Dolphins vs Cowboys: Captain Jesse Bromwich Discusses Lineup Choices

Dolphins Captain Jesse Bromwich provides insights into the selections for the opening round of the NRL season, with Tesi Niu, Kodi Nikorima, and Max Plath securing spots.

The Dolphins’ round one clash against the Cowboys kicks off at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday, March 10 at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Redcliffe Peninsula Surf Life Saving Club’s Emily Robins Tops State Junior Lifesavers

Jesse Bromwich provides his insights

Tesi Niu
 Tesi Niu lost 8 kilograms during his impressive pre-season. Photo Credit: The Dolphins

Bromwich praises Tesi Niu’s determination and impressive pre-season efforts, which have earned him a place in the starting side. “He’s impressed not only the coaching staff but all the players as well – the determination to get those things done,” Bromwich says.

Kodi Nikorima’s utility and consistent performances last season have secured his spot, according to the captain. “He fixed a lot of positions for us last year and he’s another one… he’s had a really good pre-season.”

Bromwich also commends Nikorima’s leadership qualities, noting his willingness to share his knowledge with younger players.

Max Plath’s versatility and exceptional work ethic during the pre-season have earned him a place in Bennett’s side. Bromwich likens Plath’s style of play to Tom Gilbert, praising his energetic approach and ability to link the backs and forwards.

Sights set on another strong start

Bromwich, who plans to retire at the end of the season, has never lost a round one game in his NRL career. The skipper is is keen to maintain that record against the Cowboys.

He expects a similar level never-give-up attitude from the team that propelled them to a strong inaugural season.

Read: More Than Meets the Eye: Members of Defence Forces Share Stories at ‘Ink in the Lines’

The Dolphins captain is also looking forward to the continued support from the fans, recalling the energy and enthusiasm they brought to the stands last season.

Published 07-March-2024

Redcliffe Peninsula Surf Life Saving Club’s Emily Robins Tops State Junior Lifesavers

Emily Robins of the Redcliffe Peninsula Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has been named Queensland’s 2023 Under 14 Junior Lifesaver of the Year.



Season of success for Emily Robins

The award put a cap on what was an extremely successful competitive season for 14-year-old Emily. 

She also took home the 2022/23 Sunshine Coast Junior Lifesaver of the Year award, her club’s own Nipper of the Year award, and the Most Outstanding Surf Rescue Cadet award. Emily admits that she was shocked when she found out she won the state-level award.

As part of earning the state’s top junior lifesaving award, Emily was given a $500 educational stipend and the opportunity to take part in PCYC’s week-long ESCape emergency services workshop.



Emily has been a member of the Redcliffe Peninsula SLSC since she was 8 years old in the “Nippers” junior program. She moved up to the competitive lifesaving cadet squad this season as a 14-year-old.

She says she loves being a part of the club, which she describes as being like a big family.

About Redcliffe Peninsula SLSC

Redcliffe Peninsula Surf Life Saving Club is situated along the Suttons Beach coastline just 40 km from Brisbane’s CBD. The club prides itself on providing surf safety and awareness programming for both families and competitive athletes alike.

From September to March, the club offers activities for members ages 5 and up. All equipment is provided free to members. 

For more information, visit the club’s website, Facebook, or Instagram pages.

Published 24-February-2024

Redcliffe Skyline Set for Major Transformation with Array of Development Projects

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.



Orilla (Woody Point)

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.

Gayundah Esplanade
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.

Affordable Housing
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.

Lumiere
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

Redcliffe Picture Palace
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.



Aqua (Woody Point)

Lastly, Aqua, an upscale development situated waterfront at Woody Point, is slated for completion this year, introducing six luxury apartments spread across six levels.

Published 22-February-2024

‘Liveability Fund’ Backs Suttons Beach Pavilion and Key Community Projects

The Suttons Beach Pavilion in Redcliffe will undergo a comprehensive $19 million redevelopment funded through the SEQ City Deal Liveability Fund. 


