Major Expansion of Redcliffe Hospital to Deliver 204 Extra Beds

Redcliffe Hospital will undergo a major expansion that will significantly deliver 204 beds and improve its clinical and ambulatory services.



The planned refurbishment is also expected to add to the capacity of the hospital’s support services for inpatient and outpatient needs, ensuring that Redcliffe residents will continue to access world-class health services.

In a statement, Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said that the expansion is an answer to the demand for health care in the region as the population of Redcliffe increases. 

“Redcliffe is my electorate, and I know the demand for health care is increasing. I’m pleased to announce that the Palaszczuk Government will deliver a $1.06 billion expansion of the Redcliffe Hospital that will add around 204 more beds to the facility.”

By the second half of 2026, residents will be able to take advantage of the new ambulatory care building whilst the clinical services building will start operating in mid-2027. The completion of the hospital’s renovation, on the other hand, will finish in 2028. 

​​

“Building health infrastructure provides local job opportunities, and this project will create around 2,573 jobs during the construction,” Member for Murrumba Steven Miles said.

In addition to this expansion, the Queensland Government has also funded $9.78 billion for new hospitals in over six years. Under the Capacity Expansion Program, three new hospitals, a new Queensland Cancer Centre and 11 hospital expansion projects across the state will deliver 2220 additional beds from 2024 to 2028. 



“Along with our significant investment in new hospitals and facilities, this year’s Budget provides $6.78 billion in additional operational funding over the next four years to deliver on our commitment to employ an extra 9475 staff in this term of government,” Ms D’Ath said. 

“Investment in our healthcare workforce is vital – they are our greatest asset, and the reason Queenslanders continue to receive first-class healthcare every day.”

Engineering Firm Tasked to Investigate Structural Integrity of the Iconic Suttons Beach Pavillion

Redcliffe residents are not giving up on the iconic Suttons Beach Pavillion amidst reports that an engineering firm was awarded $363,000 to investigate the building’s structural integrity for potential redevelopment.



Covey Associates has received a tender for the social venue’s investigative work after it was previously marked for demolition due to its age. The engineering firm is expected to take 26 weeks to determine whether the pavilion should be refurbished or completely demolished.

In February 2022, Suttons Beach Pavillion closed permanently upon the orders of the landlords and Moreton Bay Council. Residents, however, contested the orders because there was no public consultation about the demolition plans. 

Up until then, the site has remained a popular venue for dining and celebrations and was even open to welcome visitors, albeit within the safety guidelines, at the height of the pandemic restrictions. More than 14,000 have signed the petition to stop the demolition, prompting the Council to reconsider other options. Another in-paper petition with over 23,000 signatures was also submitted to the Council.

For many Redcliffe residents, the pavilion is the heart and soul of the community thus it is worth saving.

In May 2022, Mayor Peter Flannery entered into an agreement with the Redcliffe Peninsula Surf Lifesaving Club to move into the property, if Covey Associates finds that the building can be restored. 

“One of the options being considered is the development of a refurbished/new community focused building along the lines of the intent of the original 1930s Pavilion. This could include public toilets, showers and change rooms, a café/kiosk and potentially a bistro with some space for public gatherings/events.



“The Council and the Club agree in principle that there is significant merit in exploring the potential for the Club to occupy and manage a refurbished/new Suttons Beach Pavilion. As a community not-for-profit organisation, the Club sees significant potential benefits for its members and the broader community in providing a range of surf club facilities including casual public dining.”

If it’s restored, the next step is to fund the construction project. Federal MP Luke Howarth said $5 million should be set aside for the project in the upcoming budget and he will work this out with the government. 

Constructed in 1937, the art deco pavilion had its last refurbishment in early 2000, which Council said significantly altered the building’s integrity. Apparently, previous tenants of the site didn’t conduct regular maintenance. 

Redcliffe Little Athletics Benefits from ‘Banana-A-Peel’ from Coles

Redcliffe Little Athletics has received a grant to buy new sports equipment through the Coles “Banana A-Peel” initiative, which is part of the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund.



The grant, in the amount of $2,602.91, has enabled Redcliffe Little Athletics to buy an electronic starting gun for use during competitions. 

Speaking about the grant at the time, Redcliffe Little Athletics Centre Manager John McRoberts said, “Redcliffe Little Athletics has a rich and proud history in the community. We were the first little athletics association in Queensland and have produced a number of elite athletes including numerous state team members.”

“The Coles grant will enable us to buy a new electronic starting gun which will replace the cap guns that are going out of circulation and help athletes better prepare for the state competitions.”

What is Coles Banana A-Peel?

Coles Banana A-Peel donates 10 cents from every kilogram of Cavendish bananas sold at its supermarkets. All funds raised will be directed to the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund to provide sports equipment grants for grassroots Little Athletics clubs and centres. The fund has already provided 417 Little Athletics centres across Australia with more than $2 million in sports equipment grants in just four years.

