Category Archives: Roads and transport

New ferry terminals to be delivered sooner

June 11, 2020

Four new ferry terminals on Redlands Coast will be delivered sooner and at an estimated cost saving of more than $5 million after Council this week agreed to bring forward the projects.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council’s decision would see the Southern Moreton Bay Island (SMBI) ferry terminals delivered about 12 months sooner than originally expected, delivering local jobs and saving residents money.

“This is an exciting partnership between Council and Transport and Main Roads that will see four new ferry terminals delivered for our Southern Moreton Bay Islands, helping residents move around our beautiful Redlands Coast faster and safer,” Cr Williams said.

“Through this partnership, TMR and Council have found a way to deliver the project sooner and in doing so save ratepayers $2 million, with a total saving of $5 million across the entire project, including State Government savings.

“The project still includes the original design of updating the jetties, gangways and pontoons, and repurposing existing ferry pontoons for recreational uses such as fishing and mooring.

“This is an exciting development that will also see more jobs created in the 2020/21 financial year, which is vital following the economic impacts of COVID-19.

“There are many benefits in this for Redlands Coast, and we are keen to see the project delivered as quickly as possible.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the Southern Moreton Bay Islands community had waited a long time to see the terminals receive the significant upgrades they needed.

“We are a city of islands, and the ferry terminals are vital for island residents and highly important to the Redlands Coast economy,” he said.

“Council and the State Government negotiated patiently over a long period of time for the best outcome possible for the community, and this new development will see that outcome realised sooner.”

Member for Redlands Kim Richards said she welcomed Council’s decision, which would deliver local jobs sooner.

“This decision means we can get the ferry terminal upgrades finished sooner for all our islands and create more local construction jobs when they’re needed most,” Ms Richards said.

“We’re expecting tenders for construction to go out in August, and this announcement will cut about a year off the time it will take to get the work done, so I can’t wait for our community to see work start on these upgrades that will create an enviable arrival and departure experience for our island communities.”

Cr Williams said that in other Council works brought forward, the Wharf Street, Cleveland car park was currently being resurfaced.

“Council took the opportunity during the recent travel ban to North Stradbroke Island to bring forward this important maintenance work, which was previously planned for the next financial year,” she said.

“This work is part of Council’s broader roads program and is expected to be completed soon, weather permitting.”

A new bridge leads the way into the redevelopment of Weinam Creek

May 29, 2020

The first stage of the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area (PDA) is nearing completion, with the connecting footbridge between the north and south side of the marina expertly lowered into place recently.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the new footbridge would make a big difference to the lives of residents, providing a connection between the Weinam Creek ferry terminal and the new car park on Moores Road.

Mayor Karen Williams and Division 2 Councillor Mark Edwards

“We are very excited to see stage one of the Weinam Creek development coming to fruition,” Cr Williams said.

“This footbridge and the additional 500 car parking spaces provided at Moores Road will certainly help to ease the congested parking situation at the ferry terminal, as well as reducing congestion in local streets where people have been forced to park.

“Many residents have a car on the mainland as well as on the islands and this overflow parking area will be very convenient for longer-term parking, with an easy 5-10 minute walk over the footbridge to the ferry terminal.

“It will also enable somewhere for cars to be parked while work is carried out on the ferry terminal, allowing it to keep operating while the rest of the project is constructed.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the new car park and the connecting bridge would open in mid-June and were just the first stage of the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area.
“This ferry terminal is the gateway to our Southern Morton Bay islands (SMBI) and therefore a very important transport hub and this project will transform the area into an exciting and dynamic destination in its own right.

New footbridge going up and over Weinam Creek

“The Weinam Creek project will provide important community infrastructure for local families and retail options to attract visitors, as well as important community services such as medical facilities and employment opportunities.”

Cr Williams said the Council had a clear vision for the Weinam Creek PDA precinct that responded to the community’s needs.

“This staged development is being delivered in partnership with Redland Investment Corporation and includes more open space; new pedestrian and cycle ways; rejuvenation of existing parkland; more car parks with a multi-storey park proposed for the later stage of the development; improved drop off and storage facilities for island residents and visitors; a new boat ramp to separate emergency and public access; and a mix of residential and retail spaces including cafes, restaurants and potential for a medical precinct,” Cr Williams said.

