Redcliffe Archives - Page 6 of 23

Homelessness Support Hub Opens in Redcliffe

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

A new purpose-built facility has officially opened in Redcliffe to support people experiencing homelessness through meal services, case management, and essential care.

Years in the Making

The Peninsula Support Hub in Redcliffe opened on 28 July 2025, following more than 15 years of advocacy for a dedicated support facility. The project was accelerated in late 2023 due to a rising number of people sleeping rough across the region. Construction began in June 2024.

homelessness support — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook*

Jointly Funded and Community-Focused

The $6.7 million facility was jointly funded through a $3.7 million contribution from the City of Moreton Bay and a $3 million allocation from the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program. The site is located at the corner of Portwood Street and Oxley Avenue in Redcliffe and is now home to The Breakfast Club Redcliffe and The Salvation Army.

The hub provides a range of wrap-around services including case management, housing referrals, meal services, laundry and shower facilities, and social support. It has been designed in close consultation with its tenants to meet operational needs and better serve the community.

Redcliffe homelessness support hub — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook*

Operational Details and Services

The Breakfast Club will operate on-site with the following schedule:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Breakfast from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Tuesday, Thursday: Drop-in support from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Salvation Army will begin service delivery on 7 August 2025, operating from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, with multiple staff members providing on-site support including concierge and case management.

Providing Stability and Dignity

On the first day of service, 35 individuals attended breakfast. The facility aims to provide stability and dignity, offering more than basic necessities by fostering social connection and access to professional help in one central location.

According to the service providers, the new hub will significantly increase their capacity to produce meals and deliver programs. The $1-per-year lease provided by the council allows service organisations to prioritise community outreach over operational overheads.

*Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook*

A Model for Local Solutions

This initiative is considered by local leaders to be among the first of its kind in Queensland, where collaboration across sectors has produced a unified facility for social support. Local officials acknowledged that while this hub addresses immediate needs, broader solutions are still required to meet long-term housing challenges in the area.

Efforts are also underway across 15 suburbs to waive development fees and infrastructure charges for affordable and social housing projects, with additional council-owned land provided to housing organisations.

Published 2-Aug-2025

What the $4.35m Sale of Ashmole Road Shopping Village Says About Redcliffe’s Growth

Photo Credit: Ray White Commercial

Demonstrating the intense demand for commercial property in Redcliffe, the local Ashmole Road Shopping Village has been purchased by a Sydney investor for $4.35 million following a campaign that drew nearly 400 separate enquiries.

A Strong Bet on Local Growth

The recent sale of the neighbourhood shopping hub has highlighted intense investor belief in the Redcliffe peninsula’s future. The final price for the fully-leased centre reflects a tight 5.91 per cent yield, a figure that demonstrates the high value buyers are placing on assets in the area. The sale was managed by RWC Retail agents Lachlan O’Keeffe, Pablo Routledge, and Michael Feltoe.

According to Mr. O’Keeffe, the result underscores a major rebound in demand for well-located convenience retail centres, especially those with a proven history and a strong mix of tenants. This sale marks the eighth Brisbane retail centre sold by the agency in the current fiscal year, showing a clear trend of capital flowing into suburban commercial hubs.

The Anatomy of a Prized Asset

The Ashmole Road Shopping Village is more than just a collection of shops; it serves as a daily destination for the community. The 713-square-metre centre, situated on a prominent 2,280-square-metre corner block, is home to nine local businesses, including a convenience store, an Asian grocer, and a skin cancer clinic. Its design gives all tenants direct frontage to the car park, providing easy access for residents.

The property’s strategic location, just 500 metres from the home of the Dolphins NRL club, adds to its appeal. Its proximity to the Kippa-Ring train station and its position within the heart of the peninsula make it a vital piece of local infrastructure. For the new owner, the appeal was strengthened by lease agreements that guarantee four per cent annual rent increases, ensuring steady income growth.

