Get the Facts – Boat ramp: Wallaby Road, Redland Bay

In the interests of accuracy, Redland City Council would like to set the record straight regarding a story published online by Quest Community Newspapers on 26 August 2023 about a boat ramp proposal for Wallaby Road, Redland Bay, and the purchase of a property at 2–24 Wallaby Road, Redland Bay.

In purchasing this property, there was a high level of dialogue between Council and the landowner over the entire course of the transaction.

In all instances when Council purchases property, Council acts within the bounds of the Acquisition of Land Act 1967.

Council is bound by the regulations to offer market value and have that figure independently validated.

The Quest story stated the property was owned by the State Government.

This is incorrect.

Redland City Council is the owner of this property, which it purchased after noting the property had twice been listed for sale – in 2018 and again in 2019.

Council notes the agreement of sale of the property to Redland City Council provided the land owner with four months free rent, with the offer to continue living at the property under a lease agreement after that time.

During negotiations, Council also presented the landowner with several options to assist them through the sale process.

One option given was for the landowner to retain the dwelling and a sizeable apron of land.

The Quest article incorrectly stated the proposed Wallaby Road boat ramp was being built “to replace one they (Council) will close” at Weinam Creek.

The boat ramp at Weinam Creek is not being closed – a new public boat ramp is being built at Weinam Creek and the current boat ramp will then be used exclusively by emergency services.

The boat ramp in Wallaby Road will be an additional facility for the public.