Dolphins fans will be desperately hoping that last season’s Round 26 “Battle of Brisbane” repeats itself, after a tough start to the reason that leaves them winless after three games.
The opening round loss was a tough arm wrestle with Issiah Tass’s 67th minute try cancelling the Dolphins lead after Max Plath went over to put the Dolphins ahead.
Last week the Phins led against the Wests Tigers 18-12 at half-time, a crucial easy goal kick was turned down in the second half “I allowed them to play some footy” said coach Kristian Woolf.
Max Plath led the tackle count with 45 whilst Herbie Farnworth ran for 209 metres, while making 8 tackle breaks and 3 offloads, leading to a try and an assist.
“It gives us something to get excited about”, said Woolf about the Broncos clash.
Surely re-runs of last year’s round 26 will be on the agenda, to gee the boys up.
Kevvy Walters’s team had not played their best footy at that stage but they were not ready for the marauding phins to rip them apart, 2 tries each from The Hammer, Herbie Farmworth and Jake Averillo with Jermayne Isaako starting the rout in the 13th minute.
The 4 tries in the first half despite Felise Kaufusi going to the bin in the 17th minute, though Xavier Willison also had a 10 minute rest on the sidelines after 30 minutes.
A grassroots street library, initially placed outside a Clontarf home on Maine Road, was shut down shortly after opening.
The operator, Melissa Forbes, was required by Moreton Bay City Council to apply for a permit under the Alteration of Public Land Local Law and obtain $20 million in Public Liability Insurance. The initial location was near the Beedham Street bus stop.
After the permit application was rejected due to non-compliance, Ms Forbes dismantled the setup pending an alternative.
The original street library setup required formal council approval because it was situated on public land. The insurance requirement added further complications, effectively rendering the initial setup unviable. In response, Ms Forbes repositioned the library onto her front garden fence, which allowed her to circumvent public land regulations.
The library has been rebranded as the “Illegal Book Box” in a tongue-in-cheek nod to the bureaucratic hurdle it faced. The modified setup complies with local laws, making it a fully legal installation under current council guidelines.
No Guidance, No Permit – Just a Workaround
No specific alternatives were advised by council officers following the permit denial. Ms Forbes noted that no workaround was formally provided. Relocating the structure onto private property proved the simplest and most compliant option.
Photo Credit: Melissa Forbes/Instagram
Strong Community Support
Public response to the re-opening has been overwhelmingly supportive. Comments on social media reflected both frustration at the initial complaint and enthusiasm for the library’s return.
Pledges of book donations and visits were common, with some residents describing the re-opening as “terrific for the community.” Others used humour to critique the idea that such a project faced obstacles, calling the situation “insane” and questioning how a free book library could be deemed problematic.
Some residents outside Australia, including from the UK, USA, and Serbia, expressed solidarity, noting similar initiatives in their own communities and voicing support for public book-sharing schemes.
With the new location now meeting council requirements, the “Illegal Book Box” is operating legally and continues to function as a local hub for sharing books. The case has highlighted both the regulatory challenges faced by small community projects and the public value placed on local, grassroots initiatives.
Redcliffe will host over 200 stalls of handcrafted goods, gourmet foods, and Easter-themed activities across two days, offering a community celebration for locals and visitors.
The iconic Redcliffe Markets are set to transform into a vibrant Easter hub with a special Good Friday pop-up market and the regular Sunday market. The weekend promises family-friendly fun. Market organisers have planned various activities designed to engage the community and provide a memorable Easter experience.
Easter Activities and Entertainment
Photo Credit: Supplied
Children can look forward to meeting the Easter Bunny and participating in an Easter Scavenger Hunt designed to encourage exploration and discovery within the market. Easter craft activities will also be available, providing opportunities for creative expression. The market will feature live music and entertainment throughout both days, creating a lively atmosphere for attendees.
Market Stalls and Offerings
Photo Credit: Supplied
Over 200 stalls will showcase the work of local designers and makers, offering handmade fashion, unique homewares, and one-of-a-kind gifts. A wide range of gourmet food trucks will cater to diverse tastes, with dessert options available. Additionally, the market will feature Easter-themed décor and a selection of chocolate treats.
