Olympic Class Whitewater Adventure Sports Precinct possible for Redland City

Brisbane’s Redlands Coast could have a new Olympic class aquatic adventure and water rescue precinct in time for the 2023 games. Mayor Karen Williams asked Redland City Council to investigate the possibility of an aqua sports centre and mountain bike trail for the area. The new venue would have an Olympic white-water rafting facility combined with a professional water safety and training park.

“This project would be a real coup for Redlands Coast and would support our reputation as a coastal destination of choice,” she said. “It would also support Redlands Coast’s role in a south-east Queensland Olympics bid.”

Cr Williams said today’s decision came after Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) recently decided not to proceed with earlier plans alongside a new aquatic centre.

“Council had been working with SLSQ on a Centre of Excellence as part of our plans to build a new aquatic facility in the Redlands,” she said. “While there was significant advocacy by both SLSQ and Council, unfortunately State and Federal funding was not currently available, making the project unfeasible.”

Cr Williams said that the new project could see “a white-water rafting facility co-located with other adventure sports and aquatic training to create a larger recreational and aquatic precinct.”

SLSQ Chief Executive Officer Dave Whimpey said, “A new Redlands Coast aquatic centre, would offer an excellent training base for our lifeguards and volunteer surf lifesavers.”

Cr Williams said partnerships with organisations like SLSQ are critical to the viability of a venue like this. “Council has also spoken with QFES about the potential for our State’s emergency services using the facility for training,” she said. “I have also spoken with the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation, which has a strong connection with canoeing.”

Redland City Council would now begin the looking process of looking for potential locations. It would also look into other possible adventure sports which could make use of the new facility.

Cr Williams said the Redlands has an abundance of natural coast for residents and visitors to explore. She said, “It is appropriate that we consider the tourism opportunities an aquatic and adventure sports facility would deliver.”

Source: Redland City Council