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


The Suttons Pavilion overhaul involves full demolition and rebuilding of the outdated facilities. Out of the total $19 million cost, around $11.33 million will come from the Liveability Fund, with Council and the State Government making up the balance.

The project headlines five key community upgrades approved under the Liveability Fund worth $45.53 million. 

Photo credit: Suttons Beach Pavilion/Google Maps 

The overhaul will transform the outdated pavilion into an attractive, functional community venue to serve Redcliffe residents and visitors.

Meanwhile, other projects backed by the deal include new recreational spaces at Centenary Lakes, active transport improvements connecting Bongaree and Woorim on Bribie Island, and public amenity upgrades at The Mill precinct in Petrie.

The Mill (Photo credit: Abu Sayeed/Google Maps) 

Centenary Lakes will receive almost $20 million for an all-abilities playground and zero-depth splash park, along with active transport upgrades at Morayfield Road and a new shared pathway along Esme Ave, as part of the Centenary Lakes Activation. 

Bribie Island locals and visitors will benefit from a range of projects connecting the west and eastern sides of the island, including upgrades to the Bongaree Jetty, on-road cycle lanes, a footpath upgrade, as well as an accessible changing places facility at Woorim. The Mill precinct at Petrie will be upgraded to include new paths and toilets, along with landscaping and carparking. 

Council states the package will create a long-term legacy benefiting current and future generations across Moreton Bay’s rapidly growing population. The SEQ City Deal allows a coordinated approach between different levels of government to deliver key upgrades like these. 

A council spokeswoman said the funding, together with a $15 million investment by Council, will enhance lifestyle amenities for residents and visitors. She stated that as the Moreton Bay area continues rapid growth, these projects will help retain liveability, affordability and prosperity.

Bongaree Jetty (Photo credit: Christine Meredith/Google Maps)

Queensland State Development and Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace said the SEQ Liveability Fund will give communities like Moreton Bay the opportunity to create better places to live through access to more open spaces, infrastructure that complements new housing or projects that support health and wellbeing.

“It’s great to see councils’ responses to this opportunity to boost local community and sport engagement in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032 and beyond.”


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


The Southeast Queensland Liveability Fund is an integral initiative under the larger $1.8 billion SEQ City Deal agreement made between the Australian Government, Queensland Government, and the Council of Mayors for the region to collectively finance development projects.

Published 19-February-2024

Two Decades of Making a Difference: Breakfast Club Redcliffe Turns 20

This year marks a major milestone for The Breakfast Club Redcliffe as the charity organisation celebrates its 20th anniversary of providing meals and support to disadvantaged individuals and families on the Redcliffe Peninsula.


Read: Wildlife Rescue Volunteers Needed In Redcliffe, North Lakes


It all started on Christmas Day 2003 when co-founders Ros Thomsen and Daryl Passmore wanted to help fill gaps in community services by providing a free Christmas lunch. Seeing the tremendous need, they decided to expand into a daily breakfast service for those doing it tough.

Over the past two decades, The Breakfast Club has served over 1,000 free meals per month out of various locations including the Redcliffe Neighbourhood Centre, QCWA Hall, and Pensioners Hall. 

Photo credit: The Breakfast Club Redcliffe Inc/Facebook 

Their work has grown from just breakfast to also providing emergency food parcels, an outreach van delivering food packs, and other assistance.

To celebrate the 20-year mark, a gala event will be held on February 10 at The Komo’s Waterview Room, featuring entertainment by Australian Idol finalist Levi X and guest speakers. 

Photo credit: The Breakfast Club Redcliffe Inc/Facebook  

The event will honour all who have contributed to The Breakfast Club’s mission. A larger community celebration is also planned later this year when their new building opens.

The backbone of this organisation is its dedicated volunteers who give their time to shop, cook, serve, and provide friendly conversation to guests in need. Some are homeless, others struggling on low or fixed incomes, but all are welcomed. 

