Redlands IndigiScapes upgrade gets a $900,000 kick along

The funding will go to the expansion of the visitor cafe and external public amenities.

Redlands mayor Karen Williams had Local Government Minister Mark Furner look over IndigiScapes in August after announcing the major $3.7 million upgrade in November 2016.

The project, which is being built in stages, will feature a suspension bridge starting at the main IndigiScapes building, crossing Coolnwynpin Creek and ending at a huge 400-year-old tallowood tree

Mr Furner said the latest work would create 16 full-time equivalent jobs.

“The delivery of these projects will generate employment and boost economic activity for local communities, which is a major priority,” Mr Furner said.Mr Furner said the way his department was dispersing $60 million to local authorities had been changed to allow for better long term planning.

“This year, we have given councils two financial years to deliver projects and this has allowed councils to apply for projects which will truly have an enduring impact in their communities,” Mr Furner said.

“It has also enabled councils to plan their workforces ahead of time, to create local jobs and give the local economy a shot in the arm.”

Capalaba MP Don Brown said the funding would be a boon for all of Redlands.

“This program is vital for the region and is another example of the Palaszczuk government’s commitment to working with councils...,” Mr Brown said.

“Investing in infrastructure is a very practical way to generate confidence in a community making it a better place to live, work and operate a business.”

Cr Williams said ongoing state support and investment in joint infrastructure was essential for the Redlands.

A consultant's report has forecast that the IndigiScapes extension could attract more than 8000 visitors a year by 2022 and support 15 direct jobs and five part-time indigenous jobs.

The IndigisScapes nursery also is being upgraded.