More than 40 budding performers from ROAR Academy, presented by Redcliffe Musical Theatre (RMT) Youth, will bring the beloved story to life at the Redcliffe Entertainment Centre.
With performances scheduled for 1 and 2 February at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., audiences can expect a delightful showcase of youthful energy and theatrical flair.
RMT President Madeleine Johns expressed her excitement for the production, highlighting Mary Poppins’s enduring appeal as a family favourite. This junior adaptation stays true to the original, retaining all the cherished songs and dance numbers, including classics like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “Feed the Birds,” “Step in Time,” and “A Spoonful of Sugar.”
Johns emphasised the timeless themes of family, love, and work-life balance at the story’s heart. The Banks family’s journey towards overcoming their challenges through kindness, creativity, and understanding provides a universal message of hope and joy. Mary Poppins encourages audiences to embrace life’s simple pleasures and find the magic in everyday moments.
The production boasts a vibrant cast of characters led by the “practically perfect” Mary Poppins. Zoe Hitcock and Tamsyn Doyle will share the iconic role, bringing their unique interpretations to the character. Toby Bailey will join them as the charming chimney sweep, Bert.
Both Zoe and Toby are seasoned performers with ROAR Academy and RMT, having starred in previous productions such as Frozen Jr., Shrek Jr., Finding Nemo Jr., and Newsies Jr.
From the grounds of Sandgate-Redcliffe Cricket Club to the international stage, the meteoric rise of Georgia Voll meteoric rise is a testament to Queensland cricket’s grassroots development. The 21-year-old batting sensation now stands on the brink of a potential Ashes debut, carrying forward the proud tradition of her local club.
Sandgate-Redcliffe Gator makes international impact
Voll’s recent performance for the Governor-General’s XI—smashing 57 off 42 balls against England’s formidable attack—marks another chapter in her remarkable ascent. This follows her breakout ODI series against India, where she announced herself on the international stage with scores of 46 not out, 101, and 26.
The Gator’s technique has proven equally effective against world-class bowlers. Striking 11 fours in her recent knock against England exemplifies the attacking mindset developed through years of grade cricket.
Georgia Voll, from backyard cricket to international arena
Growing up in Highfields near Toowoomba, Voll’s cricket journey began in a backyard large enough for a makeshift cricket pitch. This foundation, combined with structured development at Sandgate-Redcliffe, produced a technically sound yet aggressive batter capable of adapting to any situation.
“I think I’m ready,” Voll says with characteristic modesty when asked about her potential Ashes participation. Her willingness to bat anywhere in the order reflects the versatility instilled during her formative years at club level.
Despite her impressive form, Voll faces tough competition for a spot in Australia’s star-studded lineup. Coach Shelley Nitschke acknowledges the selection dilemma, noting that Voll’s performances are “putting pressure on some spots.”
Whether Voll takes the field in the upcoming Ashes series or not, her rise from local club cricket to international recognition serves as an inspiration for young cricketers at Sandgate-Redcliffe. Her story demonstrates that with talent, determination, and the right support structure, the path from local grounds to wearing the baggy green remains alive and well.
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 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 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.
Private security has been deployed in Redcliffe to accompany workers after reports of escalating violence near rough sleeper sites raised safety concerns for workers tasked to maintain public spaces.
Since 30 December 2024, the City of Moreton Bay introduced the measure to protect workers tasked with maintaining public spaces, including parks and beaches. These workers have been instructed to remain 50 metres away from such sites unless accompanied by private security staff.
A spokesperson said these steps comply with a Workplace Health and Safety Queensland order and aim to safeguard employees while ensuring the cleanliness of public facilities. The decision followed numerous complaints about overflowing bins and unsanitary conditions, particularly in Redcliffe and nearby Woody Point.
Community Response
Community members and advocates have expressed mixed views on the decision. Beau Haywood, founder of the community initiative Nourish Street, questioned the necessity of hiring private security, noting he had not observed any incidents of abuse or violence involving rough sleepers in the area.
