Redcliffe Archives - Page 18 of 23

‘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The Suttons Pavilion overhaul involves full demolition and rebuilding of the outdated facilities.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The overhaul will transform the outdated pavilion into an attractive, functional community venue to serve Redcliffe residents and visitors.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.

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.

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

Photo Credit: Unsplash

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.

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!

FILL OUT THE ENTRY FORM

✨ 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

Thousands Flock to the 2023 Queensland Murri Carnival

The 12th annual Arthur Beetson Foundation Queensland Murri Carnival came to a close on September 29 after eight days of cultural celebration and rugby league festivities at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium and Dick “Tosser” Turner Sporting Complex.

Mass participation across divisions

Thousands Flock to the 2023 Queensland Murri Carnival — Photo Credit: Facebook/Murri Carnival – Abf/DC

More than 3000 players took part across multiple divisions, with teams travelling from as far away as Badu Island and the Queensland border. The action kicked off on September 22 with the Open Men’s and Women’s competitions, culminating in finals on September 24.

In the men’s final, the Michael Purcell Memorial Team defeated the Darkies Connection 26-16. The squad was honouring the late Michael “The Kangaroo Catcher” Purcell, who tragically passed away in 2022.

Meanwhile, the Mungindi Panthers took out the women’s decider 16-14 over defending champions Brisbane Natives.

Over 680 children then took centre stage at the Deadly Choices Junior Murri Carnival from September 25 to 26 in the U6 to U12 divisions. The U14 to U18 boys and U15 to U17 girls competitions rounded off the event from September 26 to 29.

Star power on display

Maroons forward David Fifita served as the 2023 ambassador. Other rugby league legends such as Nathan Blacklock, Mark Tookey, Donald Malone and Jamie Simpson also showed their support. They were joined by Deadly Choices ambassadors Steve Renouf, Petero Civoniceva, Willie Tonga, Brenton Bowen and Tyrone Roberts.

The Queensland Murri Carnival continues to grow as an important celebration of culture and sport for Indigenous communities across the state. After another successful year, participants and organisers are already looking ahead to 2024.

Published 6 October 2023

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

The much-loved Suttons Beach Pavilion is set to undergo a remarkable transformation, following the announcement of a national architectural design competition aimed at breathing new life into this charming waterfront location from the 1930s.

The Suttons Beach Pavilion, a historical Art Deco structure that has long been cherished by the community, was recently shrouded in construction fencing. A comprehensive report deemed it beyond repair and too costly to salvage.

Consequently, the Moreton Bay City Council has made the bold decision to replace the dilapidated pavilion with a cutting-edge design that will redefine the area.

Embracing Architectural Excellence

This ambitious project has drawn inspiration from iconic structures around the world, such as the Eiffel Tower, Sydney Opera House, and Washington’s White House, which were brought to life through architectural design competitions.

Now, Australia’s finest architects are invited to participate in a national competition to design a new building that will stand in place of the deteriorating Suttons Beach Pavilion.

Suttons Beach Pavilion — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Envisioning the Future of Suttons Beach

Mayor Peter Flannery expressed his vision for the project, emphasising that the winning design will go beyond just replacing the existing structure. It will encompass a comprehensive plan to enhance the entire waterfront site, including provisions for restaurants, a rooftop public space, and shower and toilet facilities.

The council is committed to preserving as many historical materials as possible to retain a sense of the area’s rich heritage.

“We understand the significance of the previous Suttons Beach Pavilion to the local community, and the new building design will consider the history of the site, as well as extensive community feedback,” said Mayor Flannery.

Community Involvement and Expert Guidance

Residents had the opportunity to contribute their ideas for the replacement building’s design and style during March and April. These valuable suggestions are expected to shape the design brief for the competition.

The Moreton City Council has engaged the Australian Institute of Architects to ensure that industry best practices are followed throughout the competition. The institute’s endorsement will further solidify the competition guidelines and model.

