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Historic Redcliffe Pier Theatre Site Up for Sale After 70 Years

The iconic Redcliffe Pier Theatre is up for sale for the first time in seven decades. Located at 115-131 Redcliffe Parade, the 2,500-square-meter oceanfront property comes with an existing approval for a 12-storey mixed-use development.

Cushman and Wakefield, the real estate firm handling the sale, has described the opportunity as “precinct-shaping” and “oceanfront.” The site, situated 27 km north of Brisbane’s CBD, boasts frontage to both Redcliffe Parade and Sutton Street. The approved development plan includes 82 apartments, 748 square meters of retail space, and a food and beverage outlet.

“Revenues for developers are underpinned by the ability to achieve premium ocean view lines,” Cushman and Wakefield said.

“[The site is] improved by the Pier Theatre, an iconic retail building that provides short-term holding income.

“The region’s record population growth and historically low vacancy rates provide favourable market conditions to developers for potential residential projects.”

The current approval, which was initially granted over a decade ago, has been extended three times, most recently on March 17, 2023. During the latest extension process, Moreton Bay Regional Council mandated that the developer, Peninsula Theatres, incorporate the existing theatre facade into the design as a condition for any further extensions.

This requirement came after significant community opposition to the proposed demolition of the historic theatre. The Redcliffe Historical Society had appealed to preserve the facade, citing its importance as a representation of “93 years of film-going by the sea.”

**The second Pier Theatre in Redcliffe, 1950s**
Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Our Story

The site has a rich history dating back to 1917 when the original Redcliffe Picture Palace opened. Following a fire in 1943, the theatre was rebuilt with a brick facade. It ceased operations around 1970 and has since been partially demolished, leaving only the Redcliffe Parade-facing portion standing.

The expressions-of-interest campaign for the property is set to close on June 6, marking a significant moment for this historic site and potentially ushering in a new chapter for Redcliffe’s waterfront development.

Published 8-May-2024

Neighbour’s Note About Baby’s Crying Leaves New Mum in Tears

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A young mother in Redcliffe has been left distraught after receiving her neighbour’s note complaining about the noise from her 4-month-old baby’s crying.

“I’m writing this on behalf of your neighbours and wanted to reach out to you regarding the noise level coming from your residence, particularly the crying of your baby,” the letter said.

“While we understand that babies cry and a newborn can be tough, we can clearly hear everything from the early hours of the morning, throughout the day and into the evening.”

“The prolonged and frequent crying has disrupted your fellow neighbours. Some of us work from home and others are shift workers. We have tried closing our windows and doors and even have turned on appliances with the TV and radio and the crying is still being heard.”

The neighbour ended the note saying, “We value being good neighbours and respecting each other’s space but wanted to reach out and ask if it would be possible to close your rear doors and windows while the baby is feeling unsettled.”

Tiffany, 36, who asked for her last name to be withheld, discovered the typed note in her mailbox earlier this week. “I was pretty upset by it, like I was in tears,” she told Yahoo News Australia.

The letter, addressed vaguely “on behalf of your neighbours,” criticised the “prolonged and frequent crying” coming from Tiffany’s home, saying it has disrupted those who work from home or do shift work in the area. It asked if the new parents could close their doors and windows “while the baby is feeling unsettled” out of respect for the peace of the neighbourhood.

For Tiffany and her partner John, who bought their freestanding house near a busy road last year, the passive-aggressive message came as a huge shock. “I have a feeling it might be the upstairs neighbour in a unit complex behind us, because I have heard them slam their window a couple of times,” Tiffany said.

She described her baby boy as “pretty chill” who “settles quickly” and doesn’t routinely scream through the night. Calling the complaint “unreasonable,” Tiffany said “When you read the undertones, you know the reason they’ve used that language is to cause guilt.”

The new mum’s story quickly went viral after she shared the note on Facebook, drawing a mixed response. Many expressed outrage at the inconsiderate neighbour, but some felt the request to close windows during fussy periods was “reasonable.”

