Redcliffe Archives - Page 14 of 23

Flag-Bearing Brenden Hall Triumphs with Bronze, Australia’s First Medal in Paris Paralympics

Paralympic legend and Redcliffe’s very own Brenden Hall has secured the country’s first medal at the Paralympic Games. An hour past midnight on Friday, Hall claimed bronze in the men’s S9 400m freestyle at the La Defense Arena.

Read: Redcliffe Paralympian Brenden Hall Embraces Final Games with Quiet Determination

Brenden Hall clinches bronze, prepares for two more

With a time of 4:15.61, Hall finished 3.06 seconds behind the gold medalist, French swimmer Ugo Didier, who made a strong final lap push. Italian Simone Barlaam took silver in the event.

The bronze medal marks Hall’s seventh Paralympic podium. The achievement holds significant personal meaning for Hall, who missed the podium at the Tokyo Games.

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“I was after a little bit of redemption,” Hall says. “I didn’t care what colour it was and so to be able to do it in front of people who mean the most to me, that’s what made me feel it the most.”

Hall’s achievement is particularly noteworthy given his role as Australia’s flag bearer in the opening ceremony—less than twelve hours before his heats in the 400m.

The seasoned Paralympian has two more upcoming events: the S9 100m backstroke and 100m butterfly. These Games are expected to be his last, as Hall hints at retiring from competitive swimming.

The rest of his busy schedule is as follows:
100m Backstroke S9 Heats: 3 September, 5:38 p.m.
Final: 4 September, 1:37 a.m.

100m Butterfly S9 Heats: 6 September, 6:18 p.m.
Final: 7 September, 2:35 a.m.

Hall reflects on his long journey

In an interview with body+soul, Hall acknowledges that his experience in Tokyo, where he narrowly missed a medal, reshaped his approach to the sport.

“It took me a little bit to sort of reflect and learn from it,” Hall says. “I forgot that the reason I was doing it was because I had a lot of fun.”

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This shift in perspective has influenced his performance in Paris, where Hall prioritises enjoyment and personal fulfilment over the pressure of achieving specific outcomes.

“Don’t be afraid to fail and then lean into it and learn from it. Humans fail, it’s a part of human nature.”

Read: Redcliffe Embraces Sleepbus, Offers Refuge Amidst Homelessness Crisis

As Hall continues his Paralympic campaign, he remains focused on the upcoming events while cherishing the support of his family. His son, Bodhi, is expected to be in the stands.

“It’s not about what you do to fail, it’s about how you get back up, dust yourself off, you learn from it and then you move onto the next thing.”

Published 02-September-2024

Redcliffe Embraces Sleepbus, Offers Refuge Amidst Homelessness Crisis

Photo Credit: Sleepbus/ Facebook

To combat the pressing issue of homelessness, Redcliffe is ready to welcome its inaugural sleepbus, providing a secure haven for those without a place to call home.

The initiative, spearheaded by Michelle Gilchrist of The Breakfast Club, aims to offer a dignified alternative to sleeping rough or in vehicles.

The sleepbus, a testament to community collaboration and generosity, will officially launch with an open day on 21 September, followed by its first overnight service on 27 September.

Gilchrist emphasised that the sleepbus represents a safe space, ensuring individuals no longer need to sleep in their cars or tents. It will provide a restful night’s sleep, sheltered from the elements and free from the fear of disturbances.

The sleepbus, an investment exceeding $100,000, boasts up to 18 individual sleep pods, each equipped with lockable doors, memory foam mattresses, fresh bedding, climate control, and charging ports. Additionally, the bus has a toilet and interchangeable doors to accommodate families. Pets are also welcome, and CCTV surveillance ensures the safety of all occupants.

The service operates on a first-come, first-served basis, eliminating the need for bookings or eligibility criteria. It relies heavily on volunteers’ dedication to overnight caretaking, driving, and housekeeping. Those interested in contributing their time are encouraged to contact Sleep Bus directly.

The sleep bus will be stationed at a central location on the peninsula. However, upon its opening next year, it’s slated to relocate to the forthcoming homelessness hub on Oxley Ave.

