NEW STRADDIE COASTAL WALK UNLOCKS SPECTACULAR EXPERIENCES FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY
Another ‘Straddie’ walk experience offering spectacular views in naturally wonderful surroundings is ready for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Stage 1 of the Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk project at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) has been completed, providing a scenic and safe walkway between Snapper Street and Frenchmans Stairs.
Mayor Karen Williams said the project was a joint initiative of Redland City Council and the Queensland Government, which provided $1 million under the Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package.
“This fabulous coastal walk, with its viewing platforms and pathway between the trees and foreshore foliage, captures and celebrates the essence of what makes Minjerribah so special,” Cr Williams said.
“The walkway project creates a remarkable coastline experience while providing protection for ecosystems, vegetation and cultural heritage, and helping ensure the safety of users.
“It also represents an investment that will bring benefits to the Minjerribah community for years to come.
“The pandemic has been tough on our island businesses and, with people now returning for day trips and longer holidays, investment in infrastructure projects like this is vital.
“I’m absolutely delighted with the result, and am looking forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoying the newest Straddie walk.”
Assistant Minister for Local Government Nikki Boyd said the Coastal Walk project supported 91 jobs.
“Minjerribah is one of the jewels in the crown of Queensland’s tourism industry and one of the most beautiful locations in the world,” Ms Boyd said.
“The Queensland Government is proud to have contributed $1 million to the Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk project, from our successful Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package.
“The coastal walkway will further enhance the experience for locals and visitors to the island.”
Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the Stage 1 works were a strong step towards addressing local concerns about the ‘missing link’ between Point Lookout Village and Cylinder Beach.
“Residents told us during community consultation that they wanted Council to connect these two popular spots, and the coastal walkway has provided a great starting point,” Cr Mitchell said.
“Accessible and safe, more people can now enjoy the glorious views available from this stretch of Redlands Coast.
“Built to an environmentally-sensitive design, the walkway has also provided additional protection for our local environment and cultural heritage.
“It is fauna friendly and follows a route that minimises impacts on vegetation and the surrounding bushland.
“The idea for this project came from the community, and it feels great seeing residents already using the walkway, while knowing the longer-term benefits it will bring for local business and tourism.
“The Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk is something we can all enjoy and feel pride in.”
POPULAR POINT LOOKOUT PARK PLANNED TO BE UPGRADED IN 2022
Redland City Council is planning an exciting upgrade for the popular Headland Park at Point Lookout (Mulumba).
Mayor Karen Williams said the upgrade would bring a new lease of life to the popular park.
“This year will see some fabulous improvements in this wonderful park,” she said.
“A new play space with a dual-slide climbing unit, nest swing, spring rocker and shell cubby, themed to reflect local cultural connections and Minjerribah’s spectacular marine environment will be built on the larger clearing, closer to the amenities block.
“In the new play space we’ll also see picnic facilities including a shelter, table, seating and a barbecue, with connecting paths helping ensure this beautiful new community space is accessible for all.”
To make way for another shelter with a table and seating nearer the bus stop, ageing play equipment will soon be removed.
“Importantly, the 2022 upgrade will also include the sealing of the adjacent carpark to provide more formalised parking spaces and additional protection for environmental values,” Cr Williams said.
Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the upgrade would provide a community space for everyone.
“Headland Park is central to many of the activities locals and visitors to Minjerribah enjoy,” he said.
“It provides access to the recently reopened Gorge Walk and pedestrian connectivity to two of the island’s most popular beaches.
“The large, grassy, space has long been a go-to spot for picnickers and people enjoying gelati or fish and chips from the nearby cafes.
“The improvements this year will make the park an even more attractive recreation space now and into the future.”