Redland City Council has formally committed to being part of a 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games proposal.
At a special meeting today, Councillors agreed to enter into the required contractual framework to offer Redlands Coast’s support as a Games venue and Games Partner.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the agreements, which will also be considered by other South-East Queensland councils, were vital for Brisbane to progress its Olympic proposal after being announced as ‘preferred host’ for Targeted Dialogue on February 24.
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“This decision allows Brisbane as preferred host to formally show they have our commitment to support the Games through the use of venues and public services,” Cr Williams said.
“We have been on this journey with Brisbane and other South-East Queensland councils from the beginning because we see a potential Olympics and Paralympic Games as a catalyst to deliver the infrastructure, including public transport infrastructure, our community needs.
“Being a Games partner has the potential to deliver significant legacies for our community and today’s decision is an exciting step towards locking in the Games and the many benefits they will bring our city and region.”
Cr Williams said that while there was still a lot to work through, bringing the Olympics and Paralympics to the region would provide a once-in-a-generation opportunity, with a Redlands Coast white-water centre included as a potential venue for Olympic canoe slalom events.
“Redland City Council is committed to delivering a water-based venue that creates a lasting community legacy, regardless of an Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Cr Williams said.
“We want to create a Redlands Coast Adventure Sports Precinct which includes a regional aquatic centre with adventure sports, water play equipment and an Olympic-standard white-water course.
“The course could be an ideal venue for canoe slalom events for a 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, as well as being able to be used for other international, national and state competitions and emergency services training.
“It would also deliver important benefits in a post-COVID economy, with economic studies suggesting it could potentially create 152 jobs and contribute $52 million annually to the local economy while helping to deliver much-needed transport infrastructure.
“The Games would provide a rare and exciting opportunity to deliver something that enhances community lifestyle and recreational opportunities.
“A sustainable legacy must be part of any Olympics proposal and this certainly aces that requirement.”
Cr Williams said potential sites for a future Redlands Coast white-water centre were still to be determined.
“Council’s commitment to a Brisbane Games bid recognises the enormous potential for Redlands Coast and its residents, particularly in light of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic and our efforts to recover from the crisis,” Cr Williams said.