“The next stage of the development is lodging the final master plan with Economic Development Queensland in mid-2020, followed by further public notification and communication from late 2020.

“This Priority Development Area will further improve liveability in this beautiful area of Redlands Coast and also create jobs and drive economic development.”

Changed parking conditions at marina and ferry car parks

May 1, 2020

To assist Redlands Coast island residents who are self-isolating due to COVID-19, Redland City Council has suspended parking infringement notices for some timed parking areas within the Redland Bay Marina car park and all timed parking areas at Toondah Harbour and the Victoria Point ferry terminal car park.

The suspension does not apply to non-timed parking including disabled parking spaces, loading zones, boat trailer parking, parking other than in a marked bay, or the parking spaces at Weinam Creek highlighted on the attached map.

Mayor Karen Williams said the changes would help support Redlands Coast’s island communities.

“Council is aware of the challenges faced by our island communities due to their geographic isolation,” she said.

“Worrying about potential parking fines while they are isolating to help slow the spread of COVID-19 is a worry these residents don’t need.

The suspension of timed parking infringements at ferry terminal car parks will continue until further notice and Council will advise the community publicly in advance before recommencing them.”

The area highlighted on the Weinam Creek map will be changed from three-day parking to 18-hour regulated parking to assist regular commuters.

Mayor Williams said: “We ask that residents who have cars parked long-term in the highlighted area at Weinam Creek move their vehicles as soon as possible to accommodate the needs of regular commuters.

“Council will soon be in contact with people who have cars parked in that area who have not had the opportunity to move their vehicles.”

Government investment critical for future Redlands Coast transport improvements

February 12, 2020

Redland City Council will lobby the State Government to establish a Public Transit Authority and increase investment in State roads after adopting the Redlands Coast Transport Strategy today.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the development of the strategy over the past eighteen months had included substantial stakeholder and community engagement.

“While the Strategy identifies Council led priorities, including trunk infrastructure and travel behaviour priorities, it has again highlighted the State’s influence over critical Redland transport priorities.

“Not surprisingly, the strategy review and engagement identified the priority for investments in the Eastern Busway and Cleveland rail duplication, as well as essential upgrades to the state road network.

“Engagement also showed a disconnect between different public transport modes such as ferries and buses, and in response, we will advocate for the State to establish a Public Transit Authority to oversee all Public Transport operations and investment across the region.

“Recently, I have spoken with several public transport operators who all believe a Public Transit Authority would help coordinate services and investment across the region, delivering better results for passengers.

“Nowhere is the need for this coordination more evident than our city of islands where residents often have to catch multiple modes of transport.

“Nothing is more frustrating than wasting time waiting at a bus stop because the bus timetable doesn’t line up with the ferry, or even worse seeing the bus pull away just as the ferry arrives.

Cr Williams said the transport strategy highlighted a need for increased funding for State roads and public transport in and out of the city.

“While more than 60 per cent of our workers commute out of the city each day, only 14 per cent are willing to do so by public transport, directly reflecting community frustration with poor service frequency, travel time and connectivity.

“Essential state road improvement priorities identified in the review, include Capalaba intersections, Cleveland Redland Bay Road, Finucane Road – Shore Street and Mount Cotton Road – Boundary Road.

“While the Redlands Coast Transport Strategy has highlighted the importance of advocacy for substantial transport network investments by Government, it has also focused on priorities to address transport and travel behaviours at the local level.

“Council is actively working on initiatives including local area transport planning, rideshare, autonomous vehicle trials and modelling changes to parking and our urban landscape connectivity to encourage higher public transport, walkability and cycling use.

“Ultimately though, achieving these Redland Coast Transport priorities requires Queensland Government collaboration and a significant step-up in State investment in our shared transport future.”

$8.1mill School of Arts Road, Redland Bay roadwork completed as more work planned

December 16, 2019

An $8.1 million section of roadwork on School of Arts Road and Collins Street Redland Bay has been completed ahead of schedule and under budget, paving the way for Council to start upgrading nearby water infrastructure in the New Year.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said it may be hard to appreciate the significance of the completed road work for those not familiar with how this section of road used to be.

“This new road section completed by Council crews has won compliments from locals for the way the work was undertaken and has fixed major floodway problems over Weinam creek.

