Category Archives: Tourism

Council urges pre-schoolies visitors to behave responsibly and stay COVID-safe


September 18, 2020

Redland City Council is urging young people who may be planning to visit North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) for ‘pre-schoolies’ to stay vigilant and follow Queensland Health COVID-19 restrictions.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council wrote to the chair of the District Disaster Coordination Centre last month to advise of the upcoming event and seek advice regarding the expected influx of school leavers that visit the island during the September school holidays.

“While there are usually no planned events for pre-schoolies, there are generally large gatherings on the island’s beaches and in the townships, so we wrote to Queensland Health to make them aware of the event,” she said.

“The response acknowledged that while there may be increased travellers to the island, there are no formal planned events, so school leavers would need to comply with the relevant Queensland Health restrictions in place at the time.

“We welcome these young adults to Redlands Coast, but with large groups comes heightened risk of virus transmission so it is also vital that they help us prevent local outbreaks by adhering to COVID-19 restrictions.

“This includes keeping to the physical distancing rule of staying at least 1.5m away from others, the gathering rules of no more than 10 people in public and private places – excluding venues with a COVID-safe plan in place – and regularly washing and sanitising hands.”

Division 2 Councillor for North Stradbroke Island Peter Mitchell said young visitors to the island should also follow any directions given by Queensland Police.

“There are vulnerable communities living on Minjerribah, and the last thing we would want to see is an outbreak of COVID-19 there,” Cr Mitchell said.

“The rules are in place for a good reason and fines for breaches are significant.

“While Minjerribah is a beautiful location to celebrate the transition from school to adulthood, I urge all visitors to the island to help keep themselves and others safe by acting responsibly, knowing the rules, and keeping to them.”

For information about COVID-19 restrictions in Queensland, visit qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19

 

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Rediscover our naturally wonderful Redlands Coast islands


June 12, 2020

Redlands Coast islands are once again open for travel and business and looking forward to welcoming more visitors as they venture out of their isolation bubbles.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said that our island residents and businesses had been doing it tough during coronavirus restrictions with North Stradbroke Island, in particular, heavily reliant on tourism since the end of sand mining.

“While the Straddie travel ban was necessary to protect locals, it did mean the island’s economy was significantly impacted over that period,” Cr Williams said.

“The rest of our islands and mainland– while not subject to travel bans – also saw few visitors with would-be holiday makers discouraged from taking the trip.

“So it’s great news that the State Government has brought forward Stage 2 of its Roadmap to Easing COVID-19 Restrictions, allowing both travel to, and stays on, our naturally wonderful city.

Mayor Williams said she had seen many examples of #RedlandsCoastKindess over the course of the COVID-19 crisis and was asking one more favour of locals.

“Please use your new-found freedom to take a trip with family and friends to a Redlands Coast holiday,” she said.

“Our islands and hinterland are such beautiful destinations – with lots to see and do – and you would be doing your bit to help local businesses make it to the other side of restrictions.

Cr Williams said Straddie was home to the best land-based whale watching in Australia, with the season now in progress.
“There is a range of eco-tourism and Aboriginal cultural activities available – including cultural walks, art galleries and food experiences.
“If adventure activities are more your style, try a 4WD tour and sandboarding down the dunes.”
Cr Williams said neighbouring Coochiemudlo Island and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands of Russell, Macleay, Lamb and Karragarra should not be overlooked.

“Coochiemudlo Island – or Coochie as locals affectionately call it – is just a 15 minute ferry ride from Victoria Point on the mainland,” she said.

“It’s a beautiful place for a family day trip or extended stay.

“And for those after a relaxing hideaway or great fishing, you can’t go past the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.

“Throw in the lush greenery of hinterland destinations such as Mt Cotton and you are sure to find the perfect place to take a well earned local break.”

For local cultural activities and experiences, contact Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre on 1300 667 386 or visitredlandscoast.com.au

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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.”

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Enjoy safely all that Redlands Coast has to offer


May 15, 2020

There’s a lot to do at Redlands Coast as restrictions ease and we head into the cooler months that are perfect for hiking, cycling and exploring.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said that with people able to travel up to 150km from tomorrow, Saturday 16 May 2020, there were  many naturally wonderful hidden treasures and little adventures to explore on Redlands Coast.

“Please remember to exercise social distancing and buy local where you can,” Cr Williams said.

