Parking Changes. How’s It Going?
Last month, changes were introduced at the Moores Road car park at Weinam Creek as part of ongoing improvements around the ferry precinct. Now that everyone has had a chance to experience the new arrangements, we want to hear from you.
Has finding a park become easier? Are the new time limits working? Have the changes created challenges for those who regularly travel to and from the islands?
The changes saw previously unrestricted parking spaces moved into new timed parking zones, including a mix of seven day and three day parking, while vehicle and boat trailer parking limits were also adjusted.
Council says the changes are designed to improve parking turnover and availability, particularly during busy commuter periods, while longer term parking solutions for the Weinam Creek precinct continue to be developed.
But, as always, the real story comes from the people who use the car park every day. So, we want to know; how has your parking experience been since the changes? Have they made life easier? Have they created new frustrations? Are there things you think could be improved?
Send us your thoughts and experiences; because community conversations are what help shape the places we call home. Email cindy@silentriotcollective.com.au.
Psst… The Street Smarts Have Arrived
There’s no shortage of things young people are expected to figure out on the fly; money, work, relationships, safety and all the messy bits in between. Enter the Streetsmart Handbook, a practical guide packed with the stuff nobody thinks to teach you until you suddenly need to know it.
Designed for teens and young adults, it covers everything from life admin and legal rights to health, wellbeing and making smart choices. Think less boring lecture, more “here’s the stuff that actually matters.” Copies are shared through schools and youth organisations, or you can check it out online at www.smarthandbooks.com.au.
E-Bikes, E-Scooters and the Island Speed Debate
Queensland’s new e-bike and e-scooter rules have arrived, putting the brakes on what some are calling the “electric wild west”. The biggest changes? Legal e-bikes must now cut motor assistance once they hit 25km/h, and e-scooters and personal mobility devices must not exceed that same speed limit.
Riders also need to slow their roll in shared spaces, with a 12km/h limit on footpaths and when passing pedestrians on shared paths. And here’s the one that might surprise a few people; having a few drinks before riding home is now a definite no go. Police can conduct random breath tests, with the same 0.05 blood alcohol limit applying to e-bike and e-scooter riders.
The crackdown is also aimed at the high powered, modified machines that look more like electric motorbikes than bicycles, with authorities targeting devices that don’t meet safety requirements.
The government says the changes are about keeping everyone safe. But around the islands, the debate is already charging up. For many residents, an e-bike isn’t a toy, it’s transport. It’s the run to the ferry, the trip to the shops, the visit to a neighbour or a way to stay active without jumping in the car. The question being asked over island coffee tables is will these new rules target the reckless few, or make life harder for the responsible majority?
The Island Party Needs You
The Bay Islands Fusion Festival (BIFF) is coming to the Bay Islands Sport & Resilience Hub on Russell Island later in the year. It’s a celebration of live music, culture, art, food, stories and the wonderfully mixed bunch of people who call these islands home.
But here’s the catch; community magic doesn’t arrive by itself. It’s built one small contribution at a time. A poster in a shop window. A tradie lending a hand. A business donating a prize. Someone offering a skill, equipment, time, or simply turning up with friends and family to enjoy the day.
The BIFF team is calling on local businesses, tradespeople and residents to be part of creating an event that belongs to everyone. Because the best community events aren’t delivered to a community, they’re created by one.
So, who’s in? Whether you can contribute financially, a few hours, a service, a helping hand or just your smiling face on the day, your piece of the puzzle matters. When people look back on BIFF 2026, wouldn’t it be great to say: “Yep, I helped make that happen.” To get involved, contact Ros on 0403 815 863.
And while we’re talking about events, don’t forget the Straddie Arts Trail, happening from 13–16 August. With artists opening their studios and creative spaces across the island, it’s a wonderful chance to explore, connect and celebrate the incredible talent that calls Straddie home. Check out www.iamstraddie.com.au for further info.
Words Take Centre Stage on Macleay
Writers, poets, songwriters and storytellers, this one is for you.
The Macleay Island Inspirational Writers Group is inviting our creative community to come together on Saturday 22nd August for an afternoon celebrating the written and spoken word.
Whether you have a published book to share, a poem to read, a chapter to perform, or an original song to sing, the group is encouraging local creatives to step forward and showcase their work.
It’s a chance to connect with fellow artists, share ideas and celebrate the many creative talents that exist within our community.
Refreshments provided, including non alcoholic wines and finger food, with 8th Sense Cafe across the road open for coffee and gelato.
Saturday 22nd August, 1pm to 4pm at the Macleay Island Progress Hall. For further information, contact Robbie on 0404 719 929 or Margaret on 0407 117 046.
