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More Than Meets the Eye: Members of Defence Forces Share Stories at ‘Ink in the Lines’

The inked skin of Australia’s veterans tells tales far beyond the tattooed images. Their body art commemorates people, places, and moments that shaped their lives. Now, their stories are shared in the Redcliffe Museum exhibition Ink in the Lines – but the tattoos are just the opening through which broader military experiences and memories emerge.

Read: Two Decades of Making a Difference: Breakfast Club Redcliffe Turns 20

Throughout 2019, the Australian War Memorial captured the stories of Australia’s servicemen and women through interviews and photographic portraits. Many examples from this collection are now displayed in the touring Ink in the Lines exhibition, which can be viewed at the Redcliffe Museum from February 24-May 12.

One who helped launch the exhibit was Rob Douma, an award-winning artist, tattooist, and infantry veteran who deployed to Timor.

Ink in the lines — Rob (Photo credit: awm.gov.au)

Douma’s own skin bears many tattoos reflecting his travels and experiences, including in the Middle East. One in particular on his forearm displays an Arabic proverb about honesty.

Douma explained its backstory is that a king would behead liars, but the deeper meaning for him is to live authentically and freely by being true to yourself and others. He felt an affinity with this concept of liberation through truthfulness.

Douma’s artistic aptitude led him to open a tattoo studio, complementing his art career. His military background also enriches his tattoo work, as many clients are fellow veterans who open up and share their stories with someone who relates. Douma notes these conversations often go beyond the tattoo to illuminate connections through shared service.

Regarding the exhibition, Douma observes that whilst ostensibly focused on tattoos, it also draws out more expansive personal stories. As he says, the tattoo is just an entry point to tell meaningful tales of military experiences – the real heart of the project.

Another meaningful tale was that of Bec, a former RAAF linguist who did a life-changing tour in Kandahar, Afghanistan in 2007. As the only Australian embedded with a combined forces group at the massive Kandahar airbase, her deployment alongside allied nations was deeply impactful.

She explained that for six months, from the moment she woke up to when she went to bed, she was constantly dealing with IEDs, rockets, death, war, Taliban, terrorism and insurgents. It was an unrelenting environment.

To honour this life-changing experience, Bec got a tattoo of the word “Kandahar” in Arabic – representing the place that so transformed her life and service.

Read: From Redcliffe Markets to ‘The Voice’: Levi X’s Musical Ascendancy

To hear more of these moving stories and view the body art that inspired them, visit the Ink in the Lines exhibition at the Redcliffe Museum, Wednesday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and on weekends, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m until May 2024.

Those moved by the stories can also participate by taking photos of their own commemorative or military tattoos and sharing them on social media with the hashtag #InkintheLines.

Published 22-February-2024

Redcliffe Skyline Set for Major Transformation with Array of Development Projects

The Redcliffe skyline is slated for further transformation this year as various construction projects gain momentum, reflecting bullish expectations of interest in housing in the area in the coming months.

Orilla (Woody Point)

Last year saw the commencement of groundwork along the waterfront in Woody Point, where Traders In Purple embarked on constructing 32 luxury residences. The newly unveiled Orilla development, soaring eight stories high, has already made waves by setting a price record for the area, with apartments fetching close to $3 million.

In December, Traders In Purple secured approval to erect 175 apartments across two buildings on Gayundah Esplanade, with the project expected to launch mid-year. This development site holds historical significance as it once housed the iconic Palace Hotel, where the Bee Gees performed their maiden paid gig. The hotel, which ceased operations in 2013, fell victim to a devastating fire in 2014.

The Redcliffe CBD is currently abuzz with four sizable projects underway, with one already in construction.

99 Sutton St

Anticipated next year, residents will move into an 82-apartment Brisbane Housing Company (BHC) development tailored for older individuals. The seven-story complex at 99 Sutton St will comprise 59 social and 23 affordable one-bedroom apartments catering to those aged 55 and above. These affordable homes are made possible through support from the Queensland Government’s Housing Investment Fund.

Affordable Housing — Photo Credit: MoretonBayRegionalCouncil

Lumiere

Meanwhile, plans for a nine-story residential development at the corner of Sutton St and Creek St are pending commencement. Dubbed Lumiere, the project will feature 14 apartments boasting scenic sea views, along with two ground-floor food and beverage outlets, likely to include a café and restaurant.

