New master plan to shape the future for Dunwich

A master plan for the North Stradbroke island township of Dunwich is one step closer with the Queensland Government releasing a tender to assist with the preparation of the plan.

Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Cameron Dick, said the community would play a key role in the development of the master plan.

Dunwich, known as Goompi to the Traditional Owners the Quandamooka people, is the main entry point to North Stradbroke Island, also known as Minjerribah, 

“As sand mining on the island is phased out by 2019, we need to explore options for the future viability of the town, such as a move towards a more tourism-centred economy,” Mr Dick said.

“Economic opportunities and areas for future residential, commercial, community, environmental and industry uses will be investigated as part of the master planning process.

“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 the master planning process, which is being led by the State Development and Planning Department in partnership with the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation and the Redland City Council, would identify future development opportunities for the town.

Member for Redlands Kim Richards said the master plan process is a great opportunity for the community to outline their vision for the future of 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.

QYAC Chief Executive Officer, Cameron Costello said his organisation was looking forward to working with the State Government to develop the Goompi master plan in consultation with all island residents. 

“It is a great example of a positive partnership between the state, the Quandamooka people and island residents,” he said.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams thanked the State Government for its commitment to delivering the Dunwich Master Plan and ensuring that the entire community had the opportunity for input into the process.

“As the entry point to North Stradbroke Island, the Dunwich harbour is vital to the island’s economic future, so delivery of this Master Plan is an important milestone in Straddie’s transition away from sandmining,” Cr Williams said.

“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.”

The Dunwich (Goompi) master plan is one of 23 projects as part of the North Stradbroke Island Economic Transition Strategy to transition the island to a more sustainable economy after sand mining is phased out in 2019.

A draft master plan is expected to be released towards the end of 2018 with a final plan expected in mid-late 2019.

Responses to the tender process close on Friday 22 June at 5pm. For more information on the tender visit the Queensland Government tenders website

Further information about the North Stradbroke Island Economic Transition Strategy and the Dunwich (Goompi) master plan visit http://dsdmip.qld.gov.au/dunwich-goompi

Media contact: Joe Begley 0447 320 039