What’s Happening?
Redland City Council has received recognition for the Redland Performing Arts Centre forecourt redevelopment, which has won a Queensland award.
The project was named the 2026 Queensland winner of the Community Based Initiative of the Year at the Parks & Leisure Australia Queensland Awards of Excellence. The awards recognise initiatives that show the positive impact parks, public spaces and leisure facilities can have on communities.
Why It Matters
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the award recognised the vision and collaboration behind the redevelopment.
“The RPAC forecourt redevelopment has transformed the area into a more welcoming, accessible, inclusive and flexible community space,” Cr Talty said.
She said the revitalised civic space gives people an area to gather and connect before performances.
“Increased use of the area also highlights the impact of thoughtful design on wellbeing and liveability for the Redlands Coast community.”
Local Impact
Council said the redevelopment has increased community use while also improving the forecourt’s capacity to support events.
Portfolio representative for Economic Development Councillor Peter Mitchell said investment in the space was supporting increased visitation and activity in the local area.
“This is a great example of how targeted investment in public spaces can support local visitation, activity and economic growth.”
By The Numbers
- 30% is the increase in community use recorded following the forecourt redevelopment.
- $1,867,197 in Australian Government funding supported the project through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
- December 2026 is when the project will compete at the Parks & Leisure Australia National Awards of Excellence.
Zoom In
The redevelopment focused on creating a forecourt that is welcoming, accessible, inclusive and flexible. The revitalised space also provides an area where people can gather before performances.
Portfolio representative for Arts, Culture and Heritage Councillor Paul Bishop said users were already activating the space in innovative ways.
“This award from PLA demonstrates the value of a community-focused approach, and recognises RPAC’s project among the leading parks, leisure and community initiatives across Queensland,” Cr Bishop said. “Our community can be rightly proud of Redland’s centre for the performing arts.”
Zoom Out
The Parks & Leisure Australia Queensland Awards of Excellence celebrate initiatives involving parks, public spaces and leisure facilities. The awards recognise projects that deliver meaningful benefits to communities.
The Redland Performing Arts Centre forecourt redevelopment received Queensland recognition in the Community Based Initiative of the Year category.
What To Look For Next?
The project will now progress to the 2026 Parks & Leisure Australia National Awards of Excellence in December, where it will be considered alongside regional winners from across Australia.
