Redcliffe Archives - Page 16 of 23

Historic Redcliffe Pier Theatre Site Up for Sale After 70 Years

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 second Pier Theatre in Redcliffe, 1950s**
Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Our Story

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.

Published 8-May-2024

Redcliffe Racing Club Gets $6M Lighting Upgrade

Bright lights will soon be shining on night races at the Redcliffe Peninsula Harness Racing and Sporting Club, as a major $6 million lighting upgrade officially kicks off this month.

Read: Redcliffe Skyline Set for Major Transformation with Array of Development Projects

The 11-month project, supported by the Racing Infrastructure Fund, will bring state-of-the-art LED lighting and new electrical infrastructure to the venue. This ensures the highest quality broadcast experience for night racing, allowing spectators on-site and at home to not miss a second of the heart-pounding action.

Club President Bernie Ring says the lighting upgrade is vital for the future of harness racing at the iconic Triangle track.

He stated that racing under lights is synonymous with Redcliffe, and this upgrade ensures spectators both on-site and at home won’t miss any of the action. Ring emphasised that participant and animal welfare are the top priorities.

Ring also expressed the club’s gratitude to Racing Queensland and the Miles Government for supporting and delivering the project.

Racing Minister Grace Grace highlighted the economic benefits, noting that the venue hosts over 40 percent of the state’s 310 annual harness race meetings and has around 300 horses training there weekly.

Photo credit: Jennifer Macnamara/Google Maps

Ms Grace said Redcliffe is one of the state’s most valuable harness training and racing venues. She added that the project is expected to support 20 new jobs throughout construction, contributing to an industry which already delivers more than $2.2 billion in economic contribution to Queensland each year.

Read: The Heroism of Nurse Ellen Savage During the Sinking of the Centaur in Moreton Bay

With bright lights ahead, the future looks bright for night racing at the famous Redcliffe Triangle. The upgrades will ensure this key venue can continue driving strong economic activity for the state’s racing industry for many more years to come.

Published 30-April-2024

Dolphins vs Knights: ANZAC Round Sunday Showdown

The Dolphins will be looking to continue their hot start to the season when they host the Newcastle Knights in the ANZAC Round clash on Sunday, April 28. Despite being without key players and head coach Wayne Bennett last week, the Dolphins recorded a dominant 44-16 victory over the Eels. Dolphins vs Knights kickoff 2:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Redcliffe Water Polo Stars Make a Splash at State Championships

Starting lineup unchanged

The Dolphins (4-2) have named an unchanged starting 13 from their win over the Eels, with Kurt Donoghoe’s return from suspension the only change to their 17-man squad.

UNSTOPPABLE 🚨#NRLEelsDolphins pic.twitter.com/u8nALZyBJd
— NRL (@NRL) April 19, 2024

On the other hand, Newcastle (2-5) is reeling from a heavy defeat at the hands of the Bulldogs, compounded by the loss of their captain Kalyn Ponga to a long-term foot injury. The star fullback’s absence is a massive blow for Newcastle, who have won only three of their past 10 without him.

Dolphins vs Knights

All eyes will be on the battle of the forward packs, with the Dolphins’ dominant engine room laying the platform for their high-scoring start to the year. They lead the NRL for average points scored at 28.3 per game.

Leading the back-line are the two wingers in Jamayne Isaako and Jack Bostock.

Bostock dives in 🐬 #NRLEelsDolphins pic.twitter.com/rc9fbTcxnG
— NRL (@NRL) April 19, 2024

The two sides shared the spoils in their meetings last year, with the Dolphins winning in Newcastle before the Knights prevailed in Perth later in the season.

Making moves off the field

In other news, the Dolphins have secured Cowboys back-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki on a three-year deal from 2024, with the Ipswich Jets product returning to south-east Queensland.

Max Plath has also been rewarded for his impressive form with a contract extension that will keep him at the Dolphins until 2027.

These off-field moves further bolster the Dolphins’ squad as they continue to establish themselves as a force in the NRL.

