Visit Redlands Coast for Brisbane Ekka long weekend

Naturally wonderful Redlands Coast will be welcoming visitors for the rescheduled Brisbane Ekka long weekend in October to tick off some top attractions on their local long-break bucket lists.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council would soon roll out a tourism campaign highlighting the great getaway ideas which were “just up the road yet a world away” on Redlands Coast.

“As Redlands Coast has already had its Ekka public holiday, everything will be open and welcoming visitors and locals for the Brisbane, Moreton Bay and Scenic Rim Ekka long weekend from Friday 29 October,” Cr Williams said.

“COVID is likely to present difficulties for longer-distance travel for some time, so we want to make sure the rest of South-East Queensland realise that just down the road on Redlands Coast there are some inspiring natural attractions from glamping and beach camping, bush retreats and activities to bayside and ocean adventures.”

The tourism campaign is part of a Mayoral Minute outlining Redland City Council’s ongoing financial and other support for pandemic-affected local businesses and community organisations and supported by Councillors at today’s General Meeting.

Cr Williams said local government continued to play a vital role in the COVID response.

“During this pandemic Council has responded immediately to help stop the spread of the virus, keep our communities safe and provide critical services to the residents of Redland City,” she said.

“We have spent millions of dollars and countless hours of effort to support the community, including allocating $1 million for a COVID recovery fund; establishing a targeted grants program for community organisations and sporting clubs; contributing grants funding of nearly $17.5 million awarded through State and Federal stimulus programs; and strengthening our Local Buy policy.

“My Mayoral Minute also noted the critical and changing role of Council in responding to COVID-19 and protecting our community. It also committed Council to continuing to remain agile in maintaining and delivering services and support for our community during this pandemic.”

Cr Williams said Council was working with local tourism operators and businesses to ensure exceptional COVID-safe experiences awaited local residents and visitors.

Straddie Chamber of Commerce president Col Battersby said it was imperative to do everything possible to promote Redlands Coast to visitors.

“Council and the city’s chambers of commerce work closely to promote the city and it pays off for tourism operators each time we embark on a campaign,” he said.

“So, if you are having the Ekka long weekend in October I encourage you to take a break on Redlands Coast, and in particular Straddie, that is on your doorstep. October is a wonderful time to come to Straddie and we look forward to welcoming you.”

Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce president Rebecca Young said local businesses were working hard to ensure they could attract visitors to the city and congratulated Council for supporting them through the Ekka long weekend tourism campaign.

“Tourism is one of the sectors most affected by lockdowns and any support that can be provided to encourage more people to come and spend here is welcomed.”

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