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Woody Point Anglers Target Tuna, Whiting This July

Anglers in Woody Point are reporting productive catches this July, with diver whiting, mac tuna, and flathead proving active in the surrounding Moreton Bay waters.

Inshore Species Active in Local Waters

Diver whiting continue to be a reliable catch in Moreton Bay’s western areas, with Cockle Banks near Scarborough and waters off the Redcliffe Peninsula yielding steady numbers. Commonly referred to as winter whiting, these fish are caught year-round but appear in greater numbers during winter. Bloodworms and squid strips remain effective bait, with drifting techniques used to locate active schools. A possession limit of 50 per person applies, with no minimum size.

Snapper are still present on inshore reefs around Redcliffe following rainfall from previous months. Clear water conditions make nighttime fishing preferable, although soft plastics are also effective during the day. A seasonal closure for snapper and pearl perch applies from 15 July to 15 August across Queensland tidal waters.

Tuna Sightings Near Woody Point Jetty

Pelagic species, particularly mac tuna and longtail tuna, are visible across the bay, especially where bait fish are present. These species are being caught by anglers casting metal slugs into surface feeding schools, with caution advised to prevent spooking. Mac tuna have been regularly landed from land-based locations, including Woody Point Jetty and Shorncliffe Pier, marking a strong season so far.

Land-Based Fishing Options Expand

Flathead, tailor and bream remain key targets for estuary and shoreline anglers. The Pine River, Hays Inlet, and the Ted Smout Memorial Bridge fishing platform are reliable locations. Flathead are responding to both live bait and artificial lures, while bream are active during evening high tides. Tailor activity has increased around Redcliffe, with yellowtail pike caught near jetties being used as effective bait.

Tiger squid are also in season, with land-based night fishers advised to carry squid jigs. Redcliffe is noted as one of the best locations to target squid during July, with the species’ colour-changing ability attributed to skin chromatophores.

Moreton Bay fishing — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Offshore and Surf Conditions

On Moreton Island’s surf beaches, bream, tarwhine and swallowtail dart are common, particularly in deeper gutters with active whitewash. Dart respond well to yabbies, eugaries, prawns and worms. Sinkers should be adjusted based on surf conditions to improve bait presentation.

Tailor are appearing in higher numbers along the surf, driven by their northern spawning migration. Bonito and garfish baits used at night yield larger specimens. Pilchards and metal lures are also effective during daylight. Offshore fishing must shift away from snapper and pearl perch due to the month-long closure. Other available reef species include teraglin, venus tuskfish and silver trevally.

Looking Ahead

Fishing conditions in and around Woody Point remain favourable this July, with various species available across inshore, estuary and surf areas. Anglers are reminded of seasonal closures and encouraged to adjust techniques based on water clarity, bait movement and time of day.

Published 10-July-2025

Education Department’s Stance on Emergency Leave Upheld in Redcliffe Case

A Redcliffe special school teacher has been unsuccessful in her bid to reclaim long-service leave days used during a forced school closure, after a ruling highlighted a complex and debated area of emergency leave entitlements of employees during natural disasters.

Leave Dispute Following Cyclone Closure

emergency leave — *Photo Credit: Climate Council*

The issue arose when experienced teacher Eugenia Ollenburg, who was on pre-approved long service leave at half pay, sought to have three of her leave days reclassified as special paid leave. This was for the period when Redcliffe Special School was shut down due to Cyclone Alfred. The school was closed on March 6, 7, and 10. Ms Ollenburg argued she should not have to use her personal leave for days when all staff were instructed not to come to work.

Commission Upholds Department’s Decision

The matter was taken to the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission after Ms Ollenburg was denied special leave and a subsequent internal review by the Education Department upheld the decision. In dismissing the appeal, Industrial Commissioner Peter O’Neill found that the department had acted fairly.

The commission heard that Ms Ollenburg’s colleagues who were scheduled to work on the closure days were granted special leave because they had been expected to attend work. However, the commissioner noted that there was never an expectation for Ms Ollenburg to be at work during that time, as she was already on an extended period of approved leave. The judgment stated that employees not rostered to work during such closures were not directed to access the discretionary special leave.

