Residents are being encouraged to celebrate local waterways with a series of water-based activities planned at the Redlands Connect Expo to be held on Saturday 9 April as part of Connect to Your Creek Week.

Redland City Environment and Regulation Group Manager Gary Photinos said the Council-supported Healthy Waterways initiative recognised the role local creeks and waterways played in our community.

“Redland City is fortunate to not only be situated on Moreton Bay, but we also have some great local creeks and this event is an opportunity to get out there and celebrate them,” he said.

“The day will be fun for the whole family with activities held at Raby Bay Foreshore and including stand up paddle boarding, rowing, kayaking, dragon boating and more.

“There is plenty of evidence that getting outdoors and being active is great for a person’s health and this initiative is the perfect opportunity to do just that while at the same time learning about the importance of our local waterways.”

Mr Photinos said the events were part of Council’s objective of strengthening the relationship between the local environment and community.

“Even if you can’t make it to one of our Connect to Your Creek activities you can visit IndigiScapes at any time and learn more about the grassroots programs and community partnerships working to make real and practical improvements to our local waterways,” he said.

“Our waterways are vital to the health of local ecosystems and Council runs a series of education programs year round for residents to learn about the importance of our waterways.

“A great example of this is the Waterways Extension Program which has 85 private properties signed-up and has seen 15,000 riparian plants planted in the last two years alone.

“All of the water-based activities being held on the day can also be enjoyed any day of the week in Redland City, meaning there is always a reason to get out and enjoy our local creeks and waterways.”

The expo will run 9am to 1pm and activities are free unless otherwise indicated. There will also be a BBQ and coffee-van onsite to purchase food and drink. No bookings are required, just come on down. Participants should bring a water bottle (water available on the day) and wear sun smart clothing, enclosed water shoes, hat and sunscreen.

For more information visit indigiscapes.redland.qld.gov.au or call 3824 8611.