Australia Day Archives - Redcliffe Today

Weekend Culture Edit: Art, History, and Music on the Coast

The Australia Day long weekend offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences north of Brisbane. Highlights include the final days of the Salvation Army exhibition in Caboolture and the visually stunning Candlelight concerts in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. From immersive history at the Pine Rivers Heritage Museum to futuristic food art, there is plenty to explore.

Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer

24 January 2026 | Flaxton Gardens, Sunshine Coast
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Experience the epic scores of cinema’s greatest composer in a breathtaking setting. Under the open sky (or marquee) at Flaxton Gardens, a string quartet will perform iconic themes from The Lion King, Gladiator, Inception, and more, all illuminated by thousands of candles.

Candlelight: Best of Coldplay

24 January 2026 | Flaxton Gardens, Sunshine Coast
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Following the Hans Zimmer tribute, the glow continues with a celebration of Coldplay. Enjoy classical renditions of “Yellow,” “Fix You,” and “Viva La Vida” in the romantic and serene atmosphere of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Salvation Army Historical Exhibition

1 November 2025 – 25 January 2026 | Caboolture Historical Village, Caboolture Last Chance:
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This weekend is your final opportunity to view this comprehensive collection. It chronicles the history of the Salvation Army in the region, featuring rare artifacts, uniforms, and stories of community service that span over a century.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

15 – 23 January 2026 | Emerge Church, Warner
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Catch the closing night of this enchanting musical production. Local performers bring the classic “tale as old as time” to life with dazzling costumes and beloved songs. It is a perfect family-friendly finale to the school holiday theatre season.

Ocean Sentinels: Inspiring change through art

8 November 2025 – 8 February 2026 | Bribie Island Seaside Museum, Bongaree
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Combine a trip to the beach with some culture. Ocean Sentinels features powerful artworks that address marine conservation. It is a thought-provoking exhibition that resonates deeply with the coastal lifestyle of Bribie Island.

Out on the Town

15 November 2025 – 19 April 2026 | Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, Whiteside
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Step back in time to see how locals partied in decades past. This exhibition explores the history of balls, dances, and social gatherings in the Pine Rivers area, offering a nostalgic look at fashion, music, and community spirit.

Kirrenderri: Heart of the Channel Country

15 November 2025 – 16 February 2026 | Redcliffe Museum, Redcliffe
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Explore the deep connection between the Mithaka people and their land. Kirrenderri showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Channel Country through striking visuals and storytelling, providing a meaningful educational experience for the long weekend.

Pixel Printed Food Lab

2 – 29 January 2026 | The Hub Gallery, Caboolture
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Witness the intersection of culinary arts and technology. This exhibition demonstrates 3D food printing, challenging visitors to rethink the future of dining. It is a quirky and fascinating stop for those interested in innovation.

Two Girls From Amoonguna

29 November 2025 – 7 February 2026 | Redcliffe Art Gallery, Redcliffe
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This vibrant exhibition celebrates the friendship and artistic output of Sally M Mulda and Marlene Rubuntja. Their works, ranging from paintings to soft sculptures, offer a colourful and personal insight into life in the Central Desert.

Imperfect Pattern

13 December 2025 – 21 February 2026 | Pine Rivers Art Gallery, Strathpine
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Discover beauty in the flawed and the irregular. Imperfect Pattern brings together works that disrupt traditional symmetry, encouraging viewers to find aesthetic value in unexpected places.

Yield

20 September – 14 March 2026 | Caboolture Regional Art Gallery, Caboolture
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Yield delves into themes of agriculture, harvest, and the environment. Through contemporary art, it examines our complex relationship with the land—a fitting topic for the semi-rural surrounds of Caboolture.

Fresh Eyes 2025

22 November 2025 – 7 March 2026 | Redcliffe Art Gallery, Redcliffe
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See the local region through the perspective of its artists. Fresh Eyes challenges creators to interpret their surroundings in new ways, resulting in a diverse and surprising collection of works that celebrate the Moreton Bay area.

