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Kaufusi and Marshall-King Return for the Dolphins to Take on the Roosters

Kristian Woolf will be looking for the Dolphins to bounce back from their loss last week against the Raiders, which interrupted their three match-winning streak.

The Dolphins looked like title contenders in the first half in Canberra against a strong Raiders outfit, 28-12 up at half time and seemingly cruising, the Raiders responded with five tries without conceding a point in the second half to
finish 40-28 in front.

Felise Kaufusi returns to the team, replacing the injured Daniel Saifiti in the front row. Jeremy Marshall-King also returns at Hooker though the Dolphins will miss Max Plath who failed a late fitness test.

The Roosters run out with the same side that won on Anzac Day.

Both sides have a three wins and five losses record but if the Dolphins can get close to their first half last week, surely, they would fancy this one.

The Roosters demolition of the Dragons, 46-18 at Allianz Stadium, was led by James Tedesco, who ran 230 metres and went over for two tries, Sandon Smith also scoring two tries. The Roosters had 10 line breaks (three from Tedesco) but the most impressive part of their game was the kick return, 305 m to only 107 m by the Dragons.

Looks like a real arm wrestle, the atmosphere on Caxton Street will be electric.

As well as the Steeden activation handing out brand new size three footies in exchange for any old sports ball (basketball, netball, AFL, NRL, football – any ball),
other activations at Suncorp include:

The Harvey Norman Hub
The Westpac Catch & Keep
Red Bull and Levels present
Youi Fan Cam & Sign Station
The Chemist Warehouse – Fan Run On and Tackle Course
The Telstra Trophy Zone
The Hisense Commentary Box

See more about the activations half way down this page.

If you can’t get to Suncorp, the Roosters vs Dolphins game will be broadcast live on Channel 9, Kayo and Foxtel. Kick off is on Friday, 2 May, at 8:00 p.m.

Seven Children Rescued Following Moreton Bay Man’s Arrest; Redcliffe Magistrates Court Appearance Looms

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

A Moreton Bay man is scheduled for an upcoming appearance in Redcliffe Magistrates Court after a complex investigation into alleged child exploitation led to the rescue of seven children across southeast Queensland and the Philippines.

Initial Arrest and Charges

The 31-year-old man, from the Moreton Bay region, was initially taken into custody following a police raid on a home in Kippa-Ring in December last year. During this operation, authorities seized several electronic devices.

Following this arrest, the man was charged with possessing child exploitation material and using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence.

Expanded Investigation and Further Charges

Police work on the case continued into the new year. In January, detectives brought forward an additional 24 charges against the man.

These serious allegations include using the internet to procure children, the indecent treatment of a child under 12 who has a mental impairment, and facilitating the procurement of a child for a sexual act. These additions brought the total number of alleged offences faced by the man to 28, related to both drug and child exploitation matters.

International Rescue Operation

The diligent investigation led to several vulnerable children. Authorities have confirmed that seven children have now been rescued from situations of harm as a direct result of this police operation.

Two of these children were found in southeast Queensland. The investigation’s reach extended internationally, resulting in the rescue of five children, specifically four girls and one boy, located in the Philippines.

Official Commendation and Ongoing Case

Moreton District Detective Inspector Phil Hurst commented on the challenging aspects of the investigation. He commended the persistence shown by the Child Protection and Investigation Unit detectives, acknowledging their efforts went to great lengths to ensure the children were identified and, in some instances, rescued from harm.

Detective Inspector Hurst stated that police will thoroughly investigate all reports concerning harm to children, regardless of whether the investigation leads them locally or overseas. The accused man has remained in custody since his arrest and is scheduled for his court appearance in Redcliffe.

Published Date 29-April-2025

Two Rising Softball Stars from Redcliffe Set for World Cup Battle

Two young Redcliffe softballers are preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime, as they get ready to represent Australia at the World Baseball Softball Confederation World Cup in Italy.

Read: Redcliffe Softball Community Scores Major Clubhouse Upgrade

Mackenzie Emonson, 14, and Leilani Malo, 15, have earned their spots in the national squad after impressive performances for Queensland at the National Under-16 Girls’ Championships in Perth earlier this year. Their selection for the Australian team was confirmed in February, and preparations have been building ever since.

The World Cup, which will be held in Milan from June 27 to July 5, will see the Redcliffe duo compete against some of the strongest softball nations, including the USA, Canada, Japan, and Mexico. Australia, alongside American Samoa, qualified through the Oceania region and will face off against 11 other teams in Legnano and Caronno Pertusella.