This vital initiative was realised through the generosity of The Breakfast Club, The Jelley Family Foundation, Commbank, Kedron Wavel, the City of Moreton Bay Council, and the public. Their collective contributions highlight a shared commitment to addressing the challenges of homelessness and providing a pathway towards a brighter future for those in need.

Published Date 30-August-2024

Redcliffe Parents Call Out Bus Drivers for Passing By Teenagers

Redcliffe parents are outraged as bus drivers from TransLink are reportedly bypassing teenage passengers at designated bus stops, leaving them stranded.

Larni Ryan, a mother from Redcliffe, has spoken out about her 13-year-old son being left behind by bus drivers on multiple occasions at designated stops. She highlighted a particular instance at the Victoria Ave and Clifford Street bus stop in Woody Point, where her son and his friends were repeatedly ignored by passing buses.

Ms Ryan expressed frustration over the repeated incidents, attributing them to bus drivers making unfounded assumptions about young passengers.

Ms Ryan mentioned that this recurring issue has caused significant inconvenience for her family, as her son often has to walk home, or she has to leave work to pick him up. She emphasised the anxiety and worry that arise when her son doesn’t arrive home on time, which could be avoided entirely if the buses stopped as expected.

Another concerned mother from North Brisbane took to a private social media group to share a similar experience, which quickly gained traction with over 400 comments. She described how her teenage son had been passed by four different buses in a week whilst waiting outside a shopping centre. The mother explained that despite her son waving the buses down, they continued to drive past, resulting in a lengthy walk home for him.

Former Bus Driver’s Perspective

A former TransLink bus driver added to the conversation on Facebook, explaining that some bus drivers might be hesitant to pick up teenagers due to past experiences with unruly behavior.

The ex-driver described incidents where teenagers were rude, abusive, and aggressive towards both drivers and other passengers. He suggested that drivers, feeling powerless to manage such behavior, might avoid picking up teenagers altogether.

The former driver also highlighted the stress and potential PTSD that public transport workers could experience due to these situations.

TransLink’s Response

In response to the complaints, a TransLink spokesperson stated that the organisation is committed to ensuring the safety of all passengers. They clarified that service delivery partners employ bus drivers, and that they are expected to transport children safely.

TransLink was unaware of the specific incidents mentioned but encouraged affected customers to report any concerns about service delivery through their hotline or online feedback form. The spokesperson assured that any reported incidents involving children would be thoroughly investigated.

Published 30-Aug-2024

Dolphins Name Mark Nicholls Captain for High-Stakes Broncos Showdown

The Dolphins are set to face off against the Broncos this Saturday, 31 August, at Suncorp Stadium, with both teams’ finals hopes hanging by a thread. Mark Nicholls will lead the Dolphins in this season-defining Battle for Brisbane, stepping into the leadership role in Jesse Bromwich’s absence.

Read: Dolphins vs Broncos: Phins Face Crucial Battle for Brisbane in Race for Finals Berth

Mark Nicholls assigned captaincy

As the Dolphins prepare for this critical encounter, several key changes have been made to their lineup. Mark Nicholls assumes the captaincy with Jesse Bromwich sidelined due to concussion protocols, while Sean O’Sullivan moves from the bench to start at five-eighth, replacing Kodi Nikorima, who is also out due to the protocols.

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Mason Teague returns to the interchange, boosting the forward pack’s versatility. Fijian international Kurt Donoghoe secures a bench spot for his first NRL game since round 19, while Lachlan Hubner is named as the 18th man.

Race for eighth

The Dolphins, sitting in 10th place with 26 points, are in a must-win situation to keep their finals hopes alive. They must defeat the Broncos and the Knights in their final matches to have a chance at sneaking into the top eight, reliant on the St. George Illawarra Dragons, currently in 8th place, to lose at least one of their remaining games.

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Crucially, the Dolphins hold a significant points differential lead over the Dragons but trail the Broncos in this regard. Their path to the finals is narrow but still within reach.

The Broncos, equal to the Phins in points but with superior for/against, find themselves in a similar do-or-die scenario. The outcome of this match will likely eliminate one of these Queensland rivals from contention, adding extra intensity to an already fierce local derby.

Read: Paralympic Hero from Redcliffe, Brenden Hall, Embraces Final Games with Quiet Determination

The Dolphins enter this crucial fixture looking to reverse a concerning trend, having lost five of their last six matches. This slump has seen them slide from a comfortable position in the top eight to the brink of missing the finals altogether.

