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Upgraded Emergency Department Opens at Redcliffe Hospital

Redcliffe Hospital celebrated the opening of its upgraded emergency department, which includes a dedicated paediatric section. The $10-million upgrade aims to provide safer and improved emergency care for children and families.

The newly unveiled paediatric facilities feature a separate waiting area, triage, and treatment spaces that are specifically designed to cater to the needs of children and their families. This dedicated section will ensure that young patients receive specialized care in a child-friendly environment.

In addition to the paediatric section, the upgrade also includes the addition of 12 more treatment spaces in the ED. Among these, a mental health lounge has been created to accommodate low-acuity mental health patients in need of emergency care. The enhanced facilities and expanded capacity will enable the hospital to provide efficient and comprehensive emergency services to a growing number of patients.

The $10 million investment in the Redcliffe Hospital’s emergency department was made as part of an election commitment by the Australian Government in 2019. The funding has allowed for the necessary infrastructure improvements and the recruitment of additional nursing and medical staff to support the upgraded facilities.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk expressed her satisfaction with the collaboration between the state government and the Australian Government in delivering improved healthcare services to Queensland families. She highlighted the positive impact the new treatment spaces will have on young patients while also supporting hardworking healthcare professionals. Ms Palaszczuk further noted that the significant budget allocated to healthcare this year will lead to the delivery of similar facilities across hospitals in the state.

Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman emphasized the importance of the upgrade, stating that it will provide specialized care for the youngest members of the community. Ms Fentiman pointed out that one in five ED presentations at Redcliffe Hospital involves children, making it crucial to invest in dedicated spaces tailored to their needs. The timing of the upgrade aligns with the $1.1 billion Redcliffe Expansion project, set to bring 204 new beds to Redcliffe Hospital.

Attorney-General and Member for Redcliffe, Yvette D’Ath, highlighted the family-friendly features incorporated into the new paediatric section. Charging points for mobile devices and an interactive ceiling-mounted projector have been installed to help entertain and distract children during their stay. Ms D’Ath emphasized that the upgrade aligns with the growth and changing demographic needs of the Peninsula community.

Dr. Alan Yan, the Director of the Redcliffe Hospital Emergency Department, expressed his excitement about the new dedicated section. With approximately 20 per cent of ED presentations involving babies and children, amounting to over 1000 paediatric cases per month, the separate section will undoubtedly enhance the care and overall experience for parents, caregivers, and families.

Dr. Yan also emphasized that the additional treatment spaces and designated areas for mental health patients will have a positive impact on patient outcomes. Furthermore, the upgraded facilities will support the well-being of the hospital’s staff with new amenities and break room facilities.

The upgraded emergency department at Redcliffe Hospital is a testament to the commitment of both the Australian and Queensland governments to providing quality healthcare services. With its specialized paediatric section and increased treatment capacity, the hospital is now better equipped to serve the community and meet the growing demand for emergency care.

Published 26-June-2023

QLD Expands Electronic Monitoring for Juvenile Offenders to Three New Locations

Ankle-worn electronic monitoring devices are being implemented for juvenile offenders as part of efforts to combat youth crime, with the initiative set to expand to three more cities in the region: Toowoomba, Cairns, and Mount Isa.

Read: New Data Reveals Top Causes Of Crashes In Redcliffe And Its Neighbouring Suburbs

The ankle-worn electronic monitoring devices were first introduced in 2021 as a way of keeping track of juvenile offenders. Initially, these devices were made available to 16- and 17-year-old repeat offenders in youth crime hot spots such as Townsville, North Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Logan, and the Gold Coast.

Only eight juvenile offenders were ordered to wear the trackers during the original 16-month trial period. The number has increased to a total of 16 since then.

To ensure community safety, an additional $4 million in funding has been allocated for an extended trial that will include offenders from 15 years old and up.