Read: Concerns Rise Over Unregulated E-Bikes After Alarming Sight on Busy Redcliffe Road

With both teams desperate for points, the ANZAC Round encounter is a must-watch. The Dolphins look to solidify their place in the top four, while the Knights aim to arrest their form slump and keep their finals hopes alive.

Published 26-April-2024

Concerns Rise Over Unregulated E-Bikes After Alarming Sight on Busy Redcliffe Road

A concerning incident involving a child on a non-compliant e-bike in heavy traffic on the Redcliffe Peninsula has intensified calls for stricter regulation of Australia’s burgeoning e-bike industry.

The incident has led to increased advocacy for more substantial oversight within Australia’s e-bike market.

Ed Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, has highlighted the danger posed by electric bikes that exceed the speed limits set by Australian law.

These bikes often feature throttles and can achieve speeds much higher than the legally allowed 25 km/h. Current regulations stipulate that e-bikes must be primarily pedal-assisted and not solely motor-driven.

The suggestions now include the need for a specialised licence and mandatory insurance for e-bike riders to ensure road compliance and safety.

Ebike on Redcliffe — *Photo Credit:Facebook/YahooAustralia*

Rising Incidents and Safety Concerns

The focus on e-bike regulation is sharpened by recent reports from Queensland hospitals noting a dramatic rise in injuries among children using electric modes of transport. In contrast to 14 injuries reported in 2019, last year saw 88 children suffering from significant injuries due to e-bikes and e-scooters.

This alarming increase underscores a lack of spatial awareness among young riders, which, combined with the high speeds of non-compliant e-bikes, creates a dangerous environment on public roads.

Community Reactions and Enforcement

The community response has been one of growing concern, with many residents and local officials calling for immediate action to address the unsafe use of e-bikes. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions around the “epidemic” levels of e-bike misuse, particularly those equipped with fat tyres that can carry multiple children, toggling dangerously between footpaths and roads.

Despite sporadic enforcement efforts, the regulatory framework for e-bikes remains unclear, leading to inconsistent policing across different states and territories. The tragedy has ignited debate over the potential for national licensing and stricter regulations as preventive measures rather than waiting for reactionary bans following serious accidents.

The incident in Redcliffe highlighted the risks associated with e-bikes and galvanised opinion on the need for a structured regulatory approach.

Published 24-April-2024

‘Edu Space’ Opens in Redcliffe, Provides Option

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Redcliffe’s educational landscape is set to transform with “Edu Space,” an innovative independent school designed specifically for Year 7 to 10 students who find traditional classrooms challenging.

This pioneering institution promises a fresh approach to learning, tailored to the unique needs of its students.

Administered by Redcliffe Area Youth Space (RAYS), the school has initially catered to 24 foundation students and aims to provide a supportive environment for the youth aged 12-16 dealing with various severe psychosocial, systemic, clinical and financial obstacles to learning.

Edu Space’s head of curriculum is Allen Ellis, who has been working for RAYS for more than a decade, 15 years to be exact.

At Oxley Avenue, where the school operates, Allen is joined by six staff members and is supported by two funding streams.

Helping Allen provide education to students are Bronnie, a former teacher from NSW, and other four learning support officers.

The school’s project-based curriculum and focus on trauma-informed care are geared towards fostering long-term relationships with students. A four-years-worth of units for Edu Space’s students has been prepared by Allen.

With flexible hours from 8:50 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the school seeks to accommodate the diverse needs of its students.

Allen also stresses the importance of stability and consistency in building a passion for learning among the students.

“We’re trying to create stability and we have time to build long-term relationships,” he said.

As the community anticipates Edu Space in the following years, there is optimism about the positive impact it could have on vulnerable youth in Redcliffe.

By addressing the root causes of disengagement and offering tailored support, the school hopes to empower students to overcome challenges and achieve their fullest potential.