With their season on the line, the Dolphins must find a way to halt this downward spiral and secure a much-needed victory.

Published 29-August-2024

Redcliffe Paralympian Brenden Hall Embraces Final Games with Quiet Determination

Photo Credit: Brenden Hall/ Instagram

Redcliffe’s own Brenden Hall is quietly preparing for his fifth and final Paralympic Games, savouring the challenge and the joy of swimming amidst the anticipation of the global spotlight.

Even in the quiet of a 25m pool at USC Sunshine Coast, Hall is focused on the task ahead, a stark contrast to the grandeur awaiting him at the Centre Aquatique Olympique in Saint-Denis.

The 31-year-old, who will also be one of our flag-bearers at the Opening Ceremony, is maintaining his usual routine until the moment arrives. Hailing from Petrie, with solid ties to Redcliffe, Lawnton, and Burpengary, Hall has learned from past experiences and approaches these Games with a renewed perspective.

Victory at last month’s Australian Olympic trials underscored his approach. Free from pressure, Hall’s love for the sport has been reignited. He’s driven by his passion and the inspiration he provides for his young son Bodhi.

Hall’s busy schedule includes his favoured 400m freestyle, 100m backstroke, and 100m butterfly:
400m Freestyle S9 Heats: 29 August, 5:30 p.m.
400m Freestyle S9 Final: 30 August, 1:30 a.m.
100m Backstroke S9 Heats: 3 September, 5:38 p.m.
100m Backstroke S9 Final: 4 September, 1:37 a.m.
100m Butterfly S9 Heats: 6 September, 6:18 p.m.
100m Butterfly S9 Final: 7 September, 2:35 a.m.

This marks the culmination of an intense training cycle with his long-time coach, Harley Connolly, based in Bribie. Connolly is confident in Hall’s preparation and eager to support his pursuit of gold in Paris.

With the Australian team in their final training camp, Hall is focused on the finishing touches before entering the Games environment. He’s unfazed by the competition and relishes the challenge he’s faced for the past 12 years.

Hall’s international career, which began in 2007, speaks for itself. Overcoming adversity at a young age, he has amassed 12 gold medals across the Paralympics, World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and numerous other accolades.

Paris may mark the end of Hall’s Paralympic journey as a competitor, but he intends to continue contributing to the sport and nurturing Australia’s future athletes. With a physiotherapy degree in progress, Hall envisions a future as a therapist and support staff, guiding the next generation towards their goals.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published Date 26-August-2024

Dolphins vs Broncos: Phins Face Crucial Battle for Brisbane in Race for Finals Berth

In a season-defining derby, the Dolphins will face off against the Brisbane Broncos this Saturday, 31 August, with both teams battling for a crucial NRL final series spot. Dolphins vs Broncos kick off 5:30 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Redcliffe Dolphins Land Coaching Coup: Pride’s Eric Smith to Lead Hostplus Cup Team in 2025

Tight race for eighth

As the regular season nears its conclusion, the Dolphins find themselves in a fierce five-way battle for the final position in the top eight. The Dolphins, currently tied on 26 points with the Broncos, Knights, and Raiders, are just two points shy of the eighth-placed Dragons.

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The significance of Saturday’s derby cannot be overstated—a loss would almost effectively end the defeated team’s season. Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett knows that the team’s recent slump—winning just three of their last 12—must be halted immediately if they are to keep their finals aspirations alive.

After this derby, the Dolphins are set to face another top eight contender, the Newcastle Knights, away from home.

Dolphins vs Broncos

The potential return of hooker Jeremy Marshall-King from a foot injury that has sidelined him for seven matches could provide a crucial boost to the Phins’ lineup. His presence has been sorely missed during the team’s recent struggles, which have seen them concede 150 points in their last four games.

In more positive news, Dolphins centre Jake Averillo is set to make his 100th NRL appearance in this crucial match.

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In their last encounter, the Broncos secured a 28-14 victory, unleashing a devastating second-half blitz with four tries in just 14 minutes. To avoid a repeat, the Dolphins will need to tighten their defence and sustain their intensity throughout the match.