A Market Turnaround Story

The successful transaction comes after a previous attempt to sell the property did not go ahead. Agent Michael Feltoe explained that when the centre was first taken to auction in late 2022, market volatility prevented a sale.

Since that time, he noted that more landlord-favourable lease terms were negotiated across several tenancies. This work behind the scenes significantly increased the property’s value in the eyes of potential buyers, allowing the new investor to see clear value and justify the multi-million-dollar price tag. The campaign attracted an enormous level of interest, with 393 enquiries logged before the property was ultimately sold.

Investment in a Booming Region

The sale is not just about a single property but is also a reflection of the entire Moreton Bay region’s trajectory. The area is one of the fastest-growing local government areas in Australia, with its population projected to swell by more than 42 per cent by the year 2041. This long-term demographic growth provides a solid foundation for local businesses and the investors who support them, ensuring centres like Ashmole Road Shopping Village will remain essential to the community for years to come.

Published Date 31-July-2025

Softball Queensland Masters Begins in Kippa-Ring and Clontarf

Photo Credit: Softball Queensland

Kippa-Ring and Clontarf are hosting matches in Queensland’s largest softball tournament as the 25th annual Softball Queensland Masters begins across the Moreton Bay region.

Background and Regional Significance

The Softball Queensland Masters Tournament is marking its 25th edition from Friday 1 August to Sunday 3 August 2025, drawing over 1,800 players, officials and supporters. Since 2019, the event has been held in partnership with the City of Moreton Bay, and is scheduled to return again in 2026.

The tournament rotates through key regional venues, with this year’s event based in Kippa-Ring, Clontarf, and Caboolture. Future expansions are targeting additional teams from New South Wales, Victoria, and New Zealand.

Tournament Scope and Logistics

A total of 114 teams are participating across 17 women’s divisions and 6 men’s divisions, with over 350 games scheduled across three days. Matches begin daily at 8:00 a.m., with all grand finals set for 3:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Venues include:

Talobilla Park in Kippa-Ring, home to the Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association and Redcliffe Padres Baseball Club
Ray Frawley Fields in Clontarf, used by the Redcliffe Junior Rugby Union Club
Dances Road Sports Ground in Caboolture, home of the Caboolture Sports Softball Association

Entry and Umpire Requirements

Team entries opened on 30 January and closed on 7 April, with confirmation of team lists by early July. Each team was required to register a minimum of nine players, nominate a team umpire, and complete payment to be accepted.

Teams are expected to supply umpires competent in both plate and base duties. Umpires must hold relevant Play by the Rules certifications and a valid Blue Card if over 18. Penalties apply for failing to meet assigned umpire responsibilities.

An umpires meeting was scheduled for 7:00 a.m. on 1 August.

Draw and Divisional Breakdown

Matches are being held from 1–3 August across all divisions. Women’s divisions range from 1 to 17, while the men’s divisions include 1, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Draws and results are available online via the tournament platform.

*Photo Credit: Softball Queensland/Facebook*

Ongoing Planning and Community Involvement

Organisers intend to expand the tournament by increasing team numbers and attracting more interstate and international participation. Continued backing from sponsors and regional partners supports the event’s sustainability and growth in the Moreton Bay area.

The event also draws a wide base of volunteers, families, and supporters, contributing to its operational scale and community presence.

What’s Next?

With hundreds of matches underway and thousands in attendance, the 2025 Softball Queensland Masters Tournament reinforces the role of Moreton Bay suburbs like Kippa-Ring, Clontarf, and Caboolture as key hosts for major community sport. Planning for the 2026 tournament is already in motion, with further expansion under consideration.

Published 31-July-2025

Redcliffe-Born McKeown Wins 100m Backstroke Gold at Worlds

Photo Credit: Kaylee McKeown/Instagram

Redcliffe-born swimmer Kaylee McKeown has secured gold in the women’s 100m backstroke at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, extending her unbeaten record in the event.

