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Easter Welcomes Record RCIA Intake in Redcliffe Parish

Redcliffe parish recorded its highest number of new Catholic entrants in years, with 15 individuals received into the faith during this year’s Easter celebrations.

Rise in Faith Engagement

Redcliffe’s Catholic community marked a significant increase in participation during Easter, as 12 catechumens and three candidates were formally received into the Church. This intake, described as the largest in recent memory, follows the addition of five other individuals who joined the parish in November.

The program through which they entered, known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), offers a structured path for those seeking to join the Catholic Church. Carried out within the local parish, the process involves regular sessions that support personal formation within the faith community.

Catholic Parish — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Structured and Supportive Formation

Deacon Tim Shanahan, who has overseen the RCIA process alongside parish priest Fr Bob Harwood, noted that interest in the program has grown unexpectedly over the past year. Participants ranged in age, with several being young people.

Rather than delving deeply into every topic, the Redcliffe RCIA team aimed to provide accessible teachings supported by additional resources, allowing participants to explore further on their own. The parish focused on maintaining a welcoming environment, which leaders considered key to the program’s success.

Addressing Misconceptions

One of the recurring challenges identified among participants was confronting misinformation or prior teachings from other Christian traditions. According to Deacon Shanahan, several individuals had previously explored other denominations, and sessions that covered Church history were particularly impactful in offering clarity.

Parish and Community Support

The success of the RCIA program was attributed not only to parish leadership but also to support from figures such as Brigidine Sister Janette Marsh and other team members. The parish community’s encouragement was also evident online, where members welcomed the new entrants and reflected on their own RCIA experiences.

Several social media posts described the Easter Vigil as a moving and uplifting celebration. Fellow parishioners shared words of support and congratulated the group on their commitment.

Signs of Hope Amid Decline Elsewhere

At a time when many parishes across Australia are reporting declines in Mass attendance, Redcliffe’s growing numbers have been seen as a hopeful sign. Leaders viewed this renewed interest in the Catholic faith as an encouraging outcome for their local ministry.

Published 19-May-2025

Meet Tara Denaro: The Woman Shaping a New Era in First Nations Family Health

In a landmark move for Queensland’s healthcare system, Metro North Health has appointed Tara Denaro as the first-ever Nursing and Midwifery Director, First Nations Women, Children, and Families (Identified).

Read: Redcliffe Hospital Expansion Continues Amidst State-Wide Funding Concerns

The newly established role is a first for the state and reflects a deepening commitment to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through culturally appropriate, family-centred care.

A proud Mununjali woman and an experienced registered nurse, midwife, and child health nurse, Tara Denaro brings over two decades of service across Queensland Health and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health sector. Her professional knowledge is matched by a personal connection to the communities she serves—placing her in a unique position to lead this transformative work.

Community at the Centre

Photo credit: Redcliffe Hospital/Google Maps

At the heart of Ms Denaro’s new role is a powerful vision: ensuring that the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, children, and families are not only heard, but actively shape the services designed for them.

One of her key priorities is the development of the new Ngarrama Maternity Service at Redcliffe Hospital, set to launch in early 2025. The service will follow a Midwifery Group Practice model, providing continuity of care throughout the antenatal, birthing, and postnatal journey. Importantly, it will be guided by the principles of the Growing Deadly Families Strategy—placing culture, respect, and community connection at its core.

“I strongly believe that improving maternity care, and care for our children and young people will improve longer-term health and wellbeing outcomes as people get older,” Ms Denaro said. “Women, children, and families need to have their voices, their wants and needs, heard and respected.”

This belief is central to how Ms Denaro approaches leadership. In shaping the Redcliffe service, she is working to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, women, and children are actively involved in its design and delivery—building a model of care that honours community knowledge and experience.

Building a Stronger Network of Care

In addition to Redcliffe, Ms Denaro is focused on strengthening collaboration between the three existing Ngarrama Maternity Services across the Metro North region. Her goal is to bring these services together as one united team, sharing expertise and a common purpose: delivering high-quality, culturally informed care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.

She also sees her role extending beyond maternity services. By forging partnerships with other child and family support services, she hopes to create clearer pathways for families not currently receiving care through Ngarrama—ensuring no one is left behind.

Looking to the Future

For Tara Denaro, this role is about more than systems and strategy—it’s about nurturing the next generation.

“Our young people are the next generation who will continue our culture into the future, who will be sharing this with their children and grandchildren,” she said. “I am excited to share how our families and communities provide for and cherish our children when we are strong and connected to our culture and each other.”