Calls for Clearer Guidelines

Throughout the process, Ms Ollenburg maintained that the government’s leave regulations did not adequately explain what happens when a workplace unexpectedly closes while an employee is already on approved leave. She described the process as confusing and unclear, stating to the court registry that she did not know what steps to take or who to ask for guidance.

Emails from the Education Department, which were presented in the ruling, showed that Ms Ollenburg had been informed that pre-approved leave could not be changed to special leave, even during emergencies. A human resources adviser had written that such discretionary leave is not an automatic right. The commission found the internal review had correctly concluded that her long service leave remained valid and she had no entitlement to access the other leave type in her circumstances.

Published Date 06-July-2025

Redcliffe Tigers Focus on Squad Development for 2026 Wheelchair AFL Season

Photo Credit: Redcliffe Tigers

The Redcliffe Tigers’ wheelchair AFL team is focusing on strengthening its squad for next season, as finals prospects in the current Queensland Wheelchair Football League appear unlikely.

Tigers’ Recent Performance and Remaining Fixtures

The Redcliffe Tigers wheelchair team, currently fourth on the ladder, have three matches left in the Queensland Wheelchair Football League. Recent home matches at Grace Lutheran College saw losses to Morningside and Mt Gravatt.

The team’s remaining fixtures are against Beenleigh Buffaloes and Ormeau Bulldogs at Marsden State High School, followed by a final match against Mt Gravatt Vultures at Hibiscus Sports Complex.

Background on Redcliffe’s Wheelchair AFL Journey

Redcliffe Tigers entered the inaugural AFLQ Wheelchair League in 2023, finishing as runners-up. In 2024, the team returned to the grand final and secured the premiership. The Tigers have integrated able-bodied and disabled players across all ages and genders, continuing their inclusive approach in 2025.

Building for 2026

The club is prioritising squad development this year, with a focus on integrating new players and preparing for 2026. The coach has described this year as focused on building the squad again, strengthening foundations, and planning for next year. The club has indicated plans to promote the program in a bigger way, including a proposed come-and-try day aimed at attracting more participants.

Queensland Wheelchair Football League — *Photo Credit: Redcliffe Tigers*

Inclusive Competition Format

The league allows able-bodied and disabled players to compete, with all athletes classified by a points system to ensure fairness. The Tigers’ squad reflects this mix, with newcomers adjusting to the skills required for wheelchair AFL.

Next Steps for Redcliffe

The Redcliffe Tigers are set to complete their 2025 season in mid-July, with attention already turning to recruitment and preparation for next year’s competition. The club continues to promote its wheelchair AFL program to strengthen its future prospects.

Published 5-July-2025

Redland Hospital to Gain 43 Mental Health Beds as Part of Major 2025–26 Budget Boost

Photo Credit: Metro South Health

Redland Hospital is set to grow with 43 mental health and allied health beds as part of a large-scale expansion backed by this year’s state budget, a change that will directly affect the lives of local families and frontline healthcare workers across the Redlands.

Expansion Timeline and Budget Breakdown

The 2025–26 Queensland Budget continues funding for Stage 2 of the Redland Hospital expansion, with a new mental health and allied health building to include 43 beds—20 of them new. The other 23 beds will move from the Yugaipa facility.

Construction is planned to start in mid-2025 and finish by 2027, depending on conditions. This work forms part of the Queensland Health and Hospitals Plan, which aims to add over 2,600 beds across the state. More than $300 million has been committed to the Redland project, which has already delivered a modular ward, new ICU, and emergency and birthing upgrades.

Healthcare Services for a Growing Community

As the Redlands Coast continues to grow, so does the strain on local hospital services. Redland Hospital is stepping up with a new mental health facility in progress and the recently opened Amity Ward, which added 24 beds for respiratory and general medical care in June 2025.

*Photo Credit: Redlands Hospital/Facebook*

Recent upgrades have also delivered 28 beds in the Lagoon Ward, expanded birthing services, and a seven-level car park to ease access. These improvements reflect a steady response to the region’s rising demand for healthcare.

Ongoing Staff Parking Concerns

Despite major upgrades at Redland Hospital, staff parking remains a key concern. A social media post recently pointed out that no fairer deal has been offered, even as the mental health expansion moves forward. Since 2023, hospital staff have paid a daily parking fee of $7.95, a discounted rate that has still drawn criticism.

Some local representatives have pushed for reduced or free parking, citing cost-of-living pressures and the need to support health workers. Petitions and community campaigns continue, but no changes to the fee structure have been announced.