Photo credit: World Baseball Softball Confederation

For both Mackenzie and Leilani, this tournament marks the pinnacle of their sporting journeys so far. The pair admitted they were surprised but thrilled to have been selected for the World Cup squad. Leilani said she expects to feel nervous before the opening match but believes she will settle into the tournament once the first game is behind her. Kenz, meanwhile, is focusing on giving her all on the field and hopes the nerves will fade as she plays.

Leilani, who now lives in Burpengary and attends Deception Bay State High School, began her sporting life playing tee-ball in New Zealand before switching to softball after moving to Australia in 2017. A former rugby player, she made the decision to concentrate on softball after an injury steered her away from contact sports. She now plays primarily as a pitcher.

Kenz, a proud Redcliffe local and student at Earnshaw State College in Banyo, also got her start with tee-ball at the age of six. She joined the Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association in 2016 and has since developed her skills in the outfield.

Read: Redcliffe Padres: Nation’s Largest Baseball Club Driven by Local Families

While Italy is firmly in their sights, both players have also continued their state ambitions, recently helping Redcliffe finish third at the 2025 Under-16 Girls’ State Championships in Toowoomba. The tournament served as a stepping stone as they eye positions in the 2026 Queensland team.

With international experience now beckoning, these Redcliffe talents are poised to make their mark on the global stage.

Published 28-April-2025

Edu Space Special Assistance School Marks Milestone in Redcliffe

Photo Credit: RAYS/Facebook

Edu Space, a special assistance school based at Redcliffe Area Youth Space, has marked its first year supporting vulnerable young people through tailored education.

Background: Redcliffe’s Response to Educational Disengagement

Edu Space was established at Redcliffe Area Youth Space in response to years of evidence showing that mainstream education often failed the region’s most vulnerable students. Over 15 years of observations at RAYS highlighted the gap in available support, leading to the launch of Edu Space as a special assistance non-state school for students in Years 7 to 10.

The school provides free education and support to young people experiencing complex challenges, including trauma, disengagement, mental health issues, domestic violence, and youth justice involvement.

The Edu Space Approach: A Different Model of Schooling in Redcliffe

Edu Space delivers education aligned with the Australian Curriculum through a project-based, person-centred model. The approach is strongly informed by Paulo Freire’s Social Justice Pedagogy, focusing on restorative outcomes rather than punitive experiences.

The school maintains a maximum population of 30 students, with a high staff-to-student ratio of 1:4. The team includes four student and family wellbeing officers, two qualified teachers and access to frontline youth workers from RAYS.

Small class sizes and trauma-informed practices are at the core of the school’s design, allowing each student to engage through a structured continuum of Knowing, Growing, Showing and Going. The curriculum and support are tailored to recognise the uneven learning profiles and developmental needs of each student.

Edu Space Redcliffe — *Photo Credit: RAYS/Facebook*

Community Engagement and Celebration

To mark its first anniversary, Edu Space hosted an Open Hour event, inviting community representatives involved in referring students to the school. Visitors were guided through a Learning Walk to experience the Edu Space classroom environment firsthand and understand the unique model of education offered.

The school’s commitment to cultural inclusion, restorative education, and comprehensive mental health support was a key feature presented during the celebration.

Edu Space first anniversary — *Photo Credit: RAYS/Facebook*

The Redcliffe Community’s Ongoing Need

Edu Space continues to address an urgent need in Redcliffe, where many young people face systemic and personal barriers that hinder their access to education. Through its connection to the Redcliffe Area Youth Space, which has operated since 2002, Edu Space is uniquely positioned to offer integrated educational and wellbeing support.

By providing an alternative pathway, the school offers opportunities for students to develop their identity, find their voice, and discover academic capabilities in a safe and empowering environment.

Future Outlook for Edu Space in Redcliffe

Edu Space remains committed to expanding its support for marginalised students across the Redcliffe Peninsula and surrounding Moreton Bay Region. With a proven model rooted in community engagement and trauma-informed education, the school plans to continue offering transformative learning experiences for young people facing complex challenges.

Published 26-Apr-2025

Crash Disrupts ANZAC Preparations in Woody Point

Photo Credit: Facebook / Chris Whiting MP

A two-vehicle crash on Oxley Avenue at Georgina Street intersection disrupted ANZAC Day preparations in Woody Point yesterday evening when Labour MP Chris Whiting was involved in a serious crash.