So what will it be for you this weekend?

Redlands Coast has everything from hiking in the bush at Venman Bushland National Park at Mt Cotton, to the all-abilities playground at Capalaba Regional Park to the King Island walk at Wellington Point Recreation Reserve.

Mountain bikers can get an adrenalin rush on the tracks at Redlands Track Park at Cleveland while all cyclists can enjoy the Moreton Bay Cycleway from Thorneside through Wellington Point and Cleveland to Victoria Point and Redland Bay.

You can also get out on our waterways kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boarding or boating, with restrictions removed from Saturday 16 May 2020 for boating around North Stradbroke Island.

All Redlands Coast Islands are also open for day trippers, with restrictions on North Stradbroke Island lifted on Saturday 16 May 2020.

Venman Bushland National Park

West Mount Cotton Road, Mount Cotton (Jungalpin/Tungipin)

Within the beautiful hinterland of Mount Cotton you’ll discover this reserve, with a variety of walking tracks amongst the forest of eucalypt and melaleuca trees. You may even be lucky and spot a koala so keep an eye out! The reserve also acts as a haven for many other native animals including greater gliders, powerful owls and red-necked wallabies, so it is the perfect place to explore.

Raby Bay Foreshore Park

Masthead Drive, Cleveland (Nandeebie/Indillie)

Raby Bay Foreshore Park boasts sprawling parklands with sandy beaches, a playground and scenic walking and bike paths. It’s a great place to take the family to cool off, enjoy a picnic and relax overlooking the bay. The calm waters are suitable for swimming and you can hire a kayak or stand-up paddle board right on the shore. Coffee, drinks and snacks are available from the coffee trailer. Don’t forget your furry friends. The park is dog-friendly, with a popular designated off-leash beach area.

Wellington Point Recreation Reserve

Main Road, Wellington Point (Cullen Cullen)

Wind surfing, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, boating and coastal fishing are just some of the water activities that entice people from far and wide to the Wellington Point peninsula.

Surrounded by coast on three sides, Wellington Point Reserve is popular for picnics, launching a boat into Moreton Bay, and, at low tide, walking to King Island – home to an abundance of coastal wildlife.

Scattered with historic Moreton Bay Fig Trees, with a sandy beach, wooden jetty and brilliants, it is an Instagrammers delight.

Children love the established playgrounds that weave among the shade of Moreton Bay fig trees while the adjacent café and takeaway store offers a great menu and superb view.

King Island Walk

Main Road, Wellington Point (Cullen Cullen)

‘Walking on water’ across the spectacular low-tide sand bridge from Wellington Point to King Island is a Redlands Coast signature experience and one of the most unique walks in South-east Queensland.

A stunning sand causeway emerges from beneath the Moreton Bay waters between the Wellington Point (Cullen Cullen) mainland and the tiny, uninhabited King Island at low-tide, forming a natural bridge for walkers.

It’s a 2km return walk – great for kids who can paddle along the way and spot birds and crabs and you can take your dog (on leash) on week days too.

Make sure you check tide times before you head out too – it’s a strictly low-tide affair.

Put this one on your weekend bucket list for some time soon!

Cleveland Point Recreation Reserve

Shore St West, Cleveland (Nandeebie/Indillie)

With magnificent Moreton Bay on three sides, Cleveland Point is one of the most iconic, must-visit sites on Redlands Coast.

Cleveland Point is family-friendly with a park, children’s playground, shaded picnic areas and toilets, plus a picturesque pathway around the point for leisurely strolls and cycles – it has a significant link to the city’s past too with the historic Cleveland Point Lighthouse, a Redlands Coast and South-east Queensland icon.

There are plenty of reasons to stop and stay a while at the Cleveland Point Reserve too. Aside from the picturesque location and mesmerising views, the fish and chippery serves up great seafood.

Moreton Bay Cycleway

Redlands Coast

Start at Thorneside or at the other end at Redland Bay and cycle through Redlands Coast’s naturally wonderful villages taking in taking in the unique coastline and mangrove vegetation.

Redlands Track Park

Cleveland (Nandeebie/Indillie) and Alexandra Hills

Looking to discover a new coast this weekend? You can in Redlands Coast. The Redlands Track Park is a multi-use trail for mountain biking, walking and cycling. You may even spot a wallaby or two in the Scribbly Gum Conservation area. Add some excitement to your day by exploring the Scorpion Rock, the Hammer, and the Upper and Lower Magic trails.

