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The Dolphins Roundup: Niu Heads to the UK, Tabuai-Fidow Joins Kangaroos

As the 2025 preseason approaches, the Dolphins are juggling critical decisions on contracts, injury management, player moves, and international commitments.

Read: The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

Key negotiations for 2025

As Fox Sports reports, the club faces the challenge of securing key players before rival clubs make their moves. Second-rower Connelly Lemuelu, whose standout performances have been pivotal this season, is likely to top the list for re-signing, with his impressive form attracting attention across the NRL. Sean O’Sullivan’s strong finish to the season in the halves positions him as another priority for retention.

The Dolphins are also weighing contract options for experienced players Felise Kaufusi, Kenny Bromwich, and Mark Nicholls, who each bring veteran leadership to the squad. With Kaufusi potentially entering free agency after 1 November, the team risks losing his presence to competitors if a deal isn’t secured soon.

Dolphins players on the mend

The Dolphins’ medical staff have been diligently working to address various injuries within the squad. Jeremy Marshall-King and Kenny Bromwich have both undergone minor surgeries—Marshall-King on his knee and Bromwich on his elbow.

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Lemuelu faces a significant challenge as he recovers from shoulder reconstruction surgery. Fullback Trai Fuller’s situation is more long-term following a successful knee reconstruction, while Tom Gilbert is steadily progressing in his recovery from an ACL injury.

Tesi Niu heads to the Super League

Tesi Niu’s confirmed move to the Leigh Leopards in the Super League for 2025 marks a pivotal change for the Dolphins’ backline. After making 17 appearances for the club in 2023, Niu faced growing competition in the backline with the arrivals of Herbie Farnworth and Jake Averillo, making an overseas opportunity all the more appealing.

Reflecting on his decision after winning the QLD Cup and the NRL State Championship, Niu told Zero Tackle, “I’m leaving for the UK, and to finish off like this, I couldn’t have asked for a better end.”

Leigh Journal captured the excitement surrounding Niu’s arrival, quoting Leopards’ head of rugby Chris Chester: “Tesi has played for two quality teams in the NRL… He’s a big, strong, athletic, and powerful rugby player who will excite all our fans in 2025 and beyond.”

Read: Bait, Cast, Catch: Your Guide to Gone Fishing Day in Moreton Bay

Dolphins on duty for the Pacific Championships

The selection of several Dolphins players for international duty in the Pacific Championships highlights the squad’s depth and calibre. Kurt Donoghoe and Mason Teague will represent Fiji Bati and the Cook Islands, respectively, as the sole Dolphins players in their teams. Jamayne Isaako and Kodi Nikorima are set to play for defending Pacific champions New Zealand, while Isaiya Katoa, Felise Kaufusi, and 2025 recruit Kulikefu Finefeuiaki join the formidable Tongan side.

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Fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s selection for the green-and-gold cements his status as one of the NRL’s emerging stars. Hammer and the Kangaroos will first face Tonga on 18 October at Suncorp Stadium, followed by a match against New Zealand on 27 October in Christchurch.

Updated 25-October-2024

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins End Controversial Sponsorship, Address Rumours About Star Halfback

The Dolphins NRL club has terminated a controversial sponsorship deal amid regulatory hurdles, while speculation mounts over potential recruitment of St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt.

Read: The Dolphins Roundup: Niu Heads to the UK, Tabuai-Fidow Joins Kangaroos

Regulatory pressure forces sponsorship exit

Alternaleaf and the Dolphins have ended their partnership following ongoing challenges with the Therapeutic Goods Act. The relationship faced public scrutiny earlier this season when the team was forced to tape over Alternaleaf’s branding during their Darwin fixture.

“Given the regulatory challenges, our partnership has concluded,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader confirmed. “However, we maintain positive relations with Alternaleaf and remain open to future opportunities should circumstances change.”

Kelly King, speaking for Alternaleaf’s parent company Montu, expressed pride in the association with the Dolphins, highlighting the team’s impressive performance in their sophomore season.

Rumours swirl as Hunt eyes Queensland return

Meanwhile, the club faces mounting speculation regarding St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt. The Queensland veteran, who has been granted permission to explore offers for 2026, has previously expressed interest in finishing his career in his home state. Hunt, a former Brisbane Broncos halfback with over 300 NRL appearances, would bring valuable experience to the developing squad.

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Sources close to the Dragons told The Herald that the club would consider an early release for Hunt in 2024—despite his contract running through 2025—provided they receive adequate compensation.

However, according to the Daily Telegraph,the Dolphins management maintains a measured stance despite media reports suggesting preliminary talks. “We’re always interested in good players if they’re interested in coming to our club but at the moment there’s nothing to report,” says Reader.