Art in Libraries – Echoes of the Soul

2 – 31 January 2026 | Albany Creek Library, Albany Creek
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Take a quiet moment at the Albany Creek Library to view Echoes of the Soul. This community exhibition makes art accessible to everyone, turning a routine library visit into a cultural encounter.

From the magical glow of candlelight concerts in the hinterland to the closing days of major historical exhibitions, this long weekend is packed with diverse cultural offerings. It is the perfect time to explore the galleries and museums of the north, soaking up art, history, and innovation before the holiday season officially concludes.

Moreton Bay Long Weekend: Top Kids’ Events for 23–26 January

The long weekend brings high-energy action to the north side, with Circus Rio pitching its tent in Strathpine and the Triple B Rodeo kicking up dust in Caboolture. For families seeking a creative escape, the local galleries are hosting fantastic hands-on workshops, and Australia Zoo continues its summer program for one last wild weekend before school returns.

Circus Rio – Pine Rivers

23 – 26 January, 28 January – 1 February 2026 | Pine Rivers Park, Strathpine
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Roll up, roll up! Circus Rio transforms Pine Rivers Park into a carnival of colour and adrenaline. Featuring international performers, aerial stunts, samba dancers, and FMX motorbikes, this is a spectacular show designed to dazzle the whole family over the long weekend.

Triple B Rodeo Series – Summer Showdown

24 January 2026 | Caboolture Showgrounds, Caboolture
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Get ready for an action-packed Saturday night at the Caboolture Showgrounds. The Summer Showdown features the best in bull riding, saddle bronc, and barrel racing. It’s a gritty, high-energy event that brings the spirit of the outback to the coast.

Australia Zoo: Summer Holiday Fun

2 – 26 January 2026 | Australia Zoo, Beerwah
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It is the final weekend to catch the special summer program at the home of the Crocodile Hunter. Enjoy the world-famous Wildlife Warriors show at the Crocoseum, tackle the giant inflatable obstacle course, and meet the zoo’s newest furry and scaly residents before the school bell rings.

Bluebell – The Musical

25 January 2026 | Burpengary State College, Burpengary
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Support local talent in this original musical production. Bluebell tells a heartwarming story through song and dance, offering an affordable and entertaining theatre experience for families in the Burpengary area.

Redcliffe Markets

25 January 2026 | Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe
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Spend your Sunday morning strolling along the picturesque Redcliffe foreshore. These iconic markets feature hundreds of stalls selling unique crafts, fresh produce, and delicious street food, all set against the backdrop of Moreton Bay.

Summer at Redcliffe with Martin Edge

22 November 2025 – 7 February 2026 | Redcliffe Art Gallery, Redcliffe Kids Can Art Tour & Workshop | 23 January 2026

Immerse the kids in the colourful world of celebrated artist Martin Edge. On Friday, the gallery hosts a special Kids Can Art Tour followed by a “Me in the Landscape” workshop, where children can create their own self-portraits inspired by Edge’s vibrant style.

Exhibition Info: Read More
Kids Can Art Tour: Get Tickets
Me in the Landscape Workshop: Get Tickets

Art Kids: Painting Patterns

24 January 2026 | Pine Rivers Art Gallery, Strathpine
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Head to Strathpine on Saturday for a creative session exploring patterns and colour. Designed for children, this workshop encourages young artists to experiment with paint and repetition to create bold and beautiful designs.

Pixel Printed Food Lab

2 – 29 January 2026 | The Hub Gallery, Caboolture
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Take a peek into the future of food at Caboolture. This fascinating exhibition demonstrates 3D food printing technology, sparking curiosity in young minds about science, technology, and what we might be eating in years to come.

Cherry Blossom Painting Workshop

23 January 2026 | Natasha Maria Art, Cashmere
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Budding artists can refine their skills at this intimate workshop in Cashmere. Guided by Natasha Maria, participants will learn techniques to paint stunning cherry blossoms, creating a beautiful canvas to take home.

Summer Session 2026 – Dance Direction QLD

23 January 2026 | Dance Direction Queensland (DDQ), Bald Hills
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Get moving this holiday with Dance Direction’s Summer Session. This event offers dance workshops and classes for energetic kids who want to learn new moves and techniques before the dance year officially begins.