Former Site of Redcliffe Picture Palace

A stone’s throw away on Redcliffe Parade, the façade of the historic Redcliffe Picture Palace, later known as the Pier Theatre, will be incorporated into an 82-unit apartment block. Originating in 1928, the Palace met a fiery demise in 1943 but was resurrected as the Pier Theatre, with its original façade still gracing Redcliffe Parade

Blue Water Square Shopping Centre Revamp

Further revitalisation is on the horizon for the Blue Water Square Shopping Centre, set to undergo a dramatic makeover with the addition of a new 142-room hotel.

*Photo Credit: MoretonBayRegionalCouncil*

Addressing the region’s demand for short-term accommodations, the eight-story hotel will feature a top-floor bar accessible to guests and the public, a swimming pool, public art installations, and scenic views overlooking Moreton Island.

Aqua (Woody Point)

Lastly, Aqua, an upscale development situated waterfront at Woody Point, is slated for completion this year, introducing six luxury apartments spread across six levels.

Published 22-February-2024

‘Liveability Fund’ Backs Suttons Beach Pavilion and Key Community Projects

The Suttons Beach Pavilion in Redcliffe will undergo a comprehensive $19 million redevelopment funded through the SEQ City Deal Liveability Fund.

Read: Suttons Beach Pavilion to Get a New Look with National Architectural Design Competition

The Suttons Pavilion overhaul involves full demolition and rebuilding of the outdated facilities. Out of the total $19 million cost, around $11.33 million will come from the Liveability Fund, with Council and the State Government making up the balance.

The project headlines five key community upgrades approved under the Liveability Fund worth $45.53 million.

Photo credit: Suttons Beach Pavilion/Google Maps

The overhaul will transform the outdated pavilion into an attractive, functional community venue to serve Redcliffe residents and visitors.

Meanwhile, other projects backed by the deal include new recreational spaces at Centenary Lakes, active transport improvements connecting Bongaree and Woorim on Bribie Island, and public amenity upgrades at The Mill precinct in Petrie.

The Mill (Photo credit: Abu Sayeed/Google Maps)

Centenary Lakes will receive almost $20 million for an all-abilities playground and zero-depth splash park, along with active transport upgrades at Morayfield Road and a new shared pathway along Esme Ave, as part of the Centenary Lakes Activation.

Bribie Island locals and visitors will benefit from a range of projects connecting the west and eastern sides of the island, including upgrades to the Bongaree Jetty, on-road cycle lanes, a footpath upgrade, as well as an accessible changing places facility at Woorim. The Mill precinct at Petrie will be upgraded to include new paths and toilets, along with landscaping and carparking.

Council states the package will create a long-term legacy benefiting current and future generations across Moreton Bay’s rapidly growing population. The SEQ City Deal allows a coordinated approach between different levels of government to deliver key upgrades like these.

A council spokeswoman said the funding, together with a $15 million investment by Council, will enhance lifestyle amenities for residents and visitors. She stated that as the Moreton Bay area continues rapid growth, these projects will help retain liveability, affordability and prosperity.

Bongaree Jetty (Photo credit: Christine Meredith/Google Maps)

Queensland State Development and Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace said the SEQ Liveability Fund will give communities like Moreton Bay the opportunity to create better places to live through access to more open spaces, infrastructure that complements new housing or projects that support health and wellbeing.

“It’s great to see councils’ responses to this opportunity to boost local community and sport engagement in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032 and beyond.”

Read: Proposed Project Looks to Revive Abandoned Frawley’s Tennis Club Site

The Southeast Queensland Liveability Fund is an integral initiative under the larger $1.8 billion SEQ City Deal agreement made between the Australian Government, Queensland Government, and the Council of Mayors for the region to collectively finance development projects.

Published 19-February-2024

Two Decades of Making a Difference: Breakfast Club Redcliffe Turns 20

This year marks a major milestone for The Breakfast Club Redcliffe as the charity organisation celebrates its 20th anniversary of providing meals and support to disadvantaged individuals and families on the Redcliffe Peninsula.