Background of a Champion

Kaylee McKeown, originally from Redcliffe, competed in the 100m backstroke final on 30 July 2025 at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore following a challenging year marked by injury and coaching changes. Despite dislocating her shoulder shortly before the Australian team’s staging camp in Darwin, she entered the event aiming to regain form and rediscover her enjoyment of the sport.

McKeown, 24, has not lost a major international final in the 100m backstroke since 2019. She won Olympic gold in the event at both the Tokyo and Paris Games and claimed her first world title in 2023.

New Record, Familiar Rivals

In the 100m backstroke final, McKeown trailed American swimmer Regan Smith at the turn but closed the gap in the final 50 metres to touch the wall first in 57.16 seconds. The time set a new Championship, Commonwealth, Oceania, and Australian record, just 0.03 seconds outside Smith’s world mark. Smith and fellow American Katharine Berkoff completed the podium, finishing second and third respectively.

This was McKeown’s second world championship win in the event and marked her 28th consecutive international victory in the 100m backstroke since early 2021. She now holds five individual world titles in backstroke events and remains unbeaten in global 100m backstroke finals for six years.

Shift in Training and Mindset

The gold medal followed significant changes to McKeown’s training environment. After her former coach relocated, she moved to the Sunshine Coast to train under Michael Sage at USC Spartans. The switch, along with a renewed focus on personal well-being, led to improved performances. McKeown also spoke of the emotional and mental challenges she faced after the Paris Olympics, describing this championship as part of a process of rediscovering enjoyment in the sport.

Despite entering the meet with doubts about competing, McKeown stated her primary focus was overcoming internal pressure rather than chasing medals. Her result exceeded expectations after limited training due to injury.

Redcliffe swimmer — *Photo Credit: Kaylee McKeown/Instagram*

Additional Australian Performances

Fellow Australian Lani Pallister earned bronze in the 1500m freestyle, finishing behind American Katie Ledecky and Italy’s Simona Quadarella. Pallister clocked 15:41.18, her second-fastest time ever, after a strong start alongside Ledecky in the opening laps.

Also advancing to event finals were Mollie O’Callaghan and Jamie Perkins in the 200m freestyle, along with Harrison Turner in the 200m butterfly. Turner became the first Australian male in 22 years to qualify for a world final in that event.

Looking Ahead

With her performance in Singapore, McKeown has set a strong tone for the lead-up to the 2026 Commonwealth Games and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Her sustained excellence in the pool continues to highlight Redcliffe as the home of one of Australia’s most successful swimmers.

Published 30-July-2025

Community Lease Approved for Radio Club in Redcliffe

Photo Credit: Redcliffe and Districts Radio Club

A long-standing amateur radio club in Redcliffe has secured a new lease to expand its operations with the installation of radio repeater infrastructure.

Community Lease Background

The Redcliffe and Districts Radio Club has been active since 1971, bringing together individuals interested in electronics and amateur radio. The City of Moreton Bay has supported the club with a community lease for its clubhouse since 2001. In July 2025, the club was approved a new five-year peppercorn lease—costing just $1 per annum—providing the club with a location to install additional infrastructure.

Expansion of Technical Capacity

The lease allows the club to operate its radio repeater from a separate site, expanding its ability to support members across the region. The repeater complements the club’s existing analogue and digital capabilities in HF, VHF, and UHF frequencies. The club also runs a dedicated radio room, weekly activities, and regular field events promoting amateur radio in the Moreton Bay area.

Role in Community Activities

The club’s activities include training for amateur radio licences, technical talks, national competitions, and support for international programs such as Summits on the Air and Jamboree on the Air. Its ongoing presence in Kippa-Ring includes weekly gatherings and project nights at the clubhouse, while public events such as Redfest are held at external venues, including Caboolture.

radio club lease — *Photo Credit: David George Van Barneveld/Facebook*

Governance and Future Operations

The club remains active in formal governance, with its next Annual General Meeting scheduled for 18 August 2025 at the Klingner Road clubhouse. Committee elections, financial reports, and audits will be tabled during the meeting. Membership remains open to individuals with an interest in radio and technology, with approval required for new members to vote.