From the adrenaline of the rodeo to the peaceful creativity of a painting workshop, the region north of Brisbane is catering to all energy levels this long weekend. It is a fantastic opportunity to visit the Redcliffe Peninsula for markets and art, or head inland for circus thrills and cowboy action.

Tribute Band Takeover: Rock and Roll Nostalgia on the Coast

The Australia Day long weekend is heating up on the coast, with a massive lineup of events celebrating homegrown talent and international legends. From the high-octane energy of the Stafford Brothers at Kings Beach to country vibes at the Urban Muster and a slew of nostalgic tribute shows, the coastal venues are the place to be this weekend.

Stafford Brothers

23 January 2026 | Kings Beach Tavern, Caloundra
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Kick off the long weekend with Australia’s biggest DJ export. The Stafford Brothers return to the Sunshine Coast for a massive Friday night party, bringing their signature high-energy EDM, progressive house, and big room anthems to the beachside tavern.

Urban Muster Sunshine Coast Ft Austin Mackay

25 January 2026 | Kings Beach Tavern, Caloundra
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Sunday sees the Kings Beach Tavern transform into a country and blues hub for the Urban Muster. Headlined by the rising star of indie-folk, Austin Mackay, this event promises a relaxed and soulful atmosphere perfect for a Sunday session by the ocean.

Aussie Bangers

23 January 2026 | Sandstone Point Hotel, Sandstone Point
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Get into the national spirit early at the sprawling Sandstone Point Hotel. “Aussie Bangers” is set to deliver a playlist of classic Australian rock and pop anthems, providing the perfect soundtrack for a relaxed evening on the lawn overlooking the Pumicestone Passage.

Fleetwood Macs | A TRIBUTE TO FLEETWOOD MAC

24 January 2026 | The Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, Caloundra
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Experience the drama and the dreams of one of the world’s best-selling bands. This tribute show captures the harmonies and iconic sound of Fleetwood Mac, covering all the hits from Rumours to Tusk in a theatrical setting.

Kenny Rogers + Friends

23 January 2026 | Redcliffe Entertainment Centre, Redcliffe
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Journey through the career of the country music legend. This tribute celebrates the life and songs of “The Gambler,” Kenny Rogers, along with hits from his famous friends and collaborators, offering a nostalgic night for country fans.

Twist & Shout | A Salute to Rock ‘N’ Roll

23 January 2026 | The Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, Caloundra 24 January 2026 | Redcliffe Entertainment Centre, Redcliffe

Starring The Williams Brothers, this energetic production salutes the legends of early rock ‘n’ roll. Expect hits from Elvis, Buddy Holly, The Beatles, and more as the show tours the coast, hitting Caloundra on Friday and Redcliffe on Saturday.

Caloundra (23 Jan): Get Tickets
Redcliffe (24 Jan): Get Tickets

Big Day Out: Tribute Party

24 January 2026 | Kings Beach Tavern, Caloundra
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Relive the glory days of the Australian summer festival circuit. This tribute party pays homage to the iconic Big Day Out lineups of the 90s and 2000s, featuring covers of the grunge, rock, and alternative bands that defined a generation.

Smells Like the 90’s Live Rock Show

24 January 2026 | Thirsty Chiefs Brewing Company, North Lakes
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Grab a locally brewed beer and rock out to the decade of flannel and fuzz. Thirsty Chiefs hosts a high-energy live show dedicated to the biggest rock hits of the 1990s, from Nirvana to Pearl Jam.

Comedy on the Sunny’s Rooftop!

24 January 2026 | Sunny’s Margate Beach, Margate
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Enjoy laughs with a view at Sunny’s Margate Beach. This rooftop event features a lineup of comedy talent, offering a great way to unwind with a cocktail and ocean breezes before the night kicks on.

Aussie Made Tribute on the Rooftop!

24 January 2026 | Sunny’s Margate Beach, Margate
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Sunny’s keeps the entertainment rolling on the rooftop with a celebration of Australian music. Sing along to classic Aussie rock and pop hits while looking out over Moreton Bay—a quintessential way to celebrate the long weekend.

