Margate Archives - Redcliffe Today

Humpybong State School in Margate Secures Funding for New Bus Shelter

Humpybong State School in Margate is set to receive significant funding for a new bus shelter area, marking a crucial step in a state-wide effort to enhance student safety on Queensland roads.

A recent announcement revealed that Humpybong State School will benefit from an $86,000 allocation as part of a $2.3-million investment across 21 new projects at Queensland schools. This funding, channelled through the School Transport Infrastructure Program, was confirmed this week.

Enhanced Safety Measures for Students

The primary aim of the funding is to create safer environments for students travelling to and from school. The new bus shelter at Humpybong State School directly addresses a specific local need, providing a dedicated and safer waiting area for students. State Member for Redcliffe, Kerri-Anne Dooley, expressed strong support for the funding, stating that it ensures student safety remains a top priority for those attending Humpybong State School.

Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek reinforced the government’s commitment to making children as safe as possible during their school commutes. The broader program is designed to deliver immediate safety and operational improvements to schools across the State.

Broader Road Safety Initiatives

Beyond specific school infrastructure, the initiative includes a significant expansion of the Flashing School Zone Signs Program. An additional 100 sites across Queensland are scheduled to have flashing school zone signs installed this year. These signs are considered a proven and effective measure to remind motorists to reduce speed and be vigilant for children, who are recognised as among the most vulnerable road users.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg stated that the government continues to work diligently on long-term solutions for school road safety issues across Queensland. He highlighted that this investment into school road safety complements other existing initiatives such as the School Crossing Supervisors Scheme and Community Road Safety Grants, forming a comprehensive approach to child road safety.

Government’s Focus on Infrastructure

The Crisafulli Government has indicated a strong focus on improving road infrastructure for Queenslanders, particularly in regional areas, contrasting its efforts with the previous administration’s handling of road maintenance.

Ministers emphasised that these investments around schools underline the government’s seriousness regarding the safety of school children, their families, and school crossing supervisors. The School Transport Infrastructure Program, alongside supervised school crossings, is seen as crucial in making the journey to and from school as secure as possible.

Minister Langbroek underscored that everyone shares a responsibility in ensuring child safety in and around schools, noting that these projects are one of several ways the Crisafulli Government is working to improve road safety for school children across Queensland.

Published Date 17-Jun-2025

Beachfront Eyesore in Margate Seeks New Owner

Photo Credit: Real Estate

A striking six-storey yellow house on Margate Parade has unexpectedly become a hot property, topping Queensland’s most-viewed list.

Beachfront Eyesore in Margate Seeks New Owner — *Photo Credit:* *Real Estate*

Overlooking the scenic Redcliffe Peninsula coastline, the building at 97 Margate Parade has drawn attention for its bold design and colourful history. Locals have labelled it everything from an eyesore to a unique landmark.

Built in 2005, the house was sold to Ron Jelich, who had plans to establish a Storm Financial branch on the site. However, council disapproval and the subsequent collapse of Storm Financial left the property vacant. Jennifer Anderson and Phillip Moschella later purchased it in 2019, but it has remained unoccupied.

Under the guidance of Reid and Co agent Cameron Reid, the property is seeking a new owner with a vision. Despite its current state, the mansion boasts many attractive features, including five bedrooms, five bathrooms, three living areas, and a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of Moreton Bay and Bribie Islands. A lift connects all floors, from the five-car basement garage to the rooftop entertaining area.

Mr Reid highlighted the property’s potential, suggesting its suitability for a large family home, dual occupancy, or even an Airbnb. He noted significant interest from international buyers, particularly Asia, the Middle East, and North America. The unique zoning allows for a blend of residential and commercial use, a rarity under current building codes.

With Margate’s median house price rising, currently at $841,000, this unusual property presents a unique opportunity for the right buyer.

Will it be transformed into a luxurious family haven, a thriving business hub, or a combination? Only time will tell.

Published Date 29-Jan-2025

Margate’s Golden Ox Fetches $2.2-M at Auction After Abrupt July Closure

The Golden Ox, a beloved wedding and function venue in Margate, was sold at auction for $2.2 million last month after its sudden closure in July.

Read: Tragedy Strikes Redcliffe’s Iconic Golden Ox Restaurant as Owner Passes Away, Forcing Closure

The 1,831 sqm freehold property on the corner of McCulloch Ave and Bank St was put up for auction on October 26 by Colliers. With a direct frontage to Oxley Ave, the 663 sqm building contained a restaurant, bar, and divisible function facilities connected to an outdoor garden frequently used for weddings.

The venue had been in operation for over 40 years under the management of Nick Tzimas and his family before it was put up for sale last year.

According to the property agent, the successful sale at auction signifies hope for the reopening of this community staple. The Golden Ox has serviced the Redcliffe Peninsula for decades as a popular dining and celebration destination, and they believe this sale will pave the way for its revival under new ownership.

The previous owners prior to the auction this October promised to honour existing bookings.

Located at 33 Oxley Ave, The Golden Ox venue also had an approved gaming licence for up to 45 machines. With a commercial licence for trading hours from 10:100 a.m. to midnight daily, the agent remarked on its continual popularity as a “licensed dining, wedding and function centre” in the area.

“The structure of the building, favourable District Centre Precinct zoning and high profile street location may lead a new owner to pursue other uses for the property beyond its current function as a licensed venue (STCA),” the listing reads.

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

Whilst the future of this Margate icon remains unknown, many hope its long legacy as a community gathering place will endure under new management. For now, its loyal patrons will have to rely on memories of good times past.

Published 10-November-2023

Tragedy Strikes Redcliffe’s Iconic Golden Ox Restaurant as Owner Passes Away, Forcing Closure

The Golden Ox, Redcliffe’s beloved family restaurant and wedding venue, has abruptly closed its doors after nearly 46 years of service, leaving the local community devastated. The closure was prompted by the untimely death of one of its owners, marking the end of an era for the popular establishment.

Long regarded as one of South East Queensland’s premier dining spots and wedding destinations, The Golden Ox announced the heartbreaking news via its social media channels.

“Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, we have had to shut our doors for now. Stay tuned, and hopefully, we will be back again soon!” the post read.

The passing of the owner has left the restaurant in limbo, with weddings and functions that were booked now facing uncertain futures. The venue expressed their sincerest apologies and pledged to reach out to all those who had booked events to discuss their situations personally.

For over four decades, The Golden Ox at Margate had been under the dedicated management of Nick Tzimas and his family. However, last year, they made the decision to put the restaurant up for sale, which eventually led to its sale before Christmas.

Following the sale, Mr. Tzimas retired from the business. Unfortunately, attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.

The closure of the Golden Ox represents the end of a long-standing chapter in Redcliffe’s dining and social scene. The restaurant has held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, becoming an iconic establishment in the area.

The news of the restaurant’s closure sparked an outpouring of sadness and fond memories from the community.

“Very sad news for new owners family,” a local said. “As long as everyone with wedding booked is issued with a full refund there wont be any issues.”

While The Golden Ox’s future remains uncertain, there is hope among patrons that the beloved establishment will one day reopen its doors. For now, the community mourns the loss of a cherished gathering spot and sends their condolences to the family of the deceased owner.

Published 19-July-2023