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Suttons Beach Pavilion Redevelopment Progresses in Redcliffe

A major redevelopment project in Redcliffe is progressing under the City of Moreton Bay’s 2025–26 budget, with $14.5 million allocated to upgrade the Suttons Beach Pavilion.

Pavilion History and Project Origins

Suttons Beach Park has long served as a community hub on the Redcliffe foreshore. In late 2023, City of Moreton Bay initiated a national design competition to shape a new vision for the area. Lahznimmo Architects, in collaboration with Plummer & Smith, was selected to deliver a refreshed, accessible pavilion precinct, following demolition works and community consultation.

Redevelopment Scope and Funding

The redevelopment of the Suttons Beach Pavilion is backed by $14.5 million in funding spread across two years. The project includes multiple hospitality venues, public amenities, rooftop and event spaces, and improved accessibility throughout the site. The City of Moreton Bay is co-funding the project in partnership with the SEQ City Deal Liveability Fund. A development application was lodged in December 2024, and construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025.

City of Moreton Bay budget — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

Infrastructure Rollout Includes Redcliffe Upgrades

While some allocations are city-wide, several infrastructure and service improvements include direct benefits to Redcliffe and surrounding Division 6 suburbs. Works planned for Redcliffe and surrounding suburbs cover a separated cycle path along the Woody Point foreshore, new shelter and amenity upgrades at Margate Beach Park, and seawall replacements at both Charlish Park and Crockatt Park. Drainage upgrades are also scheduled for the Cox Street catchment in Margate.

Project Timing and Contractors

Design development began in mid-2024 and remains ongoing, with refinements focused on structural elements, civil works, stormwater considerations and materials. Council called for tenders from food and beverage providers in May 2025. The tender process for the building contractor closed on 21 May 2025.

Suttons Beach Pavilion — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

Funding Support and Broader Budget Context

The broader 2025–26 budget, adopted on 13 June 2025, marks Moreton Bay’s first $1 billion budget. The capital works program, valued near $400 million, supports population growth and infrastructure demands across the region. Redcliffe’s pavilion project is included in this rollout, with funding contributions from both council and external government programs, including the SEQ City Deal.

Next Steps

Progress continues on the Suttons Beach Pavilion redevelopment in Redcliffe, with design refinement underway and construction anticipated to begin in late 2025. The upgrade forms part of a wider effort to support growing coastal communities in Moreton Bay through infrastructure renewal and amenity enhancements.

Published 18-June-2025

Humpybong State School in Margate Secures Funding for New Bus Shelter

Humpybong State School in Maragate is set to receive significant funding for a new bus shelter area, marking a crucial step in a state-wide effort to enhance student safety on Queensland roads.

The State Government announced that Humpybong State School will benefit from an $86,000 allocation as part of a $2.3 million investment across 21 new projects at Queensland schools. This funding, channelled through the School Transport Infrastructure Program, was confirmed this week.

Enhanced Safety Measures for Students

The primary aim of the funding is to create safer environments for students travelling to and from school. The new bus shelter at Humpybong State School directly addresses a specific local need, providing a dedicated and safer waiting area for students. State Member for Redcliffe, Kerri-Anne Dooley, expressed strong support for the funding, stating that it ensures student safety remains a top priority for those attending Humpybong State School.

Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek reinforced the government’s commitment to making children as safe as possible during their school commutes. The broader program is designed to deliver immediate safety and operational improvements to schools across the State.

Broader Road Safety Initiatives

Beyond specific school infrastructure, the initiative includes a significant expansion of the Flashing School Zone Signs Program. An additional 100 sites across Queensland are scheduled to have flashing school zone signs installed this year. These signs are considered a proven and effective measure to remind motorists to reduce speed and be vigilant for children, who are recognised as among the most vulnerable road users.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg stated that the government continues to work diligently on long-term solutions for school road safety issues across Queensland. He highlighted that this investment into school road safety complements other existing initiatives such as the School Crossing Supervisors Scheme and Community Road Safety Grants, forming a comprehensive approach to child road safety.