The incident occurred around 7pm Thursday in the heart of Woody Point, a significant location along the Redcliffe Peninsula. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene where paramedics assessed both drivers involved.

Whiting’s vehicle, prominently displaying “Chris Whiting MP” signage, sustained extensive damage. According to reports, the MP was transporting Anzac Day wreaths through Woody Point at the time of the collision—materials intended for today’s commemorative services in the area.

While one person from the crash was transported to Redcliffe Hospital, Whiting later sought medical attention at Kallangur Satellite Hospital as a precautionary measure.

“Thank you everyone for your kind wishes. I seem to not be injured, but I am off to the Kallangur Satellite Hospital to be checked out,” Whiting stated on social media following the incident. “I think my car is gone, and the wreaths for ANZAC Day are definitely wrecked.”

The Oxley Avenue location in Woody Point where the crash occurred is a central thoroughfare for local residents and visitors to the coastal suburb, situated near local businesses and community facilities.

The impact on local ANZAC Day preparations remains unclear, though the destruction of ceremonial wreaths represents an unfortunate setback for planned observances in the Woody Point community.

Local authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of the collision as investigations continue.

Published 25-April-2025

Cost Overruns, Poor Planning Cast Shadow Over Redcliffe Hospital Project

Photo Credit: Mark Bailey MP/Facebook

Redcliffe Hospital’s expansion is still moving ahead, but a recent health infrastructure review puts the updated project cost at double what was originally budgeted for it in 2022, with projected completion looking to be in 2030 instead of 2027. The project is part of a state program now being scrutinised for cost blowouts and questionable planning decisions.

Planning Failures Put Redcliffe in the Spotlight

Redcliffe Hospital, located in one of Queensland’s fastest growing corridors, was originally part of a 2022 state-wide health expansion plan meant to boost hospital capacity. But the project is now under scrutiny following the release of a state-commissioned review on 23 April 2025.

The review, led by infrastructure expert Sam Sangster of Klok Advisory, recommends pausing and redesigning the Redcliffe expansion due to poor site layout, clinical planning gaps, and the failure to address a culturally significant scar tree.

The government has accepted this recommendation, committing to a new plan and layout that ensures safer conditions for healthcare workers and a better long-term use of the site.

A Budget Gap Too Big to Ignore

Initially announced in June 2022, the Redcliffe Hospital expansion was budgeted at $1.06 billion, later uplifted to $1.148 billion. However, the latest health infrastructure report places the forecast cost at $2.122 billion, with a funding gap of $1.062 billion.

The plan to deliver 210 new beds and expanded clinical services is still in place, but the timeline has shifted. Originally due for completion in late 2027, the project is now forecast to finish no earlier than the end of 2030. Early works began in July 2024, with Multiplex continuing as the lead contractor.

A Pause, Not a Stop — But Locals Want Clarity

The review found the statewide hospital plan was developed in just six weeks in 2022, prioritising political deadlines over service needs and lacking proper funding.

The project is still expected to deliver more beds and improved care, but the pause and redesign have sparked concerns about delays and rising costs. Locals are questioning whether the region can afford to wait another five years.

Redcliffe and the Road Ahead

While the Queensland government has adopted major recommendations to redesign plans for new Toowoomba and Bundaberg hospital sites, Redcliffe’s project is moving ahead with key design changes to meet local health needs.

It remains part of the state’s Hospital Rescue Plan, aimed at fixing earlier planning flaws and delivering essential infrastructure with stronger oversight.

Early works began in July 2024, and Stage 1 is on track for completion by mid-2025. Locals are watching closely to see if the revised plan can deliver long-promised upgrades without more delays or cost blowouts.

Published 24-April-2025

Sandgate-Redcliffe Star Johnson Shines at Queensland Cricket Awards

Photo Credit: Queensland Cricket/ Facebook

Sandgate-Redcliffe all-rounder Darcey Johnson secured her first Kath Smith Medal while University of Queensland’s Bryce Street earned his second Peter Burge Medal at the Queensland Premier Cricket Awards Gala.

The gala event recognised the top performers from the state’s premier cricket competitions during the 2024-25 season.