Bucky’s Cookies and Creations: Indulge your sweet tooth with Bucky’s irresistible creations. Prepare for gooey cookies that melt in your mouth, decadent layered cookie pies, rich brownies and blondies, and the ever-popular wagon wheels with homemade marshmallows. And keep an eye out for their special decorated sugar cookies!
Glen Wardle Ceramics: Explore the art of pottery with Glen Wardle Ceramics, a creative haven for art enthusiasts. Discover their stunning pottery, handcrafted candles, and special Easter surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, Glen Wardle Ceramics has something to inspire you.
Razza Beadz: Add whimsy to your Easter with Razza Beadz! Back at Redcliffe Markets with adorable new Easter-themed products, these handmade accessories are perfect for adding a bit of fun to your day. Discover their cute and fun keychains, lanyards, diffusers, and more—all crafted with love. These cute Easter-themed items are sure to become a favorite.
My Soap: Treat your skin to the natural goodness of My Soap. Discover their hand-made, natural soaps for a little self-care this Easter. Made with quality ingredients, these soaps are gentle and nourishing, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Oishii Chili Oil: Spice up your Easter with Oishii Chili Oil. This homemade chili oil is packed with flavor and umami, making it incredibly addictive and versatile. Drizzle it over your favorite dishes for an extra kick, and you’ll be reaching for this oil for every meal.
Good Friday Special Event
Photo Credit: Supplied
The Good Friday market will coincide with the start of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, allowing attendees to view the event from the Redcliffe foreshore. Market organisers highlight that this timing provides a unique opportunity to combine market enjoyment with viewing a significant local sporting event.
Goodwill Projects, a Queensland-based events company, organises the Redcliffe Markets. Market organisers state that the market operates weekly on Sundays, and the Easter events are special additions to the regular schedule. The Good Friday and Easter Sunday markets will run from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe. Entry and parking are free.
A Redcliffe grandmother received a 24-hour eviction notice after her Margate rental apartment sustained significant damage from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, rendering it uninhabitable.
Janine Pirie, 54, who lived in the top-floor unit with her two young grandchildren, aged 10 and 12 months, was forced to vacate immediately following a ceiling collapse caused by severe rainfall.
The storm brought over 300mm of rain to Brisbane in 24 hours and caused extensive damage to the property. Ms Pirie reported that water poured into her living room after the ceiling began to crack. She contacted her real estate agency, L.J. Hooker Redcliffe, who inspected the premises on Monday and issued her a 24-hour notice to leave.
The agency stated that they had first noticed a hairline crack in the roof on Tuesday, March 4th, before the storm’s intensification. Following the storm’s impact, the property was deemed unsafe for habitation. L.J. Hooker Redcliffe stated that they returned the bond immediately and offered suggestions for emergency lodging.
Industry Response
Matthew Gleaves, head of property management at Place Estate Agents, expressed concern regarding the timing of the eviction notice during a natural disaster. He suggested a more collaborative approach with the tenant would have been preferable. He pointed out that vacant properties are not beneficial for owners, and the abrupt eviction caused undue hardship.
Penny Carr, CEO of Tenants Queensland, advised renters to know their rights in similar situations. She noted that disputes regarding the habitability of properties often arise after natural disasters. She clarified that a tenancy can be ended if a property becomes partially or fully uninhabitable due to a natural disaster within a month of the event.
However, tenants can challenge the decision if they believe the property remains habitable. She explained that the owner must seek a tribunal order to terminate the agreement. Carr also reminded tenants that landlords are generally not responsible for damage to personal belongings caused by natural disasters.
L.J. Hooker Redcliffe stated that they explored multiple flexible options with Ms Pirie regarding accommodation and storage. They also affirmed that they would follow their internal procedures and collaborate with the corporate body to arrange the necessary repair work.
The survival of Redcliffe’s fragile koala population hangs in the balance. Rescuers reveal that multiple koalas are dying each week due to habitat loss and animal attacks, highlighting the urgent need for community and government intervention.
Local volunteers, like Tash Barker and Therese Hollan, dedicate their time to rescuing and rehabilitating injured koalas. One recent success story involved a seven-year-old koala, known to locals as Blinky and to rescuers as Coolio. After three months of treatment at Moggill Koala Rehabilitation Centre, the koala returned to his Kippa-Ring habitat. The koala had suffered severe injuries from a dog attack.