“The finished roadwork has been lifted a metre above the old floodway that has been a source of regular flooding and traffic disruption during wet conditions.

“The design of the new work has also avoided impacts on a corner property and much loved fig tree that is a locally recognised landmark visible from the surrounding areas.

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the surface of the new two lane road section provides a smoother, quieter and longer lasting surface that will reduce ongoing maintenance costs and improve road access for an urban area of the city that has grown rapidly over recent years.

“The new road section includes cycle lanes, parking and safe pedestrian islands for crossings to popular nearby community facilities, while also ensuring that major utility service trenching upgrades were undertaken during construction,” Cr Edwards said.

Division 6 Councillor Julie Talty said improvements to local infrastructure would continue with Council beginning work on new sewer infrastructure along an adjoining section of School of Arts Road in January.

“The planned works from Denham Boulevard to approximately 60 meters past the Cypress and Bedarra Streets Roundabout will involve the supply and installation of a major new rising sewer main, a small section of gravity sewer main, manholes and other work.

“Traffic detours will be necessary during work hours from 7.00am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday for all west bound traffic travelling between Denham Boulevard and Cypress Street but detours will not apply outside of these work hours.

“Site works will begin on 6 January with the work planned for completion in April 2020, weather permitting.

“Council greatly appreciates the ongoing patience and co-operation of road users and the local community and for helping to ensure these important infrastructure project can be completed safely, on budget and on-time.”

Information on the new sewer project is available on the Yoursay Redlands Coast website or by contacting council on Tel 3829 8999.

Wheels now turning on Redlands Coast driverless bus trial

November 26, 2019

The RACQ Smart Shuttle hit the streets of Karragarra Island on Redlands Coast today, as part of a Queensland-first on-road trial.

The driverless bus, a joint initiative between RACQ and Redland City Council with the support of Council of Mayors SEQ, commenced timetabled services on the island, and residents and visitors were welcomed to step onboard for free.

RACQ Head of Public Policy Rebecca Michael said the Club was proud to introduce Queenslanders to the next generation of motoring.

“This trial will give us greater understanding of autonomous vehicles, their suitability to Australian driving conditions and how they interact with other road users,” Dr Michael said.

“It’s a critical step in the broader process of integrating this technology more permanently on our roads in future, but it’s equally as important that it’s trusted by Queenslanders.”

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the bus was a step forward for the region as much as it was for the future of motoring.

Dr Rebecca Michael, RACQ, Redland City Mayor Karen Williams and Greg Giraud, EasyMile

“The bus is the first ever form of public transport for the Karragarra Island community, which has some incredibly unique transport challenges that present a need for innovative solutions like this,” Cr Williams said.

“There’s a strong reliance on private vehicles, and the low traffic and low speed environment on the island makes it the perfect place to host this innovative trial.

“This is all about testing the technology to see if it can then be deployed to other areas, including our other residential islands.

“For me this journey began in 2017 when I got to experience this technology when in Singapore with the Council of Mayors (SEQ) and I knew then that this innovation could make a real difference to our island communities.

“We’re proud to be hosting this trial right here on our doorstep and encourage everyone to jump onboard and join us in making history.”

Further information about the trial can be found at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au/SmartMobilityTrial

Trail creates new southern Russell Island evacuation route

November 25, 2019

Works have begun this week on hardening a trail along Lagoon Road, Russell Island to create an alternate evacuation route on the southern end of the island.

Redland City Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Karen Williams said the works to the existing fire trail would ensure it could be used as an evacuation route if needed.

“The works to the 300m trail, along Lagoon Road, will involve adding rocks and gravel to harden and widen it to 2.5m to improve accessibility,” Cr William said.

“It is not designed to be a new road, but once upgraded the trail can be opened to access by emergency agencies and resident evacuation should the need arise.

“The trail work, expected to be complete by early December, is the latest in our emergency planning on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands and will provide an added evacuation option, linking Rocky Point to Centre Road.

“This adds to our other 2019 fire preparedness efforts across the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, including clearing reduction zones, slashing blocks, controlled burns, community education campaigns and new signage.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the works, were a timely reminder for people to also take their own precautions.

“Council continues significant disaster preparation works, and to collaborate with other levels of government, to ensure we are ready of the storm and bushfire season ahead of us,” Cr Edwards said.