Coles Little Athletics Australia President Sherrie Boulter said the funds raised from banana sales at Coles this week would help kids to participate and stay in the sport.

Photo Credit: Supplied

“Bananas have become synonymous with Little Athletics since we partnered with Coles in 2017 and Coles stores started donating boxes of bananas to their local Little Athletics centres,” she said.

“It’s incredible to think that in just five years, Coles has donated more than 3.7 million bananas to Little Athletics. The banana donations have played a huge role in helping to embed healthy eating habits among young athletes and at Little Athletics canteens across Australia.”

“We’re so excited that this year bananas will also have a role to play in helping fund our sport, in particular, to help our local clubs and centres buy essential equipment for their volunteers and budding athletes.”

Nina Kennedy Supports Banana-A-Peel

Australian pole vault record holder and Coles ambassador Nina Kennedy encouraged shoppers to buy a bunch of bananas to help grassroots Little Athletics centres across the country.

“Little Athletics played a huge part in helping me become the athlete I am today and any support we can give local clubs and centres to buy new and safe sports equipment is invaluable,” she said.

Photo Credit: Supplied

“Through my role as Coles ambassador, I’ve visited many Little Athletics centres this season and I’ve seen first-hand the benefit that new equipment from the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund provides for kids, volunteers and the club.”



“I hope shoppers across the country can help support our future Aussie track and field stars by buying a bunch of bananas this week.  Not only will you be supporting a great cause, but you’ll be getting a nutritious, healthy snack for your lunchbox.”

The Jetty Lounge Opens Former Redcliffe Coffee Club Site

After months of refurbishing, the former Redcliffe Coffee Club site on Redcliffe Parade has re-opened as The Jetty Lounge, a new cafe and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 



Owners Craig Whitehead and Rini Fritiani snapped up the site when Redcliffe Coffee Club closed shop in July 2021 due to the high cost of rent and the economic fallout of COVID-19. 

By November 2021, the partners have been working to change the store’s fit-out into The Jetty Lounge.

Rini has a wealth of restaurant experience when she used to live in Darwin. For a couple of years, Rini has been aspiring to open her own eatery if she could only find the right collection. Craig, on the other hand, wanted to bring the Hamptons vibe to Redcliffe with this new business venture. 

The pair plan to offer special promotions and other activities at The Jetty Lounge once the dust has settled.

By January 2022, the cafe celebrated its opening. 

Photo Credit: Rainier Pino/Facebook 

“After a very difficult start we have finally assembled a great kitchen team,” Craig said. 

“There’s still a long way to go and we have big plans once we can continue assembling and training our team. 

“Thank you for the great support during these times. We really appreciate it and hope to see you soon at Jetty Lounge.

Photo Credit: Keiraley Parker/Facebook

However, some aspects of the business’ operations are still being finalised, including the restaurant’s official site, for a peek at the menu, and social media presence to get a glimpse of what the site has to offer.  



“We had the most amazing service and food here last week. The kids fairy floss pancakes came out before the rest of the meal, which came after that had been demolished. When the owner saw our meals come out separately, she immediately got us a second helping! Having read that they’re a new business, obviously there will be a few teething problems. So was happy to see that it was rectified as soon as it was noticed. Really poor form I think to leave a 1 star review for a new local business. Coffee was great and the view spectacular. Going again tomorrow!”

Tas Winkler

“We highly recommend the Jetty Lounge. We discovered this lovely restaurant recently and enjoy visiting on the weekends for dinner. It is a nice, friendly place with great views to the Redcliffe jetty. The food is always great and the restaurant offers a nice ambience for a great night out with friends or dinner for two. You can also enjoy the live music from next door.”

Justin & Kathy

“Dined in for lunch. Amazing view. Plenty of seats undercover for inclement weather. Works burger came with chips. Both were absolutely delicious. Pumpkin arancini was served beautifully and tasted amazing. Flat white and skinny latte were available in mug size too, tasted great and came with a nice surprise on the side. Filtered water is free and self-serve. Service was very friendly, efficient and fast! We’ll be back despite living an hour away!”

Lyn

Brisbane’s Spectacular Magic Men to Stage ‘Showmen’ in Redcliffe

Redcliffe is about to be captivated by a supergroup of conjurers, tricksters, comedians, illusionists, and daredevils with the staging of “Showmen” at the Redcliffe Entertainment Centre.



Just in time for the revival of theaters around the country after a two-year slump, Brisbane’s Magic Men, led by Mike Tyler and Christopher Wayne, are debuting their newest family-friendly entertainment spectacle.  

“Showmen” will run with two shows at the Redcliffe Entertainment Centre on Saturday, 9th April 2022, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.  