Kath Smith Medal Winner

Darcey Johnson from Sandgate-Redcliffe received the Kath Smith Medal as the best and fairest women’s player, judged by umpires. The 20-year-old had a standout season, playing a key role for her club. She took the most wickets in the Katherine Raymont Shield competition with 32 wickets at an impressive average of 12.91. Johnson also showed her batting ability, scoring 349 runs.

Her consistent performances across different formats and excellent fielding skills highlighted her potential. Johnson, described as a humble and superb team player, was also selected for the Queensland Women’s 2nd XI during the season. Adding to her achievements, she received the Loretta Moore Trophy as the most improved female player under 21.

Peter Burge Medal Winner

University of Queensland opener Bryce Street won the Peter Burge Medal for the second time, having previously received the honour in the 2022-23 season. This achievement places him alongside former Australian player Adam Dale and ex-Queensland Bulls all-rounder Aaron Nye as only the third dual winner of the prestigious award.

Street, a member of the Queensland Bulls squad, had an outstanding summer with the bat. He scored 806 runs across all formats at an average of 50, including three centuries (equal most in the competition) and four half-centuries. He also contributed significantly with the ball, taking 15 wickets at an average of 17. Street finished well in the voting points, ahead of runner-up Sam Neale.

Other Major Award Recipients

Several other individuals were recognised for their contributions during the season. Tom Balkin from Toombul received the Bob Spence Trophy for the most improved male player under 21, having played for Queensland in the Toyota Second XI competition.

Ben Farrell was awarded the Bob Spence Medal as the Premier Cricket Umpire of the Year. Peter Murphy from Sandgate-Redcliffe received the Clem Jones Trophy for Volunteer of the Year, acknowledging his valuable contribution off the field. The STA Curator of the Year award went to Craig Jesberg from Redlands Cricket Club.

Runners-Up and Standouts

Johnson’s Sandgate-Redcliffe teammate, Tess Cooper, was finishing second in the Kath Smith Medal count. Cooper was the leading run-scorer in the women’s competition, amassing 715 runs in the Katherine Raymont Shield and leading her club to two grand finals.

In the Peter Burge Medal, Northern Suburbs paceman Sam Neale finished second after leading the competition’s overall wicket tally with 52 dismissals and captaining his side to the two-day premiership. Last year’s winner, Preston White of Toombul, finished third, again showing strong all-round form.

Award Significance

The Kath Smith Medal honours one of Australia’s pioneering female cricketers. Kath Smith played six Tests in the 1930s and was vice-captain for the first-ever women’s Test match against England in 1934. Past winners include current Australian players.

The Peter Burge Medal, first presented in 1990, is named after Peter Burge, who is considered one of Queensland’s finest batsmen. Burge had a long Sheffield Shield career and represented Australia in 42 Test matches. Both medals are decided based on votes cast by umpires throughout the season.

Published Date 21-April-2025

Redcliffe Hosts Walking Off The War Within to Support Veterans and First Responders

This May, veterans, first responders, and supporters will once again come together on the Redcliffe Peninsula for the fifth annual Walking Off The War Within.

Read: Major Seawall Renewal Begins Along Redcliffe Foreshore

Set for May 31, the community event encourages participants to unite in support of mental health awareness and to honour those who have served—particularly those who have struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.

Pelican Park (Photo credit: Amy Dhillon/Google Maps)

The walk begins at Clontarf’s Pelican Park, tracing the scenic foreshore to Scarborough and back. While the ultimate challenge involves walking 20 kilometres with a 20-kilogram pack, attendees are welcome to walk any distance they feel comfortable with, pack or no pack. The event is free, but participants can opt to make a donation during registration.

From Humble Beginnings to a Community Movement

Since its inception in 2021, the event has grown both in numbers and in impact. What started as a small gathering with minimal infrastructure has evolved into a major community event, complete with live music, shaded seating areas, and a growing network of mental health support organisations. These enhancements aim to create not just a physical journey, but an emotional and social one—helping participants feel connected, supported, and understood.

walking off the war — Photo credit: Walking Off The War Within Annual Event/Facebook

The walk serves a dual purpose: to raise funds for veteran and first responder support services, and to create a safe, inclusive environment where people can talk openly about mental health. Last year’s event drew over 350 participants and raised more than $3,000 for Trek2Health and SMEAC, two charities offering essential services for those in high-stress professions.

More than just a fundraiser, the event fosters a spirit of camaraderie. Participants are encouraged to engage with others along the route, turning the walk into an opportunity for meaningful connection. In doing so, it challenges the isolation that often accompanies mental health struggles and reminds people that they are not alone.

