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Redcliffe Hospital Expansion Continues Amidst State-Wide Funding Concerns

Residents are being assured that Redcliffe Hospital’s expansion, promising around 204 new beds, will proceed despite a state-wide hospital program facing a potential $6 billion budget increase.

State-Wide Hospital Program Under Scrutiny

Redcliffe Hospital Expansion — *Photo Credit:* *ANZIP*

The Queensland government’s plan to boost hospital capacity, known as the Capacity Expansion Program (CEP), is under review due to concerns about escalating costs. Originally budgeted at $9.78 billion, the program, which includes the Redcliffe Hospital expansion, is now estimated to cost $16 billion.

The CEP, launched in 2022 by the previous government, aims to deliver 2,200 extra hospital beds across the state by 2028. This includes new hospitals in areas such as Bundaberg, Toowoomba, and Coomera and expansions of existing facilities like Redcliffe Hospital.

Redcliffe Expansion Remains a Priority

Health Minister Tim Nicholls confirmed that the Redcliffe Hospital expansion and other key projects will continue. This assurance came after concerns were raised about potential delays and funding shortfalls. The expansion is crucial to the government’s plan to address the growing demand for healthcare services in the region. The project is set to deliver approximately 204 additional beds to the Redcliffe Hospital. The government acknowledged that the original budget for the whole CEP program was insufficient.

Funding and Timing Concerns

The government is assessing the funding required to complete the CEP projects, including the Redcliffe expansion. Despite the increased costs, they are working to ensure the projects are delivered as efficiently as possible. The government stated that delays had already happened under the previous Labor government.

The opposition has expressed concern about the potential impact of funding issues on the timely completion of the projects. They emphasised that the Redcliffe expansion is a vital project for the community and should not be delayed.

Community Impact

The Redcliffe community is closely watching the development of the hospital expansion. The extra beds are anticipated to alleviate pressure on existing hospital services and improve residents’ access to healthcare. The government has stressed its commitment to delivering the necessary healthcare infrastructure for all Queenslanders, including those in Redcliffe.

Published Date 25-March-2025

Dolphins v Broncos — The Battle of Brisbane

Dolphins fans will be desperately hoping that last season’s Round 26 “Battle of Brisbane” repeats itself, after a tough start to the reason that leaves them winless after three games.

The opening round loss was a tough arm wrestle with Issiah Tass’s 67th minute try cancelling the Dolphins lead after Max Plath went over to put the Dolphins ahead.

Last week the Phins led against the Wests Tigers 18-12 at half-time, a crucial easy goal kick was turned down in the second half “I allowed them to play some footy” said coach Kristian Woolf.

Max Plath led the tackle count with 45 whilst Herbie Farnworth ran for 209 metres, while making 8 tackle breaks and 3 offloads, leading to a try and an assist.

“It gives us something to get excited about”, said Woolf about the Broncos clash.

Surely re-runs of last year’s round 26 will be on the agenda, to gee the boys up.

Kevvy Walters’s team had not played their best footy at that stage but they were not ready for the marauding phins to rip them apart, 2 tries each from The Hammer, Herbie Farmworth and Jake Averillo with Jermayne Isaako starting the rout in the 13th minute.

The 4 tries in the first half despite Felise Kaufusi going to the bin in the 17th minute, though Xavier Willison also had a 10 minute rest on the sidelines after 30 minutes.

All five try scorers will start on Friday night at Suncorp, as Kristian Woolf puts out an unchanged 17 from last week.

Street Library Resumes Operation in Redcliffe After Permit Obstacle

Photo Credit: Melissa Forbes/Instagram

A community street library in Redcliffe has reopened with a new setup after an objection forced its temporary closure.

Initial Launch and Council Intervention

A grassroots street library, initially placed outside a Clontarf home on Maine Road, was shut down shortly after opening.

The operator, Melissa Forbes, was required by Moreton Bay City Council to apply for a permit under the Alteration of Public Land Local Law and obtain $20 million in Public Liability Insurance. The initial location was near the Beedham Street bus stop.