Photo credit: Queensland Police Service/Facebook

Queensland’s Police Minister Mark Ryan clarified that the electronic monitoring condition is only imposed when a person is granted bail. It is important to note that fewer offenders are being granted bail, further emphasising the significance of the GPS trackers.

These devices will be continuously monitored by Queensland Corrective Services, an agency with extensive experience in utilising this technology.

Queensland Youth Crime

According to the Queensland Government Statistician’s Office in April 2023, youth offenders and adult offenders have reached the lowest level ever recorded, a development that many consider promising.

The report, which analysed crime statistics from the 2021/22 financial years, highlights the continuing decline in the rate of unique child offenders, further solidifying the positive trend observed over the past decade.

The latest figure stands at 1,926.4 per 100,000 persons aged 10-17 years, representing a significant milestone in 10 years.

Mr Ryan, addressing the findings of the report, acknowledged that whilst the rates of unique youth offenders and unique adult offenders have shown a decline, there remains a persistent core group of recidivist offenders who must be held accountable.

Read: Mystery Solved! Kippa Ring Woman Comes Forward as New Millionaire

Despite the overall positive trend, he believes it is crucial to address the challenges posed by this specific group to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.

Published 23-June-2023

Mark Your Calendars: The Redcliffe Show Returns, Bigger and Better Than Ever!

The highly anticipated Redcliffe Show is back and to celebrate its 100th year, the 2023 Show promises to be nothing short of spectacular!

Read: Something’s Brewing at the Scarborough Harbour Marina and It’s a Hit Among the Locals!

From 30 June to 2 July 2023, check out this line-up of events and activities.

Traditional Agricultural Competitions and Displays

Redcliffe Show — Photo credit: Dani W/Google Maps

Immerse yourself in the rich agricultural heritage as you witness an array of traditional competitions at the show. Marvel at the skilled woodchoppers as they showcase their talent and precision, or indulge your taste buds in the cookery section where local culinary artists will impress with their delicious creations.

Explore the arts and crafts exhibitions, brimming with creativity and craftsmanship. There will also be captivating ring events that showcase the finest horses and riders in thrilling displays of equestrian skill.

Sideshow Alley and Rides

Prepare for an adrenaline rush at Sideshow Alley, a beloved attraction that brings excitement and laughter to visitors of all ages. From classic carnival games to thrilling rides that make your heart race, there will be no shortage of fun-filled experiences.

Entertainment Programs

Photo credit: Redcliffe Show Society/Facebook

The Redcliffe Show is not just about agriculture and rides; it also offers a variety of top-notch entertainment programs to keep you enthralled.

Prepare to be amazed by the Dino-Larious Ventriloquist Show, where talented performers bring laughter and awe through their delightful puppetry skills. Catch the breathtaking Eljay BMX stunt shows during the day, showcasing daring tricks and gravity-defying manoeuvres that will leave you in awe.

For the night owls, the Aussie FMX motocross stunt show will dazzle you with high-flying jumps and incredible aerial displays. Don’t miss the adrenaline-fueled Trackskill V8 Ute show, where roaring engines and precision driving will leave you on the edge of your seat. Every night will culminate with a magnificent fireworks display that will light up the Redcliffe skies and create a dazzling spectacle for all to enjoy.

Animal Shows and Competitions

Animal enthusiasts will have plenty to look forward to at the show. Witness the excitement of pig races and the charm of the Redcliffe Dog Show, where four-legged friends showcase their agility and obedience.

On Saturday morning (1 July), immerse yourself in the world of livestock as cattle and poultry competitions take centre stage. Show jumping enthusiasts will be thrilled to witness the grace and power of talented horses soaring over obstacles on both Friday and Saturday.

Pavilions and Displays

Throughout the three-day event, pavilions will be open, inviting visitors to wander through the various displays at their leisure. From agricultural exhibits to local arts and crafts, these pavilions offer a chance to appreciate the talents and achievements of the Redcliffe community.

