Author name: Shane Rendalls

The Evidence for Future Wastewater Solutions on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI)

Community / By

Subtitle: An open and community-led assessment of current wastewater management, risks and future infrastructure needs. Abstract: This project plan sets out an open, community-led assessment of wastewater management across the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, where long-term reliance on onsite wastewater treatment systems, ageing infrastructure, small-lot constraints and future population growth have created a need for […]

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More People, Less Space: Why SMBI’s Tiny Lots Face a Massive Crisis

Environment, Planning / By

The Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) face a unique density challenge: thousands of tightly packed small-lot subdivisions, rather than the larger acreage properties seen in many mainland communities. These approved small-lot subdivisions were created in the early 1970s, before the SMBI were transferred to Redland Shire in 1973. For 54 years, wastewater has largely been

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Getting Better Development Outcomes for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands

Environment, Planning / By

Development pressures on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands are growing, and we need planning, infrastructure and environmental outcomes that reflect the unique character of our island home. Many residents have raised concerns with me about the way some development is occurring across the Southern Moreton Bay Islands. These concerns are understandable. The islands are valued

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1973 Qld Cabinet submissions for inclusion of SMBI in Redland Shire

Planning / By

For residents’ information, attached are copies of Queensland Cabinet materials dated 9 January and 8 May 1973 regarding the inclusion of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands in Redland Shire. The 8 May materials mainly contain submissions for and against the inclusion of the islands in what was then Redland Shire. While the May document is

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Early 1970’s subdivision of Russell Island

Planning / By

This refreshed RIPA bulletin responds to ongoing community discussion about the early 1970s subdivision of Russell Island. Prepared by Steve Lather, this article draws on his long background and detailed knowledge of island history, land subdivision, titles and local government processes, the article sets out key historical facts about how the island was subdivided, when

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Voting on the Mayor’s Application for Personal Leave

Community, Wellbeing / By

On 19 August 2026 Redland City Council will vote on approving the mayor’s fourth consecutive leave application as part of a 31-week medically supported absence, which, if denied, could start a process to declare the position vacant. While the mayor maintains the right to medical privacy, the prolonged paid absence raises ethical questions regarding community

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Budget 2026/27

Community, Environment, Opportunity, Wellbeing / By

Major Capital Investment to Support Division 5 and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Division 5 residents are set to benefit from a significant program of capital works and community infrastructure projects in the 2026/27 financial year, with investment across public amenities, drainage, transport infrastructure, recreation facilities, foreshore protection and community assets. Councillor Shane Rendalls welcomed

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