A significant development proposal is set to reshape the Redcliffe Parade precinct. The project, designed by Gardner Vaughan Group, envisions two 12-storey residential towers offering a mix of residential, commercial, and short-term accommodation options.
The development site, located at 1-13, 19, 21 & 23 Redcliffe Parade and 86 Sutton Street, is currently occupied by a single-storey building and car park. The new towers will feature a range of unit types, from one-bedroom to four-bedroom apartments, catering to diverse housing needs.
Ground-floor commercial tenancies will provide various services, including food and beverage outlets, healthcare facilities, shops, offices, and indoor recreation spaces. The project aims to enhance the local economy and provide convenient amenities for residents and visitors.
The development’s design complements Redcliffe’s urban fabric while introducing a contemporary aesthetic. Its ample parking and bicycle storage facilities address the transportation needs of residents and visitors.
Urban Strategies, the planning firm behind the proposal, believes the development aligns with the local planning scheme and will contribute positively to the area. The firm highlights the project’s potential to capitalise on the site’s proximity to the Redcliffe Parade commercial centre, transport networks, and recreational opportunities.
The relevant authorities are currently reviewing the development application. If approved, the project is expected to significantly revitalise the Redcliffe Parade precinct and provide a new landmark for the coastal region.
Nestled along Redcliffe Parade, an art deco gem stands as a testament to the peninsula’s rich history. The former Redcliffe Town Council Chambers, now a heritage-listed building, has witnessed the transformation of Redcliffe from a small coastal town to a thriving city.
Constructed in 1940-41 for £5,200 (equivalent to $542,180 today), the building was designed by Sidney William Prior and brought to life by builder Carl Gustav Thiedeke. Its creation coincided with a pivotal moment in Redcliffe’s development, following the construction of the Hornibrook Highway that connected the peninsula to Brisbane.
Redcliffe Town Council building, ca 1960s (Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay, Reference Number RMPC-100\100075)
The building’s architectural features are a callback to a bygone era. A curved façade greets visitors, while high, decorative ceilings and silky oak timber details showcase the craftsmanship of the time. Glass bricks and stained glass add to its unique character, with a striking four-metre high stained-glass window depicting explorer John Oxley as the centrepiece of the council meeting room.
Originally serving multiple purposes, the building housed council services, offices, and even facilities for the South Coast Hospitals Board. Its versatility was evident in the array of rooms, from a surgery and examination rooms to a dispensary and waiting area.
The building’s significance grew alongside Redcliffe itself. When Redcliffe achieved city status on 11 June 1959, the chambers stood as a symbol of the community’s progress. However, change came in 1972 when the Council relocated, and the building was repurposed as a community health centre.
The Redcliffe City Council chambers ca 1970 (Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay, reference number, reference number RLPC-000\000215)
Despite facing challenges, including extensive fire damage in 2006, the building’s story was far from over. A careful renovation breathed new life into the structure, preserving its heritage while adapting to modern needs.
Today, the former Council Chambers houses Wallace Davies Solicitors, owned by Peter Wallace, whose family connection to the building spans generations. Mr Wallace reminisced about growing up in the building, mentioning his father’s role as a councillor and his brother-in-law’s career beginnings within these very walls.
Photo credit: apps.des.qld.gov.au
Mr Wallace expressed his appreciation for the building’s unique qualities, particularly its age and high ceilings. He notes the rarity of such well-preserved buildings in Redcliffe, highlighting the special ambiance that can only be found in a structure of this vintage.
As it approaches its centenary, the former Redcliffe Town Council Chambers continues to serve the community, albeit in a different capacity. Its journey from civic centre to legal practice encapsulates the evolving nature of Redcliffe itself – honouring its past while embracing the future. This architectural treasure stands not just as a protected heritage site, but as a living, breathing part of Redcliffe’s ongoing story.
The iconic Redcliffe Pier Theatre is up for sale for the first time in seven decades. Located at 115-131 Redcliffe Parade, the 2,500-square-meter oceanfront property comes with an existing approval for a 12-storey mixed-use development.
Cushman and Wakefield, the real estate firm handling the sale, has described the opportunity as “precinct-shaping” and “oceanfront.” The site, situated 27 km north of Brisbane’s CBD, boasts frontage to both Redcliffe Parade and Sutton Street. The approved development plan includes 82 apartments, 748 square meters of retail space, and a food and beverage outlet.