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

Through her leadership, Metro North Health is taking a bold and meaningful step forward—one that places cultural safety, connection, and community voice at the centre of maternal and child health.

Published 16-May-2025

Redcliffe State High School’s Rising League Stars Set to Shake Up 2025 Langer Trophy

Photo Credit: Redcliffe State High School Rugby League Supporters/Facebook

Redcliffe State High School isn’t just showing up to the Langer Trophy, it’s arriving with a stacked squad, a fired-up captain, and a plan to shake up the competition.

Local Talent Ready to Lead

Redcliffe SHS blends size and speed, with forwards like Cody Starr and Nate Berrigan adding power, while Jairus Halahala and Kaleb Teu bring pace through the middle. Many players gained valuable experience in the Meninga and Connell Cup, juggling both school and club duties.

Captain Amare Wynyard leads with versatility at hooker and lock, supported by playmaker Grady Payne’s sharp passing and kicking. Cohen Cochran adds grit and stability around the ruck.

The 2025 season kicks off on June 3 and 4, with all matches to be livestreamed via KommunityTV. Redcliffe SHS will line up against strong competition including Marsden, Wavell, Keebra Park and Palm Beach Currumbin.

A True Development Pathway

The Langer Trophy is considered the top-level schoolboy rugby league competition in Queensland, designed to foster the development of elite players. It’s backed by the Brisbane Broncos and forms part of a larger school competition structure that feeds directly into professional pathways.

*Photo Credit: Redcliffe State High School Rugby League Supporters/Facebook*

Redcliffe SHS gives students the chance to compete against top young talent in Queensland. Regulars like Jonathan Alo and James Grey bring rep-level experience, while newcomers like Azariah Toki-Mautairi add depth from SG Ball and interstate play.

Building Momentum Through Club Footy

Much of the squad’s confidence comes from their Meninga Cup campaigns earlier this year. Despite some setbacks, like limited game time due to injury or personal leave, players returned with strong showings during the school’s Langer Trophy qualifying matches.

Starr’s power, Halahala’s speed, and Berrigan’s Meninga Cup efforts show Redcliffe’s experience. Teu and Taulani boost the bench, adding depth in a tough competition.

Backed by Community and Coverage

Redcliffe SHS’s Langer Trophy campaign is a proud moment for the community, with live broadcasts allowing families to follow every play. The school supports both academic and athletic growth, preparing students on and off the field.

With strong local support and a talented, motivated squad, Redcliffe SHS is poised to be one of the most-watched teams this season.

Published 15-May-2025

Dolphins Will Need to be At Their Best Against Warriors with Fisher-Harris Back

Kristian Woolf will be delighted with the Hammer’s last minute heroics a week ago, a try saving tackle that got the Dolphins over the line against the Eels. However, hosting the Warriors at Suncorp will likely be a much tougher job.

Tries from Jack Bostock, Connelly Lemuelu and Herbie Farnworth got the Phins into a winning position at Commbank Stadium but when Mitch Moses threw the long cut out pass that Josh Addo-Carr turned into a 2 on 1 it looked like a horror movie for Phins fans, but the Hammer’s marshalling in defence to control Dylan Brown’s weaving run ended the game.

The Dolphins are unchanged with the Warriors having James Fisher-Harris back to start. He has been out since April 13 with a pectoral strain. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck joins the reserves after two months out with a hamstring injury.

The Warriors also back up from a nailbiter last week. The 15-14 win, with a 69th minute Luke Metcalf field goal holding off the dogged Dragons.

Erin Clark’s 52 tackles the standout along with a 92% completion rate by the Warriors. The heavy carries and strong post-contact metres with limited errors outweighing a lack of line breaks and flair. The Dolphins will need to be ready for the attritional offence that the Warriors bring.

The Warriors in second with a 7-win, 2-loss record will be favourites but the Dolphins love the underdog tag.

The game kicks off at 3:00 pm on Saturday, 17 May, at Suncorp and if you can’t get to the game, it’s broadcast live on Kayo and Foxtel.

Rockin’ 4 The Homeless Returns to Dolphins Leagues Club for Huge Day of Music and Hope

Photo Credit: Rockin' 4 The Homeless 2025/Facebook

Redcliffe’s Dolphins Leagues Club will shake with sound and solidarity this June as Rockin’ 4 The Homeless (R4TH) brings 12 bands, two stages and a powerful message under one roof, all in support of people doing it tough on the streets.

