FROM fast-tracked transport to safer streets and long-promised infrastructure, elected representatives across the Redlands and Brisbane’s Bayside are united in a New Year message for 2026: less talk, more action.
A common theme runs through New Year wishes from federal, state and local leaders — deliver the projects communities have been promised, and deliver them now, as population growth continues to surge across the Bayside.
Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike said 2026 must be the year the long-discussed Capalaba Metro extension finally moves from planning to reality.
“In 2026, I want to see the Capalaba Metro project move beyond talk and into action,” Mr Pike said.
He said the project would be a “valuable long-term investment” that would cut travel times and help Capalaba grow into a major commercial, dining and cultural hub, strengthening connectivity across the Redlands.
Transport pressure and congestion were also front of mind for State Member for Lytton Joan Pease, who said action on the Lindum level crossing could no longer be delayed.
“Our community has waited long enough,” Ms Pease said.
“Road infrastructure must come before further growth, not after it.”
She called on Brisbane City Council and the Federal Government to work together to deliver the project without further delay.
State Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said her priorities for 2026 remained firmly focused on housing, infrastructure, safety and liveability as the region continues to grow.
“Housing remains one of the biggest pressures facing our community,” Ms Young said.
She also highlighted the importance of transport upgrades, better mainland and Bay Islands connectivity, and community safety, saying everyone deserved to feel safe in their homes and town centres.
Community safety was echoed by State Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker, who said her New Year hope was for safer neighbourhoods across the electorate.
“I look forward to seeing the improvements in everything from fewer break-ins to quieter streets,” Ms Stoker said.
At the local government level, Redland City councillors also pressed the case for investment, funding certainty and critical projects.
Division 1 Councillor Wendy Boglary said she wanted to see informed, strategic decision-making in 2026 that was based on the needs of the Redlands community, underpinned by sound financial facts and realistic delivery timeframes.
She said all project costs should be transparently acknowledged in a 10-year capital works program, with critical infrastructure such as water and waste prioritised, and all levels of government working collaboratively with the community to deliver improved outcomes and rebuild trust.
Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said prioritising Toondah Harbour and Dunwich port upgrades was essential to unlock integrated transport links between Brisbane and North Stradbroke Island, positioning Cleveland as a strategic gateway ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.
Cr Paul Golle, Division 3 Councillor, said: “My New Year’s resolution for 2026 is to continue bringing the community together, support the design of the new parkland in Birkdale, advance the RSPCA wildlife hospital, deliver the new cricket facilities at William Stewart Park, and work with security aides to keep our families safe.”
Division 4 Councillor Cr Lance Hewlett said his priority for the New Year was to work closely with the Mayor, the CEO and his Councillor colleagues to engage positively with the State-appointed Adviser, laying the foundation for a more cohesive and effective Council team.
“By progressing Council’s Corporate Plan transparently and in line with community expectations, I believe we can build a stronger, unified, and resilient organisation,” he said.
Division 5 Councillor Shane Rendalls called for regional status to be restored to the SMBI by the Federal Government.
“This will open access to more external funding opportunities for the islands,” he said.
Deputy Mayor and Division 6 Councillor Julie Talty said: “There are so many great things planned, and so many practical projects that are just a necessity for Redland, that it is difficult to choose just one thing,” she said.
“But if pressed to choose one, then I would have to say the progression of the Heineman Regional Sports Precinct through EPBC, funding and construction is on top of my New Year wish list.
“This project is not only essential for our future community, but a catalyst project that will progress many other positive outcomes across the city and the region.”
Division 7 Councillor Rowanne McKenzie called for the Federal Government to restore council funding to 1 per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue, warning cuts had left councils with little choice but to increase rates.
“The community is feeling the burden of this reduction in Federal funding,” Cr McKenzie said.
Cr Tracey Huges, Division 8 Councillor, said: “I wish Council would fast-track the Redland Youth Plaza at John Fredrick Park, Capalaba.
“The skate bowl is at the end of its life, and while renewal is still several years away, it is used day and night by skaters of all ages.
“It’s a huge asset to our community, especially our youth and families, and I believe it deserves an upgrade sooner rather than later.”
Concerns were raised by Division 9 Councillor Jason Colley, who said councils were being asked to do more with less, forcing unfair choices between raising rates or missing out on critical assets and social infrastructure.
Across the border in Brisbane, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said 2026 would see suburb-shaping projects such as the Wynnum Centre Suburban Renewal Precinct progress, delivering better public spaces, stronger local centres and more homes close to transport.
Wynnum Manly Ward Councillor Alex Givney said she was looking forward to progress on the Wynnum Manly Lota Foreshores Master Plan, while Doboy Ward Councillor Lisa Atwood pointed to road upgrades aimed at safer, smoother travel for commuters and businesses.
Business leaders added their voices to the call for momentum.
Champion Redlands Coast chair Rabieh Krayem said with so many major projects and infrastructure in the pipeline, it was time to start delivering for the community.
“We need to focus on how we make things happen, not how we stop them from happening,” he said.
Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce president Suzie Tafolo said her one wish for 2026 was “real action for our city”.
“Fewer delays on major projects, less red tape and visible progress,” Ms Tafolo said.
Straddie Chamber of Commerce president Colin Battersby said recognising the visitor economy as North Stradbroke Island’s primary economic driver was critical to long-term stability, employment and community resilience.
Bonner MP Kara Cook, Capalaba MP Russell Field, Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell and Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop did not respond to media questions.
