THE government has released a tender to help develop a master plan for Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island.
Planning Minister Cameron Dick said the master planning process would investigate economic opportunities and areas for residential, community, environmental and industry uses.
“The master plan will also be accompanied by an implementation plan of priority projects and infrastructure needs to improve the way Dunwich functions as the gateway to Straddie, and to establish the town as a destination in its own right,” Mr Dick said.
Dunwich, known as Goompi to the Quandamooka people, is the main entry point to North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).
Mr Dick said that options for the viability of the town, like a move towards a more tourism-centred economy, needed to be explored as sand mining on Straddie was phased out.
The planning process is being led by the State Development Department, with Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation and Redland City Council.
QYAC chief executive Cameron Costello said it was a great example of a partnership between the state, Quandamooka people and island residents.
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Mayor Karen Williams said the Dunwich harbour was vital to the island’s economic future and the delivery of the master plan was an important milestone in the island’s transition away from mining.
“Transport will be a critical part of the island’s future, so it is vital the master plan provides for affordable transport options, to ensure that Straddie is accessible to residents and potential visitors,” Cr Williams said.
Redlands MP Kim Richards said the planning process was a great opportunity for the community to outline their vision for the town.
“This is great news for Redlands as we continue to focus on the opportunities that good planning will deliver for our region,” Ms Richards said.
The master plan is one of 23 projects in the North Stradbroke Island Economic Transition Strategy to help the island build a sustainable economy after sand mining ends next year.
A draft master plan is expected to be released towards the end of this year with a final plan expected in mid-late 2019.
Responses to the tender process close on Friday, June 22, at 5pm. Information is on the Queensland government tenders website.
For information about the economic transition strategy and master plan, visit dsdmip.qld.gov.au/dunwich-goompi.
