New island coastal walk nears completion

Work on the Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk is nearing completion and is on track to open in time for the June school holidays, weather permitting.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said, when finished, the walkway would provide an experience originally proposed by residents who recognised the importance of filling in the ‘missing link’ from Cylinder Beach to Point Lookout (Mulumba) on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah.

“This fabulous project is shaping up to be even better than expected, providing a sought-after connection between these two popular Minjerribah destinations and a walk experience that can be enjoyed by everyone,” Cr Williams said.

“The final stage of the project builds on the scenic walkway between Snapper Street and Frenchman’s Stairs that was completed in December 2021 as part of Stage 1 works.

“Now, as Stage 2 works wrap up, it’s exciting to consider the economic, health and wellbeing benefits the project as a whole will bring to our Minjerribah and wider Redlands Coast community.

“The renewed picnic areas along the walkway will encourage more people to stay a little longer as they enjoy this magical destination and beach access will be easier and safer with the revamp of Frenchman’s Stairs.

“The environmentally-friendly design of the stairs has longevity, low maintenance and fire resistance in mind – important features that will contribute to the local community’s benefit for years to come.”

Cr Williams said the Coastal Walk also provided additional environmental and cultural heritage protections to the area, helping to ensure walkers do no harm while taking in the spectacular panoramic views.

Council worked closely with Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) throughout the project and a cultural heritage officer, engaged through QYAC, was present on site during all ground disturbance work to ensure that Indigenous cultural heritage was not impacted.

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the community recognised the importance of the coastal walk project to supporting the island’s ongoing popularity as a tourism destination.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see this project nearing completion and exciting to consider its contribution to the island’s popularity,” Cr Mitchell said.

“With the nation’s continuing fascination with the great outdoors and the increasing popularity of natural attractions, experiential walks like this are a boon to a local economy.

“Thousands of visitors walk the iconic Gorge Walk every year, and the finished coastal walk will undoubtedly see just as many feet and draw even more to experience this magical island.

“Looking at the boardwalk and stairs currently under construction, it’s easy to see how formalising the trail supports the surrounding environment.

“By doing so, cultural heritage values are also protected, and it has been great to see Council and Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation working in partnership to help ensure these protections have also been maintained during construction.

“On a personal level, I’m looking forward to completing the full walk from Cylinder Beach all the way to Mulumba and the Gorge Walk. It’s going to be great.”

Stage 2 of the project has received State Government funding through the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program.