After the permit application was rejected due to non-compliance, Ms Forbes dismantled the setup pending an alternative.

illegal book box — *Photo Credit: Melissa Forbes/Instagram*

New Setup on Private Property

The original street library setup required formal council approval because it was situated on public land. The insurance requirement added further complications, effectively rendering the initial setup unviable. In response, Ms Forbes repositioned the library onto her front garden fence, which allowed her to circumvent public land regulations.

The library has been rebranded as the “Illegal Book Box” in a tongue-in-cheek nod to the bureaucratic hurdle it faced. The modified setup complies with local laws, making it a fully legal installation under current council guidelines.

No Guidance, No Permit – Just a Workaround

No specific alternatives were advised by council officers following the permit denial. Ms Forbes noted that no workaround was formally provided. Relocating the structure onto private property proved the simplest and most compliant option.

Melissa Forbes street library — *Photo Credit: Melissa Forbes/Instagram*

Strong Community Support

Public response to the re-opening has been overwhelmingly supportive. Comments on social media reflected both frustration at the initial complaint and enthusiasm for the library’s return.

Pledges of book donations and visits were common, with some residents describing the re-opening as “terrific for the community.” Others used humour to critique the idea that such a project faced obstacles, calling the situation “insane” and questioning how a free book library could be deemed problematic.

Some residents outside Australia, including from the UK, USA, and Serbia, expressed solidarity, noting similar initiatives in their own communities and voicing support for public book-sharing schemes.

Broader Impact and Future Outlook

With the new location now meeting council requirements, the “Illegal Book Box” is operating legally and continues to function as a local hub for sharing books. The case has highlighted both the regulatory challenges faced by small community projects and the public value placed on local, grassroots initiatives.

FIND A LIBRARY NEAR YOU

Published 22-Mar-2025

Redcliffe Showgrounds to Host 25th Anniversary Panel Van & Custom Car Show

Car enthusiasts and classic vehicle lovers will have plenty to admire when Redcliffe Showgrounds transforms into a hub of horsepower and nostalgia for the 25th Anniversary Panel Van & Custom Car Show.

Hosted by the Sunstate Panel Van Club, the event will bring together a spectacular display of panel vans, hot rods, street cars, classic vehicles, trucks, utes, and bikes, all celebrating the rich history of Australia’s vanning culture.

The show will take place on Sunday, 4 May 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with gates opening to the public at 8:30 a.m. Attendees can expect to see award-winning custom builds, including national and state title winners, as well as a variety of unique vehicles that have been carefully restored and modified. Trophy presentations and raffle draws will take place at 12:00 p.m., adding to the excitement of the day.

Redcliffe Showgrounds will host the 25th Anniversary Panel Van & Custom Car Show — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

A Club with a Legacy

The Sunstate Panel Van Club, originally formed in the 1970s and 1980s, was re-established in 2000 by a group of mates keen to revive the camaraderie of vanning culture. Initially centred in Gympie, the club quickly gained traction and expanded its membership across Queensland and New South Wales, with members now hailing from as far north as Rockhampton and as far west as Stanthorpe.

Over the past 25 years, the club has participated in numerous car shows, including the prestigious Panel Van Nationals, an annual Easter event that showcases some of the finest custom panel vans in Australia. The upcoming Redcliffe event is expected to draw a strong crowd, uniting enthusiasts who share a passion for the unique style and culture of vanning.

A Day for Car Lovers and Families

This community-focused event is designed to welcome all ages, making it a great outing for families and car lovers alike.

The show will feature a mix of vintage, retro, and custom-built vehicles, giving visitors the chance to see some of Australia’s most impressive automotive restorations up close. Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to chat with vehicle owners, learn about the history of these iconic machines, and relive the golden era of vanning.

Spectators can enter for just $5 per person, with children under 12 admitted free. Vehicle entrants will also pay $5, which includes admission for the driver, and additional passengers can join for $5 each. All vehicles in attendance will be automatically entered into the judging process at no extra cost.