IndigiScapes Centre

Runnymede Road, Capalaba (Kapallaba)

Immerse yourself in nature at Redlands Coast’s environmental education centre. Whilst the IndigiScapes building and café might be closed, you can still make the most of the tracks and trails that wind their way through the native bushland that surrounds the centre. Wander the paths that lead you through unspoilt greenery and follow the banks of Coolnwynpin Creek, or stroll the native botanical gardens and get inspiration for your own backyard. There is plenty of space for you to you pull up a picnic, and a playground for those looking to burn some energy! Keep an eye out for the local wildlife that like to call the area home – if you’re lucky you might spot swamp wallabies, lizards and an array of native birds.

For more places to discover on Redlands Coast visit visitredlandscoast.com.au.

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Straddie reopening announcement leaves little notice for businesses to prepare


May 15, 2020

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams would have liked more notice to be given to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) businesses and residents to prepare for the reopening of the island from tomorrow (Saturday 16 May 2020).

The State Government announced today (Friday 15 May 2020) that the island would be open for business from midnight tonight after being locked down under a special restricted access directive since 26 March 2020.

Cr Williams, the Chair of the Redland Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), said that a longer lead time to reopening the island to tourists would have been preferable to ensure business were ready for the expected increase of visitors.

“The LDMG requested a staged approach to reopening the island to tourists and for businesses to be given prior notice to prepare,” Cr Williams said.

“We asked for those with holiday homes allowed to access the island in the first stage, followed by tourists in the second stage, to help manage crowds and give businesses time to re-establish themselves.

“Ferry companies have reduced the number of vessels they are operating and their staff have taken leave – they need time to return their services to normal.

“Our other businesses also need to ensure they have enough staff – many of whom left the island when businesses closed.

“Businesses also need time to restock basic items – much of which comes from the mainland, and requires transporting to the island.”

Cr Williams said while the island needed an economic boost, she asked people to remain patient and use common sense.

“We want people to love visiting the island, but with less than 24 hours’ notice not all businesses will be open so people need to take that into account and call ahead before making the journey to the island,” she said.

“People also need to continue practicing social distancing and good hygiene because there are vulnerable residents on the island who need to be respected and protected.”

Redlands Coast islands have topped the list in Queensland for employment vulnerability resulting from COVID-19, according to research from the Centre of Full Employment and Equity (CofFEE) at the University of Newcastle.

“This data reinforces the need for Redlands Coast islands to be recognised as regional communities in order to be able to access regional support funding from other levels of government and help with their recovery post COVID-19,” Cr Williams said.

“With sand mining ceasing on North Stradbroke Island last year it was always going to be difficult but now there will be an even greater need to rebuild the tourism economy the State Government predicted would fill the mining void.

“Some businesses that have closed on the island will really struggle to reopen soon, if at all.”

Redland City Councillor Peter Mitchell (Division 2, which includes North Stradbroke Island) said North Stradbroke Island businesses had said they needed assistance to market the island once reopened.

“Straddie needs to be ready to market itself competitively as a holiday destination domestically when it is up and running,” he said.

“COVID-19 and the cessation of mining last year through a State Government decision have been a double whammy – decimating jobs, businesses and livelihoods.”

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Council urges State to plan for phased reopening of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah)


May 8, 2020

Redland City Council is urging the State Government to start planning for the reopening of North Stradbroke Island as COVID-19 restrictions ease.

Mayor Karen Williams called a Redland City Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) meeting this week to discuss a potential staged approach to reopening the island safely.

“Following this week’s meeting we have written to the State Government to request a phased plan to reopen the island in line with State and Federal health advice,” Cr Williams said.

“We know the island is hurting financially, but we also know there are vulnerable people on the island, so we have asked for a phased process that provides plenty of notice for residents, businesses and tourists.

“We aren’t asking them to open the floodgates right now, we are asking for a clear plan that recognises it will take time to return the island to normal.

“Ferry companies have reduced the number of vessels and their staff have taken leave, so they have told us they need two weeks’ notice to return their services to normal.

“Our request to the State Government makes it clear that the island cannot just be turned back on at a moment’s notice, we need some lead time and planning.”

Cr Williams said the LDMG’s recommendation was for a two staged process that allowed landowners with holiday homes to access the island first, followed by day-trippers and tourists, provided it was safe to do so.