Government’s Focus on Infrastructure

The Crisafulli Government has indicated a strong focus on improving road infrastructure for Queenslanders, particularly in regional areas, contrasting its efforts with the previous administration’s handling of road maintenance.

Ministers emphasised that these investments around schools underline the government’s seriousness regarding the safety of school children, their families, and school crossing supervisors. The School Transport Infrastructure Program, alongside supervised school crossings, is seen as crucial in making the journey to and from school as secure as possible.

Minister Langbroek underscored that everyone shares a responsibility in ensuring child safety in and around schools, noting that these projects are one of several ways the Crisafulli Government is working to improve road safety for school children across Queensland.

Published Date 17-Jun-2025

Rare Seal Delights Redcliffe, Prompts Local Wildlife Awareness

Photo Credit: iLicence Brisbane/ Instagram

Newport recently played host to an unexpected and charming visitor: a seal, whose presence immediately captivated locals and initiated important discussions about respecting and protecting marine life in our coastal communities.

Staff from iLicence, a local business specialising in boat and jet ski training, captured footage of the seal near a pontoon at a waterfront residence in Newport.

While not an everyday occurrence, seals are occasionally observed in Queensland’s waters, particularly when the weather turns cooler. Our waters have seen various species, including the Subantarctic fur seal, New Zealand fur seal, Australian fur seal, and even the formidable Leopard seal.

A Welcome, Yet Vulnerable, Guest

The social media post sharing the seal’s visit quickly garnered attention, with many residents expressing their delight at the rare sight. Some community members even recalled similar sightings around this time of year in the past.

However, a closer look at the footage revealed what appeared to be marks consistent with a shark encounter, a sobering reminder of the natural perils these animals face in their habitat. Thankfully, Sea World teams are understood to have attended to and retrieved the seal on Friday, ensuring its welfare.

Redcliffe’s Growing Connection to Marine Wanderers

This recent encounter adds to a series of fascinating seal visits along the Queensland coast, underlining the region’s increasing significance as a temporary home for these ocean travellers. Just last year, a young long-nosed seal made headlines when it became disoriented and entered Lake Orr on the Gold Coast.

Despite the lake being known for bull sharks and located kilometres inland from the ocean, the resilient creature survived for several weeks before Sea World experts successfully intervened and guided it back to its natural environment. Closer to home, in 2018, a juvenile seal was observed resting peacefully on the foreshore near Redcliffe’s Settlement Cove Lagoon, suggesting a periodic attraction to our local shores.

Embracing Our Role in Coastal Conservation

These delightful, yet occasional, visits reinforce the community’s shared responsibility towards wildlife conservation. It’s crucial for everyone to remember the guidelines established under the Nature Conservation Act, which mandates a safe distance of 40 metres from any seal found on land.

Disregarding this rule can lead to substantial fines, reaching up to $17,250. The message is clear: observe these incredible animals from a respectful distance. Should any member of the public encounter a seal that appears unwell or injured, the Department of Environment and Science (DES) Hotline is the correct point of contact at 1300 130 372 for professional assistance.

Published Date 17-June-2025

Australian Supercross Championship Returns to Redcliffe for 2025 Season Opener

Photo Credit: AUSX Supercross Championship

Redcliffe will host the opening rounds of the 2025 Australian Supercross Championship, marking the return of the event to Kayo Stadium for a second year.

Event Secured Until 2027

Redcliffe will again feature as the Queensland venue for the Australian Supercross Championship, as Kayo Stadium prepares to host a double-header season opener in October 2025. The event will span two days and marks the beginning of a three-year partnership between the championship organisers and Moreton Bay City Council, locking in the region as a key host through to 2027.