More Than Just a Car Show

Beyond the stunning display of vehicles, the event fosters a sense of community and nostalgia, bringing together people who appreciate the craftsmanship and history of these classic rides. With camping available on-site, visitors traveling from outside the area can enjoy a full weekend immersed in car culture.

The Redcliffe Showgrounds has long been a gathering place for automotive events, and the Sunstate Panel Van Club’s 25th-anniversary show promises to uphold that tradition with a vibrant display of automotive excellence. Whether you’re a longtime vanning enthusiast or simply looking for a great local event to enjoy, this is one not to be missed.

For more details, contact June on 0448 113 425 or Deb on 0419 293 351, or visit www.sunstatepanelvanclub.com.au.

Published 20-March-2025

Dolphins Honour 1965 Premiership with Heritage Jersey in Historic Homecoming

Photo Credit: Dolphins NRL

The Dolphins are set to celebrate a milestone in their rich history by wearing a special 2025 heritage jersey when they face the Wests Tigers at Kayo Stadium in their first home game of the season on Saturday, 22 March. The jersey pays tribute to the club’s first-ever Brisbane Rugby League (BRL) premiership win in 1965, a victory that not only cemented Redcliffe’s status in Queensland rugby league but also played a role in shaping the future of the sport.

The historic Grand Final occurred on 11 September 1965, when the Dolphins defeated Fortitude Valley Diehards 15-2 in front of more than 25,000 fans at Lang Park. The win was a defining moment for Redcliffe, marking its emergence as a force in the BRL. The team’s success that season was powered by Arthur Beetson and Kevin Yow Yeh, two young players who would leave a lasting impact on the game.

A Victory That Shaped the Dolphins’ Future

Redcliffe’s 1965 premiership was more than just a breakthrough title—it began a legacy that continues to influence the club today. The team, led by John Treeby at five-eighth, controlled the match with discipline and resilience. Yow Yeh scored two tries, securing his status as the game’s standout performer. His efforts were recognised in the Telegraph newspaper the next day, which declared him “The Hero.”

Meanwhile, Beetson played a crucial role in the forwards, showing the strength and skill that would later make him one of rugby league’s greatest figures. While still an emerging player at the time, Beetson’s performance in the Grand Final hinted at the legendary career that lay ahead. He would later become the first Indigenous Australian to captain a national team in any sport, making history beyond just the club level.

Dolphins 1965 Premiereship — *Photo Credit: DolphinsNRL*

A Turning Point for Redcliffe

The impact of the 1965 victory extended well beyond the field. The success of that season attracted the attention of New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) clubs, with Balmain securing the signatures of both Beetson and Yow Yeh the following year. The transfer fee from the two players allowed Redcliffe to build its first clubhouse, a pivotal step in the club’s long-term development.

Both Beetson and Yow Yeh had immediate success at Balmain, helping the club finish second on the ladder in 1966 and reach the Grand Final, though they fell short against St George. Beetson went on to become a Balmain premiership winner in 1969, while Yow Yeh continued his career before returning to Queensland.

Honouring the Past with a Special Jersey

As the Dolphins take the field against the Wests Tigers, they will be wearing a red heritage jersey with two white chevrons, a nod to the iconic design from 1965. The match holds a symbolic connection—the Tigers are the modern-day club that evolved from Balmain, the very team that recruited Beetson and Yow Yeh after their premiership win.

Buy GAME TICKETS

This tribute is a way for the Dolphins community to reconnect with the club’s roots, celebrating the players and moments that helped shape Redcliffe into the team it is today.

With generations of fans now supporting the NRL Dolphins, the 2025 heritage round serves as a reminder of how far the club has come—from a local Queensland side to a national competitor.

BUY the 1965 Jersey

Published 19-March-2025

Redcliffe Hosts Frida Kahlo Exhibition at Art So Lively Academy

Photo Credit: Selina Guajardo Garcia/Facebook

Frida Kahlo turned pain into art. Now, Redcliffe locals can experience her story up close at a one-night-only exhibition on March 20.

