The place project is a collaboration between state and local governments that aims to address community needs, issues and aspirations on the islands and social infrastructure needs of emerging communities in southern Redland Bay.

Redland Mayor Melva Hobson said council had allocated funding and staff resources in its 2008-09 budget for the place project to work with island community organisations on priority projects.

“A new Welcome Information Kit will outline the essential community services available on the islands and help prospective residents make informed decisions about moving there,” Cr Hobson said.

“Council will also assist with supporting the Combined Bay Islands Community Forum, which will be a voice representing all island organisations,’’ she said.

“It aims to foster the exchange of information and ideas and to promote the wellbeing of island people.

“By working with the State government, these initiatives, among others, will enable council to better meet growing service demands in the project area,” she said.

Redland Bay and Bay Islands Divisional Councillor Barbara Townsend said the place project also sought to engage and empower island and southern Redland Bay communities in the decision-making process.

“We want to work in partnership with residents and strongly encourage people to get involved so they can contribute to the project’s outcomes,” Cr Townsend said.

Member for Redlands John English said he was pleased the State Government was working with council.

“It is important that all levels of government work together to achieve fantastic outcomes for the southern bay island community” Mr English said.

“The State government has contributed $55,000 towards these initiatives, including $10,000 which will go to Lifeline Community Care for the Bay Islands Family Support Project,” Mr English said.