Jaki Rose, a who camps at Woody Point, voiced concerns that delays in maintaining facilities could harm both the homeless and the general public. She stated that she and others in her situation had often taken on cleaning responsibilities themselves to prevent health risks.
Increase in Homelessness
The City of Moreton Bay estimates around 200 individuals are experiencing regional housing insecurity, marking a sharp increase over the past decade. Council reports a 250 per cent rise in referrals for rough sleepers in the last two years alone.
Mr Peter Flannery noted that complaints about public health, safety, and amenity issues in areas such as Redcliffe and Woody Point have surged in response to this trend.
In addition to hiring security, Council recently passed new regulations prohibiting homeless people from owning pets, citing safety concerns. The move has faced criticism from some who argue it unfairly targets a vulnerable population.
Efforts to Balance Safety and Compassion
While officials emphasised the need to address safety and hygiene issues, some locals believe the measures may alienate homeless individuals. Advocacy groups have called for more supportive interventions, such as housing initiatives, to address the root causes of homelessness in the area.
This program is part of a the city’s initiative to promote sustainable gardening and preserve biodiversity. The initiative has been running successfully across various suburbs, providing local communities with the tools to create eco-friendly gardens.
How to Access Free Plants
Here’s how residents can participate:
Apply Online: Applications can be made through the City of Moreton Bay website or at a customer service centre with proof of residency, such as a rates notice or driver’s licence.
Receive a Voucher: Approved residents receive a voucher for free plants, usually two per property. The voucher outlines the specific plants available for collection.
Collect the Plants: Vouchers can be redeemed at the Redcliffe Botanic Gardens nursery or other participating locations. Staff members are available to provide guidance on choosing plants that best suit the local climate and garden conditions.
The application process is straightforward, ensuring residents have easy access to native plants while promoting sustainable practices.
Benefits of Native Plants
Native plants are ideal for gardens in Redcliffe and surrounding suburbs for several reasons:
Low Maintenance: Once established, these plants require minimal watering and care, saving time and resources.
Support for Wildlife: They attract local wildlife, including birds, bees, and butterflies, contributing to the preservation of natural habitats.
Eco-Friendly: Native plants are well-suited to local conditions, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers or pesticides.
Plant species commonly offered include grevilleas, banksias, and myrtles, all of which thrive in the city’s environment.
The programme is also available to residents of other suburbs, such as Caboolture, Bribie Island, and Pine Rivers. A variety of native plants suited to regional conditions are available at each community nursery, guaranteeing a wide range of choices for various gardening requirements.
In addition to distributing plants, these nurseries offer guidance and educational materials to help locals make sustainable gardening decisions.
Looking Ahead
Residents are encouraged to apply early, as plant availability may be limited. The program runs annually, allowing eligible participants to claim their free plants once per financial year. For full details on how to apply, what plants are available, and participating nurseries, visit the City of Moreton Bay website.
In a strong show of faith in their developing roster, the Dolphins have secured the futures of two key players ahead of the 2025 NRL season, while also announcing plans to kick off the new year with their highly anticipated Fan Fest at Kayo Stadium.
The Redcliffe outfit continues to build stability with Fijian international Kurt Donoghoe extending his stay until the end of 2025. Donoghoe, a standout ever since the Dolphins’ inaugural NRL match, joined in 2023 on a train-and-trial contract and has since excelled, appearing in 16 NRL games and representing Fiji five times at the international level. The versatile playmaker’s ability to cover multiple positions across the halves, backline, and hooker roles adds valuable depth to the squad.
Dolphins head of academy and Fijian assistant coach Matt Hartigan praised Donoghoe’s influence on the team, stating, “When he plays direct, and he gets the ball in his hands, he’s got the creativity to make the guys around him look good.”
In another significant retention, dynamic back-rower Connelly Lemuelu has committed to the club until the end of 2026. Since joining for the inaugural season, Lemuelu has become a mainstay in the side, notching up 41 appearances over two years. The 25-year-old forms part of an impressive young forward pack alongside Kulikefu Finefeuaki, Oryn Keeley, and James Walsh.
