News from your local councillor Cr Paul Bishop
Division 10: Birkdale/Thorneside
Dear Residents,
This festive season, while wishing you and your loved ones all the best over summer, may I encourage mindful merry making as we take time to reflect, connect and engage with the things that matter most.
Below and over the page you’ll find a collection of local updates, links and ideas I hope you’ll find useful.
Where you see Search keywords for useful links. Best wishes for summer and the New Year – and please remember to stay storm safe.
redland prepare your home
Cr Paul Bishop – Division 10
Connect with me on Facebook @CrPaulBishop
Thorneside Sport and Recreation Master Plan
In October, Council adopted a Master Plan to guide future upgrades and community infrastructure at the William Taylor Memorial Sport and Recreation Precinct.
• Stage 1 is already complete, with new lighting on Field 1.
• Stage 2 (see graphic) is funded through the State and Federal Government’s SEQ City Deal Liveability Fund ($5.7 million) and is due for delivery by 2027. This includes detailed design and construction of carpark upgrades, BMX and skate improvements, pétanque (European bowls) area, relocation of cricket nets,
yoursay william taylor master plan
Continuing the conversation
For more than two years, on the last Sunday of each month, local residents from Birkdale and Thorneside have gathered at Mooroondu Football Clubhouse for relaxed community conversations.
People bring share plates, crop-swaps or ideas for discussion. Together we focus on ‘what’s strong’ rather than ‘what’s wrong’ in our community.
Over time, gatherings have featured:
• Council updates and parkland walks
• Local garden visits and laughter yoga
• Birdlife and nature presentations
• Cultural feasts, games days, and ‘show and tell’ sessions
a new half-court, dog off-leash area and public amenities at Charles Toni Reserve (behind the Thorneside Community Hall).
• Stages 3 & 4 will follow subject to future design and funding, including upgrades to netball courts, football fields, the clubhouse and other supporting infrastructure.
To ensure community voice and values remain central over the coming decade, Council has supported my request to form a precinct stakeholder and tenant working group to help guide future stages. I will continue engaging with local clubs and stakeholders as we move forward.
Each month the group self-organises around topics of local interest. To learn more, email: ConversationsMSG@gmail.com
Community Conversations
Mayor Jos Mitchell and Cr Paul Bishop at the site.
Stage 2 Master Plan: planned works and elements
continue.
Love local libraries
Please make use of these great resources. Did you know your local Redland City Council Library offers:
• Free Wi-Fi, public computers, books, e-books, audiobooks, magazines, DVDs and access to printing/copying services
• Free meeting rooms, workshops, programs, makerspaces and local history collections – where you can research the Redlands or family history
The Mobile Library (pictured) visits Beth Boyd Park, Thorneside, every second Thursday 1pm to 4pm.
redland library / mobile library
For more local updates: facebook.com/CrPaulBishop
Wise waste and water ways
As Christmas approaches, it is a great time to reflect on our household habits and consider where we can change.
Remember: “There’s no such thing as waste – only stuff in the wrong place.” – (singer, Charlie Mgee)
Consider the five Rs: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Renew.
A few reminders, because every little change makes a difference:
• Never pour milk, oil or paint down the sink.
• Only flush toilet paper, pee and poo down the loo.
• Recycle used batteries (pictured) at approved collection points.
• Gift, sell or share unwanted items through local marketplaces.
• Take advantage of Council’s Compost Bin Subsidy Program to recycle food scraps at home.
Reflecting on VP Day and Anzac Day 2026
Victory in the Pacific Day was held at Birkdale State School on 15 August. This year marked 80 years since the news of Japan’s surrender was first received at the former US Army Radio Receiving Station in Birkdale – witnessed by two local schoolboys who helped spread the word that the war was over.
Hundreds gathered to commemorate this historic milestone, with support from local Rotary clubs, Birkdale Scouts, Redland City Bands, Birkdale State School choir and students, Redlands Coast Museum and community leaders. Thank you all.
birkdale reflections VP day
Anzac Day 2026. For nearly 50 years, Birkdale Scouts, Navy Cadets, Guides and school students have proudly presented the North Redlands Youth Leaders ANZAC Day Service at Wellington Point High School Assembly Hall. All are welcome to attend, lay a wreath or floral tribute, or donate a book to a local school. The service will be held at 8am, 25 April. Entry is via Anson Road.
Thank you volunteers
I would like to pay respect and give thanks to all our club, group, committee members, Bushcare volunteers and other community folk who volunteer as coaches, managers, helpers and supporters of the organisations that provide irreplaceable value to our community. Every day I am inspired by your dedication and feel honoured to support whenever and wherever appropriate. You are amazing. Thank you from all of us in Division 10.
Things to do
Over the summer break, if you are looking for inspiration, connection or simply a healthy change from daily life, check out Council's What's On list.
what’s on redlands coast redland conserve water redland composting
Cr Bishop with the Mooroondu Football Committee.