“This all has to be done right and it has to be based on the most recent health advice,” Cr Williams said.

“Having a phased plan that gives everyone plenty of notice will provide the community, businesses and tourists with the confidence they need and deserve.

“It will also give local businesses a light at the end of the tunnel, allowing them to resource staff and products so they can do what they do best – serve the community.”

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the fact that such a request was possible was down to the cooperation of the community in following health advice.

“In the main, people have been very understanding and cooperative, which means we can start to look at recovery planning,” Cr Mitchell said.

“While this is an important and positive step in the right direction, we aren’t there yet and the next step is for a detailed plan that reopens the island safely.”

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Stay safe as COVID-19 restrictions ease


May 1, 2020

With some COVID-19 restrictions being relaxed by the State Government this weekend, Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has urged Redlands Coast residents to continue to keep their distance and adhere to the rules still in place.

“I sincerely thank Redlands Coast residents for really stepping up and following the restrictions we’ve all been living under,” Cr Williams said.

“There’s no doubt that our collective efforts have helped to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

“While it will be wonderful to be able to get out a bit more, the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over and we cannot risk undoing all our good work and putting our families, our colleagues, our community and ourselves at risk.

Under the new State Government directive, from tomorrow Saturday 2 May, in addition to your outdoor exercise, you’ll be able to:

  •  Travel within 50 kilometres of your home
  • Have a picnic in a park
  • Sit on a park bench and enjoy your lunch or a coffee
  • Have a driving lesson with a member of your household
  • Go on a motorbike ride or boat trip
  • Go shopping for non-essential items.

Despite the new State Government directions, Cr Williams asked residents to remember that the current gathering and social distancing rules still apply.

“In Redlands Coast, our barbecues, exercise equipment, playground equipment, table and chair sets and fully fenced dog off leash areas continue to be closed for the safety of the community.

Our unfenced or partially fenced dog offleash areas remain open.

“So if you are planning a picnic, bring a picnic rug or chairs or sit on one of our park bench seats.”

“Our Council-owned tennis courts will be re-open to the public this Saturday, with the gates “locked open” so people don’t have to touch them.”

Cr Williams said North Stradbroke Island was still a no-go for visitors.

“The Queensland Government’s travel ban specific to North Stradbroke Island remains in place, meaning travel, including by private boats, continues to be strictly prohibited except for permanent Straddie residents and those undertaking essential travel to and from the island,” She said.

“Non-essential travel includes holidays (even if you own a holiday home), recreation, tourism and general socialising with friends and family.

“Anyone travelling to Straddie still needs to show their ID.

“The 100 metre marine exclusion zone for the waters around North Stradbroke Island is still in place and recreational boats will be moved on by authorities.

“While there is no travel ban for our other islands I urge everyone to use common sense; it would be disappointing to see large crowds heading to our islands and potentially dangerous.

“Now is not the time for island hopping, please be respectful of those vulnerable residents on these islands.”

Further information: Council’s website redland.qld.gov.au/COVID19

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Celebrate Australia Day on Redlands Coast


January 17, 2020

Redland City Council has organised special Australia Day parking and safety arrangements so everyone can enjoy a relaxing celebration on Redlands Coast.

Additional parking will be open at Toondah Harbour over the Australia Day long weekend for those travelling to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).

At Wellington Point, motorists will be able to avoid parking concerns by parking at the Wellington Point Community Hall car park and catching a free shuttle bus that will run along Main Road between the shops and Wellington Point Recreation Reserve from 7am to 6pm on both Sunday 26 and Monday 27 January.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council wanted to ensure everyone could enjoy Redlands Coast’s beautiful coastline, beaches and parks on Australia Day, so Council had extra traffic and litter patrols in place for the comfort and amenity of all.

“In the lead up to the Australia Day long weekend, Council also works with local police, who in the interests of public safety will be patrolling key areas, including the Wellington Point Reserve and other popular places,” she said.

“It would be appreciated if everyone celebrating outdoors could assist by being patient and respectful of others and following the direction of authorities.

“We also urge people to be mindful of helping to keep Redlands Coast the naturally wonderful place it is by not littering and taking their waste home where possible and disposing of it there.”

Over the Australia Day long weekend existing dog-walking and car parking regulations will remain in place and residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these regulations to ensure they enjoy the day.