Newly appointed head coach Kristian Woolf expressed his enthusiasm about Lemuelu’s extension, seeing it as a crucial piece in the club’s long-term planning. “Connelly is the type of person we want to continue to build the club around,” Woolf said. “I see him as an elite talent with his best football still ahead of him.”
Dolphins faithful will have their first chance to meet the strengthened 2025 squad at the upcoming Dolphins Fan Fest. The free, family-friendly event will take place at Kayo Stadium on Saturday, 1 February, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The event will give locals unique access to their sporting heroes, with activities including dressing room tours, touch football games for children, and autograph sessions with players. The wheelchair-accessible celebration will also feature face painting, a jumping castle, and the first opportunity to purchase 2025 merchandise.
Redcliffe’s public spaces are struggling to cope with a surge in homelessness as the number of people seeking social housing in Moreton Bay reaches a record high of 4,421, prompting urgent calls for action.
This escalating crisis, which has seen a 90% rise in homelessness over the past decade and a 250% increase in rough sleeping referrals in just two years, is impacting the safety and accessibility of public areas, particularly in Redcliffe. Council reports a concerning rise in illegal activities and anti-social behaviour in parks and public spaces, including drug use, assaults, and aggressive behaviour towards residents and council staff.
Mayor Flannery expressed concern that the situation was deteriorating, making it unsafe for residents and visitors to enjoy public spaces. He stressed the need for change to ensure community safety while maintaining compassion for those experiencing homelessness.
He indicated that the Council saw a concerning trend of some individuals taking advantage of their supportive policies, negatively impacting the community. He emphasised that the safety of residents was paramount and that this situation could not be allowed to continue.
Photo Credit: Pexels
To address these concerns, the Council is revising its guidelines on camping in public spaces, bringing them in line with those of other South East Queensland councils. This includes prohibiting animals in public spaces, restricting caravans and camper trailers for camping, and encouraging people to utilise designated caravan parks instead.
However, Mayor Flannery emphasised that the state government is ultimately responsible for addressing homelessness. He called for increased investment in social housing, crisis accommodation, and a greater police presence to manage the situation.
He stated that the State Government needed to take responsibility and deal with this situation and that communities were bearing the brunt of their inaction. He highlighted that the Council spent millions of dollars each year to manage the consequences.
Despite the challenges, the City of Moreton Bay remains committed to supporting those in need. The Council has implemented various initiatives to address the housing crisis, including waiving development fees for affordable housing projects, offering land to community housing providers, and investing in support services like the Peninsula Support Hub and the Redcliffe Sleepbus. These efforts have earned the Council recognition from Q Shelter, the state’s peak body for housing and homelessness.
Mayor Flannery concluded by stating that the Council was doing everything it could at the local level and that it was now time for other levels of government to step up and fulfil their responsibilities.
Rising javelin sensation Nahkiyha Mullins-Walit has cemented her status as a national champion with an outstanding victory in the under-17 girls’ javelin event at the 2024 Chemist Warehouse Australian All Schools Athletics Championships.
Mullins-Walit’s triumph comes on the heels of her remarkable performance at the recent School Sport championships, where she set a new benchmark in the 16 years javelin event. Her throw of 49.23 metres surpassed the previous mark of 48.93 metres set by Ellie Bowyer in 2016, establishing herself as a formidable force in the sport.
A member of Deception Bay Little Athletics, Mullins-Walit’s dedication and victory in the All Schools Championships reflect both her natural talent and the strength of Moreton Bay’s sporting community. Her future in athletics shines bright, promising to inspire the next generation of local athletes.
In a heartwarming twist for local rugby league fans, Redcliffe-born Tom Opacic has returned to the Dolphins’ training ground, sparking excitement about a possible homecoming for the talented centre.
The Dolphins’ social media channels buzzed with excitement as they shared images of the 30-year-old participating in training sessions. For many long-time supporters, this marks a full-circle moment as Opacic returns to the club where his rugby league journey began.
