After more than two years of inactivity, the Redlands Coast 2032 Legacy Working Group has finally reconvened, following pressure from the Redland Bayside News over the city’s readiness to secure lasting benefits from the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The 11-member group, chaired by Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell, met at the Alexandra Hills Conference Centre on Monday.
The group was formed to help maximise the city’s role as host of the Canoe Slalom events and ensure long-term legacy outcomes for the community.
Mayor Mitchell said the meeting was an opportunity to “represent Redlands Coast and to amplify ideas and requirements for the local community.”
“Delivering the world’s biggest sporting event takes teamwork and I recognise the importance of looking locally so that community views and aspirations are represented and reflected in the development of a Redlands Coast 2032 Legacy Plan,” she said.
The Mayor highlighted the opportunities for Redlands Coast as a Games host.
“We boast exceptional island and hinterland experiences, Quandamooka culture, unique stories, natural encounters and eco-sustainable experiences, adventure possibilities and a friendly, relaxed lifestyle,” she said.
“Visitors come here for enriching experiences. Transport across the city and region should be seamless and convenient.”
She also emphasised the importance of infrastructure and community development.
“Being a Minor Venue partner for the new Redland Whitewater Centre highlights the need for investment in infrastructure – infrastructure that meets the needs of residents and visitors – and other possibilities,” Mayor Mitchell said.
The working group will now meet bi-monthly, with members bringing expertise across sustainability, tourism, sport, and community development.
Members include Andrew Bradley, Anne Livingstone, Dr Caroline Riot, Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, John Brennan OAM, Michael Choi OAM, Michael Mrowka, Noemie Fox OAM, and Sandra Jacob.
The group’s inactivity had drawn concern from councillors and the community.
Cr Jason Colley said the lack of meetings over two years “really isn’t positioning ourselves for success,” while Cr Shane Rendalls described Redlands as having shown “little proactive championing of the Games” compared with other South East Queensland councils.
A Council spokesperson said the city remains proud to host the 2032 Canoe Slalom events and confirmed the reconvened meeting demonstrates renewed focus on maximising Redlands Coast’s Olympic legacy.