Ongoing Support for Local Groups

This lease is one of nearly 400 community leases across the City of Moreton Bay, aimed at helping local organisations maintain operations without high overhead costs. The support allows groups like the Redcliffe and Districts Radio Club to continue fostering interest in amateur radio and technical skills within the community.

Published 26-July-2025

KiteFest Returns with New Free Format in Redcliffe

Photo Credit: Redcliffe KiteFest/Facebook

The annual KiteFest in Redcliffe will return with a free-entry format, shifting its focus to aerial displays and family-friendly kite-related activities.

Streamlined Format Marks New Chapter for KiteFest

Redcliffe’s annual KiteFest will adopt a simplified format when it returns to Pelican Park on 20-21 September. The event, once known for ticketed entertainment and stage shows, will now focus on its original feature — kite flying.

The 2025 edition will centre on large-scale kite performances, traditional and artistic kite designs, and public participation activities such as kite-making workshops and a public fly zone. Entry will be free of charge, allowing more families to attend without financial barriers.

Background and Past Format

Over recent years, KiteFest in Redcliffe had evolved into a ticketed event, offering stage performances, amusement rides, and a wide range of commercial stalls. The decision to streamline the event comes after a shift in priorities towards community accessibility and a return to the core visual element of kite flying.

*Photo Credit: Redcliffe KiteFest/Facebook*

Refocused Activities and Event Highlights

Held at Clontarf’s Pelican Park, the event will run over two days and feature food trucks and designated zones for kite-making and flying. Visitors are encouraged to bring picnic rugs and enjoy open spaces along the foreshore while watching professional kite flyers showcase designs from across the globe.

Event organisers have described the revised format as an opportunity to create a more relaxed, inclusive environment that places emphasis on sky displays rather than commercial attractions.

Broader Visitor Experience and Sponsorship

While the primary focus remains on kite displays, the event also aligns with seasonal tourism in the Redcliffe region. Visitors are encouraged to explore other local activities such as strawberry picking and whale watching.

Redcliffe KiteFest 2025 is supported by naming rights sponsor Vietjet, principal sponsor City of Moreton Bay, and major sponsors Ausbuild and Sesame Lane.

kite festival Australia — *Photo Credit: Redcliffe KiteFest/Facebook*

SUBSCRIBE TO KITEFEST

Community Access and Vision

The revised model aims to increase accessibility, encouraging both locals and visitors to participate without ticketing constraints. Organisers have positioned the return to a simplified layout as a way to reconnect with the original community-focused spirit of the event.

Future Outlook

With the return to a free-entry, kite-centric format, the Redcliffe KiteFest is expected to draw wider community participation.

Published 15-July-2025

Education Department’s Stance on Emergency Leave Upheld in Redcliffe Case

A Redcliffe special school teacher has been unsuccessful in her bid to reclaim long-service leave days used during a forced school closure, after a ruling highlighted a complex and debated area of emergency leave entitlements of employees during natural disasters.

Leave Dispute Following Cyclone Closure

emergency leave — *Photo Credit: Climate Council*

The issue arose when experienced teacher Eugenia Ollenburg, who was on pre-approved long service leave at half pay, sought to have three of her leave days reclassified as special paid leave. This was for the period when Redcliffe Special School was shut down due to Cyclone Alfred. The school was closed on March 6, 7, and 10. Ms Ollenburg argued she should not have to use her personal leave for days when all staff were instructed not to come to work.

Commission Upholds Department’s Decision

The matter was taken to the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission after Ms Ollenburg was denied special leave and a subsequent internal review by the Education Department upheld the decision. In dismissing the appeal, Industrial Commissioner Peter O’Neill found that the department had acted fairly.

The commission heard that Ms Ollenburg’s colleagues who were scheduled to work on the closure days were granted special leave because they had been expected to attend work. However, the commissioner noted that there was never an expectation for Ms Ollenburg to be at work during that time, as she was already on an extended period of approved leave. The judgment stated that employees not rostered to work during such closures were not directed to access the discretionary special leave.