Read: New Local Hangout: Indigo’s Cafe Opens on Margate Pde in Redcliffe

To join in the festivities, showgoers can purchase tickets at the gate for $14 for adults and $7 for concession and children (5-14 years). Infants aged 0-4 years enjoy free admission. On Friday, 30 June, admission is half price, and children aged 14 and younger can enter for free, making it the perfect opportunity for families to attend.

Please note that there is limited parking on the showgrounds site, but alternative parking options include Redcliffe State High School and Pearson Park.

Visit Redcliffe Show’s website to get your tickets or to learn more about the upcoming event.

Published 19-June-2023

NRL’s Under-19 State of Origin Comes to Redcliffe

Photo Credit: CC National Rugby League / nrl.com

It’s official! The Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe will host the highly anticipated Under-19s male and female State of Origin matches, as announced by the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC).

Taking place on 13 July 2023, the event marks the first time that the games will be held in Queensland, following the successful staging of the inaugural match at Leichhardt Oval last year.

The ARLC is dedicated to nurturing emerging talent and establishing robust pathways for male and female players, and the Under-19s concept exemplifies this commitment. ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM expressed his satisfaction with the progress made, stating, “The Commission is focussed on development of male and female players and strong pathways. The under-19s concept was extremely successful last year and once again we will showcase the best interstate players and our pathways.”

“Not only will the under-19s State of Origin solidify our pathways but it will provide more opportunities for players and fans,” he added.

According to NRL CEO Andrew Abdo, last year’s matches provided breakthrough opportunities for rising stars such as Paul Alamoti, Jojo Fifita, and Jada Taylor, who have since established themselves as formidable first-grade players. In 2023, the NRL is set to make history by hosting the most extensive series of interstate Origin matches ever seen in the game.

He added that all three men’s Origins, two women’s Origins, and two under-19s Origins matches will be televised on free-to-air channels.

The choice of Moreton Bay as the host for the Under-19s State of Origin has delighted the local community. Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery expressed his excitement, highlighting the region’s proud history of supporting the growth of the Rugby League.

As the home of the newest club in the league, the Dolphins, hosting the prestigious 2023 U19s State of Origin further strengthens their connection to the sport.

The event is expected to inject over $580,000 into the local economy, benefiting a range of businesses including shops, cafés, accommodation providers, and suppliers. This economic boost provides an excellent opportunity for local enterprises to showcase their offerings and attract visitors from across the country.

To ensure widespread coverage, both under-19s matches will be broadcast on the Nine Network and Fox Sports.

This year’s Under-19 State of Origin matches promise to be a celebration of talent, passion, and the future of the Rugby League. As fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the rising stars of the game battle it out on the field, the event also symbolises the NRL’s commitment to providing a strong foundation and fostering the growth of the sport at all levels.

You can grab your tickets now, with prices starting from $10 for adults. Additionally, junior fans under the age of 15 can attend for free when accompanied by a paying adult in the General Admission section.

Published 16-June-2023

Redcliffe Markets Night Fever: A 70s Themed Disco Wonderland

Ladies and gents, relive the sensational dance extravaganza of the Redcliffe Markets Night Fever last May 20!

At 4:00 p.m. on May 20, Redcliffe Parade transformed into a disco wonderland straight out of the ’70s. The highlight of the night was the Bee Gees tribute band Stayin’ Alive, with their infectious tunes that had everyone dancing the night away.

But that wasn’t all! Participants took part in two disco dance workshops in Rotary Park and showcased their groovy moves in the flash mob. Led by Bring A Plate Dance, they became disco pros in no time!

With more than 250 stalls, there was plenty to explore at Redcliffe Markets Night Fever – from local, handmade, and artisan produce to sideshow alley and kids’ activities. Attendees satisfied their hunger with street food galore from SEQ’s best food trucks, including Asian Dumpling House, Potato Twisties, and Piante Pizza. And for those with a sweet tooth, Vegan Hut Gluten Free Donuts and Schultz’s Finest had everyone drooling over their delicious treats and desserts.