Photo credit: The Breakfast Club Redcliffe Inc/Facebook 

For years, The Breakfast Club Redcliffe has done just that – feeding bodies and nourishing souls. Their work exemplifies the spirit of community caring.


Read: Redcliffe-Based ROPE TV Uplifts People With Disabilities


The Breakfast Club Redcliffe’s story is one of compassion in action. Their humble beginnings serving Christmas lunch to fill a need has grown into an indispensable community institution. For two decades, through generosity of donors and volunteers, they have provided food, comfort, and care to the most vulnerable.  

Published 6-February-2024 

Woody Point: Navigating Disparities Between Affluence and Housing Insecurity

Woody Point is grappling with the escalation of a tent city inhabited by individuals facing housing insecurity. The presence of this encampment at the Gayundah Coastal Arboretum, an area with picturesque views of Moreton Bay, has incited significant concern among residents.



Some community members have voiced fears that this has led to an uptick in crime and anti-social behaviour, affecting the suburb’s tranquillity and safety.

The Woody Point Action Group, a private page on social media, has openly expressed their dissatisfaction, employing harsh language and derogatory terms against the individuals in the tent city.

This highlights a growing divide within the suburb. Residents have been actively petitioning the Moreton Bay Regional Council and the state government, demanding the relocation of those facing housing insecurity from the area, citing concerns over safety and the area’s livability.

Conversely, those living in the tents, like Tamieka Brittnee, have shared stories of facing harassment and abuse. 

Ms Brittnee, who has been without a home since she was 27, has spoken of being targeted and insulted in her makeshift shelter. Her experiences shine a light on the prejudices and challenges faced by individuals without stable housing.

Tent City Woody Point
Photo Credit: Unsplash

Michelle Gilchrist from the Breakfast Club Redcliffe, an organisation that assists those without homes, emphasises the critical nature of the housing shortage. With emergency accommodations at full capacity, many are compelled to find shelter in public areas. This crisis is compounded by a need for more affordable housing, leaving few alternatives for those in need.

The City of Moreton Bay Council has recognised the complexity of this issue and is committed to a comprehensive approach at Woody Point and the housing crisis in general. Collaborating with various levels of government and community groups, the Council seeks to meet the housing needs while maintaining community welfare. Acknowledging a significant rise in the number of individuals without homes over the past decade, they emphasise the importance of a collective response.

“We know that this is a tough situation and Council is seeking to take a balanced approach to maintaining amenity for all, while compassionately responding to people sleeping rough,” a spokesperson said.



“The complex nature of homelessness requires a unified and holistic response across all levels of government, alongside the crucial work by the community and homelessness service sectors.”

Published 20-Dec-2023

Making a List, Checking it Twice at the Redcliffe Christmas Twilight Market

Get ready to jingle bell rock the night away! Redcliffe is gearing up for an evening of festive fun as the Christmas Twilight Market rolls into town. The event promises a vibrant celebration of the holiday spirit, with a spectacular array of activities, music, and market stalls.



On the 9th of December, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the Redcliffe Christmas Twilight Market will transform the local area into a wonderland of holiday delights. Over 250 stalls are set to line the streets, offering a wide range of goodies. Food enthusiasts and gift hunters will be spoilt for choice with an extensive selection of gourmet eats and unique, handmade gifts.

Redcliffe Santa Claus
Photo Credit: Supplied

The market will feature some of South East Queensland’s finest culinary offerings. Highlights include Wagyu Blacks’ premium beef, the Hungarian delights from Langos Man, the famous Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers, gluten-free treats from GFree Donuts, sweet indulgences from Churrosbites, and many more. These local tastemakers are sure to tantalize your taste buds with their scrumptious offerings.

Gift shopping is made easy with a plethora of bespoke makers and creators showcasing their talents. Notable stalls include Kaikoa Designs, known for their intricate craftsmanship, Morgan & Bear‘s delightful range, the exquisite Stone Tree Collection, and the stylish offerings from Stella & Sol. These stalls offer perfect opportunities to find unique gifts for loved ones or to treat yourself to something special.