A Broader Budget Plan for the Redlands

The Redland Hospital expansion is part of a broader 2025–26 Budget plan supporting Brisbane and the Redlands. Funding also includes upgrades to schools, housing, and transport in the region.

Locals see the hospital works as more than just infrastructure, they view it as a step toward better health outcomes. As construction moves ahead, many are watching to see how well staff and patient needs are met.

Published 02-July-2025

Dolphins Eye Top‑Eight Surge in Suncorp Showdown with Rabbitohs

For Dolphins fans, Saturday’s game against the Rabbitohs is more than just another game on the calendar. It’s a return home, a redemption opportunity, and a milestone celebration all rolled into one.

After Cyclone Alfred forced the Round 1 meeting between these two teams to be relocated to Sydney, the Dolphins now finally get their chance to host South Sydney on Brisbane soil. Set to close out a massive Suncorp double-header day, the 7.50 pm kick-off comes right after the Broncos-Warriors clash, with the stage perfectly set for a statement win.

The Dolphins enter Round 17 sitting just outside the top eight and in need of a surge. After some close results in recent weeks, they’ll be eager to convert potential into points. What better way to do that than on home turf with their supporters in full voice?

Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
Kick-off: 7.50 pm AEST
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

What’s on the Line

For the Dolphins, this game could serve as a launchpad into the top-eight race. A win would put pressure on the teams above them and inject momentum into the latter part of their campaign. With Tabuai-Fidow’s milestone adding emotional fuel, the players know what’s at stake—and they’ve got the personnel to make it happen.

For South Sydney, currently sitting near the bottom of the ladder, the match offers a chance to restore pride and test themselves against a side that is fighting hard for finals relevance. With key playmakers back in the mix, the Rabbitohs are in a position to ask questions of the Dolphins’ defence, especially in the edges and the final third.

The spine battle will be critical. Walker’s return brings renewed organisation to the Rabbitohs, but he’ll be up against a confident Dolphins duo in Kodi Nikorima and Isaiya Katoa, who have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the year. Whichever side controls the tempo and gains early ascendancy in possession will likely dictate the terms.

Crowd Info and Stadium Details

Fans attending the match should be aware that this game forms part of a unique two-game schedule at Suncorp Stadium, with the earlier Broncos-Warriors game requiring a full stadium reset between matches. As such, separate tickets are required for each event.

Gates open at 6.45 pm (6.30 pm for members). The venue operates cashless, and patrons should ensure bags are no larger than A3 size. If you’re travelling by train, check Translink schedules in advance—service changes are expected on the Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines due to the event.

Final Thoughts

This is the kind of match that could define a season. With Tabuai-Fidow marking a major personal milestone, the Dolphins returning to their rightful home ground, and a lively Brisbane crowd behind them, the conditions are set for a big night. But the Rabbitohs have the personnel and pride to spoil the party—and they won’t go quietly.

Expect a high-intensity, emotionally charged battle under the lights. For Dolphins fans, this one isn’t just worth watching. It’s worth remembering.

State Budget Delivers Health, Safety, and Youth Support for Redcliffe

Redcliffe is set to benefit from a suite of major investments in the 2025–26 State Budget, with a strong focus on healthcare, community safety, and local youth programs.

Read: Suttons Beach Pavilion Redevelopment Progresses in Redcliffe

Among the biggest projects is the long-awaited expansion of Redcliffe Hospital, which will deliver at least 210 new overnight beds as part of the state’s Hospital Rescue Plan. The project includes Stage 1 construction of additional car parking for patients, visitors, and staff—meant to ease long-standing access concerns.

State Budget — Photo credit: Redcliffe Hospital/Google Maps

Alongside healthcare, community safety is also a top priority. The Redcliffe Police Station will receive a $44 million upgrade, a significant investment aimed at modernising local law enforcement facilities and improving frontline capability.

Youth support in the area has also received a boost, with the government committing $2 million for the Redcliffe Area Youth Space Program, aimed at providing services and outreach to at-risk young people.

Photo credit: Redcliffe Area Youth Space/Facebook

Redcliffe will also benefit indirectly from the expansion of POLAIR airborne law enforcement into the broader Moreton Bay region. The aerial policing unit, originally based on the Sunshine Coast, will now cover Moreton Bay in a move to improve response times and visibility.