Moreton Bay Regional Council said it does not regulate noise from babies specifically, only certain equipment and construction. Police said noise complaints can be made at any time but did not indicate whether an infant’s cry would qualify.

Tiffany said she’s open to communication but has no plans to “muzzle” her baby to appease the complainer. “If they’d come and had a chat with us… we would have been open to a conversation. But I won’t be closing my windows.”

Published 6-May-2024

Get Lost in Colour: Interactive Installation Debuts at Redcliffe Art Gallery

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Galleries and Museum

Calling all creative families! The Redcliffe Art Gallery is gearing up for a splashy new exhibition that promises to ignite imaginations and immerse visitors in a vibrant underwater adventure.

The Fish Bowl, an interactive installation by local artist Kellie O’Dempsey, invites families to collaborate and contribute to a constantly evolving underwater scene.

Using colourful lights, collage materials, and other artistic tools, visitors can create their own fishy friends, adding to the ever-growing underwater landscape.

This engaging exhibition caters to a range of artistic abilities. Each activity explores different creative approaches, from drawing techniques and collage work to exploring concepts of gesture and composition. As more fishy creations come to life, the entire installation transforms, becoming a dynamic and collaborative artwork.

The Fish Bowl is not just about unleashing creativity; it also offers a glimpse into the world of augmented reality. Visitors can expect an exciting element of digital interaction that complements the handcrafted elements of the installation.

The Redcliffe Art Gallery is open Wednesdays to Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. So, enter The Fish Bowl between Saturday, 4th May, and Saturday, 17th August, and get ready to be astounded by a world of colour, creativity, and fishy fun!

Published Date 02-May-2024

Redcliffe Racing Club Gets $6M Lighting Upgrade

Bright lights will soon be shining on night races at the Redcliffe Peninsula Harness Racing and Sporting Club, as a major $6 million lighting upgrade officially kicks off this month.

Read: Redcliffe Skyline Set for Major Transformation with Array of Development Projects

The 11-month project, supported by the Racing Infrastructure Fund, will bring state-of-the-art LED lighting and new electrical infrastructure to the venue. This ensures the highest quality broadcast experience for night racing, allowing spectators on-site and at home to not miss a second of the heart-pounding action.

Club President Bernie Ring says the lighting upgrade is vital for the future of harness racing at the iconic Triangle track.

He stated that racing under lights is synonymous with Redcliffe, and this upgrade ensures spectators both on-site and at home won’t miss any of the action. Ring emphasised that participant and animal welfare are the top priorities.

Ring also expressed the club’s gratitude to Racing Queensland and the Miles Government for supporting and delivering the project.

Racing Minister Grace Grace highlighted the economic benefits, noting that the venue hosts over 40 percent of the state’s 310 annual harness race meetings and has around 300 horses training there weekly.

Photo credit: Jennifer Macnamara/Google Maps

Ms Grace said Redcliffe is one of the state’s most valuable harness training and racing venues. She added that the project is expected to support 20 new jobs throughout construction, contributing to an industry which already delivers more than $2.2 billion in economic contribution to Queensland each year.

Read: The Heroism of Nurse Ellen Savage During the Sinking of the Centaur in Moreton Bay

With bright lights ahead, the future looks bright for night racing at the famous Redcliffe Triangle. The upgrades will ensure this key venue can continue driving strong economic activity for the state’s racing industry for many more years to come.

Published 30-April-2024

Dolphins vs Knights: ANZAC Round Sunday Showdown

The Dolphins will be looking to continue their hot start to the season when they host the Newcastle Knights in the ANZAC Round clash on Sunday, April 28. Despite being without key players and head coach Wayne Bennett last week, the Dolphins recorded a dominant 44-16 victory over the Eels. Dolphins vs Knights kickoff 2:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Redcliffe Water Polo Stars Make a Splash at State Championships

Starting lineup unchanged

The Dolphins (4-2) have named an unchanged starting 13 from their win over the Eels, with Kurt Donoghoe’s return from suspension the only change to their 17-man squad.