Photo Credit: Supplied

But the market is more than just shopping and eating. The event will be a hub of entertainment, featuring live and local music to keep the festive spirits high. Performances by LC Band, T&J, James Desbrown, and Sunny Grace are set to provide a joyful soundtrack to the evening.

Redcliffe Christmas Twilight Markets
Photo Credit: Supplied

For the younger visitors, or the young at heart, there will be plenty of fun activities. These include a jumping castle, a circus workshop, and roaming Christmas characters and stilt walkers to spread the holiday cheer. The night is set to culminate in a dazzling fireworks display at 8:30 p.m., ensuring the event ends with a bang.



WIN A $250 CHRISTMAS HAMPER!

Christmas is coming early! We’re offering you a chance to WIN a Market hamper, valued at $250, filled with goodies from Redcliffe Christmas Twilight Markets!

✨ T&C’s apply. See full details.

WIN THE CHANCE TO LAUNCH THE FIREWORKS! 

Christmas is coming early! We’re offering you a chance to be the lucky person who lights up the sky at 8:30 p.m.

 Redcliffe Christmas Twilight Market
When: Saturday 9th of December | 4pm – 9pm
FREE Entry | FREE Street Parking or $5 at Pearson Park, Klinger Road, with all proceeds going to Clontarf Beach Scout Group
Where: Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe
Fireworks Display at 8:30 p.m.
Santa Snaps from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Published 7-Dec-2023

Tragic Loss at Redcliffe Hospital: The Heartbreaking Case of Baby Thea Flaskett

What should have been a very happy day for Meg and James Flaskett turned out to be very much the opposite, following the devastating loss of their newborn daughter, Thea, shortly after her birth at Redcliffe Hospital.



The Beginning of a Dream

Meg, 21, and James Flaskett, 22, were living a dream come true. Recently married and having secured their own home, they were ecstatic about the arrival of their first child. 

The couple had been preparing a Winnie-the-Pooh-themed nursery, eagerly anticipating the addition to their family. Meg described her pregnancy as uncomplicated until the 38-week mark when she noticed a concerning decrease in Thea’s movements and growth.

Despite her instincts signalling that something was amiss, Meg’s concerns were not taken as seriously as she had hoped. 

“I just had this instinct that something wasn’t quite right,” she shared

Her request for a ceasarean section was overridden by the hospital’s decision to induce labour for a vaginal birth.

A Day of Turmoil

On the day of the induction, Meg was admitted to Redcliffe Hospital in the evening, but her procedure was delayed due to the hospital being extremely busy. The alleged delay in treatment and a series of alleged missteps during the labour added to the family’s distress. 

“We had her on my chest for about eight minutes, while they were going back and forth whether she needed help,” Meg recalled the harrowing experience.

When Thea was born, she was not the crying, vibrant newborn they had hoped for but appeared blueish and groaning. The situation turned dire when the medical team discovered that the oxygen tank needed for resuscitation was empty. 

“It just seemed like no one knew how to change that life-saving equipment that our baby quite clearly needed,” the mother said

Despite eventually receiving oxygen, it was apparently too late.

“Thea wasn’t displaying signs of brain activity anymore, her organs were shutting down, and if we wanted to hold her, now would be the time,” Meg said, recounting the devastating news they received.

Parents of Thea Flaskett
Photo Credit: YBT News/YouTube

Investigations and Hospital Response

The incident has triggered a clinical review by Redcliffe Hospital, and separate investigations by the coroner and Health Ombudsman are in progress. However, the hospital’s medical director of children’s health, Kim Hansen, has not conceded any staff errors. 

“We’re waiting for the details from the internal review and the Coroner’s findings and that will give us more information about what happened,” she said.