A Special Art Event in Redcliffe

Redcliffe is set to celebrate the life and work of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo with a special exhibition at The Art So Lively Art Academy in Comino’s Arcade, Sutton St which will take place on Thursday, March 20.

Exploring Frida Kahlo’s Legacy

Frida Kahlo’s work still deeply influences not just art but discussions about identity, feminism, and self-expression. The exhibit offers a personal look at Kahlo’s artistic life using vintage photos, digital images, and commentary on her personal affliction and artistic process.

*Photo Credit: Handmade by Paola Pizzaferri/Facebook*

More deeply, audiences will learn about how her life of chronic illness, activism, and resilience affected her unique style of art.

A Cultural Experience for the Redcliffe Community

Organisers hope to deliver a world-class cultural event to Redcliffe, making Kahlo’s compelling narrative available to art enthusiasts of every stripe. Her skill at transmuting pain into beauty, and her refusal to apologise for self-representation, remain potent across generations.

Visitors can look forward to an intimate experience that celebrates her skill for transforming personal suffering into powerful visual stories.

Event Details and Contact Information

This one-night-only exhibition will be held at The Art So Lively Art Academy on Thursday, March 20. Doors open at 6:30 pm for a 7 pm start. For more details, contact 0477 002 545.

Published 19-March-2025

Redcliffe Gears Up for Easter Market Extravaganza

Redcliffe will host over 200 stalls of handcrafted goods, gourmet foods, and Easter-themed activities across two days, offering a community celebration for locals and visitors.

The iconic Redcliffe Markets are set to transform into a vibrant Easter hub with a special Good Friday pop-up market and the regular Sunday market. The weekend promises family-friendly fun. Market organisers have planned various activities designed to engage the community and provide a memorable Easter experience.

Easter Activities and Entertainment

Redcliffe Gears Up for Easter Market Extravaganza — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Children can look forward to meeting the Easter Bunny and participating in an Easter Scavenger Hunt designed to encourage exploration and discovery within the market. Easter craft activities will also be available, providing opportunities for creative expression. The market will feature live music and entertainment throughout both days, creating a lively atmosphere for attendees.

Market Stalls and Offerings

Over 200 stalls will showcase the work of local designers and makers, offering handmade fashion, unique homewares, and one-of-a-kind gifts. A wide range of gourmet food trucks will cater to diverse tastes, with dessert options available. Additionally, the market will feature Easter-themed décor and a selection of chocolate treats.

*Photo Credit: Bucky’s Cookies and Creations/ Facebook*

Bucky’s Cookies and Creations: Indulge your sweet tooth with Bucky’s irresistible creations. Prepare for gooey cookies that melt in your mouth, decadent layered cookie pies, rich brownies and blondies, and the ever-popular wagon wheels with homemade marshmallows. And keep an eye out for their special decorated sugar cookies!

*Photo Credit: Glen Wardle Ceramics/ Facebook*

Glen Wardle Ceramics: Explore the art of pottery with Glen Wardle Ceramics, a creative haven for art enthusiasts. Discover their stunning pottery, handcrafted candles, and special Easter surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, Glen Wardle Ceramics has something to inspire you.

Razza Beadz: Add whimsy to your Easter with Razza Beadz! Back at Redcliffe Markets with adorable new Easter-themed products, these handmade accessories are perfect for adding a bit of fun to your day. Discover their cute and fun keychains, lanyards, diffusers, and more—all crafted with love. These cute Easter-themed items are sure to become a favorite.

My Soap: Treat your skin to the natural goodness of My Soap. Discover their hand-made, natural soaps for a little self-care this Easter. Made with quality ingredients, these soaps are gentle and nourishing, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.

*Photo Credit: Oishii Chili Oil/ Facebook*

Oishii Chili Oil: Spice up your Easter with Oishii Chili Oil. This homemade chili oil is packed with flavor and umami, making it incredibly addictive and versatile. Drizzle it over your favorite dishes for an extra kick, and you’ll be reaching for this oil for every meal.

