New look Indigiscapes starts to bloom

The transformation of Redland City Council’s IndigiScapes centre into one the region’s premier environmental education destinations is now well underway.

Division 7 Councillor Murray Elliott said the Capalaba centre was on track to reopen to the public in time for the summer school holidays.

“With much of the demolition work now done, it is full steam ahead on the construction phases,” Cr Elliott said.

“All going well, the new centre will open its doors ahead of the busy December school holidays, with a range of exciting activities and programs in the planning for the new year.

“It will be an extra special time, with IndigiScapes celebrating its 20th anniversary in February.”

Cr Elliott said that while the popular centre off Runnymede Road would remain closed to the public until then, it would be well worth the wait.

Alexandra Hills’ O’Gorman Street Park has been named one of Queensland’s best after its Council makeover.

It has received a high commendation in the recent Queensland Parks and Leisure Conference Awards of Excellence for its outstanding and innovative upgrade.

Division 7 Councillor Murray Elliott said the vibrant community space was a great example of work being done by Council in parks and playgrounds throughout the city.

“There will be a brand new café and a wonderful new interpretation and discovery area where children and their parents can learn about our local environment and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.

“The project includes a new theatrette and conference room, along with an outdoor classroom and grandstand and new administration centre, making it arguably the best environmental education centre in the region.

“While the work progresses, the IndigiScapes teams will continue to focus on local environmental initiatives.”

COMMUNITY: The concept for IndigiScapes, top, and O’Gorman Street Park. Both are great examples of Redland City Council’s investment in community spaces.

Redland City Council’s 2019-20 budget includes $2.2 million to continue the project, which is being partially funded by the State Government.

The opening of the new nursery earlier this year, which raises native stock for planting across the city, marked the end of the first stage of the multi-million dollar upgrade.

“It is colourful, imaginative and full of opportunities for local families to interact with the natural wonders of our area,” Cr Elliott said. “O’Gorman Street Park was designed to engage children’s minds and bodies by providing a space where children can experience a sense of freedom. Judging by its popularity, it is certainly achieving that.”

Cr Elliott said the Council team involved, including Laurie Blacka, Claire Hardy, Cameron McKay and Nigel Carroll, deserved credit for the transformation.

Division 7: Alexandra Hills, Capalaba and Thornlands

Ph: 3829 8732 M: 0418 780 824 E: murray.elliott@redland.qld.gov.au