Read: Redcliffe Eyes Future Growth with Comprehensive Urban and Transport Plans

As the 2024 NRL season reaches its climax, the Dolphins find themselves at a crossroads. A win against the Broncos could reignite their finals push and potentially secure them a spot in the postseason in just their second year back in the competition.

Published 26-August-2024

Redcliffe Dolphins Land Coaching Coup: Pride’s Eric Smith to Lead Hostplus Cup Team in 2025

The Redcliffe Dolphins proudly announce Eric Smith as their new Hostplus Cup coach for the 2025 season, ushering in a pivotal shift in the club’s coaching dynamics. Smith, who currently leads the Northern Pride to success, will join the Dolphins when the pre-season kicks off in November.

Read: Win the Ultimate Battle of Brisbane Game Day Experience and Support a Worthy Cause

Eric Smith, proven track record

Eric Smith brings a wealth of experience to the Dolphins, having held significant roles within the Melbourne Storm and Newcastle Knights systems at the NRL level. His coaching journey in the Queensland Rugby League includes notable stints with the Sunshine Coast Falcons and Brisbane Tigers. Most recently, Smith has guided the Northern Pride to this year’s Hostplus Cup minor premiership.

Redcliffe Dolphins CEO Scott Clark expressed strong confidence in Smith’s appointment. The team sees Smith’s transition to the Dolphins as a strategic move that will not only enhance their performance but also play a critical role in the development of players within the NRL system.

Ben Te’o returns to the Broncos

This appointment follows the announcement of current Redcliffe Dolphins coach Ben Te’o’s return to the Brisbane Broncos as an assistant coach for 2025. His departure opened the door for Smith to step into this role, continuing the cycle of coaching developments in Queensland rugby league.

Read: Redcliffe Eyes Future Growth with Comprehensive Urban and Transport Plans

As both teams prepare for the final series, the Northern Pride, under Smith’s current leadership, will face the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the qualifying final on 31 August. Meanwhile, the Redcliffe Dolphins are set to compete against the Norths Devils on 1 September, as they too push towards postseason success.

Published 24-August-2024

Win the Ultimate Battle of Brisbane Game Day Experience and Support a Worthy Cause

The Dolphins faithful have a unique opportunity to elevate their game-day experience while contributing to a worthy cause. A charity raffle is offering fans the chance to win a premium corporate suite for 15 people at the upcoming Battle of Brisbane, all in support of Share the Dignity, an Australian charity combating period poverty.

Read: Redcliffe Eyes Future Growth with Comprehensive Urban and Transport Plans

The prize package for the Battle of Brisbane

The grand prize includes a corporate suite for 15 people at Suncorp Stadium, along with a gourmet food and beverage package, offering prime viewing for the Dolphins vs Broncos game on Saturday, 31 August.

Additionally, 50 double pass tickets are available for purchase at $99 each through the Share the Dignity website.

Moreover, the upcoming Dolphins vs Broncos game might be the most important Battle of Brisbane to date. With only two games left in the season, and both teams still fighting for a spot in the top eight, it is undoubtedly a season-defining match.

Industry collaboration

This initiative brings together several partners, including Ausbuild, a leading home builder across South East Queensland; Dynamic Bradview Roofing; Dolphins NRL; and Share the Dignity.

Ausbuild’s joint managing director Matthew Bell states, “We at Ausbuild are truly honoured to offer these prizes to the community, as it reflects Ausbuild’s commitment to enriching the lives of our residents and supporting meaningful causes like Share the Dignity.”

Share the Dignity founder Rochelle Courtenay highlights the significance of NRL’s involvement. “We are proud that a male-dominated sport is stepping up to help us to Share the Dignity.”

Why Share the Dignity matters

Share the Dignity works to provide essential menstrual products to women experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or facing poverty. The charity partners with over 3,000 organisations across the country to distribute these crucial items.

Share the Dignity has already distributed over 4 million product packets and over 800,000 bags filled with essentials to those in need, ensuring no one has to choose between food and menstrual hygiene. Visit their website to learn more about their cause.

Read: Redcliffe’s Homegrown Talent Zarlia Chisholm Makes Waves in the Film Industry

Mark your calendars and act fast—this is your limited-time chance to win big while supporting a cause that matters. The raffle closes on Monday, 26 August at midday with the winner being announced after 5:00 p.m. the same day.