Opacic’s professional career has taken him across multiple prestigious clubs since his NRL debut with the Brisbane Broncos in 2016. After three seasons with the Broncos, he moved to the North Queensland Cowboys in 2019 and then joined the Parramatta Eels in 2021. Most recently, he transitioned to England’s Super League with Hull Kingston Rovers in 2023.
Despite signing a contract extension that would have kept him at Hull KR until the end of 2025, Opacic departed the English club at the conclusion of the 2024 season. His exit opened opportunities for both parties, with Hull KR securing Rhyse Martin as his replacement.
Future prospects
While no official signing has been announced, Opacic’s presence at training suggests potential involvement with the Redcliffe Dolphins in the 2025 Queensland Cup season. As the feeder club for the Dolphins NRL outfit, this arrangement could also serve as a pathway back to the top flight, particularly with one position remaining in the NRL squad’s top 30.
However, competition for spots remains fierce, especially in the centres where the NRL side boasts the formidable pairing of Jake Averillo and Herbie Farnworth. Nevertheless, Opacic’s experience across multiple professional environments could prove valuable for both the Queensland Cup side and as depth for the NRL squad.
For the Redcliffe faithful, Opacic’s return is more than just a professional move; it’s a celebration of a local hero coming full circle, promising an exciting future for the club and its fans alike.
A 17-year-old high school graduate in Redcliffe has discovered the area’s waterways make it surprisingly easy to catch bull sharks during their active breeding season.
Thorbjörn Hale, who moved from the UK a few years ago, has made shark fishing his go-to activity for relaxation after long days of study. Fishing just behind his house, he often targets bull sharks, noting they are common in the Brisbane River and surrounding areas. He explained that standard fishing gear is enough to reel them in, dismissing the need for specialised equipment or large bait.
With warmer waters during summer, sharks become more active, Mr Hale said, sometimes leaping from the water in displays that draw attention. His most successful moments often come an hour before high tide, a time he accurately predicts based on the fish’s activity.
A Family Tradition on Brisbane’s Waterways
Long-time fisher Mark Parkinson recalled his first encounter with a bull shark in Fig Tree Pocket. Initially sceptical of their presence in the Brisbane River, he was surprised to catch one with his son five years ago. The experience has since turned shark fishing into a regular family activity, including memorable moments like catching sharks just metres from a public barbecue area in West End.
Mr Parkinson said such events often fascinate onlookers, reinforcing Brisbane residents’ close connection with the river and its ecosystem.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Breeding Season and Shark Behaviour
Dr Darryl Whitehead, a researcher from the University of Queensland, explained that shark activity in Brisbane’s waterways spikes during the breeding season, which coincides with the summer months. Mr Whitehead, who has worked with sharks in more than 27 countries, shared that their electroreception—the ability to sense electric fields—plays a key role in locating prey and understanding their movements.
To support research, recreational fishers like Mr Hale and Mr Parkinson often participate in tagging programs. These programs help scientists track shark populations, migration patterns, and breeding behaviours. Whitehead emphasised the importance of such collaborations, noting that fishers provide valuable data for conservation efforts.
Giving Back to the Sharks
Mr Hale recently began tagging sharks for a research program in New South Wales, recording details such as size and location before releasing them. He believes this adds purpose to his hobby, as it allows him to contribute to preserving the species while enjoying his time on the water. A fellow angler, Brandon, who also tags sharks, said the process has deepened his appreciation for the creatures, describing them as deserving of respect and care.
Shark fishing in Brisbane is regulated to protect both the fish and the public. While anglers are allowed to keep sharks under 150 centimetres in length, larger specimens must be released immediately. Queensland also advises fishers to handle sharks carefully to minimise harm.
Both recreational and scientific efforts highlight the unique relationship Brisbane’s communities have with their local waterways. From young fishers like Mr Hale to seasoned anglers and researchers, the shared goal is to enjoy the river’s resources responsibly while supporting long-term conservation.