Read: Wildlife Rescue Volunteers Needed In Redcliffe, North Lakes

It all started on Christmas Day 2003 when co-founders Ros Thomsen and Daryl Passmore wanted to help fill gaps in community services by providing a free Christmas lunch. Seeing the tremendous need, they decided to expand into a daily breakfast service for those doing it tough.

Over the past two decades, The Breakfast Club has served over 1,000 free meals per month out of various locations including the Redcliffe Neighbourhood Centre, QCWA Hall, and Pensioners Hall.

Photo credit: The Breakfast Club Redcliffe Inc/Facebook

Their work has grown from just breakfast to also providing emergency food parcels, an outreach van delivering food packs, and other assistance.

To celebrate the 20-year mark, a gala event will be held on February 10 at The Komo’s Waterview Room, featuring entertainment by Australian Idol finalist Levi X and guest speakers.

The event will honour all who have contributed to The Breakfast Club’s mission. A larger community celebration is also planned later this year when their new building opens.

The backbone of this organisation is its dedicated volunteers who give their time to shop, cook, serve, and provide friendly conversation to guests in need. Some are homeless, others struggling on low or fixed incomes, but all are welcomed.

For years, The Breakfast Club Redcliffe has done just that – feeding bodies and nourishing souls. Their work exemplifies the spirit of community caring.

Read: Redcliffe-Based ROPE TV Uplifts People With Disabilities

The Breakfast Club Redcliffe’s story is one of compassion in action. Their humble beginnings serving Christmas lunch to fill a need has grown into an indispensable community institution. For two decades, through generosity of donors and volunteers, they have provided food, comfort, and care to the most vulnerable.

Published 6-February-2024

Peninsula Power FC Bolsters Squad with Three New Signings

Peninsula Power FC has announced the signing of three new players ahead of the 2024 National Premier League Queensland season. The additions look to strengthen the squad after the club’s miracle playoff run in 2023.

Yuta Hirayama adds firepower up front

Twenty-six-year-old forward Yuta Hirayama returns to Queensland after a season with Chiangmai FC in Thailand. With over 50 goals in three seasons with Brisbane City and Western Pride, he will surely add firepower to the squad.

The Tokyo native will provide a focal point in attack, able to play as a centre-forward or in a withdrawn role as an attacking midfielder or winger.

Experienced Josh Phelps anchors defence

Peninsula have also recruited experienced centre-back Josh Phelps from Melbourne Knights in the National Premier League Victoria. Turning 31 this February, the veteran from Tamworth will bring leadership to the backline. With his 1.93m frame, Phelps will provide an aerial threat on set pieces as well.

Ken Akamatsu returns from injury layoff

Another new addition is attacking midfielder Ken Akamatsu. The 28-year-old joins from Miramar Rangers in New Zealand, where his season was cut short by injury. Akamatsu is a former Japan youth international who has also played in Sweden and the United States. The talented right-footed playmaker from Niigata will give Peninsula another creative threat in the final third.

Building on last season’s playoff run

In 2023, Peninsula Power finished sixth in the regular season with a 9-7-6 record. They beat third-placed Gold Coast United 3-1 in the elimination final before losing 5-0 to eventual champions Gold Coast Knights in the semi-finals.

With these new signings strengthening the squad, Peninsula will be looking to build on last season’s play-off run when they kick off the 2024 season against the Queensland Lions on 24 February. Before the league campaign begins, Peninsula will take on Capalaba in the QLD Pro Series starting on 2 February.

Published 30-January-2024

$9.6 Million Allocated for FOGO Collection in Moreton Bay

Photo Credit: Unsplash

A substantial $9.6 million investment has been earmarked for Moreton Bay, which will bolster FOGO collection in the city, marking a crucial step towards Queensland’s commitment to enhancing resource recovery and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

This allocation of funds is part of a larger $151 million pledge aimed at aiding councils across Queensland in implementing comprehensive food organic and garden organic (FOGO) waste collection services.

Organic waste is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions when left to decompose in landfills. However, it possesses the potential to be converted into reusable products such as mulch or compost, thereby mitigating its adverse environmental impact.