Music with a Message

The free festival runs for seven hours on Sunday, 22 June, with doors opening at 10am. Limited tickets go online from 1 June. Started in 2013 by musician Dan Nebe, Rockin’ 4 The Homeless has become a major Redcliffe event, raising awareness and support for homelessness through The Breakfast Club Redcliffe Inc.

*Photo Credit: Rockin’ 4 The Homeless 2025/Facebook*

This year’s headline act is Australian rock band You Am I, joined by 11 other bands across two stages at Dolphins Leagues Club. An after-party with Jonny Sonic from The Potbelleez will follow. Organisers say the music is loud, but the message is louder, everyone deserves safety and support.

A Community Coming Together

Unlike many large events, this one runs with no government funding and no ticket sales. It’s powered entirely by local sponsors, volunteers and the goodwill of the community.

Signed guitars from artists like Alice Cooper, Blondie, Ian Moss, Xavier Rudd and You Am I will be auctioned to raise funds, alongside all-day raffles and a weekend getaway prize. Donation stations will be available throughout the venue, with organisers focusing more on awareness and support than dollars alone.

More Than a Concert

The Breakfast Club Redcliffe Inc., which has operated for 21 years, provides meals, clothing, and support services for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage in the region. The group has become a key part of the local safety net, especially during tougher times.

By tying the festival directly to this charity, Rockin’ 4 The Homeless becomes more than a concert, it becomes a local effort to look after each other.

An 80s-themed Gala Ball is also planned for the night before, adding another layer of community spirit to the weekend. Details for that event will be released soon.

How to Get Involved

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, grab raffle tickets, and enjoy the full day of entertainment. The venue has capacity for a large crowd, so while tickets are free and limited, there’s room for all who want to be part of something that matters.

Organisers suggest keeping an eye on the Rockin’ 4 The Homeless Facebook page for ticket links and updates as the date gets closer.

Published 8-May-2025

Redcliffe Locals Slam Inaction as Unit Block Faces Flood Crisis Again

Photo Credit: Pexels

Residents at a flood-affected unit complex in Redcliffe are demanding immediate intervention after repeated inundation has left their homes uninhabitable and at risk of becoming uninsurable.

Renewed Flooding Sparks Public Outcry in Redcliffe

Residents of a unit block at 20 Grant Street in Redcliffe are calling for urgent assistance after being inundated by floodwaters for the third time in three years. The most recent event in April 2025 has intensified concerns over the lack of visible infrastructure upgrades and the growing impact of repeated storm events.

Grant Street flooding — *Photo Credit: Rachael Greany/Facebook*

Residents Still Paying for Past Disasters

The complex was previously flooded twice in one day in 2022, with water levels rising above 1.2 metres. The April 2025 flooding caused further extensive damage. Residents now face a $100,000 insurance excess for repairs and have been warned that their building will become uninsurable by 24 May 2025.

Since the 2022 floods, residents report continued financial pressure from lost belongings, inflated premiums, and difficulty securing insurance. While some recall earlier assurances of future flood mitigation, no specific changes to stormwater systems have been confirmed.

Stormwater System Again Under Scrutiny

Residents believe that stormwater infrastructure failed again in April, as water appeared to back up through drains during heavy rainfall and high tide. There are concerns that existing drainage cannot handle the combined effects of weather and ongoing urban development.

Redcliffe flood damage — *Photo Credit: Rachael Greany/Facebook*

The City of Moreton Bay stated that 47mm of rain fell within 30 minutes, a level exceeding the 1 per cent Annual Exceedance Probability. The affected site sits at one of the street’s lowest points and has been identified as flood-prone in studies dating back to 2000.

Council maintains that increased population density has limited impact on the drainage network and that routine maintenance, including culvert clearing, is conducted in the area.

Community Raises Concerns Over Council Response

Some residents say they received strong assistance after the 2022 floods, which occurred close to election time. One resident described early support such as clean-up services and skip bin provision, followed by years of what they viewed as inaction.

Comments posted publicly by affected locals express disappointment with the council’s continued handling of the issue. Multiple residents claim they raised concerns after the first flood but received responses indicating no further action would be taken.

Redcliffe flooding — *Photo Credit: Rachael Greany/Facebook*

Vulnerable Residents Impacted

During the April 2025 flood, an 80-year-old resident required emergency assistance to leave her unit. Her family reported that nearby stormwater drains were obstructed by debris from recent tree removal. She is now seeking alternative accommodation.