AUSX 2025 — *Photo Credit: AUSX Supercross Championship*

Successful 2024 Round Prompted Return

The 2024 round in Redcliffe drew a sell-out crowd and led to the decision to expand the event to two consecutive rounds for 2025. This follows strong community attendance and growing demand for Supercross in the Moreton Bay area. Both championship and freestyle elements are returning, with the venue set to welcome national and international riders once more.

Full Weekend Schedule at Kayo Stadium

Competition will be held across 11 and 12 October. On Saturday, racing activities begin at 12:00 p.m. with pit access, followed by VIP entry and early shows in the afternoon. Main gates open at 5:00 p.m., with the Main Event starting at 6:00 p.m. Sunday’s second round will follow a similar format, with activities beginning from 10:00 a.m. and the Main Event scheduled for a 3:00 p.m. start.

Classes include SX1, SX2, SX3, and the 85 Cup. Riders from Australia, the United States, Europe, and New Zealand are expected to compete, including returning AUSX champions and a field of emerging international talent.

Supercross Redcliffe — *Photo Credit: AUSX Supercross Championship*

Fan Engagement and Entertainment

The weekend will feature more than on-track racing. Entertainment offerings include live music, food trucks, partner activations, and a dedicated Fan Fest with rider signings and sponsor giveaways. Freestyle motocross shows will run alongside the championship heats, delivering aerial stunt displays between races.

Ticket options range from general admission to VIP packages and corporate suites. Children under three can attend free with a paying adult. All tickets include access to the Fan Fest and other entertainment zones.

*Photo Credit: AUSX Supercross Championship*

Strategic Regional Partnership

Council support for the event is part of a broader strategy to reinforce Redcliffe’s place on the national sporting calendar. The three-year agreement reflects confidence in the economic and cultural value the event brings to the region.

Further announcements regarding participating riders and additional entertainment will be made in the lead-up to the October weekend.

Published 17-June-2025

Historic Hotel ‘The Belvedere’ in Woody Point Transforms, Kicks Off Month-Long Mexican Fiesta

Photo Credit: The Belvedere/ Instagram

The Belvedere, a beloved 124-year-old landmark in Woody Point, has undergone a major upgrade, now attracting locals and visitors alike with its exciting new look and a vibrant, month-long Mexican Fiesta.

A New Era for a Waterfront Icon

The Belvedere, first established as a hotel in 1901, has recently completed significant renovations, turning it into a dynamic destination for the community.

The updated venue offers stunning views of Bramble Bay from its dining decks and aims to provide a modern, exciting experience for all who visit. Its relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it suitable for special events, family meals, and casual gatherings.

June Brings a Taste of Mexico

Throughout the entire month of June, The Belvedere is hosting a lively Mexican Fiesta. This event is packed with activities and food, promising a fun experience for everyone.

For those looking for a bargain, a Mexican Happy Hour is held every Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Free tacos are available on Tuesday, 10 June, with the purchase of a jug of margarita, while Wednesday, 11 June, features $15 enchiladas.

*Photo Credit:* *The Belvedere/ Instagram*

Special events include a tequila masterclass on Thursday, June 12, offering a chance to learn more about the popular spirit. A vibrant Day of the Dead Party will kick off from 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, 14 June, and live mariachi bands will perform from 2:00 p.m. on both Saturday, 14 June, and Sunday, 15 June, adding to the festive atmosphere.

For those seeking a larger experience, bottomless sessions are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. For $110, guests can enjoy two hours of unlimited margaritas, wines, tap beers, soft drinks, and cocktails, alongside as many tacos, hot chips, corn chips and guacamole, and churros as they desire.

More Than Just an Event Venue

Beyond the special events, The Belvedere continues to be a central part of the Woody Point community, offering a diverse menu that includes dishes like lobster, seafood platters, and steaks.

Al’s Pizzeria, located within the hotel, serves delicious Italian wood-fired pizzas. The venue also features outdoor seating, live music, and dog-friendly areas, ensuring there’s something for everyone. It provides free parking, is wheelchair accessible, and is noted as a good place for groups and for watching sports.