Good Friday Special Event

The Good Friday market will coincide with the start of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, allowing attendees to view the event from the Redcliffe foreshore. Market organisers highlight that this timing provides a unique opportunity to combine market enjoyment with viewing a significant local sporting event.

Market Organisation and Accessibility

Goodwill Projects, a Queensland-based events company, organises the Redcliffe Markets. Market organisers state that the market operates weekly on Sundays, and the Easter events are special additions to the regular schedule. The Good Friday and Easter Sunday markets will run from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe. Entry and parking are free.

Published Date 18-March-2025

Redcliffe Grandmother Evicted After ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred Collapse

Photo Credit: BCC

A Redcliffe grandmother received a 24-hour eviction notice after her Margate rental apartment sustained significant damage from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, rendering it uninhabitable.

Janine Pirie, 54, who lived in the top-floor unit with her two young grandchildren, aged 10 and 12 months, was forced to vacate immediately following a ceiling collapse caused by severe rainfall.

Storm Damage and Eviction

ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred — *Photo Credit:* *BCC*

The storm brought over 300mm of rain to Brisbane in 24 hours and caused extensive damage to the property. Ms Pirie reported that water poured into her living room after the ceiling began to crack. She contacted her real estate agency, L.J. Hooker Redcliffe, who inspected the premises on Monday and issued her a 24-hour notice to leave.

The agency stated that they had first noticed a hairline crack in the roof on Tuesday, March 4th, before the storm’s intensification. Following the storm’s impact, the property was deemed unsafe for habitation. L.J. Hooker Redcliffe stated that they returned the bond immediately and offered suggestions for emergency lodging.

Industry Response

Matthew Gleaves, head of property management at Place Estate Agents, expressed concern regarding the timing of the eviction notice during a natural disaster. He suggested a more collaborative approach with the tenant would have been preferable. He pointed out that vacant properties are not beneficial for owners, and the abrupt eviction caused undue hardship.

Tenant Rights and Disputes

Penny Carr, CEO of Tenants Queensland, advised renters to know their rights in similar situations. She noted that disputes regarding the habitability of properties often arise after natural disasters. She clarified that a tenancy can be ended if a property becomes partially or fully uninhabitable due to a natural disaster within a month of the event.

However, tenants can challenge the decision if they believe the property remains habitable. She explained that the owner must seek a tribunal order to terminate the agreement. Carr also reminded tenants that landlords are generally not responsible for damage to personal belongings caused by natural disasters.

Agency Actions and Remediation

L.J. Hooker Redcliffe stated that they explored multiple flexible options with Ms Pirie regarding accommodation and storage. They also affirmed that they would follow their internal procedures and collaborate with the corporate body to arrange the necessary repair work.

Published Date 17-March-2025

Dolphins Forced to Relocate as Floods Disrupt NRL Season

Photo Credit: Dolphins NRL

The Dolphins have been forced to abandon their base and relocate to Newcastle after their training facilities were left without power in the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, throwing their preparations for their clash against the Knights in disarray. More than 112,000 homes and businesses are still without power and key sporting venues are still unusable.

The Dolphins had planned to travel to Newcastle later in the week but were compelled to leave two days early on Monday evening, 10 March. Their home ground, Kayo Stadium, and their Redcliffe training base were both rendered unplayable after days of relentless rain left the facilities waterlogged. Head coach Kristian Woolf was forced to cancel Monday’s training session, further impacting their build-up to Round 2.

Squad Faces Challenges After Key Injuries and Disruptions

Adding to their troubles, the Dolphins will be without back-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, who failed his Head Injury Assessment (HIA) following a controversial incident against the Rabbitohs. The club also confirmed that Samoan international Connelly Lemuelu has suffered a fractured eye socket, ruling him out for up to four weeks. These setbacks test the depth of the squad, with key players already absent due to the relocation.

The crisis has also had an emotional toll, with three Dolphins players—Kodi Nikorima, Mark Nicholls, and Kenny Bromwich—opting to withdraw from the Rabbitohs game to remain with their families amid the natural disaster. Team officials have been working closely with the NRL to manage the disruptions and locate alternative training grounds.