Additional local funding includes $200,000 for the design of new female change rooms for the Redcliffe Tigers AFL Club and $150,000 in support for the Miracle Mums initiative, a community-led maternal support program that operates across Redcliffe and the wider Moreton Bay area.

The State Budget, framed by the Crisafulli Government as a “fresh start” for Queensland, targets key issues such as youth crime, healthcare system strain, and cost of living pressures. Redcliffe’s mix of infrastructure, community safety and social service investments places it firmly within the government’s plan to restore essential services and prepare for population growth.

Read: Redcliffe Joins Expanded DFV Response with Specialised Police Team

Member for Redcliffe Kerri-Anne Dooley said the 2025-26 Queensland Budget delivered for Redcliffe.

“This Budget is about delivering for our community, expanding Redcliffe Hospital with 210 new beds, investing $44 million to upgrade the Redcliffe Police Station, and supporting local clubs like Peninsula Power and the Redcliffe Dolphins with lighting upgrades. We’re also making our roads safer with crucial upgrades and investing in school safety measures to protect our kids.”

With the expansion of hospital capacity and improvements to policing infrastructure already committed, Redcliffe residents are expected to see visible changes in the coming financial year.

Published 27-June-2025

Redcliffe Mourns Young Father Lost in Tragic Road Incident

Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service/ Facebook

A Redcliffe family and community are grappling with profound grief after a young father tragically lost his life in a fiery motorcycle collision just metres from where his wife waited for him at the Redcliffe jetty.

The heartbreaking incident occurred on Tuesday, 16 June, 2025, shortly after 9:30 p.m.

Tragic Accident Details

Redcliffe — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police Service/ Facebook*

Luke Irwin, 26, was returning home to gather more bait for a fishing trip with his wife, Jade Hatcher, when his black Suzuki RF900 motorcycle collided with a white Mitsubishi Fuso minibus at the intersection of Anzac Avenue and Oleander Street in Kippa Ring. Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 9:33 p.m. Following the impact, the minibus, which was reportedly being used as a residence, erupted in flames and subsequently rolled into a parked vehicle on Oleander Street.

Mr Irwin, a Rothwell resident, suffered critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 51-year-old Clontarf man driving the Mitsubishi sustained minor burns and was transported to Redcliffe Hospital for treatment. The Forensic Crash Unit is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.

Family’s Heartbreak

Ms. Hatcher was fishing just 600 metres away when she heard sirens, later expressing that a part of her died at that moment. She described rushing to the crash site and seeing her husband, overwhelmed with a sense of hysteria. Ms Hatcher emphasised how integral Luke was to their family, stating that he was “our world” and that she could not imagine life without him. She recounted how Luke had been by her side during a previous serious accident she had experienced.

The couple became engaged in August 2017 and married in April 2019, soon after welcoming twin sons, Luca and Liam. Ms Hatcher detailed that both boys have disabilities, with one being autistic and the other having ADHD, an intellectual impairment, and being non-verbal. She explained that his sons were “his life” and he adored them. Luke also raised two daughters whom he loved as his own, and his passing has deeply affected many people.

A Father Remembered

Earlier on the day of the tragedy, Luke had spent a “beautiful day” kayaking with his sons and enjoying time with his wife. Luke’s father, Ian Irwin, remembered his son as a “larrikin” and someone loved by all who knew him. He shared the sad news on social media, noting Luke was due to turn 27 in August and left behind a young family. Mr Irwin urged everyone to “take care on the roads” following his son’s death.

Community Support and Call for Footage

In the wake of this devastating loss, Ms. Hatcher has launched a fundraiser to help cover the costs of Luke’s funeral, which is scheduled for July 4. She shared her determination to give him the funeral he deserves and is seeking community support for the family.

Meanwhile, police are appealing to the public for assistance, urging anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage of the crash, or the moments leading up to it, to come forward and contact them as the investigation continues.

Published Date 25-Jun-2025

Jamie-lee Surha Makes Hockeyroos Debut After Redcliffe Success

Photo Credit: Jamie-lee Surha/Instagram

Jamie-lee Surha, a Redcliffe Hockey Club forward, has officially made her international debut for the Hockeyroos during their European tour.

