Redland City Council has approved an increase in funding for the Mount Cotton Community Christmas Event, following a controversial vote at its October 15 General Meeting.
In an urgent business motion moved by Councillor Julie Talty, the council agreed to consider the grant application in closed session, citing commercial sensitivities.
The motion was carried unanimously by councillors present.
Council later resolved to boost the Mount Cotton event’s funding from $12,000 to $22,000 under the Village Events and Activation Grant program.
The funding is subject to the program’s guidelines and terms.
The council also agreed to accept an out-of-round grant application of up to $12,000 from Alexandra Hills AFC to deliver its own Christmas event, dubbed “Christmas on the Field,” under the Project Support Grant category.
The vote on the funding increase was tightly contested, passing 6–5.
Councillors Paul Gollè, Lance Hewlett, Shane Rendalls, Julie Talty, Rowanne McKenzie, and Tracey Huges voted in favour, while Jos Mitchell, Wendy Boglary, Peter Mitchell, Jason Colley, and Paul Bishop voted against.
The council’s decision reflects ongoing efforts to support community events across the region, particularly during the festive season, despite some debate over the allocation of funds.