Numerous patrons have shared positive experiences, describing the hotel as a place with gorgeous views and an awesome atmosphere. Many have praised the food, noting it is always flavourful and perfectly cooked, with drinks consistently superb and fresh. Staff are frequently commended for being friendly and ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

Visitors have commented that the place gets better with age, highlighting the success of the recent upgrades in providing quality entertainment, great food, and a wide selection of beverages for all tastes, including those with special dietary needs. One guest even chose The Belvedere for their wedding reception because it welcomed their dog, finding the food delicious and the staff lovely and helpful.

Published Date 13-Jun-2025

Redcliffe Residents Fume Over ‘Parked’ Boats in Jabiru Canal

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay

Authorities are currently investigating concerns raised by homeowners in Redcliffe’s Jabiru Canal, where numerous boats are reportedly being left for weeks or even months, causing frustration and damage for waterfront residents.

Residents living along the canal, which is bordered by homes and shops at Newport Marketplace, have reported a growing number of vessels being abandoned. In one incident, a boat slipped its anchor and collided with a homeowner’s vessel, which was moored to a pontoon, resulting in thousands of dollars in damage.

The resident involved found that the “abandoned” boat was uninsured, making it impossible to claim for repairs. There are also claims that rubbish has been discarded into the water and onto canal banks from some of these lingering boats.

Community Concerns Mount

Jabiru Canal — *Photo Credit:* *Moreton Bay*

Many residents have expressed their strong dissatisfaction with the situation. One member of a local private social media group shared that they were “sick of looking” at the boats in their canal, questioning why they are permitted to stay for such long periods. Another resident highlighted that they pay to live in the area, unlike those living on boats, and noted that some vessels are anchored very close to homes.

Comments from the community also indicated concerns about boats constantly drifting and damaging other vessels, with the added problem of uninsured owners being unable to cover the cost of repairs.

Council’s Stance and Legal Framework

A spokesperson for Council stated that vessels are only allowed to be moored in canals within the local government area under specific conditions, such as during an emergency or when a contractor employed by Council is conducting maintenance work. If an offence is confirmed, enforcement action can be taken, which may include issuing notices, fines, or potentially Council removing the vessel.

Council’s spokesperson noted that the legislative framework for mooring in canals in the region is provided by the Community Standards for Public Land and Roads Local Law 2023. For any instances where a vessel breaks free from its anchorage or mooring, residents are advised to contact Vessel Traffic Services at 3258 4888 or Water Police at 3895 0333.

Published Date 11-Jun-2025

Dolphins Make History with Record-Breaking Win Over Dragons

Dolphins fans were treated to a performance to remember on Friday night as the Dolphins crushed the St George Illawarra Dragons 56–6 at Suncorp Stadium — their biggest win in club history and the first time they’ve ever posted 50+ points in a match.

Fast, Ferocious, and Unrelenting

Despite conceding an early penalty goal, the Dolphins wasted no time taking control. Herbie Farnworth opened the floodgates, followed by a clinical finish from Jamayne Isaako, who then nailed the conversion. Kodi Nikorima and Connelly Lemuelu added to the onslaught, with Lemuelu scoring shortly after coming off the bench. Jack Bostock soared above the pack to add another spectacular try, sending the Dolphins into the sheds with a commanding 28–2 lead at halftime.

No Let-Up in the Second Half

The second half saw more of the same — intensity, speed, and clinical execution. Lemuelu bagged his second, Isaako crossed again, and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, true to form, tore through the Dragons’ edge defence for a double. Farnworth sealed the night with his second, taking the total to 10 tries.

Standout Performers

Isaiya Katoa: A commanding presence in the halves with two try assists, three offloads, a line break assist, and a pinpoint 40/20 kick.
Jamayne Isaako: Amassed 24 points with two tries and eight conversions — flawless from the tee.
Connelly Lemuelu: Made a major impact off the bench with two well-earned tries.
Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow: Continued to light up the backline with two blistering tries of his own.

