A Russell Island resident has delivered a blistering address to Redland City Council, accusing authorities of “deliberate” and “disgusting” neglect spanning more than five decades.
Speaking during public submissions, David Prince told councillors the Southern Moreton Bay Islands had been treated as an afterthought for generations despite ratepayers contributing millions.
“Hi, my name is David Prince. I live on Russell Island,” he began before launching into a powerful condemnation of what he says is systemic failure.
“The neglect of Russell Island over 50 plus years is disgusting, deliberate and identified.
“Over these 50 years, rates have been collected on more than 10,000 properties on Russell Island alone — raising money with compounded interest in the billions.”
Mr Prince contrasted local conditions with the rest of Redland City, which he described as thriving with “some of the most productive farms in South-East Queensland,” supported by proper roads, drainage and sewerage — infrastructure he says has been denied to the islands.
“There needs to be some serious work in regards to sewerage, roads and infrastructure work done on Russell Island. With 50 years of rates being collected by council, it’s been paid for far more than 10 times over,” he said.
He urged councillors to “be held accountable” for the “arrogance and ignorance” he claims has defined island planning decisions for decades.
Mr Prince also raised concerns about the removal of public toilets near the Russell Island jetty, claiming the remaining facilities were inadequate for a growing community.
“There’s more than 10,000 people. Yesterday, the toilets down the front — only two toilets and a disability toilet — it was disgusting. It was everywhere on the road,” he said.
In a pointed challenge, he urged councillors to imagine shutting down all toilets at council’s Cleveland headquarters and the library for a week, leaving only the shopping centre facilities available.
“Think about that. Really think about that,” he said.
“And remember — you’re here to serve, not to dominate.”
