Redland City Council is considering a new plan to improve water quality and manage vegetation at 17 waterbodies across the Redlands Coast as part of its 2026-2027 budget. Mayor Jos Mitchell announced that councillors will vote on funding a trial program to address issues like bad smells, algae blooms, and fish deaths at eight specific locations, including sites in Mount Cotton, Capalaba, and Wellington Point.
The trial program would introduce more regular maintenance, including checking water sites every two months and conducting regular water quality testing. It also covers removing pest fish, controlling weeds, and installing probiotic blocks to help treat high bacteria levels that can cause algae to grow during dry periods. Other measures include increased litter collection and ibis colony management.
While the trial sites are located outside of Birkdale, local representative Paul Bishop continues to oversee environmental priorities in the Birkdale area, including the Birkdale Community Precinct. This 62-hectare site is one of the largest park projects in the state and includes 40 hectares of land set aside for conservation.
Currently, the council manages more than 250 artificial waterbodies across the city. This new proposal was developed after residents at Mount Cotton Community Park reported concerns about stagnant water and fish deaths, highlighting the need for a more coordinated approach to caring for the city’s local waterways.
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