Dragons Stumble in Suncorp Swirl

The Dragons struggled to find rhythm from the outset and were further disrupted by an early injury to winger Christian Tuipulotu, who limped off with a hamstring issue. Their lone bright spot came in the 64th minute when Sione Finau crossed for a consolation try — but it was far too late to shift the momentum.

Where It Leaves the Dolphins

The victory not only restores the Dolphins’ win–loss tally to 6–7, but it also catapults them into the NRL top eight. It’s a major psychological boost and a clear signal to the rest of the competition: this side is no longer building — they’re arriving.

Published 7-June-2025

Dolphins Charge Back to Suncorp for Crucial Clash with Dragons

Dolphins fans will have plenty to look forward to on Friday night as their team take on the St George Illawarra Dragons in a must-win match for both sides. With just two competition points separating them, this Round 14 showdown could catapult the Dolphins into the top eight — a significant milestone in their push for finals footy.

Flying High After Belting the Bulldogs

The Dolphins roll into this game on the back of their most emphatic performance of the season — a stunning 44-8 win over the Bulldogs in Sydney. Missing key playmakers due to Origin duties and injury, the side delivered a ruthless display that showcased depth, unity, and serious attacking strike power.

Jamayne Isaako led the charge, racking up 20 points from a try and eight conversions, pushing his season tally past the century mark. Herbie Farnworth added another try to continue his six-game streak, while Jack Bostock and Harrison Graham also crossed in a match where nearly everything stuck. Kurt Donoghoe, who returned bravely from a nasty head knock, sealed the deal with a gutsy final try.

It was a statement win — not just for the scoreboard, but for belief.

Dragons Digging In — But History’s Against Them at Suncorp

The Dragons have also found some mid-season form, notching up back-to-back wins including a solid 20-6 victory over the Knights last weekend. However, their track record at Suncorp tells another story, just two wins from their last ten visits suggests this ground hasn’t been kind to them.

St George Illawarra will also be without hard-hitting second-rower Jaydn Su’a, ruled out with an ankle injury. Luciano Leilua will start in his place, while Christian Tuipulotu returns to the wing. Coach Shane Flanagan has managed to steady the ship in recent weeks, but the Redcliffe faithful know Suncorp is a different beast.

Match-Ups That Could Swing It

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (Dolphins): The Hammer has an outstanding record against the Dragons, notching four tries in just two games. Backed by his trademark speed, he’ll be a danger every time he touches the ball.

Isaiya Katoa (Dolphins): The young playmaker continues to grow in confidence, with smart kicking and crisp passing key to unlocking defences. He’ll play a crucial role in controlling the tempo.

Ben Hunt (Dragons): The former Broncos halfback has the ability to turn a match on its head. With his kicking game and experience, the Dolphins can’t afford to give him time or space.

Points Scored: Dolphins 44, Bulldogs 8
Tries: 7 total — scored by Isaako, Farnworth, Bostock, Graham, Donoghoe, and more
Tackle Efficiency: Strong across the board, with limited missed tackles despite personnel changes
Completion Rate: High, reflecting discipline and focus under pressure

The Road Ahead

With Origin selections affecting line-ups and the competition ladder tightening, every match now carries extra weight. A win for the Dolphins at home would reaffirm their finals credentials.

Kristian Woolf’s men are beginning to find their rhythm, and if they can repeat their clinical showing from Round 12, they’ll be hard to stop.

For Redcliffe fans, Friday night isn’t just another round. It’s a chance to watch their team step up, right here in Queensland heartland.

Published 5-June-2025

Reconnect 2025 Brings Housing Support Services to Redcliffe

Photo Credit: Reconnect MBR/Facebook

Redcliffe will host a free community event aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness or housing distress through access to local services and resources.