In a region where education is seen as a pathway to positive change, Edu Space represents a step towards providing more inclusive and equitable educational opportunities for young people in Redcliffe.

Published 16-Apr-24

Dolphins vs Tigers: Round 4 Comeback Kings Face Off

Fresh off thrilling comeback victories, the Dolphins and Tigers turn their attention towards each other in a highly anticipated Saturday night clash. Dolphins vs Tigers kick off 4:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Redcliffe’s Family Turtle Expo Day: A Call to Protect Turtles

Dolphins, Tigers both comeback in Round 4

The Dolphins displayed remarkable resilience in last weekend’s match against the Titans. The Redcliffe outfit overcame a 10-0 deficit despite being a man down for 10 minutes after lock Max Plath was sin-binned for a hip-drop tackle.

Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett expressed his thoughts:

“You feel bad when you’ve just gone to the sin bin and you know your team is vulnerable but I couldn’t have asked them to respond any better than they did. Max Plath hasn’t got a dirty bone in his body, so it was never intentional, we don’t coach it, we don’t talk about it, but if it has gone wrong it’s gone wrong and we’ll just have to pay the consequences.”

Jack Bostock led the charge for the Dolphins, scoring a double and amassing 125 run metres and six tackle breaks. Fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow contributed two try assists, two line break assists, and an impressive 175 run metres. Their performances were pivotal in the Dolphins’ comeback victory and will be crucial against the Tigers.

Likewise, the Wests Tigers showcased their unwavering resilience with a late comeback to secure a thrilling victory against the Eels.

Justin Olam’s 94th-minute try roared the Tigers back to life, narrowing the deficit to 14-10. Jahream Bula tied the match in the 99th minute, and Tigers skipper Apisai Koroisau gave them a two-point cushion with a late conversion. The Tigers held on to their lead to finish the game 16-17.

Dolphins vs Tigers, unfinished business

Tigers vs Dolphins 2023 — Photo Credit: NRL

The two teams most recently met in Round 25 of the previous season, with the Tigers edging out the Dolphins in a narrow 24-23 victory. The 58th-minute conversion by Koroisau proved to be the difference between the two sides.

The Dolphins seek to avenge that loss and continue their strong start to the season. With a bye week in Round 3, the Dolphins record sits at 2 wins and 1 loss. They have the league’s second-highest points differential, trailing only the 2-2 Sydney Roosters.

Redcliffe will undoubtedly be motivated to settle the score and assert their dominance on home soil.

Read: Developer Snaps Up $10.4M Radiology Clinic Site in Redcliffe, Major Plans Ahead

The team’s resilience, demonstrated against the Titans, will be crucial as they prepare for another tough battle against the Tigers.

Published 02-April-2024

Historic Suttons Beach Pavilion Demolished Amidst Mixed Reactions

Photo Credit: The Pavilion, Suttons Beach

The Suttons Beach Pavilion, a historic and cultural landmark of the Redcliffe community for nearly nine decades, has been demolished, marking the end of a significant era in the bayside suburb’s history.

Located at 50 Marine Parade, Redcliffe, the pavilion was originally constructed in 1937 as a bathing pavilion and has since hosted countless significant life events, from weddings to casual gatherings.

On 27 March 2024, the demolition was executed amidst a wet and sombre atmosphere. It came after the Moreton Bay City Council decided to rebuild the facility following a 2022 assessment by Covey Associates.

This assessment revealed that the pavilion suffered from structural issues and failed to meet contemporary building standards. Despite discussions about renovation, the council and community ultimately leaned towards reconstruction for practicality and cost-efficiency.

Residents of Redcliffe displayed mixed reactions to the demolition, expressing sadness over the loss of the historic structure and optimism about the future redevelopment.

*Photo Credit: Suttons Beach Pavilion Preservation Group/Facebook*

The Moreton Bay Council has initiated an architectural design competition, inviting submissions from across Australia to shape the new pavilion’s design. Stages of the competition are already underway.