“As residents we all need to be part of that collaboration, and take household measures to ensure the safety of our loved ones and assets.

“It is important that all residents, but particularly islanders who have the added complexity of geographic isolation, take the time now to prepare their homes and set up an emergency kit and plan.

“Knowing evacuation routes in advance, such as the additional one we are creating now along Lagoon Rd, could make all the difference in an emergency situation.

“I encourage everyone to jump on to Council’s dedicated Disaster Dashboard disaster.redland.qld.gov.au for details on how to be prepared for what could be testing season ahead.”

Tips for helping to fireproof your property include:

keeping grass and undergrowth trimmed
raking up and reduce leaf litter and overgrown shrubs
removing branches overhanging buildings and leaf litter from roofs and gutters
storing fuels and chemicals away from dwellings
moving woodpiles away from buildings
preventing embers from entering a building by sealing gaps, vents and roof spaces
displaying house numbers clearly and provide access for fire trucks.

Recent fire mitigation work across the SMBI’s includes:

six prescribed burns completed on Russell Island 2019
six prescribed burns completed on Macleay Island in 2019
300 (212313 m2) blocks slashed
544 (122,794 m2) fuel reduction areas slashed
23 (8km) new fire trails constructed on Russell Island
Design work underway to consider forming Glendale Rd from Rocky Point to Sandy Beach
Consideration of a secondary evacuation route north of Sandy Beach Rd
Fire Danger Rating signs across each island
Emergency signage placed on SBMI and Coochiemudlo Islands
Fire preparedness information distributed at mainland ferry terminals
Posters and information flyers available at ferry terminals
Community Champions have been readied to provide fire preparedness information to the community at SMBI ferry terminals or operate Evacuation Centres if needed.

Moreton Bay Cycleway extension opens

November 15, 2019

This week marked a high point for Redlands Coast cyclists and recreational trail users, with the completion of Stage 1 of a multi-million dollar extension to Moreton Bay Cycleway.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Stage 1 was part of a multi-stage cycleway extension jointly funded by Council and the Queensland Government, due for completion by mid-2020.

“Today’s opening of Stage 1 of the Moreton Bay Cycleway Extension Project sees an additional 850m of pathways and boardwalk added to this much-loved community asset,” Cr Williams said.

“A 3m wide cycleway now links to existing networks at Cameron Court Park and School Road, Victoria Point.

“Section 2 works, providing a link from School Road through Orana Street Park to Lakefield Drive, will start soon and include a further 350m of boardwalk and 360m concrete footpath, or a total extension of 710m.

“Section 3 is the final link of the network and will see an on-road link via Lakefield Drive and we hope to have the entire project completed and open for public use by mid-2020.

“This newly-opened section, and the stages to follow soon, will provide important linkages between existing bike paths and will greatly improve usability, accessibility and overall visitor experience.”

The $1.83 million Moreton Bay Cycleway Section 1 project is funded equally by Council and State through their 2018-19 Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

Deputy Mayor and Division 4 Councillor Lance Hewlett said a trip along the newly-completed section of the cycleway offered a great recreational experience.

“We now have a new way for people to enjoy natural assets and connect across our City, with residents and visitors soon being able to pedal from Cleveland to Victoria Point along the Moreton Bay Cycleway,” Cr Hewlett said.

“There are some beautiful vantage points along the way, with the Stage 1 winding through Point Halloran Conservation Area.”

State Member for Redlands Kim Richards said Queensland State Government was delighted to partner with Council on this exciting project.

“We want to see people heading outdoors and enjoying recreational and health benefits, and State Government has been proud to support Council in delivering this cycleway,” Ms Richards said.

“Moreton Bay Cycleway provides high quality and safe cycling infrastructure and this project is an example of what can be achieved through collaboration.”

Mayor Karen Williams, Deputy Mayor and Division 4 Councillor Lance Hewlett and Member for Redlands Kim Richards join community members at stage 1 of the Moreton Bay Cycleway extension

Security cameras to keep watch on Weinam Creek precinct

November 7, 2019

A unique agreement across three levels of government will see security cameras installed at the Weinam Creek marina precinct in Redland Bay.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said work starting this week on the installation of the security cameras came after funding from the Federal Government and a Memorandum of Understanding with the State Government to monitor footage from the cameras.