Annual Initiative Targets Homelessness

Reconnect 2025, a homelessness support event coordinated by the Moreton Bay Housing and Homelessness Network, will take place at the Redcliffe Hockey Fields on Thursday, 12 June from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event is open to all individuals and families facing housing insecurity in the Moreton Bay region.

Redcliffe homelessness services booth — *Photo Credit: Reconnect MBR/Facebook*

Broad Range of Services On-Site

More than 30 organisations, including government, non-government, business, community, and volunteer groups, are expected to attend. These providers will offer free information, referrals, and resources related to housing, health, family services, and emergency relief.

Attendees will have access to a range of free services such as health checks, vaccines, haircuts, food, coffee, toiletries, clothing, and bedding supplies. A barbecue and live music are also planned as part of the event’s program.

Moreton Bay Housing and Homelessness Network — *Photo Credit: Reconnect MBR/Facebook*

Growing Demand for Support in the Region

Encircle Community Services, a major event partner, reports growing demand for outreach support. Its Homeless Outreach Access Team is currently working with 396 client groups, while 866 more await assistance. Nearly half of those waiting are female. The team conducts regular joint outreach with the Department of Housing’s Critical Response Team and independent outreach in known hotspots across the region.

Opportunity for Service Provider Collaboration

Reconnect 2025 also serves as a networking platform for service providers to strengthen their understanding of the regional support landscape. The event helps providers identify referral pathways and improve coordination in responding to homelessness and housing-related challenges.

Event Supported by Community and Government Stakeholders

The event is backed by Encircle Community Services, City of Moreton Bay, Workforce Australia, Redcliffe Hockey Club, and The Breakfast Club Redcliffe. It is also supported by the Queensland Government.

Published 5-June-2025

Redcliffe Joins Expanded DFV Response with Specialised Police Team

Photo Credit: QPS

The Serious Crime Investigation Team, a new police unit in Redcliffe, has been formed, with a mission to work with high-risk victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.

Targeted Police Response Expands in Redcliffe

The Moreton District Domestic Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit has launched a new investigative team to improve its handling of domestic and family violence (DFV) cases in Redcliffe and surrounding suburbs. The Serious Crime Investigation Team (SCIT) began operating in January 2025 as part of reforms following the Commission of Inquiry into the Queensland Police Service’s (QPS) DFV response.

Background of the New Initiative

The creation of SCIT was a direct response to the findings of the Commission of Inquiry, which recommended structural changes to the way QPS approaches DFV. The unit is housed within the Moreton District and works closely with other specialist teams and community-based services.

*Photo Credit: my Police Moreton/Facebook*

Role and Focus of SCIT

SCIT detectives are trained to work with high-risk victim-survivors of DFV, aiming to improve trust and engagement through consistent, tailored interactions. Their role includes identifying barriers that may prevent individuals from contacting police and offering more personalised support. The team also targets repeat offenders, prioritising early legal intervention to prevent further harm.

The approach taken by SCIT includes addressing various forms of DFV beyond physical abuse—such as coercive control, financial pressure, and psychological manipulation—through holistic investigations and long-term monitoring.

Community Support in Redcliffe

The QPS presence at the Moreton Bay Says No to Violence march in Redcliffe on 30 May 2025 reflected broader community backing for DFV prevention efforts. The event included participation from local schools, service organisations, and government agencies.

The QPS Mounted Police Unit and the Pipes & Drums led the march, underlining police commitment to public engagement alongside operational reforms.

Collaborative Response Needed

While SCIT represents a significant shift in policing practice, QPS continues to emphasise that reducing DFV requires collective effort from the broader community. Authorities stress the importance of reporting and early intervention, supported by partnerships with external agencies and dedicated helplines.

What’s Next?

The introduction of SCIT marks a shift toward more victim-focused DFV policing in Redcliffe, aligning with wider reforms and public outreach initiatives. Ongoing community cooperation and sustained engagement are viewed as essential to the success of the district’s response.

Published 4-June-2025