A long-standing restaurant, bar and live music venue, Cactus Jack’s Redcliffe, has confirmed it will close after more than 13 years of operation, following advice that the building will be demolished as part of future redevelopment.
Thirteen Years on the Peninsula
Cactus Jack’s has operated on the Redcliffe Peninsula for more than a decade, becoming a familiar destination for dining, live music and social gatherings. For the past five and a half years, the venue has been run by owners Rob and Kate Griffiths.
Throughout that time, the business continued trading during major disruptions, including the COVID period, flooding events, prolonged power outages and cyclones.
Redevelopment Changes the Course
The closure has been described by the owners as not voluntary. The building housing the venue was sold around three years ago, with redevelopment flagged as a long-term plan from that point.
While the business was involved in discussions and sought to secure a lease, the owners were later advised the building would be demolished and that the venue would not be included in future plans. Notice to vacate followed, with timelines brought forward in recent months.
Community Reaction Buys Time
Following the public announcement of the closure, strong community response emerged from patrons, musicians and locals. Initial requests for extra time to relocate were declined.
After the level of public support became clear, a one-month extension was granted, allowing the venue to continue operating while a new location is pursued.
Australia Day Set as the Farewell Focus
Australia Day has been identified as the key farewell event for the Redcliffe venue. On 26 January, Cactus Jack’s will open from 11 a.m., with live music scheduled from 2 p.m. featuring Luke Dickens.
While Australia Day remains the centrepiece, trading will continue during the extension period beyond that date.
Jobs and Live Music at the Centre
At the time of the announcement, the venue employed around 35 staff, many of them local workers. The owners have said their priority remains supporting employees and musicians while working to secure a new premises.
Since being acquired during the COVID period, the business expanded its workforce and continued regular live music programming.
A Strong Local Response
Community feedback following the announcement highlighted the venue’s role in live music, employment and milestone celebrations across Redcliffe. Messages of support were widely shared online, with many patrons referencing long-standing connections to the venue.
The response has been cited as a contributing factor in the short extension being granted.
Looking Beyond the Current Site
Cactus Jack’s will continue operating at its Redcliffe location during the extension period while actively searching for a new home. Further updates are expected if a relocation is confirmed, with the owners indicating the intention is for the business to continue beyond its current premises.
Published 17-Jan-2026