Mike and Christopher are also known as The Naked Magicians, who have performed in “America’s Got Talent,” “Australia’s Got Talent,” “Entertainment Tonight,” “The Bachelorette,” and “Big Brother.” They have also completed a Las Vegas residency and toured over 300 cities since 2015. 

Photo Credit: Supplied

Also joining Mike and Christopher for “Showmen”: 

  • Josh Norbido (Australia’s Got Talent semi-finalist) as the show’s beatboxing, hip-hop dancing street magician
  • The Gold Coast’s Apollo Jackson (Australia’s Got Talent) who’ll get your heart racing by showcasing the intimate side of magic. Many will remember Apollo as Sophie Monk’s love interest on The Bachelorette or the magical genie of Australia’s beloved Tim Tams
  • The Gold Coast’s Joel “The Cirque Stuntman” Fenton rounds out the cast as the world-renowned big top sideshow artist, who will have the audiences both in tears AND on the edge of their seats

This production is truly homegrown with the entire team of producers, cast, and creatives heralding from South East Queensland.



“Showmen” is highly recommended for adults, teens, and kids above eight years old.

Make a Splash to Fight MS at the MS Swimathon in Redcliffe

Editor’s note (13.5.2022): Due to unforeseen circumstances surrounding heavy rainfall at the Redcliffe War Memorial pool, the My Health Team MS Swimathon fundraising event for multiple sclerosis (MS) has been postponed until further notice.

Registration is now underway for the MS Swimathon in Redcliffe, a swimming challenge and fundraising event to support the wellness needs of those living with multiple sclerosis.



Seven sites across Queensland, including the Redcliffe War Memorial Pool, will host the MS Swimathon on Sunday, 15th May 2022, where hundreds of swimmers in teams of four are expected to dive and raise money for the cause. 

Since 2018, Redcliffe has raised over $31,000 after participating in the MS Swimathon with My Health Team as the sponsor.

“It’s a great day out for anyone looking to take on a challenge for a good cause. Passionate swimmer or not, we welcome everyone to get involved. It means the world to those affected by MS and their families,” said MS Queensland’s Fundraising Events Manager, Claire Hughes.

“We have so many enthusiastic teams who take part every year that dress up and give it their all on the day. We’re so thankful that Redcliffe is excited to have us back.”

“Working with MS for years, My Health Team’s Physiotherapist’s, Exercise Physiologists, Dieticians and Psychologists continue to sharpen their skills and collaborate to help those with MS get the most out of life,” Andrew Simpson of My Health Team said.

Some 4,000 Queenslanders live with multiple sclerosis, a common condition of the central nervous system.

According to the experts, the average age of MS diagnosis in Australia is 30 years old, with women more likely to be diagnosed three out of four times than men. This lifelong condition has no cure but vital studies in recent years have been encouraging. 



The funds raised for MS Swimathon will go to the services provided by MS Queensland to MS patients.

Redcliffe Ambulance Station Receives New Transport Vehicle

Residents in the Redcliffe Peninsula who may need to get to their medical appointments can now use the new ambulance transport vehicle at the Redcliffe Ambulance Station.



The new Mercedes Sprinter Patient Transport Bus from the Queensland Ambulance Services is an important addition to the 22-strong workforce of the Redcliffe Ambulance Station

The $104,000 ambulance transport vehicle is a 12-seater bus that was converted into a state-of-the-art ambulance vehicle for non-emergency cases. Unknown to most residents, Patient Transport Officers in Redcliffe respond to 4,500 cases a year, assisting patients with their medical needs. 

“A lot of people wouldn’t realise what our Queensland Ambulance Patient Transport Officers do, and how valued they are by their patients,” Minister for Health and Ambulances Services Yvette D’Ath said.  



“These dedicated professionals safely transport thousands of Peninsula residents to their appointments each year.

“They forge strong one-on-one connections with their patients and know how to put them at ease on their journey to medical appointments.”

D’Ath also said the State Government will continue to help improve the ambulance services in Redcliffe to “ensure the community gets the care it needs.”

Redcliffe Markets Unleash a Fa-Boo-Lous Festival of Frights

Round up the little monsters and come dressed in your scariest costumes for a fa-boo-lous Festival of Frights at the Redcliffe Markets! This spook-tacular night of fun will be packed with activities for young and old souls looking for a ghouly good time.



Happening Saturday, 30 Oct 2021, the Redcliffe Markets Festival of Frights will run from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Redcliffe Farmers and Artisan Markets on Redcliffe Parade. 

Guests can expect the following fun things to do and try to entertain and delight all the ghouls and boys!

  • Trick Or Treating for the little monsters
  • Explosive display of Fireworks
  • Sideshow Alley for wicked prizes
  • Spooky decorations and stalls
  • Fiendishly good Street Food
  • Halloween inspired Jumping Castle & Face Painting
  • Live Music and entertainment

This is a free and safe event but you will need to register for the tickets. Paid parking will be accommodated at Pearson Park or Klinger Road.