With a public holiday on the horizon, there is no better excuse to head north and soak up the coastal atmosphere. Whether you are reliving the 90s at a tribute show, dancing to world-class DJs at Kings Beach, or simply enjoying some rooftop comedy with an ocean view, the region is putting on a stellar show for the long weekend. It is the perfect opportunity to extend the summer holidays just a little bit longer before the year truly kicks into gear.

Redcliffe’s Teresa Bourke Continues Legacy of Service Year After Australia Day Honours Recognition

When Teresa “Terry” Bourke’s name appeared on the Australia Day Honours List in January 2025, it marked recognition of a life devoted to swimming and supporting people with disability. After receiving her Order of Australia Medal on 30 April, the Redcliffe local remains as committed as ever to the causes that earned her national recognition.

Read: 2025 Australia Day: Inspiring Redcliffe Resident Awarded OAM for Supporting Special Olympians

“We are all proud of you Terry and you are such a deserving recipient,” Special Olympics Moreton North posted on their Facebook page following the April ceremony.

Photo credit: Facebook/SPECIAL OLYMPICS MORETON NORTH

Nearly a year since the honours announcement, Bourke’s dedication shows no signs of waning. This year has seen her maintain her passion for swimming through continued volunteer work, including participating in the Swimathon at Redcliffe War Memorial Pool in June, where she helped raise funds for the club she has supported for more than two decades.

The official citation recognised Bourke for service to swimming as a coach, and to people with disability, acknowledging more than 25 years of volunteer work that has touched countless lives across the Redcliffe Peninsula and beyond.

Bourke has served as Head Swimming Coach for Special Olympics Queensland since 2022, though her involvement with the organisation stretches back to around 2000. Her role as Membership Officer and committee member at Moreton North Special Olympics Club, which she has held since 1999, keeps her actively involved in the club’s operations.

Bourke’s swimming credentials extend far beyond her work with the Special Olympics. She served as a volunteer coach for Redcliffe Peninsula Masters from 2000 to 2022, while also competing herself from 2001 to 2021. The club acknowledged her dedication in their 2021 newsletter, thanking Bourke and fellow coach Colleen Brinton who after volunteering their coaching services to the club for many years, have decided to take a well-earned rest.

However, retirement from formal coaching duties hasn’t meant stepping away entirely. Bourke currently volunteers as a coach at the Redcliffe City High Performance Centre and has previously coached with Down Syndrome Swimming Australia.

Her commitment to swimming is matched only by her dedication to nursing. After moving to Redcliffe in 1981, Bourke worked as a nurse at Redcliffe Hospital for 25 years. Even beyond her professional and coaching roles, she has contributed to the community through volunteering with The Breakfast Club Redcliffe.

Swimming Australia CEO Rob Woodhouse praised recipients like Bourke in a statement following the honours announcement, saying the swimming community from the Dolphins through to tireless champions like Teresa and Lynette deserve every accolade, and that we are richer for their contribution.

The Australia Day Honours List detailed Bourke’s extensive volunteer work, noting that Special Olympics Moreton North offers training in multiple sports including swimming sessions at Redcliffe War Memorial Pool. The club provides opportunities for people with intellectual disability to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy through sport.

Read: Champion Spirit: Celebrating Graham Higham, Redcliffe’s First Olympian

The medal recognises not just Bourke’s personal achievement but the broader community of volunteers, athletes, and supporters who make programs like the Special Olympics possible. As she continues her work at the pool deck, her legacy of service grows stronger with each swimmer she coaches and each life she touches.

Published 30-December-2025

Australia Day Celebrations to Take Over Scarborough Beach Park

Photo Credit: Music in the Park Scarborough/ Facebook

Scarborough Beach Park is set to host a massive Australia Day celebration with live music, family-friendly activities, and delicious food trucks.

The event will run from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, 26 January. Locals and visitors are invited to the beach to enjoy a true-blue Aussie day by the bay. Organisers encourage attendees to bring their friends and family, picnic rugs, and fold-up chairs to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying the festivities.

