Redland City’s story begins long before European arrival. The Jagera Turrbal and Quandamooka peoples were the original custodians. Their presence is still felt in place names and historic sites like the bora ring at Mount Cotton. Redland City a sprawling coastal region on Moreton Bay’s southern shores. It’s a place of contrasts. Suburban sprawl meets untouched bushland. Islands dot the horizon.
The city’s name comes from Redland Bay. Its fertile soil a deep rich red colour. Cleveland a coastal town almost became a major port rivaling Brisbane. Sandbars and shipwrecks ultimately thwarted those ambitions. Governor George Gipps’ unfavourable 1842 review sealed Cleveland’s fate. Local landowners like Louis Hope invested in infrastructure.
The area’s governance evolved. The Tingalpa Division was formed in 1879. The Cleveland Division followed in 1885. Both became shires in 1903. The 1948 reorganization saw the Shire of Cleveland become the Shire of Redland. Parts of the Shire of Tingalpa joined it.
Redland City’s growth accelerated in the 20th century. The Cleveland railway line fueled population increases. Peel Island became a leper colony. North Stradbroke Island a sand mining hub. It’s also linked to the Indigenous rights movement through Oodgeroo Noonuccal and Aileen Moreton-Robinson. Redland City officially attained city status in March 2008.
North Stradbroke Island a world’s largest sand islands. It’s been a site of sand mining since 1949. The story of this mining is complex. A 17 year phase-out was announced in 2010. Mining continued longer thanks to lease extensions and legislative amendments. The Quandamooka people challenged these extensions. Sand mining on North Stradbroke finally ended in 2019.
Redland City boasts a diverse economy. Health care retail trade education and tourism are key sectors. Sand mining played a significant role until its phase-out. Construction also contributes significantly to the economy. The city’s population continues to grow. In 2021 it had over 159 000 residents.
The city’s rich cultural heritage is showcased in several institutions. The Redland Art Gallery and Redland Museum highlight local art and history. The Redland Performing Arts Centre offers entertainment. Numerous heritage-listed sites tell stories of the past. Cleveland’s Point Light Old Police Station and Pioneer Cemetery all have their tales to tell. So does Ormiston House and the industrial ruins on Macleay Island.
Redland City is a place where natural beauty meets human history. A place of contrasts and unexpected discoveries. The past and present intertwine creating a vibrant community. From its indigenous roots to its modern growth this city has a unique narrative. A story still being written.