UNSTOPPABLE 🚨#NRLEelsDolphins pic.twitter.com/u8nALZyBJd
— NRL (@NRL) April 19, 2024

On the other hand, Newcastle (2-5) is reeling from a heavy defeat at the hands of the Bulldogs, compounded by the loss of their captain Kalyn Ponga to a long-term foot injury. The star fullback’s absence is a massive blow for Newcastle, who have won only three of their past 10 without him.

Dolphins vs Knights

All eyes will be on the battle of the forward packs, with the Dolphins’ dominant engine room laying the platform for their high-scoring start to the year. They lead the NRL for average points scored at 28.3 per game.

Leading the back-line are the two wingers in Jamayne Isaako and Jack Bostock.

Bostock dives in 🐬 #NRLEelsDolphins pic.twitter.com/rc9fbTcxnG
— NRL (@NRL) April 19, 2024

The two sides shared the spoils in their meetings last year, with the Dolphins winning in Newcastle before the Knights prevailed in Perth later in the season.

Making moves off the field

In other news, the Dolphins have secured Cowboys back-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki on a three-year deal from 2024, with the Ipswich Jets product returning to south-east Queensland.

Max Plath has also been rewarded for his impressive form with a contract extension that will keep him at the Dolphins until 2027.

These off-field moves further bolster the Dolphins’ squad as they continue to establish themselves as a force in the NRL.

Read: Concerns Rise Over Unregulated E-Bikes After Alarming Sight on Busy Redcliffe Road

With both teams desperate for points, the ANZAC Round encounter is a must-watch. The Dolphins look to solidify their place in the top four, while the Knights aim to arrest their form slump and keep their finals hopes alive.

Published 26-April-2024

Redcliffe Water Polo Stars Make a Splash at State Championships

Five rising stars from Redcliffe have cemented their place among Queensland’s water polo elite, returning from the State Championships with a haul of seven medals and state development honours.

This impressive feat by Amelie and Mara Hoefel, Eden Weir, Abbie McDonald, and Mia Doyle is a testament to their dedication and talent in the pool. The young athletes brought home a combined three gold, two silver, and two bronze medals, showcasing their versatility and competitive spirit.

Adding another layer of accomplishment, both Mara from Redcliffe State High School and Eden from Clontarf Beach State High School secured positions in the prestigious state 13 and under development program. This selection recognises their potential and paves the way for future success at the national level.

Mermaids 12 Pink
Photo Credit: Facebook/ MermaidsWaterPolo

Each player contributed significantly to their respective teams’ achievements. Mara’s golden moment came with Mermaids 12 Pink in the top 12 and Under Maroon Division, where she heroically scored the winning goal in a nail-biting 3-1 victory over All Hallows.

North Brisbane Polo Bears
Photo Credit: Facebook/ WaterPoloQueensland

Meanwhile, Eden displayed her composure under pressure during the 12 and Under White Division bronze medal play-off. Representing the North Brisbane Polo Bears, she stepped up in the penalty shootout, scoring the winning goal that secured a 10-8 triumph against Gold Coast/Buderim.

In the Open Division, Amelie from Redcliffe State High School played a pivotal role in Mermaids Pink’s 9-5 victory over Brisbane Vikings Red. Her impressive performance included netting two goals, solidifying their claim to the championship title.

However, Amelie’s journey wasn’t solely paved with gold. She also collected a silver medal with Mermaids Pink in the 18 and Under Maroon Division, narrowly missing out on the top spot after a close match against Polo Bears. Additionally, she secured another silver in the 16 and Under Maroon Division, where Mermaids Pink fell 8-6 to UQ Purple.

UQ Purple
Photo Credit: Facebook/ WaterPoloQueensland

Abbie McDonald of Grace Lutheran College also enjoyed a golden run with the St Ritas/Polo Bears team, conquering the 18 and Under Maroon Division. Their undefeated journey culminated in a thrilling 10-7 victory over Mermaids Pink in the final.