Limited Avenues for Relief Remain

Council confirmed that it continues to correspond with affected residents but noted that the Voluntary Home Buy-Back scheme ended in June 2023. Insurance arrangements remain at the discretion of private providers.

Residents are now exploring legal options to pursue structural mitigation or compensation. Calls for further government involvement continue, as many in the Redcliffe area report ongoing uncertainty over flood resilience.

Published 7-May-2025

Tickets Now Available for 2025 Moreton Bay Food + Wine Festival

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Food + Wine/Facebook

Apex Park in Woody Point will transform into a vibrant foodie haven this August, with the Moreton Bay Food + Wine Festival returning for what organisers say will be its biggest celebration yet. Tickets are now on sale for the three-day event, with a range of passes available for general admission, premium dining experiences and a new VIP precinct designed to elevate the experience.

Local Flavour Front and Centre

This year’s festival runs from 22 to 24 August and will span nearly a kilometre of waterfront parklands, celebrating Moreton Bay’s seafood and local produce. Chefs like Matt Golinski and Alastair McLeod will showcase regional flavours, with dishes featuring crabs, prawns and the famous Moreton Bay Bugs.

*Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Food + Wine/Facebook*

Celebrity chefs Miguel Maestre, Julie Goodwin, Mike Reid and MKR 2024 winners Simone and Viviana will take to the Kitchen Stage, drawing crowds with live demos using local ingredients.

Tickets Now on Sale with New Upgrades

Tickets are now on sale online, with general admission starting at $15 and free entry for children under 17 with a paying adult. Entry includes access to key zones like The MarketPlace, The Kitchen, The Springs and The Cellar Door. Premium add-ons, including high teas and masterclasses with chefs like Miguel Maestre and Kim McCosker, are also available in limited numbers and must be pre-booked.

The new Oasis Club offers a VIP experience with shaded lounge areas, foreshore views, priority food and bar access, and private bathrooms. Groups can book Oasis Bungalows—furnished marquees with bar service and grazing boards. Moreton Bay locals can access discounted general admission on Friday and Sunday, with all tickets available via the official website.

Bigger Spaces, More to Taste

Organisers have added more food vendors, doubled shaded areas and increased seating to improve comfort. Key zones include The MarketPlace, The Cellar Door and The Springs.

Hands-on workshops like wine tasting, cocktail making and food styling are back with more sessions on offer. The Bayview Pavilion will feature local producers and curated events highlighting the best of Moreton Bay.

Entertainment with a Community Feel

Live jazz, soul and acoustic acts, including local performer Leena Salim, will feature across multiple stages. With bars, winery pop-ups and sunset cocktails, the festival is set to attract families, couples and visitors alike.

BUY TICKETS HERE

With open green spaces and a relaxed foreshore setting, the festival remains family-friendly and offers something for all ages, whether it’s food, music or a day by the bay.

Published 1-May-2025

Lace Up for a Cause: Memory Walk & Jog Returns to Redcliffe

Redcliffe, it’s time to lace up! The Memory Walk & Jog is back for 2025, bringing the community together on Saturday, 24 May at Scarborough Beach Park for a morning of movement, fun, and purpose.

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

From 7:30 am, locals will walk, jog, or run along the beautiful Redcliffe foreshore to raise funds and awareness for Dementia Australia.

Whether you’re chasing a personal best, donning a fancy dress costume, or just out for a stroll with friends and family—including the dog!—there’s something for everyone. With multiple distances to choose from and a dog-friendly course (just don’t forget to register your pooch!), the event promises a vibrant, community-driven atmosphere that supports a vital cause.

Why it matters

More than just a fun run, the Redcliffe Memory Walk & Jog is part of a national movement helping to beat dementia. In Queensland alone, nearly 82,270 people are currently living with dementia. Across Australia, that number is estimated at 433,300—and growing.

Funds raised at the event support Dementia Australia’s essential work, including support services for individuals and families, education programs, and world-leading research into treatment and prevention.

Dementia Australia is the national peak body for people impacted by dementia, including those living with the condition, their families, and carers. The organisation provides support services across the country, delivers education and information to the aged care sector, and advocates for improved outcomes through evidence-based policy. Dementia Australia also partners with leading researchers to drive innovation in care, treatment, and the search for a cure.

Read: Major Seawall Renewal Begins Along Redcliffe Foreshore

By signing up, spreading the word, and fundraising, participants play a powerful role in raising awareness and improving the lives of people affected by dementia.

Don’t miss this meaningful day out by the bay. Register now at www.memorywalk.com.au and be part of something bigger in Redcliffe.

Published 1-May-2025

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