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Cost Overruns, Poor Planning Cast Shadow Over Redcliffe Hospital Project

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

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

Photo Credit: Redcliffe Leagues Padres Baseball Club/ Facebook

The Redcliffe Padres Baseball Club on the Redcliffe Peninsula is Australia’s largest single-season baseball club. It is built on a deep community history involving local families across generations.

Australia’s Largest Club

Redcliffe Padres provides many options for players, entering teams in every available competition suitable for different ages and abilities. This commitment has seen the organisation recognised as the Greater Brisbane League’s (GBL) Junior and Senior Club of the Year for both the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 seasons. The club’s size reflects its strong presence within the local sporting community.

Generational Family Ties

The strong community focus is clear in families like the Lands and the Nilssons, who together have over 100 years of involvement in baseball, mostly with the Padres. Keith Land stated that baseball is a significant family activity for them, with multiple family members present supporting games on Saturdays.

His son David coaches the Little League Major team Keith assists with, which includes Keith’s 11-year-old grandson Jaxon. Similarly, the Nilsson family’s connection runs deep, from Hall of Famer Bob Nilsson to his son Jay and grandson Van. Jay Nilsson noted that his daughter Willow had also recently enjoyed playing her first season.

A Long History in Redcliffe

While the club marked 30 years on the peninsula in the 2022-23 season under its current structure, its roots go back much further. Redcliffe baseball began over 60 years ago when American ex-serviceman Chuck Carroll founded a senior club in 1948, later known as the Redcliffe Whitesox.

Junior baseball was initially based at the Redcliffe Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC). When the PCYC could no longer support junior baseball in 1991, the senior club joined forces with the juniors. A committee decided to re-brand baseball on the peninsula, and on 16 December 1991, the Peninsula Padres Baseball Club Incorporated was formed, inspired by the San Diego Padres. Key figures in this transition included Jason Pascoe, Brett Bates, and Darryl Bates. A major step forward came in the 2004-2005 season when the club moved to its dedicated fields at Talobilla Park, allowing space to grow.

Key Milestones and Honours

*Photo Credit:* *Redcliffe Leagues Padres Baseball Club/ Facebook*

Throughout its history, the club and its members have achieved significant success. Bob Nilsson is the first Australian player in the modern era to sign a professional contract with a Major League Baseball team, the Cincinnati Reds, and was later inducted into the national Hall of Fame. His son Jay played for the minor league Cleveland Indians from 2006 and won rookie of the year honours for Queensland’s Claxton Shield team in 2007.

Lisa Kirby became the club’s first female representative on the Australian Women’s Baseball team following the 2002-2003 season. Daniel Nilsson represented Australia in the World Youth Baseball Championship in 2009-2010. The club earned national recognition when named Australian Baseball Club of the Year for 2009 (jointly with Doncaster Baseball Club).

Team successes include numerous premierships across different grades, such as the first Major’s title in the foundation year 1992-1993, the first Under 14 Junior premiership in 1998-1999 (coached by Bob Nilsson), and multiple A-Grade Commissioners Cup wins. Facility development continued with the construction of an indoor batting cage during the 2013-14 season.

Focus on Community Growth

The club emphasises that its strength is built on community, friendship, and the hard work of many volunteers over the years. Redcliffe Padres continue to produce players, umpires, and officials who proudly represent the club at regional, state, national, and international levels.

Recent seasons before 2017 saw continued success, with multiple junior and senior teams winning premierships. This highlights the ongoing development and competitive spirit within the Redcliffe Padres organisation.

Published Date 14-April-2025

Redcliffe Bus Driver “Miss Frangipani” Named Top Queensland Driver

Photo Credit: YouTube / TranslinkQLD

Isapela “Bella” Tuimavave Leaupepe, known to her passengers as “Miss Frangipani,” has been named South East Queensland’s top bus driver in the prestigious 2024 Translink awards. The popular Hornibrook Bus Lines driver has been a fixture on the Redcliffe Peninsula’s public transport network for over two decades.

Known for the trademark flower she wears in her hair, Leaupepe emerged victorious from a competitive field of more than 1,300 nominees across Queensland. She received her award—consisting of a trophy and $1,000 prize—at the Queensland Bus Industry Council’s annual ceremony held in Cairns last Saturday.

The great-grandmother has been driving buses throughout the Redcliffe Peninsula for 23 years, becoming well-known for her positive energy and friendly demeanour. Her consistent efforts to create a welcoming environment for passengers have now earned her recognition at the highest level of her profession.

Dr. Deborah Hume, Head of Translink, praised all finalists as representing “some of the finest bus drivers in Queensland,” noting that their recognition “is testament to the exceptional service and dedication provided to their passengers and community.”

The awards, determined by public vote after narrowing the extensive nomination pool to nine finalists across three categories, also honoured Bus Queensland drivers Sam Davison as Regional Bus Driver of the Year and Allan Humphrey as School Bus Driver of the Year, both from Toowoomba.

For Leaupepe, who expressed being “overwhelmed” by the honour, the recognition caps an impressive career of service to the Redcliffe community. She encouraged others to consider driving buses, calling it “a beautiful job.”

