THE Queensland Government has approved an Olympic Whitewater Centre at Birkdale, paving the way for the Redlands to make a splash on the world stage.
Following the State Government’s 100-day Review into Games venues, the Redlands is set to remain an event venue city for canoe slalom for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Yet, this ambitious project has sparked fierce debate, with local community and environmental groups opposing it on the grounds of protecting the region’s fragile natural landscape and its endangered koala population.
The Whitewater Centre is set to become an international-standard facility, designed to feature a competition channel, river and lake access, and extensive infrastructure to boost local tourism.
Co-located within the future Birkdale Community Precinct, the centre will include a public lagoon, cultural centre, walking trails, and an outdoor stage – enhancing the area’s appeal to both visitors and residents.
State Member for Capalaba Russell Field said he was “thrilled” that the Government had given the green light to the Olympic Whitewater Centre at Birkdale.
“I think it’s the best thing that’s happened in Redlands and Capalaba in a very long time,” he said.
“Everybody’s going to benefit from it.
“There will always be people who will knock it, but I think it’s going to be better for the community in general.
“Not only will it bring a world-class facility to our region, but it will also create local jobs and attract visitors from all over the globe.
“When you put these kinds of facilities anywhere, infrastructure has to follow, and that’s definitely going to happen here.
“I’m confident that the community at large will see the benefits across the board.”
Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell said Redland City Council also welcomed the findings of the 100-day Review.
“Council is pleased that the 100-day Review, led by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority, ensures progression of the Redland Whitewater Centre project and supports it being of great benefit to the Redlands Coast community,” she said.
“I am advised the planned Redland Whitewater Centre will be designed for all ages and abilities, offering activities like tubing on calm waters, learning water safety, beginner paddling, and even tackling rapids for canoeing, kayaking and rafting.
“This will be a year-round venue for families, emergency services and athletes.
“Council remains committed to working with the Australian and Queensland governments to deliver an Olympic-standard whitewater course that creates a lasting community legacy.”
Former Redland City Mayor Karen Williams, a leading champion of the project, was enthusiastic about the centre’s potential to transform the region.
“Redland City becoming an Olympic City with the Redland Whitewater Centre is a game-changer – not just for sport, not just for our city, but for disaster resilience across the country, supporting training for our emergency services and lifesavers,” she said.
“Now, it is time to cut through the unnecessary red and green tape that has prevented Council from proving the cash-positive business case, allowing myths and division to spread.”
Ms Williams emphasised the wider benefits of the project, highlighting its role in driving infrastructure projects like the Eastern Busway (Metro), which she claims wouldn’t be happening without the Whitewater Centre.
“It’s been a marathon, and the Games haven’t even begun,” she said.
“The unelected vocal minority will no doubt continue with their divisive scare tactics to stay relevant.
“They’ll spread environmental myths, ignoring that most of the land remains protected and that Council’s scientific evidence-based approach –submitted to the review panel along with the dismissed Redlands2030 submission – overwhelmingly supports the project, as did the previous Quirk review scoring the highest rating of all venues for Olympic legacy.”
ICF Canoe Slalom Technical Chair Richard Fox described the decision as an “exciting day for paddling worldwide”.
“As a sport, we started our engagement with Redland City Council five years ago, and have worked side by side ever since,” he said.
“It is wonderful to see the legacy vision and delivery plan for the Redland Whitewater Centre endorsed by the Queensland Government.
“Following the ICF slalom world championships in Sydney this year, we can now look forward to world-class events on Redlands Coast, ahead of and beyond the Brisbane Olympics in 2032.”
However, Lavinia Wood, spokesperson for a coalition of environmental and community organisations, has voiced disappointment with the State Government’s decision.
“This decision comes despite overwhelming evidence that the people of the Redlands do not want a Whitewater Centre, and never have,” Ms Wood said.
Technically, the Redland Whitewater Centre does not have to go through an Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act process, but the Council is expected to do one anyway.
