A bombshell petition calling on Redland City Council to abandon its support for the proposed Birkdale Olympic whitewater centre and instead prioritise a new public swimming pool will be tabled at next week’s general meeting.
Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop is set to present the petition under section 6.11 of the Council Meeting Standing Orders, urging the council to reconsider its backing of the controversial Birkdale project.
Cr Bishop will also move that the petition be received and referred to the Chief Executive Officer for consideration, acknowledging its operational nature.
The petition calls for Council to “withdraw support for the Birkdale Olympic Whitewater Centre and prioritise a new public swimming pool,” reflecting growing community frustration over the $100 million Olympic venue planned for the Birkdale Community Precinct.
The proposed centre has divided opinion across Redlands Coast, with supporters citing the potential for economic and tourism benefits, while opponents argue it’s an unnecessary expense and a missed opportunity to deliver facilities with broader community benefit.
Council has previously committed to working with the Queensland Government and Olympic organisers on the whitewater centre, one of the key Brisbane 2032 venues earmarked for the Redlands.
Cr Bishop’s move adds fresh political pressure to an already contentious project, with the petition likely to reignite debate over whether Redlands Coast residents truly back hosting an Olympic facility — or would prefer investment in more accessible local amenities.
The petition will be presented at the General Meeting on Wednesday 12 November 2025.