Fans eager to participate can purchase raffle or double pass tickets through the Share the Dignity website here.

Published 24-August-2024

Redcliffe Eyes Future Growth with Comprehensive Urban and Transport Plans

Students from the University of the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Maritime Alliance, and Open Architecture Studio have proposed a series of transformative urban and transport development plans to ensure Redcliffe remains a vibrant community for future generations.

The initiative, led by UniSC Urban Planning and Design students, envisions future developments along the Anzac Ave corridor to address the growing needs of the Redcliffe Peninsula.

This collaborative effort merges economic, environmental, and social considerations into a cohesive plan that balances growth with sustainability.

Nick Stevens, the coordinator of UniSC’s Urban Planning and Design, detailed how the students integrated influences from South-East Queensland to tailor their proposals specifically to Redcliffe’s unique needs and potential.

Proposed Developments and Infrastructure Enhancements

Key proposals include the construction of a new arterial road linking Duffield Rd with Kinsellas Rd East via Saltwater Creek, which would improve traffic flow and connectivity. A novel “Kippa Trippa” light rail system is suggested to link Kippa-Ring Station to the Redcliffe foreshore, enhancing public transport options and accessibility.

Introducing a figure-of-eight bus service would further integrate major points across the Peninsula, from Clontarf to Newport, promising a more connected community.

Anzac Ave itself is envisioned as an ‘urban core’ stretching from Kippa-Ring to Oxley Ave. This corridor will house five distinct precincts focusing on enhanced transport links, commercial growth, natural green spaces, diverse urban lifestyle options, and health-focused community developments around Redcliffe Hospital.

Future Redcliffe — *Photo Credit: Open Architecture Studio*

Community and Environmental Focus

The planning initiative also places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and community well-being. Proposals for expanding green corridors, parklands, and sustainable urban living spaces aim to create a harmonious blend of nature and urban development.

Michael Bailey, founding director of Open Architecture Studio, highlighted the importance of community partnership in these plans, aiming to integrate local insights into the final proposals to better address the needs of residents and the pressures on existing infrastructure.

The proposals are set for further refinement and community consultation, with the goal of integrating them into the broader economic and developmental plans. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the consultation process to help shape the future of their community.

Published 22-Aug-2024

Dolphins vs Warriors: Phins Aim to Tame the Wahs in Playoff Push

The Dolphins return home this Sunday, August 11, facing a pivotal match against the New Zealand Warriors that could significantly impact the top-eight standings. With key players returning from injury and illness, the Phins aim to bounce back from their recent loss and secure a vital win in their playoff push. Dolphins vs Warriors kick off 2:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Redcliffe to Welcome Plunge Bathhouse and Recovery Centre

The Phins lose in Perth

In their most recent outing, the Dolphins fell short in a high-scoring battle against the Roosters, losing 40-34 in Perth. The match was a back-and-forth affair that showcased the Dolphins’ resilience and offensive capability, overcoming an early 12-0 deficit to tie the game at 18-18. Despite a late push from the Phins, the Roosters managed to hold on for the win.

Dolphins vs Warriors

The Dolphins are set to host the 13th-placed New Zealand Warriors (8-11-1) in a critical encounter. The Warriors, currently 1-3 in their last four games, will be looking to improve their position, while the Dolphins aim to retake their spot in the top eight.

Kodi Nikorima is slated to return to the starting lineup after missing last week’s game due to illness. He will rejoin Isaiya Katoa in the halves, with Sean O’Sullivan moving to the bench. Tevita Pangai Junior and Jamayne Isaako are also named in the side, pending fitness tests.

The last time these two teams met was last May 26. The Warriors narrowly edged out the Dolphins in a close 24-20 contest.

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After this match, the Dolphins face a challenging run to close out the home-and-away season. Three of their final four games will be played away, with their only remaining home game being the highly anticipated Battle of Brisbane against the Broncos.

Read: Headspace Redcliffe Marks 10 Years of Youth Mental Health Support

As the season enters its crucial final stages, each game becomes increasingly important for the Dolphins. Sunday’s clash presents an opportunity for the team to build momentum for the final push towards the finals series.

Published 06-August-2024