According to the volunteers, moments of successful releases provide motivation, despite the frequent and disheartening losses. Barker, a member of Pine Rivers Koala Care, expressed the emotional strain of witnessing multiple koala deaths in a short period. Hollan, a volunteer with Redcliffe Environmental Forum (REF), stated that the return of Coolio was a moment of joy that balanced the frequent losses the volunteers experience.
The koala population in Redcliffe faces significant challenges due to fragmented habitats, primarily caused by the railway corridor. Hollan explained that the corridor has divided the koala population, resulting in approximately 50 koalas south of the railway and only 12 in the northern areas, including Silcock Reserve and the Redcliffe Golf Course at Clontarf. The low numbers in the northern population are particularly concerning, as roads surround them and face threats from dogs.
Hollan, who attended a meeting with Moreton Bay City Council and the Department of Environment Tourism and Science (DETSI) in August, raised concerns about the genetic diversity of the remaining koala populations. She emphasised that while the southern population number seems reasonable, its long-term survival is not guaranteed without understanding its genetic health. Hollan explained that they are seeking a grant to fund university research into the genetic diversity of the koalas to determine the necessary steps for population preservation.
Call for Community and Government Action
Both Barker and Hollan advocate for a more coordinated approach to koala preservation, involving volunteer organisations, the State Government, and the local council. They urge residents to take responsibility for protecting the marsupials by driving slowly in koala habitats, keeping dogs contained at night, and participating in bush care groups. Hollan stated that many Australians have never seen a koala in the wild, emphasising their unique value.
She stressed that every koala is essential due to the numerous threats to their survival. Barker explained that her journey into koala care started because she frequently found injured wildlife and wanted to ensure they received proper care. She grew up with koalas and wants to protect them. The volunteers would like to see more warning signs placed in areas with koala populations.
A Redcliffe resident slept through the moment when ex-tropical cyclone Alfred tore the roof off his home on Saturday night, sending it onto nearby power lines.
Daniel Goullet, who has lived in his Redcliffe house for five years, was asleep when the severe weather event struck the Moreton Bay region with wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h. The area, located approximately 30 km north of Brisbane’s CBD, was hit around 9pm when Alfred made landfall.
“We were asleep when the roof came off. I had no idea, the wind was so loud so we didn’t notice the roof came up,” Goullet said.
The Redcliffe property, which Goullet described as “the oldest house on the [Moreton Bay] Peninsula,” suffered significant damage during the storm. A severe weather alert had been issued for the area at 8:45pm Saturday.
“I had my doubts because it’s the oldest house on the Peninsula, I thought if anything’s going to happen it’s going to happen to this house,” Goullet said.
The Redcliffe area was particularly hard hit as Alfred, which had been downgraded from a potential category 2 cyclone to a tropical low before making landfall, moved through southeast Queensland.
Despite the downgrade, the storm has caused considerable disruption across the region, with power outages, flooding, and debris reported in numerous locations. Meteorologists warn that residents, including those in the Redcliffe peninsula, should prepare for more rainfall and continued wild weather in the coming days.
A new independent plant store is set to open in Redcliffe, offering a diverse range of indoor plants, designer pots, and horticultural products. The Urban Jungle Society, located in Cominos Arcade, launched last Saturday, 1 March, with a week-long opening sale, offering 30 per cent off all products.
With the closure of Redcliffe Garden Centre on Snook Street, the area has lacked a dedicated independent plant shop. The Urban Jungle Society’s owner, Kendrik Uhle, recognised this gap and decided to bring a specialty store to the community. He aims to offer a more personalised and knowledgeable service than large retail chains, creating a hub where plant enthusiasts can access expert advice and various plants.
As a landscaper, Mr Uhle aims to use his experience to help customers make informed choices about their indoor and outdoor greenery. He also hopes the store’s presence will contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of Cominos Arcade, encouraging more small businesses to establish themselves in Redcliffe.
What The Urban Jungle Society Offers
The store will feature an extensive collection of indoor plants, stylish pots, and premium horticultural supplies. Outdoor plant orders can be placed in-store, ensuring customers can access a broad selection beyond immediately available.
In addition to catering to individual plant lovers, the business will also supply bulk orders for private customers and trade professionals. Plant care kits and expert advice will be available to help customers maintain their greenery with confidence.
