Islands receive infrastructure boost with $20m budget investment

Redlands Coast islands will benefit from a $20 million investment which includes major transport and tourism infrastructure as part of the 2022-23 Redland City Council budget.

Mayor Karen Williams said key projects would be undertaken on both the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) and North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).

“This includes a further significant investment in the SMBI Ferry Terminals Upgrade, with $4.41 million allocated to progress the project on Lamb and Karragarra Islands,” she said.

“Another $2.08 million will go towards works at the Lamb and Karragarra Island commuter interchanges as part of Council’s program to make it easier for residents and visitors to commute and travel to and from the islands.

“There is also $1.98 million allocated for the renewal and expansion of the Russell Island Ferry Terminal car park.

“This investment in our islands will not only help make them even better places to live and visit, it will also create jobs and drive economic opportunity for communities that need it most.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said the budget also funded park and drainage upgrades on the SMBI.

“This includes $401,250 for an upgrade of Lions Boulevard Park on Russell Island, and $237,736 for drainage upgrades and expansion for Calm Water Crescent and Panaroo Street on Macleay Island and Alison Crescent on Russell Island,” Cr Edwards said.

“A further $154,000 will fund a footpath link from Jock Kennedy Park on Russell Island to the ferry.

“I’ve also allocated $100,000 from my Community Infrastructure Program for works on the Coast Road Foreshore and the Attunga Street dog off leash area on Macleay Island.”

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) would benefit from $7.35 million in funding to improve tourism and road infrastructure.

“This includes $5.35 million for the Snapper Street stage 2 pedestrian link and $2.00 million for a renewal of Alfred Martin Way,” Cr Mitchell said.

“Council has also allocated $1.8 million for upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant at Dunwich.”

The budget also includes funding for implementation of Shoreline Erosion Management Plan initiatives on Coochiemudlo Island ($384,000) and at Amity Point, North Stradbroke Island ($50,000).

A further $864,000 has been allocated for fire mitigation on both the SMBI and North Stradbroke Island.