A Project with a Timeline

The architectural design competition will officially launch in mid-November 2023, with the hope of having a shortlist of architects ready to compete in the second stage by early 2024. The winning design will be announced by July 2024.

Suttons Beach Pavilion Preservation Group secretary Karen Whittam expressed excitement and positivity within the community, noting that the contest signifies a significant step towards rejuvenating the Suttons Beach precinct. She also pointed out that the council’s investment in top architects will contribute to the project’s success.

PROJECT DETAILS

As the vision for Suttons Beach takes shape, it promises to bring new opportunities for employment and economic development to the area. The precinct is an integral part of the Redcliffe Peninsula’s tourism offering, and its revitalisation will ensure that the City of Moreton Bay remains an attractive place to live, work, visit, and invest in the future.

Published 28-Oct-2023

Redcliffe Set to Host the Biggest Brisbane Convoy for Kids 2023

Brisbane Convoy for Kids is set to return to Redcliffe, promising an extraordinary day of fundraising for its beneficiary, children’s hospice Hummingbird House, with truck drivers (and members of the public!) bidding for the honour to be the lead truck in the convoy.

The Convoy, starting its journey from Larapinta and concluding in Redcliffe, has been steadily gaining traction with more and more truck drivers expressing interest in the coveted top 20 shootout.

In 2022, this event generated a commendable $15,000, allowing truck drivers to engage in a spirited bidding war for the lead truck position, creating a palpable sense of competition.

This year’s event, anticipated to be the most substantial and vibrant yet, is set for Saturday, 4 Nov 2023.

“Brisbane Convoy for Kids is growing every year,” Dana Browne, the Publicity Officer for Brisbane Convoy for Kids, said. “We are continually blown away by the sheer numbers we receive when registering trucks. A key difference this year is the unbelievable amount of interest we have received for our top 20 shootouts.”

“The top 20 shootout is where the truck drivers can register themselves to basically go into a bidding war to be the lead truck. It is a highly sought-after position with last year’s top 20 shootout bringing in around $15,000.

“Last year, we introduced the ‘sponsor bid’ option, where a member of the public could donate a bid to whichever truck they wanted to see in the top 20 – namely as the lead truck – and this year, we have seen the sponsor bid option become bigger and better than we had imagined possible.”

CONVOY’s ROUTE

Family Fun Day in Redcliffe

Once the impressive convoy of trucks reaches Redcliffe, the excitement continues with a lively day at the Redcliffe Showgrounds. The event promises to be a truck enthusiast’s paradise with a dazzling array of trucks on display, ranging from meticulously polished showpieces to rugged workhorses, each a testament to the dedication of their drivers.

“There will be lots and lots of trucks (at the Showgrounds). From big to small, pristine and polished to absolute workhorses. The hours the drivers put in to make sure their trucks look exactly how they want it to look is crazy; blinged out, bright lights, loud horns. We really have it all when it comes to the rigs,” Ms Browne added.

The Redcliffe Showgrounds will not only cater to truck lovers but also transform into a delightful family fun day. Attendees can look forward to free amusement rides and an animal nursery, creating an atmosphere of joy and wonder. Market stalls, food trucks, coffee vans, and various displays will keep visitors entertained and well-fed throughout the day.

As the sun sets, the main stage at the Redcliffe Showgrounds will come alive, led by the charismatic Eric Summons. The highlight of the evening is the performance by the renowned country artist, Adam Harvey, scheduled to take the stage immediately after the 7:10 p.m. fireworks display.

“Throughout the day, we will have our much-loved auction – all items for sale are donated, and all proceeds will go to our beneficiary – Hummingbird House,” Ms Browne said.

“The passion within this organisation is immeasurable. From our volunteers to our sponsors, our participants, and our members – the passion runs deep, and it is all for the kids. Being able to support organisations like Hummingbird House makes all the hard work worth it. Our donations are increasing every year.”