Published 14-April-2025

Talobilla Park to Become Home of $4.8M Clubhouse for Redcliffe Softball Community

Photo Credit: Senator Anthony Chisholm/Facebook

A major upgrade at Talobilla Park in Kippa-Ring will deliver a brand-new $4.8 million clubhouse for the Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association, supporting hundreds of players and volunteers who rely on the local grounds each season.

A Boost for Local Sport

Construction is set to begin in mid-2025 and take around 12 months, with funding shared by the City of Moreton Bay and the Australian Government’s Thriving Suburbs Program.

*Photo Credit: Senator Anthony Chisholm/Facebook*

The clubhouse will feature change rooms, a clubroom, a kitchen, and other key facilities, creating a central, accessible space for games, training, and events for over 700 members.

City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said the upgrade reflects the region’s growth and the council’s push to keep local sport facilities up to standard, adding it could attract higher-level competitions and boost local business.

Designed for Inclusion and Growth

More than $2.4 million in federal funding has been committed to the project. Senator Anthony Chisholm said the new clubhouse will give people of all ages more opportunities to stay active and socially connected.

Division 5 Councillor Sandra Ruck said the clubhouse will support local clubs as the region grows and recognises the ongoing efforts of weekend volunteers in grassroots sport.

Meeting Community Needs

The project is part of a broader plan to upgrade sport venues across Moreton Bay, with Talobilla Park set to play a key role in meeting current and future demand for softball and baseball.

The Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association, which has served the community for many years, will gain a much-needed upgrade to continue supporting players, families, and the next generation of athletes.

Published 14-April-2025

Redcliffe Softball Community Scores Major Clubhouse Upgrade

Photo Credit: SenAnthonyChisholm/Facebook

Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association will soon benefit from a $4.8 million clubhouse at Talobilla Park. Construction is set to deliver upgraded facilities for hundreds of players, volunteers, and visitors across the region.

The new clubhouse will be built at Talobilla Park in Kippa-Ring, with construction expected to commence by mid-2025. Jointly funded by the City of Moreton Bay and the Australian Government, each contributing $2.4 million, the project was supported by the Thriving Suburbs Program—an infrastructure initiative supporting urban and suburban communities nationwide.

Significant Sporting Hub for Redcliffe and Beyond

The Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association currently supports over 700 members, and the new clubhouse is designed to enhance the experience for players, officials, and spectators alike. The facility will include two changing rooms, an umpire room, amenities, a first aid room, internal storage, a clubroom, an office, and a kitchen.

Talobilla Park is already considered a vital sporting precinct for Redcliffe and the broader Moreton Bay region. Officials say the facility is not only important for local residents who are passionate about softball but also acts as a drawcard for teams visiting from outside the area.

The project is expected to increase Redcliffe’s capacity to host high-profile sporting events and strengthen its role as a key location for softball and baseball competitions across South East Queensland.

Backed by All Levels of Government

Federal official Anthony Chisholm reinforced the importance of community sports infrastructure in fostering local engagement. He noted that facilities like Talobilla Park provide space for residents and visitors to come together, stay active, and enjoy the benefits of community sport.

Thriving Suburbs Program — *Photo Credit: SenAnthonyChisholm/Facebook*

City authorities have also said the delivery of this infrastructure will support the sustainability of grassroots clubs, enable larger-scale events, and attract even more people to the sport.

Construction Timeline and Completion

The build is expected to take approximately 12 months, with completion anticipated by mid-2026. Once open, the upgraded facility will serve as a regional hub for community sport and a boost to Redcliffe’s growing profile in competitive softball.

Published 11-Apr-2025

Redcliffe Prepares for Good Friday Pop-Up Market Celebration

The Redcliffe community is preparing for a large-scale Easter celebration this Good Friday. Redcliffe Markets hosts special two-day events along Redcliffe Parade featuring numerous stalls, food options, family entertainment, and race-viewing opportunities.

Event Details

Organisers have planned market days for Good Friday and Easter Sunday, providing ample opportunity for residents and visitors to join the festivities. Both market days will run from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm along Redcliffe Parade. The location also offers vantage points for viewing the start of the annual Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race as the vessels head out on Good Friday.

Market Attractions

Over 200 stallholders are expected across the two days, showcasing a diverse range of products. Shoppers can explore handmade goods from local artisans, including bespoke fashion items, unique homewares, and potential Easter gifts.

Alongside the artisan stalls, a wide selection of gourmet food and street eats will be available. Food trucks will offer savoury options like Korean-style corn dogs, gourmet sausages, South American empanadas, and Philly cheesesteaks. Sweet treats will also be plentiful, with choices such as fairy floss, specialty sodas, home-baked cookies, soft serve ice cream, and various chocolate delights.

Family Fun and Entertainment

The Easter markets aim to provide a fun experience for all ages. The Easter Bunny is scheduled to make special appearances on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for meet-and-greets, offering families a chance for photos. A returning favourite, the Redcliffe Markets Easter Scavenger Hunt, will challenge participants to follow clues or gather stamps from different stallholders.

Completing the hunt gives entry into a draw for a prize. Live music and other entertainment will contribute to a lively market atmosphere throughout the events, and children’s arts and crafts activities are also planned, particularly for the Good Friday market. Organisers encourage the community to gather family and friends for what they describe as an exceptional weekend event.

Published Date 11-April-2025