Calls for Clearer Guidelines

Throughout the process, Ms Ollenburg maintained that the government’s leave regulations did not adequately explain what happens when a workplace unexpectedly closes while an employee is already on approved leave. She described the process as confusing and unclear, stating to the court registry that she did not know what steps to take or who to ask for guidance.

Emails from the Education Department, which were presented in the ruling, showed that Ms Ollenburg had been informed that pre-approved leave could not be changed to special leave, even during emergencies. A human resources adviser had written that such discretionary leave is not an automatic right. The commission found the internal review had correctly concluded that her long service leave remained valid and she had no entitlement to access the other leave type in her circumstances.

Published Date 06-July-2025

Redcliffe Mourns Young Father Lost in Tragic Road Incident

Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service/ Facebook

A Redcliffe family and community are grappling with profound grief after a young father tragically lost his life in a fiery motorcycle collision just metres from where his wife waited for him at the Redcliffe jetty.

The heartbreaking incident occurred on Tuesday, 16 June, 2025, shortly after 9:30 p.m.

Tragic Accident Details

Redcliffe — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police Service/ Facebook*

Luke Irwin, 26, was returning home to gather more bait for a fishing trip with his wife, Jade Hatcher, when his black Suzuki RF900 motorcycle collided with a white Mitsubishi Fuso minibus at the intersection of Anzac Avenue and Oleander Street in Kippa Ring. Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 9:33 p.m. Following the impact, the minibus, which was reportedly being used as a residence, erupted in flames and subsequently rolled into a parked vehicle on Oleander Street.

Mr Irwin, a Rothwell resident, suffered critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 51-year-old Clontarf man driving the Mitsubishi sustained minor burns and was transported to Redcliffe Hospital for treatment. The Forensic Crash Unit is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.

Family’s Heartbreak

Ms. Hatcher was fishing just 600 metres away when she heard sirens, later expressing that a part of her died at that moment. She described rushing to the crash site and seeing her husband, overwhelmed with a sense of hysteria. Ms Hatcher emphasised how integral Luke was to their family, stating that he was “our world” and that she could not imagine life without him. She recounted how Luke had been by her side during a previous serious accident she had experienced.

The couple became engaged in August 2017 and married in April 2019, soon after welcoming twin sons, Luca and Liam. Ms Hatcher detailed that both boys have disabilities, with one being autistic and the other having ADHD, an intellectual impairment, and being non-verbal. She explained that his sons were “his life” and he adored them. Luke also raised two daughters whom he loved as his own, and his passing has deeply affected many people.

A Father Remembered

Earlier on the day of the tragedy, Luke had spent a “beautiful day” kayaking with his sons and enjoying time with his wife. Luke’s father, Ian Irwin, remembered his son as a “larrikin” and someone loved by all who knew him. He shared the sad news on social media, noting Luke was due to turn 27 in August and left behind a young family. Mr Irwin urged everyone to “take care on the roads” following his son’s death.

Community Support and Call for Footage

In the wake of this devastating loss, Ms. Hatcher has launched a fundraiser to help cover the costs of Luke’s funeral, which is scheduled for July 4. She shared her determination to give him the funeral he deserves and is seeking community support for the family.

Meanwhile, police are appealing to the public for assistance, urging anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage of the crash, or the moments leading up to it, to come forward and contact them as the investigation continues.

Published Date 25-Jun-2025

Jamie-lee Surha Makes Hockeyroos Debut After Redcliffe Success

Photo Credit: Jamie-lee Surha/Instagram

Jamie-lee Surha, a Redcliffe Hockey Club forward, has officially made her international debut for the Hockeyroos during their European tour.

Rising to National Selection

Jamie-lee Surha, originally from Mackay, received a late call-up to the Hockeyroos squad and debuted against the Netherlands in the FIH Pro League. The match took place at Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen, where she wore the Indigenous uniform for the first time.