Titans Also Affected as Gold Coast Training Base Submerged

The Dolphins are not the only Queensland club affected by the extreme weather. The Gold Coast Titans were also forced to flee, relocating to Sydney after their training grounds were left two metres underwater. The Titans will now prepare for their Sunday night clash against the Canterbury Bulldogs at Belmore Oval away from home, adding another layer of difficulty to their season opener.

Despite the upheaval, Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said the players remain focused on delivering a strong performance for their flood-affected community. He acknowledged that while the conditions were far from ideal, the team was determined to push through and represent the region with pride.

Broncos Escape Major Damage but Adjust Training Schedule

Meanwhile, the Brisbane Broncos avoided significant damage to their training facilities at Red Hill but were forced to adjust their training schedule. Players used the gym on Monday morning to allow the playing surface more time to dry. The club confirmed that they will fly to Canberra on Friday for their Saturday match as planned.

NRL Teams Rally as Queensland Battles Flooding

The widespread flooding has created major obstacles for Queensland’s NRL clubs, but the Dolphins and Titans are working around the clock to minimise disruptions and remain competitive.

Club officials have prioritised player welfare and safety, ensuring that families and staff are supported through the crisis.

With the Dolphins now settled in Newcastle and the Titans setting up in Sydney, both teams are adapting to their new surroundings and focusing on their upcoming matches despite the adversity. While logistical challenges and injuries have complicated preparations, players and coaches are committed to making the best of a difficult situation.

Published 12-March-2025

Redcliffe Koala Numbers Dwindle, Urgent Action Demanded

Photo Credit: WWF Australia

The survival of Redcliffe’s fragile koala population hangs in the balance. Rescuers reveal that multiple koalas are dying each week due to habitat loss and animal attacks, highlighting the urgent need for community and government intervention.

Rescue and Release

Local volunteers, like Tash Barker and Therese Hollan, dedicate their time to rescuing and rehabilitating injured koalas. One recent success story involved a seven-year-old koala, known to locals as Blinky and to rescuers as Coolio. After three months of treatment at Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre, the koala returned to his Kippa-Ring habitat. The koala had suffered severe injuries from a dog attack.

According to the volunteers, moments of successful releases provide motivation, despite the frequent and disheartening losses. Barker, a member of Pine Rivers Koala Care, expressed the emotional strain of witnessing multiple koala deaths in a short period. Hollan, a volunteer with Redcliffe Environmental Forum (REF), stated that the return of Coolio was a moment of joy that balanced the frequent losses the volunteers experience.

Habitat and Population Concerns

The koala population in Redcliffe faces significant challenges due to fragmented habitats, primarily caused by the railway corridor. Hollan explained that the corridor has divided the koala population, resulting in approximately 50 koalas south of the railway and only 12 in the northern areas, including Silcock Reserve and the Redcliffe Golf Course at Clontarf. The low numbers in the northern population are particularly concerning, as roads surround them and face threats from dogs.

Hollan, who attended a meeting with Moreton Bay City Council and the Department of Environment Tourism and Science (DETSI) in August, raised concerns about the genetic diversity of the remaining koala populations. She emphasised that while the southern population number seems reasonable, its long-term survival is not guaranteed without understanding its genetic health. Hollan explained that they are seeking a grant to fund university research into the genetic diversity of the koalas to determine the necessary steps for population preservation.

Call for Community and Government Action

Both Barker and Hollan advocate for a more coordinated approach to koala preservation, involving volunteer organisations, the State Government, and the local council. They urge residents to take responsibility for protecting the marsupials by driving slowly in koala habitats, keeping dogs contained at night, and participating in bush care groups. Hollan stated that many Australians have never seen a koala in the wild, emphasising their unique value.

She stressed that every koala is essential due to the numerous threats to their survival. Barker explained that her journey into koala care started because she frequently found injured wildlife and wanted to ensure they received proper care. She grew up with koalas and wants to protect them. The volunteers would like to see more warning signs placed in areas with koala populations.

Published Date 11-March-2025