Live Music and Entertainment

Australia Day — *Photo Credit:* *What’s On Moreton Bay*

Live music will be a key feature of the day, with various local musicians performing throughout the afternoon. Attendees can expect an energetic and diverse line-up, with everyone tapping their feet and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Fun for the Whole Family

Organisers have planned various activities to keep children entertained throughout the day. These free activities will provide hours of fun for kids of all ages, making the celebration memorable for the whole family.

Food Trucks and Refreshments

Food trucks will be on-site, offering various culinary delights. From classic Aussie barbeque to international cuisine, there will be something to satisfy every taste bud. Attendees are reminded to stay hydrated and sun-safe by bringing plenty of water and sunscreen.

The Australia Day celebration at Scarborough Beach Park is a community event proudly presented by the City of Moreton Bay and delivered by Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism. Several local businesses and organisations, including Ray White Scarborough, Peninsula Distilling, and Crew Legal support the event.

Published Date 06-Jan-2025

Have A Day of Fun in the Sun at Australia Day in Redcliffe

Photo Credit: visitmoretonbayregion.com.au

Looking to spend Australia Day (26 January 2020) beachside? Look no further than Sutton’s Beach in Redcliffe! The calm water of Sutton’s Beach makes it a perfect location for a great day out with the kids.

The fun starts at 3:00 pm, with free beach activities and food trucks. Soak up the sunshine as you watch the kids play in the water and sand. Or have a fun time playing beach cricket, beach volleyball, and sack races. The little ones will be occupied with the dino eggs and spoon races.

Enjoy live tunes with performances from Cheyne Starkie, sibling duo SeaNic Sounds, Space for Two, and The Bassline Studios Band until 8:00 pm. Then have an Aussie time seeing how fast you can eat a lamington without holding it. One of the highlights of this year’s event is the Lamington Eating Contest, which is back by popular demand. A round for kids starts at 4:00pm whilst another round for teens and adults begins at 5:00 pm.

Main Stage Program

3:10 pm Cheyne Starkie

4:00 pm Lamington Eating Competition (under 12 years)

4:15 pm SeaNic Sounds

5:00 pm Lamington Eating Competition (13+ years)

5:15 pm Space for Two

6:15 pm The Bassline Studios Band

This free, family-friendly is presented by Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism (MBRIT), and supported by Moreton Bay Regional Council and Moreton Life Magazine. Parking is available in Suttons Beach car park and surrounding streets.

Facilities at Sutton’s Beach

Patrolled swimming beach
Band rotunda
BBQs
Picnic shelters
Play equipment
Bikeways
Beach showers
Toilets
Disabled access

Redcliffe Celebrates Australia Day at Suttons Beach

A fun yet laid-back celebration awaits for this year’s Australia Day in Redcliffe!

Happening on Saturday, 26 January 2019, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., this grand celebration at the dazzling golden sands of Suttons Beach will be filled with music, games, and activities that everyone will surely enjoy.

What to Expect

Be prepared to watch amazing performances from invited guests and bands, whilst savouring a tasty meal from a wide selection of food vendors. The Lamington Eating Competition will also take place, and it will be open for both kids and adults. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get our tummies ready for a bountiful feast!

Redcliffe Australia Day — Photo credit: Moreton Life Magazine / Facebook

If playing sports is what you are in for, you can spend the afternoon with a game of Beach Cricket and Beach Volleyball. Everyone can also make use of these free inflatables by the beach: Shark Slide, Dart Soccer, 3 in 1 Sports Game and Ninja Junior.

And finally, catch the spectacular fireworks display in the evening to cap off this one-of-a-kind Australia Day celebration.

Stage Programme

Time	Performer
3:00 p.m.	Official Event Welcome
3:10 p.m.	James Tyler
4:00 p.m.	Lamington Eating Competition (Under 12)
4:15 p.m.	Asa Broomhall
5:00 p. m.	Lamington Eating Competition (13+)
5:15 p.m.	The Lighthearts
6:15 p.m.	The Shine
8:00 p.m.	Fireworks

Location

Suttons Beach – 15 Marine Parade, Redcliffe

Cost

Free entry

This event is presented and supported by the Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism (MBRIT) and the Moreton Bay Regional Council.