Extensive community feedback on the site’s future use, preferred architectural styles, and the broader master planning for the park, including potential foreshore activations, will also be undertaken to ensure that redevelopment will accommodate community needs, attract tourists, and support local businesses.

The Project Manager has also replied to the Suttons Beach Pavilion Preservation Group INC, a concerned community group, regarding the progress of the competition.

“We have invited architects via Stage One to submit an expression of interest in the competition and the jury is reviewing those applications,” the project manager stated.

“We are hoping to advise and publish the shortlisted parties on our website in the coming weeks. The shortlisted architects will further develop their designs which will then be seen and reviewed by the appointed jury members, and the winning design will be announced and shared with the community in mid-2024.

“In terms of activity on the site, Council has been diligently working with our contractor to safely demolish the existing Suttons Beach Pavilion Structures. During the demolition works we have discovered a second old floor slab tucked under Pavilion 2 and material under and behind the existing retaining wall behind Pavilion 2. Both issues have now been addressed with the second slab removed and a new section of retaining wall being constructed.”

“Currently, the contractor is carefully anchoring the retaining wall behind Pavilion 1 to maintain bank stability as the building is removed. Demolition of Pavilion 1 is expected to commence in the coming week. Removal of Pavilion 1 will also include the salvage of the red bricks where reasonable and feasible to do so.”

The demolition signifies the pavilion’s physical removal and evokes reflection on the balance between preserving history and making way for progress. As the community awaits the unveiling the new pavilion design, the legacy of the old Suttons Beach Pavilion will undoubtedly continue to resonate with many.

Published 30-March-2024

Redcliffe Youth Product Marley Davis Embarks on UK Football Tour of a Lifetime

Thirteen-year-old Marley Davis, a former youth prospect at Redcliffe PCYC (now Redcliffe Dolphins Soccer Club) has embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime football tour of the United Kingdom.

Read: Redcliffe’s Family Turtle Expo Day: A Call to Protect Turtles

Training with the best

The Scarborough resident is part of a tour organised by George Cowie Football in partnership with West Ham United FC.

Marley kicked off his journey by training under the tutelage of West Ham United’s academy coaches. He also enjoyed the opportunity to train with coaches from the English Championship club Watford.

Visits across the English football pyramid

The two-week tour, which started from March 26 and will end on April 7, takes Marley to the heart of English football. He has the chance to witness the training sessions of Manchester United, the club he supports, and their city rivals, Manchester City.

Beyond the Premier League, Marley’s football adventure will extend to the English Championship. He will have opportunities to witness clashes between Watford and Leeds, as well as Leicester City and Norwich City. Additionally, the tour may include a visit to watch Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold in action for West Ham United in the Women’s Premier League against Brighton.

Marley Davis’ journey

His footballing journey began at a Peninsula Power holiday program at Bradley Park last year. His exceptional talent and dedication caught the attention of coaches, leading to an invitation to the George Cowie Football National Camp on the Gold Coast. There, he was assessed by West Ham United coaches. His impressive performance secured him a coveted spot on the UK tour.

Read: Developer Snaps Up $10.4M Radiology Clinic Site in Redcliffe, Major Plans Ahead

The tour promises to be a transformative experience for Marley, providing him with invaluable exposure to the highest levels of English football and the opportunity to learn from some of the best coaches in the world.

Published 29-March-2024

Redcliffe’s Family Turtle Expo Day: A Call to Protect Turtles

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Redcliffe locals are issuing a call to action to raise awareness about the plight of turtles in Moreton Bay, particularly those nesting on Peninsula beaches, with the upcoming Family Turtle Expo Day aiming to shed light on the issue.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Redcliffe Sunrise, the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG), and Oceania, the Family Turtle Expo Day will occur on April 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:000 p.m. at Scarborough’s Queens Beach North. Admission is free to all.

Colin Scobie, the initiative’s spokesperson, emphasised the event’s relevance by pointing out that turtles usually nest from October to March, and the hatching process happens from December to May, reaching its peak in February and March. He highlighted the significance of the community’s vigilance, especially along Queens Beach North, where the warm, high sand embankments above the high tide line provide perfect nesting grounds.

