Reconsider non-essential travel to the bay islands

The Redland City Local Disaster Management Group  and Redland City Council are encouraging people to reconsider their need for non-essential travel to the Redlands Coast islands.

This includes North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), Coochiemudlo Island (Goochie mudlo), and the four Southern Moreton Bay islands of Russell (Canaipa), Lamb (Ngudooroo), Macleay (Jencoomercha) and Karragarra.

The request comes as Chair of the Redland City Local Disaster Management Group

, Mayor Karen Williams, today moved the group to Stand Up status.

Cr Williams said the city’s islands had ageing populations and vulnerable communities, putting residents at risk of complications from the virus that is causing COVID-19.

“In line with Federal and State government messaging, we are strongly urging everyone to avoid non-essential travel of any kind, especially to our islands,” she said.

“This will help slow the spread of the virus and protect our island communities.

“The LDMG has written to the State Disaster Coordination Centre to urge a decision from them on restricting non-essential travel to our city’s islands.

“In the meantime, essential travel would include travelling for work, medical reasons, education, compassionate reasons and to deliver essential services and supplies such as groceries.

“Non-essential travel includes recreation, tourism, including camping, and general socialising with friends and family.

“We are asking everyone to help us slow the spread of this virus by staying away from our islands unless they live there or have a need for essential travel.

“This way, we help slow the spread of the virus and save lives.”

Click here for fishing tips around southern bay islands.

Cr Williams said the island transport was often crowded, particularly as thousands of visitors arrived on the islands at peak times, including Easter.

“This makes social distancing difficult,” she said.

“The islands also have limited medical facilities, so protecting these communities is vitally important.

“I strongly encourage people to rethink their Easter holiday plans if they include the islands, and to contact their tourism or accommodation provider to discuss alternative arrangements.