Walkability on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) is set to improve, with work starting on Stage 1 of the Minjerribah Panorama Coast Walk (Point Lookout Connection).
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the allocated $1.743 million Stage 1 of the Walk would upgrade about 460 metres of the trail link between Point Lookout Village and Cylinder Beach, from Snapper Street to Frenchman’s Beach access stairs.
“Anyone who has visited Minjerribah knows it is one of the most beautiful places on earth and this project will formalise a track worn on the ocean side of Mooloomba Road, improving access for locals and enhancing visitor experiences,” Cr Williams said.
“It will add to the popular Gorge Walk, enjoyed by visitors from across the world attracted by the island’s natural beauty, including some of the best whale watching in the country.
“This project is the perfect example of what can be achieved when different levels of government work together, with it being supported through a million dollar State Government grant.
“I thank the Queensland Government for partnering with us on this project, which is important to the transition of North Stradbroke Island’s economy, post-sand mining.”
Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the project would provide the ‘missing link’ in the coastal walk, which the island community told Council they wanted through a previous consultation process.
“The consultation also identified a community desire for improved way-finding signage and erosion management, all while sensitively enhancing this beautiful area and building on the existing and unique landscape features and character of Point Lookout,” Cr Mitchell said.
“Council subsequently developed a design concept taking into consideration community input, maintenance requirements, safety and visual impacts.
“The design concept, which can be viewed on Council’s Your Say webpage, is expected to deliver an environmentally responsive outcome that preserves the character of Point Lookout.
“This project is also a fantastic contribution to Council’s long-term goal of improving cycling and pedestrian facilities across Redlands Coast, as described in Council’s recently adopted new corporate plan.
“It includes a new coloured bitumen and natural stone trail, a composite viewing deck at Snapper Street, a small tree planting to provide natural shade to the path, low shrub and groundcover revegetation and weed management.
“I look forwarding to walking the route once work is completed.”
Work is expected to be completed by 28 May 2021, weather permitting.
