Bay Islands Blueprint

25th March 2009

There has been a long standing plight of the communities on Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) including Russell Island, Macleay Island, Lamb Island and Karragarra Island and an urgent plea to all political parties and local candidates in the state government election to commit to a long term partnership that will finally allow the SMBI communities to achieve their full potential. When the bay islands were handed over to Redland Council 40 years ago by the state government, they came with extensive, unsustainable subdivisions and lacked provision for standard community infrastructure. The islands also came with no way to pay for the missing essential services. Over the years, there have been
many attempts to solve the dilemma of bringing the islands’ essential services up to expected standards. Progress has been made, but the scale of the undertaking is simply too large for one local government. A major funding commitment is required to implement the long term strategy agreed to by state government and Council in 2000. This would fund much needed roads and drainage, sewerage, sporting fields, district and local parks; ferry terminal car park upgrades and other community and social infrastructure and services. There’s a lot at stake for anyone who loves and uses Moreton Bay. This sensitive marine environment is under threat because of continuing island population growth – and the absence of state government
support for proper infrastructure, including efficient sewage treatment. Recently Redland City Council adopted a broad framework to tackle these issues in a new partnership with the community. We’re committed to addressing the challenges, but we can’t do it alone. We can only achieve sustainable and meaningful outcomes if there is a secure and committed partnership with the state government to help deliver long-term funding for the people of the Bay islands. The local island communities are very vocal in their expectations. It’s time for the state government to join in this new and positive partnership to solve the islands issues – once
and for all.

Melva Hobson PSM Mayor of Redlands