Walking Off The War Within was created in memory of Nathan Shanahan, a soldier and firefighter who walked more than 400 kilometres from Mildura to Adelaide in 2015 with a heavy pack to raise awareness for PTSD and depression. Although Nathan tragically took his own life in 2016, his mission has lived on, transforming into a nationwide movement that continues to grow in reach and relevance.

The event honours his legacy by inspiring everyday Australians to take part in something larger than themselves—one step at a time. Whether walking alone or alongside mates, family, or colleagues, every participant becomes part of a collective effort to support mental health and reduce stigma.

Read: Redcliffe Padres: Nation’s Largest Baseball Club Driven by Local Families

With each footstep along the Redcliffe foreshore, this gathering continues to build a stronger, more compassionate community—one where no one has to face their battles alone.

Published 21-April-2025

Major Seawall Renewal Begins Along Redcliffe Foreshore

Photo Credit: CrKarlWinchester/ Facebook

A significant $2.3 million renewal of the aging seawall at Charlish Park, Redcliffe, has commenced. The aim is to protect this popular section of foreshore from coastal hazards for the next century.

Project Details and Purpose

Work on the foreshore protection project started in March and involves replacing and upgrading about 90 metres of the reinforced concrete seawall located on Redcliffe Parade. The project also includes extending the sloped rock armour section of the wall and improving the shared path used by pedestrians and cyclists.

Council officials noted the upgrade was necessary as the original seawall, built over 70 years ago in the 1950s, is nearing the end of its functional life due to deterioration from the harsh marine environment and impacts from past weather events.

The Redcliffe Peninsula locals value their natural environment, prompting Council to run an extensive program to ensure coastal areas are future-proofed. So the renewed seawall is designed to provide 100 years of protection for the foreshore in front of Charlish Park, shielding the area from erosion and reducing the impact of wave overtopping.

The design also allows for future modifications to handle projected sea-level rises and more severe weather, ensuring long-term resilience.

Community Impact and Access

Mayor Peter Flannery highlighted that the city’s extensive coastlines and estuaries are major attractions, and their maintenance is a key part of the Council’s long-term coastal protection strategy for future generations. He acknowledged that the investment in the Charlish Park Seawall near the Redcliffe Jetty is vital for its longevity.

Council understands the work will cause some temporary inconvenience. The boardwalk and beach area immediately affected by the construction are closed to the public. Pedestrians needing to pass the area can use the footpath on Redcliffe Parade to detour around the worksite and still access Charlish Park.

Construction is expected to be completed later this year, depending on weather and site conditions. After the project is finished, Foreshore users will benefit from a new, safer footpath.

Future Foreshore Protection Plans

The Charlish Park project is part of Council’s ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade foreshore areas across the Peninsula. Following the completion of the current works, Council has scheduled the renewal of the seawall at Crockatt Park in Woody Point to begin in the late 2025-26 period.

Published Date 18-April-2025

Resurgent Dolphins Host Storm at Suncorp Aiming to Break

Photo Credit: Australia Rugby

Back-to-back wins for the Dolphins will give them confidence for the visit of the Melbourne Storm on Good Friday at Suncorp, kick-off at 8:00 p.m.

The Hammer’s massive shift of 223 metres run, yielding a hat-trick of tries, was the cream on the cake against the Panthers. Jeremy Marshall-King’s 52 tackles, along with Max Plath’s 46, were the platform that enabled the Dolphins to overcome the Panthers’ bid for a fifth consecutive Premiership.

The Dolphins have played the Storm three times in the NRL and lost all three, so Woolf’s men will have a juicy incentive and a substantial underdog tag(bookies have the Dolphins at around $4.70).

The Storm currently sits second on the NRL ladder, having lost only one game in their first five games of the season.

Last week, they thumped the Warriors 42-14.

Kristian Woolf will field the same 17 that beat the Panthers last week. Ray Stone returns as the 18th man after serving his high-tackle suspension.

For the Storm, Jahrome Hughes has been passed fit after coming off at half-time last week with a Shoulder problem.

Moses Leo is out with a shoulder injury, Sua Fa’alogo starts on the wing, and Grant Anderson moves to the centres. Concussion concerns will keep Will Warbrick and Nelson Asofa-Solomona out of the squad.

Published Date 17-April-2025