“Revenues for developers are underpinned by the ability to achieve premium ocean view lines,” Cushman and Wakefield said.
“[The site is] improved by the Pier Theatre, an iconic retail building that provides short-term holding income.
“The region’s record population growth and historically low vacancy rates provide favourable market conditions to developers for potential residential projects.”
The current approval, which was initially granted over a decade ago, has been extended three times, most recently on March 17, 2023. During the latest extension process, Moreton Bay Regional Council mandated that the developer, Peninsula Theatres, incorporate the existing theatre facade into the design as a condition for any further extensions.
This requirement came after significant community opposition to the proposed demolition of the historic theatre. The Redcliffe Historical Society had appealed to preserve the facade, citing its importance as a representation of “93 years of film-going by the sea.”
The site has a rich history dating back to 1917 when the original Redcliffe Picture Palace opened. Following a fire in 1943, the theatre was rebuilt with a brick facade. It ceased operations around 1970 and has since been partially demolished, leaving only the Redcliffe Parade-facing portion standing.
The expressions-of-interest campaign for the property is set to close on June 6, marking a significant moment for this historic site and potentially ushering in a new chapter for Redcliffe’s waterfront development.
The Redcliffe skyline is slated for further transformation this year as various construction projects gain momentum, reflecting bullish expectations of interest in housing in the area in the coming months.
Last year saw the commencement of groundwork along the waterfront in Woody Point, where Traders In Purple embarked on constructing 32 luxury residences. The newly unveiled Orilla development, soaring eight stories high, has already made waves by setting a price record for the area, with apartments fetching close to $3 million.
Photo Credit: Traders in Purple
In December, Traders In Purple secured approval to erect 175 apartments across two buildings on Gayundah Esplanade, with the project expected to launch mid-year. This development site holds historical significance as it once housed the iconic Palace Hotel, where the Bee Gees performed their maiden paid gig. The hotel, which ceased operations in 2013, fell victim to a devastating fire in 2014.
Photo Credit: Traders in Purple
The Redcliffe CBD is currently abuzz with four sizable projects underway, with one already in construction.
99 Sutton St
Anticipated next year, residents will move into an 82-apartment Brisbane Housing Company (BHC) development tailored for older individuals. The seven-story complex at 99 Sutton St will comprise 59 social and 23 affordable one-bedroom apartments catering to those aged 55 and above. These affordable homes are made possible through support from the Queensland Government’s Housing Investment Fund.
Photo Credit: MoretonBayRegionalCouncil
Lumiere
Meanwhile, plans for a nine-story residential development at the corner of Sutton St and Creek St are pending commencement. Dubbed Lumiere, the project will feature 14 apartments boasting scenic sea views, along with two ground-floor food and beverage outlets, likely to include a café and restaurant.
Photo Credit: Velcon Enterprises
Former Site of Redcliffe Picture Palace
A stone’s throw away on Redcliffe Parade, the façade of the historic Redcliffe Picture Palace, later known as the Pier Theatre, will be incorporated into an 82-unit apartment block. Originating in 1928, the Palace met a fiery demise in 1943 but was resurrected as the Pier Theatre, with its original façade still gracing Redcliffe Parade
Photo Credit: MoretonBayRegionalCouncil
Blue Water Square Shopping Centre Revamp
Further revitalisation is on the horizon for the Blue Water Square Shopping Centre, set to undergo a dramatic makeover with the addition of a new 142-room hotel.
Photo Credit: MoretonBayRegionalCouncil
Addressing the region’s demand for short-term accommodations, the eight-story hotel will feature a top-floor bar accessible to guests and the public, a swimming pool, public art installations, and scenic views overlooking Moreton Island.
Lastly, Aqua, an upscale development situated waterfront at Woody Point, is slated for completion this year, introducing six luxury apartments spread across six levels.
Easter is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate the season than with an exciting pop-up market at the Redcliffe Parade? This weekend, April 7 and 9, head over to the jetty for the Redcliffe Markets Easter Pop Up Market 2023.
The jetty will be buzzing with over 200 market stalls, live music, food and drink stalls, and the iconic Brisbane-to-Gladstone race. The best part is that entry is absolutely free!