Rising to National Selection

Jamie-lee Surha, originally from Mackay, received a late call-up to the Hockeyroos squad and debuted against the Netherlands in the FIH Pro League. The match took place at Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen, where she wore the Indigenous uniform for the first time.

This milestone follows Ms Surha’s inclusion in the Australian Development Squad and her earlier appearance in a practice series against India in Perth. She later featured in another international match in London, where the Hockeyroos secured a 2-1 win against India.

Redcliffe Milestone Recognised

Redcliffe Hockey Club marked Ms Surha’s debut as a significant moment in the club’s history. Officials and team-mates expressed pride in her progress, with club president Paul Greentree acknowledging her contribution to Redcliffe’s first Brisbane Women’s Premier League 1 premiership win. Ms Surha joined the club in 2022 and became its top scorer in 2024.

The club formally recognised her selection via social media, noting that she is now among Redcliffe’s growing list of full Australian representatives.

Indigenous Representation on the International Stage

Ms Surha is now the fifth Indigenous woman to represent the Hockeyroos and the eighth Indigenous Australian to play at senior international level. She described wearing the ochre strip as a meaningful experience, especially as a First Nations athlete. Her cultural background ties to the Jirrabul Mamu people of the Yidinji nation.

From Junior Talent to Senior Campaign

Ms Surha was previously named one of Queensland’s top junior hockey players and is a former student of Mackay North State High School. She has competed at state level and earned national titles in age-group categories.

Her standout performance at the 2025 Australian Under-21 Championships led to her selection for the Jillaroos, Australia’s U21 team. Later that year, she debuted for Brisbane Blaze in the Liberty Hockey One League.

Indigenous athlete — *Photo Credit: Jamie-lee Surha/Instagram*

Looking Ahead

The Hockeyroos are currently continuing their Pro League campaign, with upcoming fixtures in England and Germany. Ms Surha remains part of the travelling squad as she continues her progression in international hockey.

Published 25-June-2025

Kaylee McKeown to Lead Australia at World Swimming Championships

Photo Credit: Kaylee Mckeown/Facebook

Kaylee McKeown, born in Redcliffe and raised in Caboolture, will lead Australia’s charge at the 2025 World Swimming Championships in Singapore, anchoring the national team with her world-class backstroke performances.

From Caboolture to the World Stage

Kaylee McKeown was born in Redcliffe and raised in Caboolture, where her passion for swimming first took shape. After years of dedication, she made her Olympic debut in Tokyo, claiming three gold medals and setting a new standard for Australian backstroke.

Now 23, she trains with the USC Spartans and credits her early community support for laying the foundation of her success. At the 2025 national trials in Adelaide, McKeown won the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke events, all well under the qualifying times. Her performance confirmed her spot at the top of Australia’s team for the World Championships.

A Dramatic Start to the Trials

Her rise from local lanes to global headlines continues as she prepares to defend three world titles this July. McKeown’s selection wasn’t without drama, as she was initially disqualified in the 50m backstroke heats for a false start.

A review overturned the decision, confirming she had reacted to movement near the blocks. She bounced back to win the final in 27.33 seconds, well under the 27.74 qualifying time.

McKeown also claimed victories in the 100m and 200m backstroke, showcasing her consistency across all distances. She still holds world records in the 50m and 200m backstroke and remains one of the few to sweep all three events at a single World Championships.

Eyes on Singapore and Beyond

The 2025 World Swimming Championships will be held in Singapore from 27 July to 3 August. McKeown enters as the reigning world champion in the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke events. Her focus will be on defending those titles while sharpening her form ahead of the Paris Olympics.

Under coach Michael Bohl, she continues to train for speed and technique across all backstroke distances. The team will stage in Darwin before heading to Singapore, with McKeown playing a key leadership role in Australia’s campaign.

Community Pride Runs Deep

McKeown’s success continues to inspire pride across Moreton Bay, with both Redcliffe and Caboolture closely tied to her story. Local coaches and swim clubs still follow her progress, knowing she began in the same community pools young swimmers use today.

Though she now trains with a national high-performance squad, McKeown often credits her hometown roots for shaping her early journey. Her achievements highlight the depth of regional talent in Australia. They also remind young athletes that world-class careers can start in local lanes.

Published 25-June-2025

Suttons Beach Pavilion Redevelopment Progresses in Redcliffe

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

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