Read: Redcliffe Roars to Life as Supercross Championship Returns to Queensland

Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf moved swiftly to address the rumours head-on. “I can sit here with my hand on my heart and say we’ve had no contact at all,” Woolf stated firmly. Instead, the coach doubled down on his support for rising halfback Isaiya Katoa, with whom he shares a strong connection through their time together with the Tongan national team.

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“I love what Isaiya Katoa brings. He’s an outstanding halfback and he’s a guy that I think is going to be an elite halfback in the NRL and I think he’s already shown that,” Woolf said.

Published 21-October-2024

Redcliffe Agent Brews Success with Unconventional Marketing Strategy

Photo Credit: Morgan’s Mortgages

This Redcliffe agent has an unconventional marketing strategy. Have a cup of coffee and check it out.

Cherisse Morgan, director of Morgan’s Mortgages, decided to diversify her business strategy a year ago by transforming the front office of her Redcliffe premises into a café. This innovative approach has helped her connect with the local community and brought in a new wave of clients.

Morgan, who launched her brokerage three years ago after a stint at Aussie Home Loans, initially focused on attracting first-home buyers through social media platforms like TikTok. However, she noticed a significant lead drop as interest rates climbed, squeezing first-home buyers out of the market. Determined to overcome this hurdle, she decided to take the bold step.

Morgan acknowledged that while leads were plentiful when interest rates were low, the changing market forced her to explore new avenues for attracting clients. This challenging situation prompted her to consider alternative strategies, which led to her establishing a coffee shop.

Offering a unique incentive, Morgan’s Mortgages provides new home loan customers with six months of complimentary coffee. This strategy has proven to be a masterstroke, attracting a different demographic than her usual social media audience. While TikTok generally brings in younger clients in their 20s and 30s, the coffee shop has drawn in older clients, particularly those interested in investment properties or refinancing existing loans.

According to Morgan, Redcliffe has a more mature demographic. The coffee shop allows her to connect with established couples and other individuals who might not be as active on social media. Morgan emphasised the coffee shop’s significant return on investment, highlighting its success in generating numerous leads.

The coffee shop’s success has inspired Morgan to expand the venture by adding food to the menu. She plans to rebrand the café while maintaining its connection to her brokerage to ensure her mortgage broking brand remains distinct. Free coffee will still be offered to mortgage clients.

Looking ahead, Morgan has ambitious plans for her brokerage. With a loan assistant and a virtual loan writer already on board, she aims to grow her team. Morgan expressed her desire to expand her team by recruiting additional brokers.

Her focus is cultivating a robust lead pipeline to sustain a growing team and foster a successful brokerage. With her innovative spirit and dedication to her clients, Morgan is well on her way to achieving her goals.

Published Date 17-October-2024

Dog Attack in Redcliffe Sends Teenage Girl to Hospital

Photo Credit: Facebook / Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)

On October 11, 2024, a teenage girl was taken to hospital following a dog attack in Redcliffe.

According to a Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman, the girl sustained injuries to her chest during the incident. Paramedics transported her to Redcliffe Hospital, where she is reported to be in stable condition.

**Redcliffe Hospital**
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Local authorities responded to the scene. Police were called, and a council officer was tasked with securing the dog involved in the attack.

No further details about the victim’s identity, the specific location of the incident, or the circumstances leading to the attack have been released at this time.

Published 11-October-2024

Body Found at Suttons Beach, Ruled as Non-Suspicious

Photo Credit: Google Maps

On Monday morning, October 14, a body was found at Suttons Beach in Redcliffe. The grim find was made by a member of the public who alerted authorities after coming across an unresponsive person on the beach.

Queensland Police have confirmed the incident but have not released details regarding the age or gender of the deceased. After initial investigations, law enforcement officials have declared the death as non-suspicious.

The discovery at Suttons Beach, a popular location for both Redcliffe residents and visitors, occurred in the early hours of Monday. Police responded to the scene promptly after being notified.

Authorities have been sparse with information, declining to provide additional comments beyond confirming the basic facts of the case. The police’s decision to classify the death as non-suspicious suggests that they do not believe any criminal activity was involved.

As of now, no further details have been made available to the public.

Published 15-October-2024

Redcliffe Roars to Life as Supercross Championship Returns to Queensland

Photo Credit: Australian Supercross Championship

Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe is a hive of activity this weekend. It has been transformed into a dirt bike battleground for the highly anticipated return of the Australian Supercross Championship to Queensland.

After a five-year absence, the roar of engines and the thrill of high-flying action have taken over the venue, which is usually rugby league-focused.

The stadium has undergone a dramatic metamorphosis. Six thousand tonnes of dirt have been trucked to construct a challenging course for Australia’s best riders. They’ll be vying for glory in the first two rounds of the championship, held last Saturday, October 12, and Sunday, October 13.