Mia Doyle, also from Grace Lutheran College, rounded out the Redcliffe medal haul with a bronze in the 16 and Under Maroon Division. Partnering with St Ritas/Polo Bears, they dominated All Hallows Blue 15-5 in the play-off, securing a well-deserved podium finish.

With the 2024 Queensland State Titles attracting over 120 teams from across the state, this impressive showing by the Redcliffe players is even more noteworthy. Their dedication and talent have not only brought glory to their local community but also secured them a bright future in the competitive world of water polo.

Published Date 24-April-2024

Concerns Rise Over Unregulated E-Bikes After Alarming Sight on Busy Redcliffe Road

A concerning incident involving a child on a non-compliant e-bike in heavy traffic on the Redcliffe Peninsula has intensified calls for stricter regulation of Australia’s burgeoning e-bike industry.

The incident has led to increased advocacy for more substantial oversight within Australia’s e-bike market.

Ed Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, has highlighted the danger posed by electric bikes that exceed the speed limits set by Australian law.

These bikes often feature throttles and can achieve speeds much higher than the legally allowed 25 km/h. Current regulations stipulate that e-bikes must be primarily pedal-assisted and not solely motor-driven.

The suggestions now include the need for a specialised licence and mandatory insurance for e-bike riders to ensure road compliance and safety.

Ebike on Redcliffe — *Photo Credit:Facebook/YahooAustralia*

Rising Incidents and Safety Concerns

The focus on e-bike regulation is sharpened by recent reports from Queensland hospitals noting a dramatic rise in injuries among children using electric modes of transport. In contrast to 14 injuries reported in 2019, last year saw 88 children suffering from significant injuries due to e-bikes and e-scooters.

This alarming increase underscores a lack of spatial awareness among young riders, which, combined with the high speeds of non-compliant e-bikes, creates a dangerous environment on public roads.

Community Reactions and Enforcement

The community response has been one of growing concern, with many residents and local officials calling for immediate action to address the unsafe use of e-bikes. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions around the “epidemic” levels of e-bike misuse, particularly those equipped with fat tyres that can carry multiple children, toggling dangerously between footpaths and roads.

Despite sporadic enforcement efforts, the regulatory framework for e-bikes remains unclear, leading to inconsistent policing across different states and territories. The tragedy has ignited debate over the potential for national licensing and stricter regulations as preventive measures rather than waiting for reactionary bans following serious accidents.

The incident in Redcliffe highlighted the risks associated with e-bikes and galvanised opinion on the need for a structured regulatory approach.

Published 24-April-2024

Covert Cameras Expose Rampant Speeding in Queensland School Zones

The ‘ghost’ speed cameras which were previously rolled out in school zones throughout Queensland are catching thousands of drivers who continue to disregard the 40km/h speed limits.

Read: Historic Suttons Beach Pavilion Demolished Amidst Mixed Reactions

The cameras – dubbed Roadways Behaviour Monitoring Systems (RBMS) – were initially rolled out at 19 of the state’s schools in August last year.

The expansion of ‘ghost’ cameras follows an incident last September where a teenager was ordered to serve time in a detention facility. The teen had struck an eight-year-old boy in the Scarborough school zone, leaving the child with permanent disfigurement.

Photo credit: Transport and Main Roads Queensland/Facebook

Reports indicate the driver, now 19 years old, was attempting a stunt manoeuvre known as drifting or a burnout whilst navigating a roundabout in the 40km/h school zone at 3:10 p.m. In the process, the driver lost control of the vehicle and collided with an eight-year-old pedestrian and his father as they waited to cross the street. The young student suffered serious injuries, becoming trapped underneath the lowered car.

Between August 2023 and March 24, 2024, in the Scarborough – Redcliffe area alone, 2,547 fines were issued for speeds up to 71 km/h in school zones.

According to new Transport and Main Roads data, over 10,000 total offences have been captured by the RBMS cameras so far across Queensland, with some drivers exceeding school zone speed limits by over 40km/h – more than double the applicable limit. Fines and demerit points continue to be issued to those caught failing to slow down.

Transportation officials stated that the RBMS cameras exclusively function during the posted times indicated by the flashing school zone signals. Motorists adhering to the reduced speed limits in these areas have no cause for concern.