Photo Credit: The Urban Jungle Society
Rare Plants, Accessories, and Essentials
The Urban Jungle Society will stock a variety of rare and exotic plants, including Philodendron Gloriosum ($19.99), Monstera Laniata Variegata ($44.99), and Monstera Thai Constellation ($159.99). More common indoor favourites like Philodendron Moonlight ($19.99) and Asplenium Nidus – Birds Nest Fern ($25.00) will also be available.
In addition to plants, customers can find premium plant care accessories, such as The Urban Jungle’s Reusable Repotting Mat ($40.00) and The Plant Runner Neem Oil Refill ($38.00). Stylish watering cans, like the 1.9L Chalk Indoor Watering Can ($69.99), will also be on offer, along with plant care kits designed to help plants thrive.
Customers interested in outdoor plants can place special orders in-store, ensuring access to a wider selection beyond the shop’s indoor offerings. Bulk orders for both domestic and trade customers will also be available.
Grand Opening and Special Discounts
The Urban Jungle Society’s grand opening at 10A/132 Sutton Street occurred last Saturday, 1 March, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The store will operate on Wednesdays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
To celebrate its launch, all items will be available at a 30 per cent discount for the first week, from 1 March to 8 March.
Mr Uhle believes Cominos Arcade is the ideal location, not only because of its central position but also due to its potential for business growth. By setting up shop in the area, he hopes to play a role in attracting more independent businesses to Redcliffe.
Photo Credit: The Urban Jungle Society
A Fresh Addition to Redcliffe Business Scene
The Urban Jungle Society’s arrival adds to the growing community of small businesses. With a strong focus on high-quality products, expert guidance, and a personalised shopping experience, the store is expected to appeal to both local residents and visitors.
By encouraging more people to embrace indoor and outdoor greenery, the store aims to support a greener, healthier lifestyle for the community. Its presence in Cominos Arcade signals a step towards a more vibrant and diverse retail environment in Redcliffe.
As Tropical Cyclone Alfred moves closer, Redcliffe and other areas in Moreton Bay must prepare for severe weather impacts, including gale-force winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges in coastal areas, and flooding. Here are some resources and information to help you prepare.
Alfred is forecast to strengthen to Category 2 by 3 March. The Bureau of Meteorology has informed the City of Moreton Bay that Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to shift towards the Queensland coast on Tuesday, 4 March. The system may make landfall along the southeast coast on Thursday or Friday.
Moreton Bay’s Call to Prepare
Photo credit: Bureau of Meteorology/Facebook
Mayor Peter Flannery stated, “While it is uncommon for cyclones to head this far south, we do need to take the very real danger of a significant cyclone event in the area seriously.” He advised locals to use this time to secure their homes, check on their neighbours, and plan ahead, particularly if they live in flood-prone or exposed areas.
Preparation Steps for Cyclone Alfred
Photo credit: Get Ready Queensland/Facebook
Assemble an Emergency Kit: Ensure you have essential supplies to last three to five days, including food, water, medications, important documents, cash, pet supplies, and battery-operated devices like radios and torches.
Secure Your Property: Remove or secure any loose outdoor items that could become dangerous projectiles. Clean gutters and check drainage systems to help reduce flood risk. Inspect your property for any tree branches overhanging your roof and trim them if possible. Green waste stations are open and free to help residents prepare for severe weather. The Redcliffe Transfer Station at 263 Duffield Rd, Clontarf, accepts various types of waste, including garden waste and clippings.
Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook
Sandbag Collection: Sandbags can help mitigate the impact of flooding. The nearest collection point for Redcliffe residents is Margate, opposite Margate Depot – Jull Street, Margate.
Any sandbag station listed as “open” is available 24/7.
Moreton Bay Council advises purchasing materials to make your own sandbags or buying pre-filled ones from hardware stores or landscaping suppliers where possible.
Vehicle Safety: Avoid parking vehicles in low-lying areas, under trees, or near power lines. If possible, move them to higher ground or secure garages to prevent damage.
Stay Informed: Regularly check official sources such as Moreton Bay Council’s Disaster Dashboard, the Bureau of Meteorology, and Get Ready Queensland for the latest updates and warnings. Residents are encouraged to keep these sites bookmarked for updates on road closures, sandbag stations, and emergency services.
