Celebrate Australia Day safely on Redlands Coast

Redland City Council is encouraging everyone to focus on health and safety this Australia Day and, to assist, has organised some special parking and safety arrangements so everyone can enjoy a relaxing celebration.

Mayor Karen Williams said Council wanted to ensure everyone had the opportunity to be outdoors enjoying Redlands Coast’s waterways and open spaces while staying COVID-safe on the public holiday.

“We know Wellington Point Recreation Reserve, in particular, is a popular destination,” she said.

“To relieve parking pressures, Council has arranged a free shuttle bus, which will undertake regular pickups from Wellington Point Community Hall and Village Green, Wellington Point from 8am to 5pm.

“This year we are operating a slighter larger bus than in previous years so we can halve the number of passengers per trip to help with physical distancing.

“As per Queensland Health requirements, face masks must be worn on the bus, except for children under 12 years and people with an exemption.

“Visitors to Wellington Point Recreation Reserve also will be able to celebrate Australia Day with their dogs this year but, to ensure the enjoyment of all, dogs must be on a leash in all areas of the reserve, including the sandbar walk out to King Island, at all times.”

Cr Williams said the public holiday overflow parking area at Toondah Harbour, Cleveland would also be open on Wednesday 26 January for those travelling to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).

“It would be appreciated if everyone celebrating outdoors could assist by being patient and respectful of others and follow the direction of authorities,” she said.

“We also urge people to be mindful of helping to keep Redlands Coast the naturally wonderful place it is by not littering. Council officers will be patrolling popular parks on the day but, if a bin is full, please take your rubbish home with you and dispose of it there.”

Cr Williams said it was vitally important that people using the public spaces on Redlands Coast take precautions against COVID-19, even if celebrating outdoors.

“With COVID-19 case numbers rising across Queensland, we’re reminding everyone to be mindful of Queensland Health requirements regarding social distancing and wearing face masks and, if you are feeling unwell, please stay home,” she said.

“At this challenging time, we are seeking everyone’s assistance in helping to keep our community safe.”

In response to the evolving COVID-19 situation, Redland City Council will not be hosting any public events on Australia Day 2022.

For information on Council services available on the public holiday, visit Redland City Council’s Facebook page or news site.