At 8:30 p.m., the winner of the Era Bar & Grill Costume Competition for the best 70s attire set off the fireworks display — lighting up the Redcliffe horizon with a magnificent display.

Experience the vibrant pulse of Redcliffe Markets, where unforgettable moments await beyond this incredible event. Don’t miss out on the next one!

About the Redcliffe Markets

The Redcliffe Markets is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that offers a diverse range of stalls. From fresh produce and meats to handmade crafts and artisanal foods, it is a hub for locals and visitors alike. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Peninsula, it showcases the best farmers and artisans in Moreton Bay and surrounds. With free entry and parking, waterfront access, and a bustling entertainment schedule, the Redcliffe Markets offers a perfect family day out.

For more information about the Redcliffe Markets and its offerings, visit their website here.

Published 02-June-2023

MBRC Approves Plans by Elanor for New 142-Room Hotel Above Bluewater Square

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au

In a bid to cater to the surging tourism numbers in the region, MBRC has granted approval to Elanor Investor Group to construct a new 142-room, eight-level hotel above the Bluewater Square Shopping Centre in Redcliffe.

Elanor Investment Group is a Sydney-based ASX-listed company with a substantial portfolio of real estate investments exceeding $2.7 billion across Australia and New Zealand.

The project involves the construction of a new 142-room, eight-level hotel above the Bluewater Square Shopping Centre in Redcliffe. The group acquired the shopping centre in 2017.

The development approval is aimed at helping meet the urgent need for additional hotel rooms as the region experiences a boom in its tourism sector.

Strategically positioned in proximity to Brisbane’s domestic and international airports, as well as the bustling Brisbane CBD, this new hotel will provide much-needed short-term lodging options for tourists visiting the region. Furthermore, it will play a crucial role in accommodating the influx of visitors expected during the 2032 Olympic Games.

The hotel’s exterior will be adorned with captivating public art and murals, creating an aesthetically pleasing facade. Its top level will feature a bar open to both hotel guests and the public, boasting a generous 360-square-meter function area, a well-equipped kitchen, and a swimming pool. Guests will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Moreton Island, offering them a truly world-class experience in this highly sought-after retail and tourism destination.

Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery expressed his enthusiastic support for Elanor Investment Group’s increased investment in the region. He acknowledged that this ambitious project will help meet the growing demand for additional hotel rooms, ensuring that visitors have ample accommodation options to choose from.

“Elanor Investment Group’s new 142 room hotel development shows great confidence by hotel developers and investors in Moreton Bay as we power towards becoming Queensland’s $40 billion engine room,” he said.

“The Moreton Bay region is one of Australia’s largest and fastest growing areas. Our population already surpasses Canberra, at more than 500,000, with another 200,000 residents projected to call our region home over the next 20 years.

“Moreton Bay’s billion-dollar tourism industry is on the rise, with 4.3 million annual visitors, more than double the total visitor numbers to Noosa, is home to Australia’s newest NRL team – the mighty Dolphins, and we’re a host venue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“We have become Australia’s hotel hotspot as we are currently significantly undersupplied to support the needs of a thriving region and growing visitation.

“Moreton Bay needs eight hotels and 1,035 hotel rooms by 2032, with four hotels required by 2026, and to help us we’re providing hotel investors and developers with incentives and a dedicated concierge service to make investing in Moreton Bay as easy as possible.”

“The proposed short-term accommodation, function facility and bar utilise the existing shopping centre, whilst incorporating uses that will be highly beneficial to the local area,” a spokesperson for Elanora Investment Group said.

The new hotel will seamlessly integrate into Bluewater Square, an already thriving retail and leisure precinct. Designed to focus on non-discretionary retail, including medical facilities, a gymnasium, government offices, and professional suites, the precinct will now offer a touch of luxury with the addition of this prestigious hotel.

