A mix of progress, projects and purpose

By Sheree Hoddinett  

From beachside upgrades, planning for 2032 and ensuring infrastructure matches growth, it’s all about moving forward across the City of Moreton Bay. 

For a fast-growing city, the past year was less about ticking boxes and more about laying foundations, for accessibility, connectivity and community. With one eye on today’s needs and the other firmly on a population tipped to hit one million within three decades, council’s focus was clear: make the city more connected, more inclusive and more liveable. The unveiling of the City of Tomorrow advocacy strategy set out what Moreton Bay will need to thrive as its population grows, from transport and infrastructure to services that keep pace with demand. 

“Last year was a successful year for City of Moreton Bay, with several key achievements and milestones met,” Mayor Peter Flannery said. “Council contributed $1.8 million towards amenities upgrades at Woorim Beach as part of our Changing Places Network Plan, to ensure facilities are available for people who can’t use standard accessible toilets.  “We were also pleased to welcome Bribie Island residents to the Island’s first district level park, after investing $2.25 million to upgrade facilities and amenities at the much-loved Cosmos Park.” 

Major projects on the horizon include the Suttons Beach Pavilion Redevelopment, ongoing works at Youngs Crossing, and the start of construction on the Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre and the Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital. But bricks and mortar are only part of the picture. Council will also continue pushing for state and federal investment in projects like a Bruce Highway Western Alternative, improved east–west connections, open level crossing treatments and better public transport to prevent future congestion. 

Tackling homelessness also remains a key priority. Council has waived infrastructure charges and development fees in 15 suburbs to support social and affordable housing, helping deliver 82 new homes in Redcliffe and kick-starting a major affordable housing project for women over 55 in Mango Hill. Long-term peppercorn leases granted to community housing providers are also unlocking more opportunities to house those in need. 

“As the level of government closest to the people, we see first-hand the impact homelessness is having in our city,” Mayor Flannery said. “Council is committed to ending homelessness. 

“City of Moreton Bay continues to work closely with frontline services, housing providers, community groups and all levels of government to deliver immediate and practical support for our vulnerable residents. 

Council also partnered with the state government to deliver the Peninsula Support Hub in Redcliffe. The purpose-built facility is now home to The Breakfast Club and The Salvation Army, offering case management, housing referrals, meal services, laundry and shower facilities and social connection for the community. 

With cost-of-living pressures also still biting, Mayor Flannery said council was doing what it could to ease the load. 

“We are conscious of the cost-of-living pressures impacting residents in City of Moreton Bay and we are proud to maintain one of the lowest rates in Southeast Queensland,” he said. “We’ll continue to lead the way as the only SEQ council to offer discounts for self-funded retirees. City of Moreton Bay also has one of the lowest waste charges in SEQ, continuing to offer free tipping for eligible residents. 

“Council places a strong emphasis on running as efficiently, and financially sound, as possible and our next budget will be handed down in June.” 

Families will also see plenty to smile about in 2026. A refreshed calendar of free and low-cost events is rolling out across the city, with favourites like Hills Carnivale and Moreton Bay Kids Fest returning bigger and better. New events, including Grooving in the Green and Taste the Bay, will bring fresh energy to local suburbs, complementing the city’s galleries, museums, libraries and parks. 

The city’s profile has also risen on the international stage. The announcement that the Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre would serve as a key venue for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games placed the region firmly in the spotlight. And with 2032 drawing even closer, Mayor Flannery said the city was gearing up for its Olympic role.  

“Council is committed to working closely with the state and other stakeholders to deliver a lasting Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy for SEQ. We are excited by the opportunity to play a key role as a Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games event city with our new Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre,” Mayor Flannery said, noting that improved transport links, including a Bruce Highway Western Alternative and additional river crossings, will be critical, not just for the Games but for generations to come.