Photo Credit: Australian Supercross Championship

The event marks the return of Supercross legend and two-time world champion Chad Reed, who will serve as its ambassador. Adding to the family affair, Reed’s son, Tate, will compete in the 85cc class on Saturday, an event aptly named in honour of his father.

City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting Kayo Stadium’s ability to host diverse sporting spectacles and draw large crowds. With an expected attendance of 20,000 people, the event is set to provide a significant boost to the local economy. Visit Moreton Bay CEO Natassia Wheeler indicated that many spectators travel outside the region, bringing valuable tourism dollars.

Chad Reed spoke about the significance of the Redcliffe event for his family, marking his son’s Queensland debut. He also mentioned enjoying the local area and exploring Bribie Island with his family.

The championship promises intense competition, with defending champion Dean Wilson facing stiff challenges from international riders like Joey Savatgy and Aaron Tanti. Local heroes Matt Moss and Luke Clout will fly the flag for Australia, aiming to conquer the challenging track and claim victory on home soil.

The event was broadcast nationally on Kayo, ensuring fans across Australia can witness the high-octane action.

Published Date 14-October-2024

Bait, Cast, Catch: Your Guide to Gone Fishing Day in Moreton Bay

As October rolls in and the warm weather begins to embrace us, it’s time to dust off your fishing gear and head out to the water. Mark your calendars for October 13th, the official “Gone Fishing Day” – a national celebration of the beloved pastime of wetting a line.

Read: Humpybong Creek in Redcliffe Turns Bright Blue, Sparking Investigation

A Family-Friendly Initiative

Photo credit: Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation/Facebook

This event is an initiative spearheaded by the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation, the peak national body and key voice for Australia’s recreational fishing community. This event, supported by BCF-Boating, Camping, Fishing, aims to bring families and friends together for a day of outdoor fun and fishing.

This year, the Central Moreton Bay Chapter at the Port of Brisbane will be hosting a special event. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the health and social benefits of fishing while supporting OzFish’s shellfish reef restoration efforts. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete novice, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities!

October Fishing Tips: Making the Most of Your Outing

To help you prepare for this special day or any October fishing trip, here are some valuable tips:

1. Target Species: October is prime time for sand whiting and yellowfin (gold lined) whiting. These species are abundant during this month.

2. Best Locations:

– Bribie Island beaches from Skirmish Point to Red Beach

– Shallow foreshores of Deception and Bramble Bays

– Margate Beach

– Pine River

– Hays Inlet

– Ted Smout Bridge area

3. Timing: Early morning tends to be the best time for catching whiting, especially on Bribie Island beaches.

4. Bait: Locally dug rock worm is an excellent bait choice, particularly for the Bribie Island locations.

5. Boat Fishing: If you’re heading out on a boat, try your luck in the Caboolture River, Bribie Passage, Pine River, and Hays Inlet.

Read: Redcliffe Eyes Future Growth with Comprehensive Urban and Transport Plans

Remember, fishing is not just about the catch – it’s about enjoying the outdoors, spending time with loved ones, and contributing to conservation efforts. So, whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, grab your gear and join in the celebrations. It’s the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and maybe even catch your next big fish!

Published 10-October-2024

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

Photo Credit: jack/Instagram

It’s been a momentous week for the Dolphins. Alongside dual Dally M award victories for Herbie Farnworth and Jack Bostock, the club has announced the additions of Origin prop Daniel Saifiti and promising outside back Max Feagai for 2025, as well as securing two key assistant coaches to join incoming head coach Kristian Woolf.

Read: Vine Time Immortalised: Cortnee Vine’s Historic Penalty Honoured in Bronze

Dolphins celebrate Dally M success

The Dolphins’ impressive sophomore campaign has been recognised at the Dally M Awards, with the club securing two prestigious honours. Herbie Farnworth claimed the Centre of the Year award, while Jack Bostock was named Rookie of the Year, marking a major achievement for the young winger.

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Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow was also in contention for Fullback of the Year. He was ultimately edged out by Roosters’ James Tedesco, rounding out a strong showing for the club with three nominees.

Origin prop Daniel Saifiti joins

In a major coup for the Dolphins, representative front-rower Daniel Saifiti will join the club from the Newcastle Knights. The 28-year-old veteran brings considerable experience to the forward pack, with 183 NRL games under his belt, seven State of Origin appearances for NSW, and international experience representing Fiji.

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The signing reunites Saifiti with incoming head coach Kristian Woolf, his former mentor at the Knights. “He is a representative player, he is tough, aggressive, and a hard worker—all the things the Dolphins pride themselves on being,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader said.