Published 29-May-2023

Get Ready, the Brisbane Whale Watching 2023 Season Is Almost Here!

Brisbane Whale Watching is preparing to unveil its 2023 season, just in time for what could potentially be many unique encounters with Southern humpback whales.

Read: People Urged to ‘Stay Hydrated’ As Redcliffe Temperatures Soar During Heatwave

Entering the tranquil and sheltered waters of Moreton Bay has become an annual ritual for many whales seeking refuge to mate and give birth. Embarking on their yearly migration through the crystalline depths of South East Queensland, Southern humpback whales are expected to grace the region with their majestic presence from June until early November.

Each day brings unique sightings so every expedition with Brisbane Whale Watching is sure to be an adventure.

Photo credit: Brisbane Whale Watching/Facebook

Whilst the spotlight naturally falls on humpback whales, participants might also witness pods of dolphins gracefully leaping and playing alongside their vessel, accompanied by an astonishing array of marine life.

Welcome to the Whales

To officially kick off the 2023 season, Brisbane Whale Watching will hold “Welcome to the Whales.” Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Redcliffe Farmers and Artisan Markets, this exceptional gathering on Sunday, 4 June 2023, will set the mood for participants eager to take part in the season’s adventures.

Open to the entire community, the festivities will unfold with a whale sand sculpture-building activity on the beach. Mesmerising “undersea” performers will also weave enchanting tales, seamlessly blending their movements with the rhythm of the ocean.

Talented face painters will adorn eager faces with colourful marine-inspired designs. As an added highlight, participants have been invited to channel their inner marine creature, giving them a chance to vie for the coveted “best-dressed” title and win a family pass.

Read: Moreton Bay Celebrates 25 Years of Whale Watching at Humpback Highway

Entry to the ‘Welcome to the Whales’ event is completely FREE. For more information, visit Brisbane Whale Watching’s website.

Published 26-May-2023

Mousetrap Theatre: In Search of a Temporary Home Amidst Uncertainty

Mousetrap Photo Credit: Theatre Company Inc./ mousetraptheatre.asn.au

For close to six decades, Mousetrap Theatre – a renowned arts venue situated in Redcliffe – has served as a haven for theatre enthusiasts. However, its path forward is now shrouded in uncertainty.

The theatre, located on Lamington Drive in Redcliffe, was closed last year due to structural deficiencies that rendered the building unsafe. Recent estimates indicate that repairs would cost over $2 million, including immediate structural repairs and long-term remediation work to bring the venue up to code. However, the Moreton Bay Regional Council has decided against repairing the building and instead plans to invest in a detailed feasibility study to explore Mousetrap Theatre’s future options.

Although a community performing arts facility is needed on the Redcliffe Peninsula, the pressing concern at present is to find Mousetrap Theatre a temporary home. Unfortunately, the process of securing a new location has been slow, causing uncertainty and disruption for the theatre group. Moving from venue to venue not only confuses their audience but also poses challenges due to the lack of specialised theatrical facilities in community venues.

The Mouse Trap president, Karen Matthews, expressed the group’s determination to continue as a theatre community despite the difficult circumstances. However, the lack of a home base and the need to store equipment off-site if they have to vacate the current premises have added to their struggles.

To emphasise the importance of finding a new home, Mousetrap Theatre Group has launched a petition that has garnered nearly 1,000 signatures. The hope is to demonstrate to the council, beyond just Councillor Karl Winchester, how crucial it is to secure a permanent location.

Cr Winchester assured the group that finding them a temporary home was the council’s top priority. Various venues have been suggested by Mousetrap Theatre members and will be considered. The council understands the group’s desire to remain in Redcliffe and have a dedicated space. Efforts will be made to accommodate these requirements.

The challenges of a temporary space lie in finding suitable storage for props, costumes, and technical equipment until a permanent solution is found. However, there is hope that with a solid concept and plan in place, state and federal funding could be attracted to create a more substantial arts precinct, ensuring a sustainable future for Mousetrap Theatre.