The market promises to be a fantastic day out for families and friends, with a wide range of products on offer, from handmade gifts to homewares and accessories. With food stalls serving up everything from seafood and macrons to pizza and wagyu wraps, visitors can satisfy their cravings whilst enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Photo credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council/Facebook
That’s not all! The Easter pop-up market will also feature live music and entertainment, making it the perfect place to soak up the spring sunshine whilst enjoying some great tunes. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the Easter bunnies hopping around, adding to the excitement of the event.
One of the highlights of the market is the chance to view the start of the Brisbane-to-Gladstone race. This iconic sailing race is a must-see for Redcliffe, and visitors to the market will have a front-row seat to the action. So bring your family and friends and make a day of it at the jetty.
Entry to the market is free, so there’s no excuse not to come and check it out. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, delicious food, or just a fun day out, the Easter pop-up market at Redcliffe jetty has got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for some fun at Redcliffe Markets Easter Weekend Pop-Up Market 2023!
Where
Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe
When
Friday 7 April 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and Sunday 9 April 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Redcliffe Parade is staying alive and throwing a boogie time bash on the foreshore. Get ready to celebrate with disco, dancing, and all things deliciously good at the Redcliffe Markets Night Fever!
Happening Saturday, 21st May 2022, the Redcliffe Markets Night Fever is a FREE entry, outdoor, family-friendly event that will run from 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. No Jive Talkin’ here as you’ll be able to shimmy down a market wonderland brimming with street food, unique finds and awesome activities on our main stage by the Jetty and around the market.
Photo Credit: SuppliedPhoto Credit: Supplied
Redcliffe Markets Night Fever will feature a Bee Gees Tribute Band, Workshops & Flash Mob, and Costume Competition and FIREWORKS!
Bee Gees Tribute Band
Staying Alive, Australia’s most funky Bee Gees tribute trio, will be gracing the stage at the Redcliffe Markets Night Fever. Hitting all of the HA HA HIIIIGH notes, Staying Alive is performing on the main stage at 5:15 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Workshops & Flash Mob
Have you ever wanted to learn some disco moves, or be a part of a flash mob? Bring a Plate dance is bringing the moves and putting on TWO Disco Dancing workshops in Rotary Park…then (if you’re feeling brave) it’s time to FLASH MOB in front of the Jetty building and turn the streets of the market into a huge dancefloor!
There are two sessions:
4:00 p.m. workshop for a 5:00 p.m. Flash Mob
6:00 p.m. workshop for a 6:45 p.m. Flash Mob
Photo Credit: Supplied
Costume Competition and FIREWORKS
The best dressed 70s disco dude or dudette who posts their costume on social media, tagging @redcliffemarkets and #redcliffemarketsnightfever will become DISCO ROYALTY and get the chance to jump on stage and PUSH THE PLUNGER to set off our HUGE fireworks display at 8:00 p.m.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Register for a free ticket to Night Fever on Eventbrite to go into the draw to WIN a weekend fit for Disco Royalty! You could WIN One Night at luxurious Oaks Mon Komo Suites in an Ocean View Apartment PLUS 2 tickets to “Best of Bee Gees Show” featuring Colin ‘Smiley’ Peterson. The ORIGINAL Bee Gees Drummer. Courtesy of Redcliffe Entertainment Centre. (Ts and Cs apply)
Remember to mark the 21st of May in your calendar for NIGHT FEVER at Redcliffe Markets!
Disco Dancing and 70s music!
Bee Gees Cover Band
Costume Competition
Street Food Galore
Local handmade, quirky gifts and artisan provisions
Redcliffe Markets on Redcliffe Parade is set to mark 2022 with a “double bang!” Check out the NYE Party at Redcliffe Markets, where there will be not just one, but TWO fireworks displays along with some eats, treats, and heaps of entertainment!
Set for Friday, 31 December 2021, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Redcliffe Markets will turn into a pop-up wonderland with loads of treasures, trinkets, gourmet street food, as well as plenty of free entertainment for little kids and big kids alike.
There will be no shortage of treats as the very best of Queensland’s gourmet market eats will be there. Whilst you’re enjoying the food and drinks, bands and live musicians will enliven the party so guess may get in a shimmy, a boogie, or even a cheeky twist! If you’re not up for dancing, the sideshow alley will be filled with games galore.
The New Year’s celebration wouldn’t be complete without a stunning display in the sky so by 7:00 p.m., the first of two fireworks displays will be set off whilst the second set will light up by 9:00 p.m.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Register to join the New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Redcliffe Markets.