“The Weinam Creek marina precinct is used by hundreds of residents every day and the cameras will be a welcomed addition to the car parking area,” Cr Williams said.

“We have seen a number of concerning cases of vandalism at Weinam Creek in recent months, which prompted me to speak with local police and Translink to see how we can work together to make the area safer.

“The result is an MOU between Council, Translink and Queensland Police so any footage caputured by the cameras can be accessed for evidence, helping improve community confidence by cracking down on criminal behaviour.”

(Left to right) Federal Member for Bowman, Andrew Laming; State Member for Redlands, Kim Richards; Redland City Mayor Karen Williams and Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards inspect one of the security cameras onsite at Weinam Creek marina.

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the cameras send a clear message to anyone thinking of doing the wrong thing.

“It’s about putting criminals on the back foot and sending a message that anyone damaging property or carrying out anti-social behaviour will be caught.”

Cr Williams said while community safety remained a matter for the police, Council took a collaborative approach to working with other levels of government to deliver for the community.

“In addition to signing the MOU with the State Government, Council also received a $49,920 grant from the Australian Government’s Safer Communities Fund toward the project,” Cr Williams said.

“Redland City Council thanks the Federal Government for its investment in our City that will give motorists greater confidence when parking vehicles at the marina.”

Federal Member for Bowman, Andrew Laming, said community safety is a priority for the Federal Government.

“The Australian Government is committed to keeping every Australian safe and everyone using this marina precinct should have confidence in knowing their property is also secure,” he said.

“This funding shows the Federal Government is delivering on its commitment and I am pleased to be able to work with Council to deliver these much-needed cameras.”

State Member for Redlands, Kim Richards said vision captured by the cameras will be shared with Queensland Police to assist with police investigations.

“While security cameras will help deter crime and help Police track down offenders, it is important that people continue to be vigilant in preventing opportunistic crime and to also report crime to Police for investigation,” she said.

“I am pleased the Queensland Police and TMR are able to be part of this initiative which shows what can be achieved when we work together.”

Greener roads for Redlands Coast

October 23, 2019

Redland City Council is pioneering a process that turns plastic bottles and other waste into new, high-quality roads.

In a Queensland first, Council is working with leading recycler Alex Fraser and Suncoast Asphalt to resurface a 1km stretch of Princess Street, Cleveland, with Green Roads PolyPave, an innovative, high-performance asphalt product containing reclaimed plastics.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said that, in keeping with Council’s strong focus on sustainability, it was hoped the pilot project would lead to many more roads being built and resurfaced using reclaimed materials.

“Roads are big business for Council, so if we can find a better way to build and maintain them using sustainable materials while removing waste from landfill that would be a major coup,” Cr Williams said.

“This is very much part of Council’s vision for our naturally wonderful Redlands Coast, so we are excited to be at the forefront of greener road building and the environmental benefits that can bring.

“This project will see around 933 tonnes of reclaimed asphalt and about 90,000 hard plastics, such as the milk and shampoo bottles you place in your yellow-lid recycling bins, become part of Princess Street – the equivalent of about nine months of kerbside recycling collected from that street.

“I have been working with the Australian Local Government Association to investigate these sort of innovative solutions for years and I am pleased this work is delivering value for the community.”

Alex Fraser and Suncoast Asphalt general manager Brendan Camilleri said this was a prime example of how circular economy could be achieved with local government, industry and community working together to recycle waste and invest in recycled materials to build new, sustainable infrastructure.

“Redland City Council’s progressive approach to the use of sustainable material is paving the way for Queensland. This is an outstanding example of how local government can harness recycling to build and maintain their cities, and reduce their projects’ carbon footprint by up to 65 per cent,” Mr Camilleri said.

He said Green Roads PolyPave was also a more durable product which lasted longer than regular asphalt, bringing long-term costs benefits.

“When we incorporate recycled plastics into Green Roads PolyPave it becomes part of the DNA of the road, meaning there is no issue with micro-plastics entering the environment.

There is also an enormous carbon saving, with the process producing 43 per cent less CO2 emissions when compared with conventional asphalt,” he said.

“The addition of other recycled ingredients, such as reclaimed asphalt pavement, along with our energy-saving production methods further increases CO2 savings”.

The resurfacing, between Bloomfield and Passage streets, is due to be completed on November 8, weather willing.

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