Read: Residents Launch ePetitions Against Draft Scarborough Harbour Plan

Beyond speed enforcement, the camera systems offer supplementary capabilities such as visibly displaying the mandated limit and collecting traffic pattern data to analyse driving behaviours through school zones.

Officials also encourage parents and guardians to reinforce road safety practices with their children. This includes instructing youngsters on crucial rules like remaining vigilant near streets and driveways, obeying crossing guards whose role is ensuring safe passage across roadways, and setting an example by exercising heightened caution when driving in school vicinities.

Published 23-April-2024

Residents Launch ePetitions Against Draft Scarborough Harbour Plan

Frustrated by the nature and scope and lack of community consultation on the proposed long-term plans for Scarborough Harbour, a group of Scarborough residents has launched two e-petitions to challenge the draft master plan.

The Scarborough Harbour Action Group (SHAG) is spearheading the effort, with an e-petition on the state government’s website and paper petitions circulating across the peninsula. These can be found at various local businesses like cafes, pharmacies, hair salons, and the Scarborough Post Office.

SHAG’s core grievance lies with what they perceive as a poorly executed consultation process by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). They claim the Draft Master Plan, which proposes increased tourism, commercial activities, and a marina, fails to reflect community values and lacks evidence of proper consideration for resident feedback provided in 2021.

The group expresses “significant concerns” about potential negative impacts, including increased traffic congestion, parking issues, environmental damage, and the handling of contaminated dredge spoil. They allege that multiple attempts to discuss these concerns with state representatives have been unsuccessful.

SHAG’s e-petition demands a complete overhaul of the planning process. They advocate for an “open, transparent, and collaborative manner” that actively involves residents, local businesses, and the City of Moreton Bay.

Their ultimate goal is an “environmentally sustainable and community-supported plan” that prioritises the long-term well-being of the area for residents, visitors, and future generations.

The paper petitions close on 16th of May for collation and presentation to Parliament House, while the e-petition remains open until May 19th. Queensland residents can sign both petitions to amplify their voices.

This strong community response indicates a potential roadblock for TMR’s plan, originally slated for finalisation in mid-2024. With residents actively voicing their disapproval, the future of the Scarborough Harbour Draft Master Plan remains uncertain.

Published Date 21-April-2024

‘Edu Space’ Opens in Redcliffe, Provides Option

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Redcliffe’s educational landscape is set to transform with “Edu Space,” an innovative independent school designed specifically for Year 7 to 10 students who find traditional classrooms challenging.

This pioneering institution promises a fresh approach to learning, tailored to the unique needs of its students.

Administered by Redcliffe Area Youth Space (RAYS), the school has initially catered to 24 foundation students and aims to provide a supportive environment for the youth aged 12-16 dealing with various severe psychosocial, systemic, clinical and financial obstacles to learning.

Edu Space’s head of curriculum is Allen Ellis, who has been working for RAYS for more than a decade, 15 years to be exact.

At Oxley Avenue, where the school operates, Allen is joined by six staff members and is supported by two funding streams.

Helping Allen provide education to students are Bronnie, a former teacher from NSW, and other four learning support officers.

The school’s project-based curriculum and focus on trauma-informed care are geared towards fostering long-term relationships with students. A four-years-worth of units for Edu Space’s students has been prepared by Allen.

With flexible hours from 8:50 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the school seeks to accommodate the diverse needs of its students.

Allen also stresses the importance of stability and consistency in building a passion for learning among the students.

“We’re trying to create stability and we have time to build long-term relationships,” he said.

As the community anticipates Edu Space in the following years, there is optimism about the positive impact it could have on vulnerable youth in Redcliffe.

By addressing the root causes of disengagement and offering tailored support, the school hopes to empower students to overcome challenges and achieve their fullest potential.

In a region where education is seen as a pathway to positive change, Edu Space represents a step towards providing more inclusive and equitable educational opportunities for young people in Redcliffe.

Published 16-Apr-24