Alongside Saifiti, Knights assistant coach Rory Kostjasyn will also make the move north, adding valuable coaching expertise to the staff.

The Woolf pack grows

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The Dolphins have further strengthened their squad by securing 23-year-old Max Feagai from the St George Illawarra Dragons. The young star joins a formidable lineup of outside backs, competing alongside the trio of Dally M nominees, as well as established players Jamayne Isaako and Trai Fuller.

Dragons assistant coach Ben Woolf will unite with his brother Kristian, who will take over the reins from Wayne Bennett.

Read: Scarborough Boat Harbour Master Plan Set to Transform Local Community

The new recruits will begin their Dolphins journey in November’s preseason, marking the start of an exciting chapter as the club builds toward 2025 with a reinforced playing and coaching roster.

Published 07-October-2024

Redcliffe Expo to Showcase Emergency Helicopter and Vital Safety Information

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council/Facebook

Redcliffe residents will have a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with an emergency response helicopter when it touches down at Pelican Park.

The landing is part of the Moreton Bay Emergency Services Expo, designed to help locals prepare for the upcoming storm and fire season. The expo, a free event held at Pelican Park on Sunday, 13 October, will feature a range of emergency service displays, including an impressive Unimog 4WD truck, inflatable rescue boat, jet skis, and a tethered drone providing situational awareness.

However, the star attraction is undoubtedly the Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter, which Public Safety Training & Response Group owns and operates.

*Photo Credit:* *Brisbane City Council/Faceboo*k

This versatile aircraft, used for everything from disaster relief to search and rescue operations, will be on display for the public to inspect. Representatives from the Public Safety Training & Response Group and Emergency Services crews will be available to discuss how residents can prepare their homes and families for the potential challenges of the summer months.

Attendees can witness the helicopter’s arrival and departure, explore an array of emergency vehicles and equipment, and learn from experienced professionals how to prepare for storms, floods, and bushfires. The expo also aims to enhance community preparedness by providing information on training courses and available resources.

The expo aims to raise awareness about early preparation for natural disasters. Organisers stress that Queensland summers often bring severe weather events, and taking proactive steps now can significantly reduce the impact on families and communities.

A similar event will be held at 7th Brigade Park in Chermside on Saturday, 12 October, for those residing in the Brisbane area. However, the drone display will be exclusive to the Redcliffe expo. Both events encourage attendees to engage with emergency service personnel and gather valuable information to ensure their safety during the summer.

Published Date 04-October-2024

Woody Point Tenant Wins $5,000 After Eviction from Dilapidated Rental

A Queensland man has been awarded $5,000 in compensation after being evicted from a rental property in Woody Point that he claimed was “sinking” and riddled with neglected repairs.

The former tenant, Malcolm, alleged that the Moreton Bay property had been steadily deteriorating over his seven-year tenancy, with rotting wood and makeshift supports propping up parts of the structure.

Malcolm claimed he repeatedly informed his leasing agent about the home’s worsening condition, providing photographic evidence of buckling timbers and areas needing attention. However, it wasn’t until a carpenter inspected the roof in May of last year that the agent declared the property “unsafe” and issued an eviction notice for “non-liveability,” giving Malcolm a mere 16 hours to vacate.

Adding insult to injury, the same agent listed the single-storey home for sale just weeks later, describing it as needing “some TLC (or a bulldozer).” The property, located in the desirable coastal suburb of Woody Point, sold for $590,000 and has since been demolished.

Following his eviction, Malcolm took his case to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), seeking $17,359.50 in compensation to cover moving costs, lost income, and back-paid rent. He argued that the property failed to meet the minimum housing standards that came into effect in Queensland last September, which require rentals to be weatherproof, structurally sound, and in good repair.

While QCAT adjudicator Peter Eardley acknowledged that Malcolm’s enjoyment of the property was “disadvantaged,” he awarded him $5,000, a significantly lower sum than requested. The agent maintained that “all basic repairs were always done.”

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by tenants in Queensland’s tight rental market. Demand often outstrips supply, leaving renters with limited options and vulnerable to substandard living conditions.

The news comes as renters across Australia see some positive changes in their favour. In Western Australia, new rental reforms introduced in July now limit rent increases to once yearly. They grant tenants the right to have pets and make minor modifications to their rental properties. Premier Roger Cook stated that these changes aim to provide more excellent stability and certainty for tenants, allowing them to “feel more at home where they live.”

Meanwhile, in New South Wales, the government has announced a ban on no-grounds evictions, a move welcomed by tenants’ rights advocates. Premier Chris Minns confirmed that legislation will be introduced later this year to provide renters with greater security and prevent them from facing sudden homelessness without a justifiable reason.

Published Date 02-October-2024