Redcliffe Archives - Page 17 of 23

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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