In 2010, there was an event where hundreds of turtle hatchlings became disoriented by street lighting and wandered onto the road. Scobie emphasised the importance of increased awareness and protection measures to prevent this from happening again. As a solution, turtle-friendly street lighting was installed along the affected stretch of road.

Scobie cautioned that turtles have an inherent ability to find their way back to their usual nesting areas, including Queens Beach North. He emphasized the potential effects of climate change and predicted a rise in nesting activity on the Peninsula due to favourable conditions.

The expo is organized to address the challenges faced by turtles, especially marine litter, within the protected Ramsar site of Moreton Bay. Inspired by the ‘Marine Debris’ exhibit at Redcliffe Museum, Vivien Harris and Karen Catterall have designed turtle-shaped boards decorated with trash collected mainly from Clontarf Beach.

Redcliffe Family Turtle Expo Day — *Photo Credit: Rotary Club of Redcliffe/Facebook*

Their artwork, showcased at the event, aims to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of beach litter and encourage responsible waste disposal practices.

Despite their clean-up efforts, Harris and Catterall were dismayed by the debris that had accumulated on local beaches. They highlighted the role of stormwater runoff in transporting land-based litter to the sea.

Interactive activities have been planned for an upcoming event, which includes turtle painting sessions for children and the chance to observe turtle nests with the Bribie Island Turtle Trackers. The aim is to communicate a message of environmental stewardship that will stay with attendees. Everyone is encouraged to reduce their plastic usage in daily life to help protect threatened species.

The Family Turtle Expo Day aims to promote collective commitment to safeguarding the region’s marine biodiversity by encouraging broad participation from diverse community segments.

Published 18-March-2024

Developer Snaps Up $10.4M Radiology Clinic Site in Redcliffe, Major Plans Ahead

A site housing a radiology clinic in Redcliffe could undergo a major transformation after being purchased for $10.4 million by a developer.

Read: Redcliffe Skyline Set for Major Transformation with Array of Development Projects

The site at 6 Silvyn Street, located near Redcliffe Hospital, has been identified as prime real estate for a new comprehensive medical centre.

Qscan will remain as the anchor tenant, but the new owners plan to further develop the property to include additional medical services, subject to approvals.

The development application lodged by the new owners, designed by Rohrig, envisions a new one-story, contemporary healthcare facility featuring the existing radiology clinic as well as up to eight new tenancies for healthcare providers.

The proposal seeks to demolish the existing commercial buildings on the eastern aspect of the site and construct a single-story office and medical care service building.

The proposed building will have a total site area of approximately 4,454 sqm and will include commercial/medical tenancies at ground floor level ranging in size from 114 to 166 sqm.

There will be 30 car parking spaces provided, including a disability and ambulance bay. The existing car parking associated with the Qscan premises will remain. Site access is proposed via Silvyn Street and Portwood Street.

The assessment has assumed 24-hour, after-hours operation should after-hours medical care be required.

The additional tenancies are expected to house general practitioner clinics, specialist consultancies, pathology services, and allied health practices, taking advantage of the site’s proximity to the major hospital.

The developers are also planning to collaborate with healthcare professionals to deliver top-tier medical and rehabilitation facilities for the benefit of the local community.

The agents who brokered the off-market deal highlighted the growing demand for healthcare real estate assets. They believe the rise in demand for essential services in recent years, such as medical centres, will continue due to increased resilience to economic conditions.

They highlighted that the medical sector remains one of the most buoyant in commercial property, bolstered by ongoing government investments in healthcare.

Read: Proposed Project Looks to Revive Abandoned Frawley’s Tennis Club Site

With roughly half the site already leased long-term to Qscan until 2032 and the balance being primed for further development, the $10.4 million acquisition sets the stage for a significant new medical hub in the heart of Redcliffe.

Published 14-March-2024