Published 19-May-2023

Sideline Brawl at a Junior Footy Match Ignites Outrage

Photo Credit: Helene Brasseur, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

A junior footy sideline brawl during a Redcliffe Dolphins and Norths Devils match have sparked outrage, as officials and spectators demand swift action and severe penalties for those involved in the shocking incident.

Read: Coming Soon: GR8 Buns To Bring Delicious Desserts To Redcliffe

A recent junior rugby league game shockingly turned into a brawl on the sidelines. Outrage over the event, which involved a linesman and a coach, has spread throughout the rugby league community, leading to demands for immediate action and harsh penalties for those responsible.

The altercation, which occurred during an under-11s match between the Redcliffe Dolphins and Norths Devils, quickly went viral after being captured on camera. Spectators, including young children, watched in shock as a linesman and a coach exchanged blows.

Eyewitnesses suggest that the altercation may have been triggered by the linesman’s decision not to wear shoes, leading to a parent confronting him and subsequent tensions escalating.

The Queensland Rugby League (QRL) is already looking into the incident, and the consequences could be severe, with potential lifelong bans for the offenders.

Former Dolphins premiership player Darren Smallhorne expressed his shock and disappointment following the incident. Smallhorne called for hefty penalties, emphasising that such behaviour has no place in junior rugby league.

Many within the club share his sentiment and express concern that the U11s players have been deprived of playing due to the adults’ misbehaviour. They argue that innocent children should not suffer the consequences of adult misconduct.

Read: NRL Acknowledges Referee Error in Dolphins Game

League chairman Bruce Hatcher has made it clear that lifetime bans are on the table for those involved, highlighting the seriousness of the offence. The QRL has a history of taking strong action against violence, with past incidents resulting in life bans for offenders, including players, spectators, and even underage individuals.

Published 16-May-2023

Coming Soon: GR8 Buns To Bring Delicious Desserts To Redcliffe

Heads up, Redcliffe! A new dessert bar is coming to town. Expect some GR8 Buns at the Bluewater Square Shopping Centre.

Read: Hotel Development Eyed at Bluewater Square Shopping Centre in Redcliffe

According to owner Michael Pulvirenti, Gr8 Buns goes beyond the traditional concept of a doughnut shop. It is a unique dessert bar that specialises in a variety of delectable treats such as doughnuts, croissants, cannoli, and milkshakes. In addition, they will also offer a delightful lunch menu featuring wraps and gourmet pies.

Having dedicated himself to the retail industry since the age of 19, Mr Pulvirenti, now 58, brings a wealth of experience to the business.

Over the past two decades, he has focused specifically on working in and operating various food businesses, honing his expertise in the culinary field.

After successfully running a smaller takeaway dessert bar at the DFO Brisbane Airport shopping centre as a trial since June 2022, Mr Pulvirenti has made the decision to open a dedicated store.

His new Redcliffe dessert bar will operate seven days a week and will feature a comfortable dining area, creating a relaxed atmosphere that caters to people of all ages.

In addition to its diverse menu, GR8 Buns will also offer a selection of gluten-free and vegan-friendly items.

Mr Pulvirenti expressed his confidence that there will be no discernible taste difference between the vegan and non-vegan options. This means that everyone, regardless of dietary preferences, can indulge in GR8 BUNS’ delicious treats without compromising on flavour.

Read: New Local Hangout: Indigo’s Cafe Opens on Margate Pde in Redcliffe

The grand opening day of the Redcliffe store will be on 20 May 2023 and to celebrate the occasion, every customer will receive two free doughnuts, regardless of whether they make a purchase or not. Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity to indulge in some delectable treats!

They will be operating on the site formerly occupied by Kebab Express at Bluewater Square. Follow their Facebook page for more details.

Published 11-May-2023