have been part of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games journey since the Council of Mayors (SEQ) first began investigating a regional Games in March 2015.

“Council’s support has always been focussed on creating lasting legacies for our community, in particular attracting increased investment in transport infrastructure and delivering important economic development opportunities.

“Now the 2032 Games have been secured, it is incumbent on us to ensure they will deliver ongoing benefits and this group will ensure that happens.”

Cr Williams said the potential benefits went beyond those that would be realised as a result of the Redlands hosting the canoe slalom competition venue.

“Obviously being a venue city will deliver significant benefits, including the delivery of an integrated adventure sports precinct with a world class white water canoe slalom facility and other water play facilities for local families,” Cr Williams said.

“But this opportunity is about so much more than four weeks of sport, there is now a decade of opportunity and I want to make sure the whole community has an opportunity to benefit from it.

“The intention is for this legacy working group to include external representatives from a range of backgrounds, including sporting clubs, businesses and schools; giving the community a voice in identifying and planning legacy opportunities.

“I have asked Council to also investigate transport representatives that can be included in the group to ensure the Games deliver better transport infrastructure, which is the reason we began this journey in the first place.”

Residents urged to check yards ahead of mozzie season


October 19, 2021

Redland City Council is urging residents to take an active role in mosquito management and check their yards for possible breeding sites.

Mayor Karen Williams said recent rain coupled with warm weather could provide ideal breeding conditions for the saltmarsh (Aedes vigilax) and container (Aedes notoscriptus) mosquitoes.

“Council’s mosquito management team investigates known mosquito breeding sites across Redlands Coast and conducts regular ground and aerial treatments as required,” she said.

“We are encouraging residents to help Council in our efforts to reduce mosquito numbers by checking their own yards, especially during the peak breeding season from November to April.

“Mosquitoes don’t need much water to breed – even the water at the bottom of a pot plant base is enough.

“Now is the perfect time to check your yard and empty water pooling in items such as toys, boats, fallen palm fronds, blocked roof gutters and old tyres.

“It’s also timely to check your insect screens are in good condition.

“For personal protection from mosquitoes, residents should avoid being outside during peak activity periods at dusk and dawn where possible, use insect repellent and wear light-coloured, long, loose-fitting clothing.”

Regional Mosquito Management Group chairman Cr Paul Golle (Division 3) said Council had a year-round program to manage mosquitoes, paying particular attention to coastal, saltmarsh and mangrove areas.

“Managing mosquitos is important for both health and amenity,” he said.

“In doing this, we target the mosquito larvae or ‘wrigglers’ before they can fly and bite, and start treatment programs as soon as larval breeding is detected,” he said.

“Council’s mosquito management team treats about 9500 hectares of land annually via ground and aerial application through the use of helicopters, quad bikes and drones.

“We also run an inspection program to monitor larvae numbers and the efficacy of our treatments.”

More information is available on Council’s mosquito management webpage

Nominations open for 2022 Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards


October 19, 2021

It’s time to recognise inspirational Redlands Coast residents who generously give their time to make our community a better place to live.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said nominations were now open for the 2022 Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards, which recognise the contributions made by people of all ages to our city.

“Every year we are amazed at the efforts of those who make the lives of others in our community better,” she said.

“These awards aim to recognise those high-achieving residents who have given freely of their time, knowledge and enthusiasm to make an outstanding contribution to our community.

“It could be someone who gives their time and heart to others, who pushes themselves to achieve at elite levels or who shows great innovation in their social, environmental and cultural projects.

“Whether they’re a tireless community advocate or long-serving volunteer, their dedication and sense of civic pride deserves to be recognised.

“I encourage anyone who knows someone who is deserving of recognition through an Australia Day award to nominate them so we can celebrate their contribution.”

Online nominations are open for these nine award categories:

  • Citizen of the Year
  • Senior Citizen of the Year (60 years and over)
  • Young Citizen of the Year (30 years and under)
  • Local Hero Award
  • Community Organisation Award
  • Cultural Award
  • Sports Award
  • Environment and Sustainability Award
  • Reconciliation Award

To make a nomination, visit redland.qld.gov.au/awards

Nominations close on Monday 29 November and the Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards presentation for finalists will be held in January 2022.

Posted in Awards and tagged .

Devices offer ‘grate’ way to trap waterway waste


October 18, 2021

They are known as SQIDs and over the past two years these Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices have prevented more than 500 cubic metres of Redlands Coast waste ending up in Moreton Bay.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the SQIDs were designed to stop vegetation, sediments, litter and other materials entering the city’s waterways and ultimately into the bay.

“We have a network of about 740 SQIDs whose tentacles spread all across Redlands Coast,” Cr Williams said.

Urban Asset Solutions work across the Redlands Coast maintaining and monitoring the waterway waste devices.

“In 2019 about 280 cubic metres of waste, and a further 228 cubic metres in 2020, was recovered from the devices by Council contractor, Urban Asset Solutions, which monitors and maintains the SQIDs.”

Cr Williams said the devices took several formats, including trash racks which are steel grates with netting that sit across open channels to collect large waste like bottles, takeaway cups and green waste.

“There are 80 of these trash racks across the city,” Cr Williams said.

“There are another 320 litter baskets in use that are generally installed in stormwater pits and more than 70 gross pollutant traps, or GPTs, that are installed throughout the drainage network.

“SQIDs also come in the form of bio-retention basins and swales of which there are more than 100 on Redlands Coast including a brand new basin that has been constructed alongside Birkdale Recycling and Waste Centre.

“The bio-retention basin at Birkdale will improve the quality of stormwater runoff from the waste centre.”

Urban Asset Solutions’ scope of works consists of general system monitoring, reporting and maintenance services including repairing erosion, unblocking  inlets and outlets, removing litter and debris, managing and controlling weeds, planting, reporting on rectification works and undertaking scheduled GPT cleans by vacuum or crane truck methods to ensure  all managed assets are performing to their intended specification, are safe and aesthetically pleasing.

Cr Williams said the company had a regional office in Cleveland that employed four people fulltime.

“It is just one of many local businesses and suppliers used by Council,” she said.

“Council is focused more on spending local as part of our corporate procurement policy, contract manual and strategic contracting plan and procedures adopted in July last year.

“Wherever possible we will be using local businesses and suppliers to continue our support of the local economy and to keep people in jobs and create new employment opportunities.”