Environmental warriors given new lease on life
Published 22 October 2021
Redcliffe Environmental Forum is set to be the new tenant of the $2.3 million Deception Bay Community Facility.
Expected to be completed in early 2022, this facility will be transformed into a vibrant community hub boasting two connecting meeting spaces, public amenities and an open terrace space.
Mayor Peter Flannery said they would pay just $1 per year to lease the space and he couldn’t think of a more ideal tenant to move into this new state-of-the-art facility.
“Situated right next door to the Deception Bay Conservation Park, this space will play an important role in protecting and promoting the natural environment in the area,” he said.
“Founded in 2005, Redcliffe Environmental Forum has helped lead and participate in local environmental rehabilitation projects, improve local habitats, and inspire the next generation of eco warriors.
“They have worked tirelessly on the saltmarsh rehabilitation and monitoring programs in the Hays Inlet to ensure this pristine area will continue to be enjoyed by wildlife and locals for generations to come.
“This is a great outcome for the community and the perfect place for Redcliffe Environmental Forum to continue and expand their great work in the area.
“It is important to provide this local group with some operational certainty, so our dedicated volunteers can focus their energy on doing what they do best - preserving nature for future generations to come.
“As the former local Councillor for this Division, it has been a passion project of mine to revitalise and utilise the former DPI Fisheries site, which has been unused for years.
“This new facility will help Redcliffe Environmental Forum continue to expand its environmental programs so they can better coordinate their operations and connect with local members.”
Councillor Sandra Ruck (Div 5) said Redcliffe Environmental Forum is an important part of the community.
“Driven by over 300 local members, Redcliffe Environmental Forum has created and facilitated a range of fantastic initiatives to protect and promote our region’s pristine natural environment,” she said.
“We’re excited to grant this lease and provide a space for this organisation at a minimal cost, so they can spend more time developing their amazing environmental programs and services.
“This decision is really an investment in our region’s thriving community and its future.”
Redcliffe Environmental Forum President Bob Crudgington thanked Council for the opportunity to be part of this exciting development.
“Our volunteers are all very excited to have a new home at this modern facility,” he said.
“It will be great to work in this wonderful facility with all the new equipment.
“This will provide a focal point for our volunteers and associates who work tirelessly to improve local habitats and look after our wildlife.
“The amenities will make a real difference to our environmental programs and provide us with an opportunity to collaborate and work with like-minded groups and organisations.
“We have a vision for this space to become a welcoming place where locals can come together and learn more about the importance of our natural environments.”