This milestone follows Ms Surha’s inclusion in the Australian Development Squad and her earlier appearance in a practice series against India in Perth. She later featured in another international match in London, where the Hockeyroos secured a 2-1 win against India.

Redcliffe Milestone Recognised

Redcliffe Hockey Club marked Ms Surha’s debut as a significant moment in the club’s history. Officials and team-mates expressed pride in her progress, with club president Paul Greentree acknowledging her contribution to Redcliffe’s first Brisbane Women’s Premier League 1 premiership win. Ms Surha joined the club in 2022 and became its top scorer in 2024.

The club formally recognised her selection via social media, noting that she is now among Redcliffe’s growing list of full Australian representatives.

Indigenous Representation on the International Stage

Ms Surha is now the fifth Indigenous woman to represent the Hockeyroos and the eighth Indigenous Australian to play at senior international level. She described wearing the ochre strip as a meaningful experience, especially as a First Nations athlete. Her cultural background ties to the Jirrabul Mamu people of the Yidinji nation.

From Junior Talent to Senior Campaign

Ms Surha was previously named one of Queensland’s top junior hockey players and is a former student of Mackay North State High School. She has competed at state level and earned national titles in age-group categories.

Her standout performance at the 2025 Australian Under-21 Championships led to her selection for the Jillaroos, Australia’s U21 team. Later that year, she debuted for Brisbane Blaze in the Liberty Hockey One League.

Indigenous athlete — *Photo Credit: Jamie-lee Surha/Instagram*

Looking Ahead

The Hockeyroos are currently continuing their Pro League campaign, with upcoming fixtures in England and Germany. Ms Surha remains part of the travelling squad as she continues her progression in international hockey.

Published 25-June-2025

Kaylee McKeown to Lead Australia at World Swimming Championships

Photo Credit: Kaylee Mckeown/Facebook

Kaylee McKeown, born in Redcliffe and raised in Caboolture, will lead Australia’s charge at the 2025 World Swimming Championships in Singapore, anchoring the national team with her world-class backstroke performances.

From Caboolture to the World Stage

Kaylee McKeown was born in Redcliffe and raised in Caboolture, where her passion for swimming first took shape. After years of dedication, she made her Olympic debut in Tokyo, claiming three gold medals and setting a new standard for Australian backstroke.

Now 23, she trains with the USC Spartans and credits her early community support for laying the foundation of her success. At the 2025 national trials in Adelaide, McKeown won the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke events, all well under the qualifying times. Her performance confirmed her spot at the top of Australia’s team for the World Championships.

A Dramatic Start to the Trials

Her rise from local lanes to global headlines continues as she prepares to defend three world titles this July. McKeown’s selection wasn’t without drama, as she was initially disqualified in the 50m backstroke heats for a false start.

A review overturned the decision, confirming she had reacted to movement near the blocks. She bounced back to win the final in 27.33 seconds, well under the 27.74 qualifying time.

McKeown also claimed victories in the 100m and 200m backstroke, showcasing her consistency across all distances. She still holds world records in the 50m and 200m backstroke and remains one of the few to sweep all three events at a single World Championships.

Eyes on Singapore and Beyond

The 2025 World Swimming Championships will be held in Singapore from 27 July to 3 August. McKeown enters as the reigning world champion in the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke events. Her focus will be on defending those titles while sharpening her form ahead of the Paris Olympics.

Under coach Michael Bohl, she continues to train for speed and technique across all backstroke distances. The team will stage in Darwin before heading to Singapore, with McKeown playing a key leadership role in Australia’s campaign.

Community Pride Runs Deep

McKeown’s success continues to inspire pride across Moreton Bay, with both Redcliffe and Caboolture closely tied to her story. Local coaches and swim clubs still follow her progress, knowing she began in the same community pools young swimmers use today.

Though she now trains with a national high-performance squad, McKeown often credits her hometown roots for shaping her early journey. Her achievements highlight the depth of regional talent in Australia. They also remind young athletes that world-class careers can start in local lanes.

Published 25-June-2025