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Redland City Council Holiday Closures 2019


December 17, 2019

All non-essential Redland City Council services will be closed from close of business on Tuesday, 24 December 2019 and reopen on Thursday, January 2 2020.

This includes Customer Service Centres, Redland Art Gallery (Cleveland and Capalaba) and mainland libraries.

After hours emergency number: 3829 8999

Waste transfer stations and collection services
Kerbside waste collections will continue as normal, with Christmas Day kerbside bin collections beginning at 5am.

Waste transfer stations will be closed on Christmas Day.
Online bin requests submitted after Monday, 23 December 2019 will be actioned from Thursday, 2 January 2020.
Recycle World’s last day of trading is Tuesday, 24 December 2019 and will reopen on Saturday, 4 January 2020.

Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre
Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre will be closed Christmas Day.
Open 7 days a week, 9am – 4pm
1300 667 386

Redland Animal Shelter
The animal shelter will be closed on Christmas Day only.
Limited hours apply (9am to 12pm) from Tuesday, 24 December 2019 until Friday, January 3 2020.

Library Services
Capalaba, Cleveland and Victoria Point libraries: closed from 5pm Tuesday, 24 December 2019 until 9am Thursday, 2 January 2020.
Amity Point Library: closed from 11.30am Saturday, 21 December 2019 until 1.30pm Thursday, 2 January 2020.
Dunwich Library: closed from 12pm Tuesday, 24 December 2019 until 1pm Thursday, 2 January 2020.
Point Lookout Library: closed from 4.30pm Tuesday, 24 December 2019 until 1pm Friday, 3 January 2020.
Russell Island Library: closed from 1pm Saturday, 21 December 2019 until 9.30am Thursday, 2 January 2020.
Mobile Library: last stop will be Wellington Point Village Green at 3pm Thursday, 19 December 2019 until 9am Thursday, 2 January 2020.
During closures, no items will be due and return chutes will be closed.

Redland Performing Arts Centre
Closed from 4pm Tuesday, 24 December 2019 to 10am Monday, 6 January 2020. Tickets can be purchased through the RPAC website during this time.

Redland Art Gallery Cleveland and Capalaba
Closed from 24 December 2019 to 1 January 2020. Both galleries will reopen on 2 January 2020.

Redlands IndigiScapes Centre and Nursery
IndigiScapes Native Botanic Gardens will be open on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day from 10am to 4pm. The nursery will be closed on these days.

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Christmas by Starlight to shine a helping hand on Queensland farmers


December 6, 2019

Queensland farmers doing it tough as a result of the drought will benefit from donations collected at Redland City Council’s annual Christmas by Starlight event in Cleveland later this month.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council would partner with the Rotary Club of Cleveland to collect donations at the event for the Rotary Australia drought appeal.

“The national appeal is raising money to help farmers who are suffering from drought conditions and Redland City Council wants to help,” she said.

“The Redlands Coast community is a generous one, and I know residents attending Christmas by Starlight will dig deep and donate what they can to the appeal.

“Community clubs such as Rotary are the life blood of local communities, working to provide vouchers, food and animal fodder to those communities that are being heavily challenged by these harsh conditions.

“As well as assisting rural families, money spent in these communities has a flow-on effect to local businesses, which are also struggling.”

Cr Williams also advised that due to the recent fire disasters in neighbouring regions and current fire ban for Redlands Coast, Council had made the difficult decision to cancel the planned fireworks finale at Christmas by Starlight.

“Given current dry weather conditions and the plight of others around Australia, we have made the decision to not have a fireworks display this year and offer a new surprise finale.

“We are working with our fireworks provider, a local family-run business and loyal sponsor of Christmas by Starlight, to create an exciting and magical Christmas moment for families to enjoy.”

Cr Williams said Council employees and community volunteers would also collect eligible cans and plastic containers used by event goers to recycle through the Containers for Change scheme.

“These containers will be exchanged for cash, with the funds collected also going to the Rotary appeal,” she said.

Christmas by Starlight – Redlands Coast’s largest free community event – will be held at Norm Price Park – Redland Showgrounds from 4pm on Saturday, 14 December.

For more information, visit Council’s Christmas by Starlight web page.

Mayor Karen Williams with Rotary Club of Cleveland’s Luis Filardi and Jon Womersley

 

 

 

 

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