Photo Credit: Supplied

Meanwhile, the regular Sunday market will continue at the Redcliffe Markets from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. From December to February, the summer markets will open from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 



Redcliffe Property Market Exhibits Double-Digit Rise

Redcliffe has shown impressive double-digit growth in the past 12 months ending June 2021, a sure sign that this Moreton Bay suburb 40 km north of Brisbane, long viewed as up-and-coming, has arrived. With its laid-back, family-friendly lifestyle, Redcliffe offers first-rate bayside living in a high-growth location that’s still relatively affordable, compared to other waterfront suburbs.



Over the years, Redcliffe’s property market has had a steady increase as more people seek the seaside and migrate to coastal towns. This peninsula, which has been undervalued for so long, is slowly coming into its own as an enviable lifestyle residential community that’s no longer just appealing to retirees. Even families and first home buyers are moving into this growing area.

From July 2020 to June 2021, the housing market in Redcliffe has performed at an impressive rate, making the property more valuable with the median house price exhibiting a 21 percent rise, according to Property Market Updates

The uptick shows the median house price above the half-million mark at $530,000, up from $438,000 in the previous year. Redcliffe’s house listings stayed an average of 51 days on the market as an active interest in listings shook up buyers and investors. 

Photo Credit: Property Market Updates

A five-bedroom beachfront home on Prince Edward Parade was the most expensive property sold during the period ending June 2021 at $2,150,000. This lavish house with plantation shutters and an upstairs verandah overlooking the bay evokes a resort vibe.

Unit Price Growth

Redcliffe’s unit market also performed very well as the median unit price jumped by 12.50 percent, sitting at $450,000 for the period from July 2020 to June 2021. There were 247 units sold with listings staying an average of 94 days on market. 

Though most buyers prefer houses over units in Redcliffe, sales activity for apartment living is still remarkable because of a sizeable market for downsizers. 

Photo Credit: Property Market Updates

About Redcliffe

Redcliffe used to be a popular beach hideaway decades ago. As other suburbs laid claim to the stature in recent years, this seaside location evolved into a residential locale, with rapidly changing infrastructure, facilities, and amenities.

Although it’s a good 40 minutes away from the bustling nightlife and other recreation or entertainment found in Brisbane’s inner-city suburbs, Redcliffe has plenty of good seafood restaurants and cafes for laidback leisure dining for families and couples. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The suburb has several bike paths and walkways, a handful of foreshore swimming pool facilities (Dolphins Fitness and Aquatic), and the beautiful Scarborough Beach Park for outdoor play with the kids.  



“We moved here from Sydney 10 years ago and couldn’t be happier. It’s like living in paradise. We’ve got a water view from our unit – such affordable luxury would be out of our price range anywhere else.”

Stella Burnell, Homely

“I fell in love with Redcliffe over 20 years ago, the first time coming over the bridge. I didn’t get the chance to move here until 10 years ago, and couldn’t be happier. I love the well-maintained foreshore, beautiful lagoon area, the restaurants, and the people.”

Linda Peters, Homely

“The Government has invested heavily into the Redcliffe peninsula and this has lead to rapid gentrification over the last decade. This has encouraged developers to build waterfront luxury apartments and small business owners to open up their cafes and restaurants.”

Richardj4, Homely

Brisbane Festival: Join the Redcliffe Kitefest for a Safe and Fun Family Activity

Looking for a safe but fun event to do with your family at the Brisbane Festival? Drive down to Pelican Park for the Redcliffe Kitefest, a low-cost outdoor activity that will surely keep the whole family engaged.



Happening on 11 and 12 Sept 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Redcliffe KiteFest will feature colourful kite displays from international and local kite flyers. Soak in the fresh air and connect with nature as you watch those dazzling and majestic kites up in the air.

The event will also feature a kite-making workshop, which will give guests the chance to learn  from the experts about the proper designs and the tricks of the trade. Flying a kite can be such a relaxing activity, especially for the children, who will need to focus on what they’re doing whilst their kites fly across the open, blue sky. 

Photo Credit: Redcliffe Kitefest/Instagram

Apart from the kite event, Redcliffe Kitefest will also have aerobatic displays, jet ski stunt shows, and stage performances to delight kids of all ages. Characters like Bluey and Bingo will be dancing live on the stage.

A special Kidz Zone will be installed to feature BrizBricks Lego display and workshops, face painting, jumping castles, merry-go-round, pony rides, and a petting zoo.

Photo Credit: Redcliffe Kitefest/Instagram

As with the previous Redcliffe Kitefest, market stalls and food vendors will be setting up shop at the venue. 

Photo Credit: Redcliffe Kitefest/Instagram


Download the full program to see what to expect at the kite festival. Tickets have to be purchased in advance online.