Budget deliberations

Council’s budget deliberations are ongoing, and we remain focussed on delivering a balanced budget that improves infrastructure and services across the city while continuing to keep rates low.

I will provide you with more details in my July newsletter once the Budget is delivered, and information is no longer confidential.

Ragamuffin Reserve erosion

An issue raised last year with the retaining wall at Ragamuffin Reserve Coomera Waters was addressed with maintenance work scheduled to reinstate some of the retaining wall’s capping which had unfortunately come loose overtime.

A Coastal Hazard Assessment was finalised to address the erosion at the Reserve. Based on the assessment, it is recommended that the whole reserve be managed as an estuarine floodplain wetland/open space area by Council.

A suitable concept option to provide resilience to the reserve is proposed as part of the assessment. A business case is being drafted to recommend stabilisation options as per the report. Detailed design will be completed, and State approvals will be sought this financial year.

Following this an Agenda Report to Council will request the use of the Coomera River Trust to fund the works. Construction is proposed for the 2024-25 financial year.

Viney Park upgrade

The Viney Park upgrade work commences soon. As a result, the small playground behind houses in the northeast corner of the park will be removed as part of the project.

The playground which is in a poor location where most of the equipment has reached its use by date will be replaced with a brand new playground close by.

Disclaimer: Image shown provides a vision for the future embellishment of Viney Park. All proposals are subject to change.

BBQ relocation

Facilities at Charlie’s Crossing Park Upper Coomera were damaged beyond repair in the Christmas night storm. The drinking fountain, hit by flying debris, is still operational but awaiting replacement. The picnic shelter will be renewed to provide covered seating close to the playground, along with the new drinking fountain.

An audit found the BBQ has not been used in over two years, however programmed maintenance and cleaning of the BBQ continued during that time. Officers have therefore suggested that the BBQ be relocated to a park with higher visitation. Before responding, please let me know if you have a suggested location for a new BBQ in our area – or if you’d like to see it retained at Charlie’s Crossing Park. Please email me your suggestions. 

Crystal Creek Reserve

Crews will be repairing drainage on the western side of the horse trail at Crystal Creek Reserve in the coming days to prevent further degradation. This is a tricky one as the area is essentially a gully - or more specifically, Hotham Creek.

To completely mitigate the problem however the issue will require more serious infrastructure, so officers will explore options for a more permanent solution with regards to the bogginess of the site. I know many riders frequent the area, so I’ll be sure to keep you updated.

Ruffles Road Reserve East

Ruffles Road Reserve East Following a request to clear trails of tree debris behind the Peanba Park Road kindy, a crew was organised as the trail is regularly used by hikers and horse riders. The area needed to dry out to allow machinery access. but finally the trail is clear of fallen debris.

Some logs remain on the side of the trail which we are hoping to repurpose into infrastructure in natural areas, but the trail is clear. The unofficial trails through to Peanba Park Road from the top of the hill were not built or maintained by Council.

Pleasant Parklands

Fire concerns have been raised regarding fallen trees and vegetation growth behind Redwood Street in Pleasant Parklands. A report has found that the location and topography would mitigate the severity of any fires in the area. It is also a watercourse, which would also limit fire intensity. Residents’ safety will always be paramount, but there is a low risk from the Christmas storm debris.

A new fire mitigation trail has been built connecting the Riverstone Crossing side of Pleasant Parklands to the Energex easement above Asher Court, which would help with fire control operations in mitigating any fire from the more substantial bush from the west/southwest.

Supporting our sporting clubs

Our local clubs are held together by small groups of highly engaged volunteers with a shared interest in sport and community.

Anticipated projects supporting Division 3 clubs will be mentioned in my July “Budget Special” newsletter.

Projects will be subject to successful Grant applications submitted by each club.

Grants 101: Grant Writing Made Simple

Join us for an engaging and informative workshop aimed at equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to navigate the world of grants.

Date: Thu, 27 Jun 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Upper Coomera Centre - 90 Reserve Road Upper Coomera

About this event  | Reserve a spot 

Avoid a fine

I hate seeing residents of our area fined. However, I need to explain that when a complaint is lodged with me, my office, or directly with Council officers, there is an obligation under the Local Government Act for officers to take action.

This message is simply to remind you that I have no discretion regarding the issue of Penalty Infringement Notices, so please make certain you park legally, with four wheels on the road pavement.

I totally understand that sometimes residents try to assist clear passage in narrow streets, however the road widths comply with development guidelines and sometimes care needs to be taken not to park directly opposite another parked vehicle. I'm aware of officers delivering warning letters at Upper Coomera recently and I've also personally circulated one area at Coomera where the situation seems to have since improved.

After receipt of a warning notice, repeat inspections are usual - so please take care about where you choose to park your car. I have also proposed a motion which seeks Council’s review of the Local Law regarding two wheels up/two wheels down. I will keep you posted.

Free community event

Meet hard-working heroes from our emergency services and volunteers dedicated to keeping the community safe. Get up close with the emergency services vehicles and learn what to do when faced with severe weather and disasters. Access to information, resources and connection to better prepare for, and respond to, emergencies in the community.

Featuring our very own local heroes from:

• Queensland Police Service
• Queensland Fire and Emergency Services
• Queensland Ambulance Service
• State Emergency Service
• Rural Fire Service
• Community recovery support agencies

Immerse the family in a FREE action-packed day out including:

• Mock-rescue demonstrations
• Engage with experts on emergency response and recovery strategies
• Important tips for personal preparedness and planning
• Interactive children’s activities
• Plenty of giveaways
• An assortment of delicious food trucks

Date: Sunday 16 June
Time: 10am - 2pm
Location: Coomera Indoor Sports Centre - 35 Beattie Road, Coomera 

Contact me

Please continue to contact me regarding issues of interest or concern. Whatever the issue please call 07 5581 6598 or email division3@goldcoast.qld.gov.au so that I can action your request.

You can also report after-hour matters to Council on 1300 465 326 or if urgent to me by mobile 0424 778 999.

It’s helpful when you to alert me to things that require attention and raise issues of interest or concern with me because sometimes it’s hard to be across what’s happening throughout the entire area.

The best community is an informed community and I want you involved in making sure our area is up to scratch for the benefit of us all. I am always available to answer any questions you have and am just an email or phone call away.

Newsletters archive

For previous editions, please contact my office.

Disclaimer

While care has been taken to ensure that information contained in this newsletter is correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances may impact on the information provided.

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