Under this substantial funding initiative, over 116,000 lime-green lidded organics kerbside bins will be distributed to households throughout the Moreton Bay region. Additionally, efforts will be made to harmonise the colours of some existing bins in line with a nationwide drive to standardise bin lid colours for greater consistency.

The Council will adopt a phased approach to the introduction of FOGO Collection:

In Stage 1, a conditional opt-out Garden Organics (GO) service will commence in early December 2024.
Stage 2 will incorporate the collection of food waste, contingent upon the availability of a suitable FOGO processing facility capable of accommodating all FOGO materials collected within the city.

“FOGO is a resource recovery project with the potential to bring our region’s recycling rate from 45 percent to over 60 percent by adding a new lime green lidded bin for organic material made up of food and garden waste,” Mayor of the City of Moreton Bay, Peter Flannery, said.

“Council currently produces electricity from landfill gases at its three landfill sites to power up to 7,000 homes in our region. This additional bin service is in line with our commitment to investing in sustainability and our local lifestyle as our city’s population booms.”

Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard, commented on the significance of this initiative:

“Most garden and food waste currently ends up in landfill, where it emits methane gas and leaves significant organic resources wasted. That’s why introducing food organics and garden organics (FOGO) is the next vital step in our resource recovery efforts.”

“We are committed to halving the amount of food waste generated by 2030 and diverting 80 percent of organic waste away from landfill. Organic waste can be turned into high-value compost, mulch, and soil products that can be used for a range of environmental projects.”

Published 27-Jan-2024

Tom Gilbert Plotting Powerful Dolphins Return

Dolphins forward Tom Gilbert is staging a comeback from a shoulder injury that prematurely ended his standout 2023 season. Gilbert has his sights set on reclaiming his spot in the Dolphins’ starting 13 for their second NRL campaign.

‘Have to earn it’

Gilbert dislocated his shoulder while on State of Origin duty for Queensland back in June. The subsequent surgery and rehabilitation has the 23-year-old primed to participate in the preseason trials.

However, Gilbert acknowledges he will have to earn his spot all over again. “If I want to get that No.13 jersey – or a jersey at all – I’m going to have to earn it,” Gilbert said last month.

Tom Gilbert, inaugural Dolphins hero

Before going down injured, Gilbert had been a driving force behind the Dolphins’ impressive start to their debut season. His tackle-busting charges up the middle and rugged defence saw him earn selection for the Maroons. During the Dolphins’ inaugural season, his status as a local folk hero rose among the fans.

Gilbert believes the Dolphins are building momentum towards 2024, even after their late-season slide down the ladder. The returning forward is eyeing a spot in the engine room alongside new recruit Tom Flegler.

Flegler combination

Flegler joins the Dolphins after a career-best 2023 campaign with Brisbane and Australia. Gilbert is keen to strike up a combination with the no-nonsense prop.

“I love the way that maybe he and I could complement,” Gilbert said. “We’ve got to get out there in the next three months when he’s back in January.”

Getting the abrasive Ray Stone back from injury is another key piece as the Dolphins look to push for finals football in their second season. With Gilbert fit again and Flegler coming aboard, the platform is set for the Dolphins to take a step forward in 2024.

Published 30-December-2023

Woody Point: Navigating Disparities Between Affluence and Housing Insecurity

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Woody Point is grappling with the escalation of a tent city inhabited by individuals facing housing insecurity. The presence of this encampment at the Gayundah Coastal Arboretum, an area with picturesque views of Moreton Bay, has incited significant concern among residents.

Some community members have voiced fears that this has led to an uptick in crime and anti-social behaviour, affecting the suburb’s tranquillity and safety.

The Woody Point Action Group, a private page on social media, has openly expressed their dissatisfaction, employing harsh language and derogatory terms against the individuals in the tent city.

This highlights a growing divide within the suburb. Residents have been actively petitioning the Moreton Bay Regional Council and the state government, demanding the relocation of those facing housing insecurity from the area, citing concerns over safety and the area’s livability.

Conversely, those living in the tents, like Tamieka Brittnee, have shared stories of facing harassment and abuse.

Ms Brittnee, who has been without a home since she was 27, has spoken of being targeted and insulted in her makeshift shelter. Her experiences shine a light on the prejudices and challenges faced by individuals without stable housing.