Preparation is key to reducing the impact of Cyclone Alfred on Redcliffe and Moreton Bay. Residents should act now to safeguard their homes, ensure they have essential supplies, and stay informed.
If you live in a low-lying or flood-prone area, consider making plans to stay with family or friends. Most importantly, never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters—if it’s flooded, forget it.
Redcliffe residents will soon see a significant shift in local regulations as Moreton has banned camping in public spaces. This decision followed increasing reports of safety and public health issues.
The ban on camping in public places, which will take effect Wednesday, 12 March, repeals the previous framework, which allowed for managed camping by those experiencing homelessness.
Reasons for the Change
Photo Credit: New Hope Care
The decision came after many residents expressed concerns about activities in public parks. They reported witnessing drug use, people carrying dangerous weapons, and aggressive behaviour. Additionally, issues such as littering, public toileting, and the presence of used syringes were raised.
Council explained that the previous “Persons Experiencing Homeless Camping Framework” had given them the ability to manage camping, but they felt it was not working as intended. Moreton Bay’s Chief Executive Officer stated that the framework allowed people to camp for long periods if they followed certain rules, such as keeping the area clean and not blocking public access. However, Council has now aligned its rules with other councils in South-East Queensland.
Council’s Stance
Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Council
Mayor Peter Flannery said Council tried to be understanding when introducing the original framework. He said that over time, it became clear that the system was being misused by individuals who wanted free camping. The leaders emphasised that their primary responsibility is to the people who pay rates in the city. They felt that the illegal camping was negatively impacting the community.
Council also stated that some people refused offers of crisis accommodation and instead chose to camp in public areas. They reported that some individuals had specific demands for accommodation, such as certain locations or amenities.
Council clarified that they are not responsible for providing housing, stating that this is the responsibility of the State. They have called on the Department of Housing, Department of Health, and the police to take action.
Community Impact and Feedback
Photo Credit: Chris Forbes/ Facebook
Deputy Mayor Jodie Shipway expressed sadness that people felt forced to live in such conditions. She highlighted the health and safety risks for both those camping and the wider community and council staff.
Cr Karl Winchester reported receiving complaints from schools, community groups, and residents who felt unable to use public parks safely. Cr Adam Hain said the original framework’s intentions were good, but Council had become too lenient.
He shared that some playgrounds had been closed for months due to encampments and that residents were experiencing severe problems near their homes. He also relayed reports of illegal drug deals happening in front of parents at sporting events. Council acknowledged that the change would affect people experiencing homelessness and urged state agencies to assist.
Redcliffe residents have raised significant objections to a proposed seven-storey apartment building on Marine Parade, arguing the development contradicts existing council planning policies and undermines community consultation.
Ian Flint, representing the Waves body corporate committee, conveyed residents’ “deep concerns” during a recent Moreton Bay City Council meeting. He highlighted that the development application for 25 Marine Parade, which outlines plans for five apartments spread across seven levels, including parking and a rooftop terrace, has stirred unease within the community. As Mr Flint expressed, the core issue centres on the perceived overdevelopment of the Redcliffe Peninsula.
He argued that the area is already experiencing substantial high-density residential growth, with numerous high-rise buildings either existing, under construction, or recently approved. Residents question the suitability of another tall building on a relatively small block, particularly given its proximity to existing properties.
A central point of contention concerns the perceived inconsistency between the proposed development and the council’s planning policies. Mr Flint asserted that the council’s own guidelines suggest a two- to three-storey building would be more appropriate for the location. The proposed seven-storey structure, therefore, raises questions regarding planning consistency and transparency.
Furthermore, the development application’s classification as code assessable, rather than impact assessable, has drawn criticism. This classification meant that affected residents and stakeholders were not formally notified of the application, nor were they allowed to lodge formal objections.
Mr Flint stated that the lack of community consultation undermines confidence in the planning process and denies those directly affected a voice in decisions that will significantly impact their homes and quality of life.
Beyond policy concerns, residents have also raised practical issues. Specifically, they expressed apprehension about the placement of waste collection bins in the new development.
The proposed location, which fronts onto a pedestrian crossing and directly in front of the existing Waves building, is viewed as problematic. Residents believe this placement will create an obstruction and inconvenience for pedestrians.