On the other hand, Metro North Health and Hospital Service found “no evidence of any equipment being faulty or of clinical staff being unable to operate equipment appropriately.”

Looking for Answers and Change

The tragedy has not only devastated the Flaskett family but also raised significant concerns about healthcare standards and practices. Meg and James are now advocating for changes to prevent similar incidents.

The Queensland Deputy Premier, Steven Miles, acknowledged the tragedy but denied systemic failures in the health sector.



As investigations continue, the community awaits answers, hoping for improvements that ensure such a tragedy as the case of Thea Flaskett does not recur.

Published 28-Nov-2023

Wildlife Rescue Volunteers Needed In Redcliffe, North Lakes

A heartfelt appeal has been made by Wildlife Rescue Queensland, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native Australian wildlife. This call for action is particularly aimed at residents in the Redcliffe Peninsula and North Lakes area, where a shortage of volunteers poses a significant challenge to the organisation’s mission.



Wildlife Rescue Queensland serves primarily the Moreton Bay region and is vital for the protection and care of injured or orphaned animals. 

Individuals willing to become members and actively participate in rescuing and transporting wildlife will aid in their treatment or humane euthanization. The organisation conducts three transport trips a day, ensuring the animals receive the necessary care. Many of the rescued animals are subsequently cared for at Australia Zoo.

The diverse range of animals rescued by Wildlife Rescue Queensland includes birds, ringtail possums, brushtail possums, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, kangaroos, platypus, snakes, and turtles.

Colleen Ogilvie, an experienced volunteer with the organisation, emphasised the pressing need for more active volunteers in the Redcliffe suburb. 

“We desperately need more active volunteers who will be able to tend to rescues in Redcliffe, Scarborough, Woody Point, Kippa-Ring, and North Lakes,” Colleen said. The lack of volunteers in these areas leaves a gap in responding to distress calls for sick or injured wildlife.

An information session is scheduled for Wednesday, 8 Nov 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Katrina’s School of Hair and Beauty, located at 4/12 Leda Blvd, Morayfield.

This session is aimed at individuals interested in joining Wildlife Rescue Queensland. The session will provide insight into the organisation’s mission, the responsibilities of rescuers, what should be included in a rescue pack, and the potential paths for becoming a rescuer or carer.

Those interested may contact 0421 269 257 by noon Tuesday, 7 Nov 2023. Additionally, interested individuals can also send an email to training@wrq.org.au for registration.



For more information about Wildlife Rescue Queensland and their noble cause, please visit their official website or their Facebook page.

Published 6-Nov-2023

St. Patrick’s Steve Hogan Dazzles with Multiple Centuries for the Sandgate-Redcliffe Gators

Steve Hogan, a 16-year-old prodigy from St. Patrick’s Shorncliffe, has showcased his tremendous batting ability yet again for the Sandgate-Redcliffe Gators cricket club.



The 2022/23 Dixon Medalist made waves when he scored an astonishing 178 runs in the second innings against Valley. Batting at Trevor Hohns Field against rising stars and youth representatives alike, Hogan shrugged off the Gators’ first innings collapse to lead his team’s reply. While the Gators ultimately lost to Valley, Hogan’s performance was the talk of the local cricket community.

Another blistering century in Taverner’s for Steve Hogan

The talented all-rounder followed up his 178 with another brilliant 145 in the Under-17 Taverner’s Cricket Competition. Facing athletes in his age group, the Year 10 pupil continued to shine against the Darling Downs, hitting 10 fours and 5 sixes in his innings. Hogan’s consistent batting has cemented his reputation as one of the state’s most promising young players.

After coming to the crease with the Gators trailing, Hogan spearheaded the reply to leave his team in a commanding position at 6-254. He also contributed with the ball, taking two wickets to help the Gators’ bowling attack defend their total.



With multiple centuries already under his belt this season, all eyes will be on Steve Hogan as he looks to continue his blistering run of form. His immense talent and consistency make him a player to watch now and in the future.

Published 31 October 2023