Tent City Woody Point — Photo Credit: Unsplash

Michelle Gilchrist from the Breakfast Club Redcliffe, an organisation that assists those without homes, emphasises the critical nature of the housing shortage. With emergency accommodations at full capacity, many are compelled to find shelter in public areas. This crisis is compounded by a need for more affordable housing, leaving few alternatives for those in need.

The City of Moreton Bay Council has recognised the complexity of this issue and is committed to a comprehensive approach at Woody Point and the housing crisis in general. Collaborating with various levels of government and community groups, the Council seeks to meet the housing needs while maintaining community welfare. Acknowledging a significant rise in the number of individuals without homes over the past decade, they emphasise the importance of a collective response.

“We know that this is a tough situation and Council is seeking to take a balanced approach to maintaining amenity for all, while compassionately responding to people sleeping rough,” a spokesperson said.

“The complex nature of homelessness requires a unified and holistic response across all levels of government, alongside the crucial work by the community and homelessness service sectors.”

Published 20-Dec-2023

From Redcliffe Markets to ‘The Voice’: Levi X’s Musical Ascendancy

The young and talented Levi X, only 15 years old, recently graced the national stage on Channel 7’s “The Voice.” His participation in the show has not altered his humble approach to music making. Levi’s grounded personality shines through as he continues to embrace the simplicity of his musical roots.

Musical Beginnings: The Saxophone and Family Influence

Levi’s musical journey began at the age of 11, playing the saxophone alongside his father, Ian, at the Redcliffe Markets. This familial partnership has been a cornerstone of his musical development. It’s clear that Levi values the foundation his family has provided in his music career.

Music is a family affair for Levi, with his brother Connor learning the bass to join the ensemble. Their other brother, Gabe, has also been instrumental in expanding their musical repertoire.

Levi is aware of the importance of balancing his education with his musical aspirations. He continues to attend The Lakes College, focusing on completing his schooling while honing his musical talents, including learning the piano.

A Flourishing Repertoire: Over 100 Songs and Counting

Levi’s dedication to music has led to an impressive achievement. Along with his father, they have built a repertoire of over 100 songs, and with his brother Gabe, over 35 songs. This achievement is a clear indication of his commitment and passion for music.

Despite his rise to fame, Levi remains committed to his roots, planning to continue performing at the Redcliffe Markets and other community events. This decision underscores his dedication to the local community that has supported him from the beginning.

Levi X Redcliffe Markets — Photo Credit: Christmas City Moreton Bay

“I really love music at the moment. Next year, we’re going to try to focus on writing some songs because that’s something we don’t have at the moment,” Levi shared about his future plans.

Levi X’s journey from the Redcliffe Markets to “The Voice” and back demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his musical roots and his community. With his family by his side and a growing repertoire, Levi’s future in the music industry looks bright and promising.

Published 13-Dec-2023

BCWL Recovers $29,000 From Scammer

Photo Credit: Freepik

The Brisbane Catholic Women’s League (BCWL) faced a distressing situation when a scammer drained $29,000 from their accounts.

It all began with a seemingly routine bank notification received by Moira Gardener, the League’s treasurer. A message on her phone requested authorisation for an unfamiliar transaction.

Trusting it was her bank, Mrs. Gardener engaged, unwittingly divulging crucial information.

The BCWL Treasurer reached the scammer, posing as a concerned bank representative, and convinced her to move League funds to her personal account for ‘security purposes’. This left her unaware of subsequent transactions, allowing scammers to exploit the League’s finances.

Overnight, fraudulent transactions occurred, exploiting Mrs. Gardener’s identity to purchase luxury items. The League’s financial safety net vanished. Mrs. Gardener grappled with the weight of the loss and fear of accountability.

Despite initial challenges with the bank, the League, led by Sandy O’Donohue, persisted in reclaiming their funds. After 40 days of uncertainty, the bank relented, agreeing to refund the entire sum.

Mrs. Gardener, haunted by thoughts of what could have been done differently, emphasised the necessity of vigilance. Her advice highlighted the importance of verifying sources, safeguarding sensitive information, and staying alert against evolving cyber threats.

Published 12-December-2023