A local family’s struggle to secure swimming safety equipment for their autistic son at Suttons Beach has highlighted challenges with disability support and beach accessibility in the Moreton Bay region.
Cheryl Warner’s 12-year-old son Jai, who is non-verbal, has been unable to swim at Suttons Beach after an NDIS provider refused to fund a lifejacket. The incident stems from a near-death experience two years ago when Jai unintentionally dragged his carer into deep waters, with an off-duty lifeguard ultimately rescuing them.
Warner’s attempt to obtain a $395 lifejacket was rejected by Plan Partners, citing recent changes to the NDIS Act that restrict equipment funding unless medically necessary. An NDIS-approved occupational therapist, Matt Maree, expressed concerns about liability, stating the request was outside his scope of practice.
Psychologist Wan Garrett noted that while the lifejacket had previously worked for Jai, it would not be funded as an “off the shelf” item. The NDIA reported it had not received a request to approve the lifejacket funding.
The family experienced a contrast during a holiday on North Stradbroke Island, which has swimming safety enclosures. Moreton City Council acknowledged the request but emphasised that beach enclosures are a state responsibility, not a local government matter.
The council highlighted its investments in beach infrastructure, including $17 million in upgrades at Suttons Beach and the provision of beach wheelchairs and beach matting. However, no swimming enclosures are planned.
The upgrades at Suttons Beach does not include swimming enclosures. Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay
Maritime Safety Queensland and the Transport and Main Roads Department were contacted but did not provide substantive comments on potential swimming enclosure plans.
On Monday morning, October 14, a body was found at Suttons Beach in Redcliffe. The grim find was made by a member of the public who alerted authorities after coming across an unresponsive person on the beach.
Queensland Police have confirmed the incident but have not released details regarding the age or gender of the deceased. After initial investigations, law enforcement officials have declared the death as non-suspicious.
The discovery at Suttons Beach, a popular location for both Redcliffe residents and visitors, occurred in the early hours of Monday. Police responded to the scene promptly after being notified.
Authorities have been sparse with information, declining to provide additional comments beyond confirming the basic facts of the case. The police’s decision to classify the death as non-suspicious suggests that they do not believe any criminal activity was involved.
Concept designs for the new Suttons Beach Pavilion have drawn mixed reactions from residents, with some locals calling for the community to have the deciding vote.
Because of the need to replace the iconic pavilion, which was beyond repair and subsequently demolished, a competition was held, run by professional advisors CityLab and endorsed by the Australian Institute of Architects.
The competition attracted 116 registrations of interest. Initially, 25 stage one entries were considered, then narrowed down to a shortlist of three.
The winning design, by lahznimmo architects with Plummer & Smith, was selected unanimously by a panel of five experts, including Queensland Government Architect Leah Lang.
Photo Credit: lahznimmo architects/Instagram
Mayor Peter Flannery expressed his excitement about the winning design, highlighting its potential to provide residents and visitors with a thoughtfully designed multi-purpose building and a refreshed park area for future generations.
Ms Lang praised the design for its deep understanding of the site’s historical and cultural significance. She noted that the design integrates these elements into its architecture and landscaping, creating a space that bolsters commercial viability, accessibility, social connections, and a versatile landscape for everyday activities and events.
lahznimmo architects’ Director Annabel Lahz shared that her team aimed to create a contemporary pavilion that acknowledges the history of Suttons Beach without merely replicating the original. The design includes various features aimed at enhancing the community space, such as indoor dining, outdoor seating, public amenities, and areas for events or art installations.
Community Reactions
Despite the expert approval, the Suttons Beach Pavilion Preservation Group, which had opposed the demolition, gave the new design qualified support.
A spokesperson from the group described the new concept as a “good start” but expressed disappointment over the lack of more prominent art deco features. He emphasised the importance of capturing the pavilion’s past while meeting modern needs and maintaining economic viability for businesses in the area.
Public reactions on social media have been varied. One local suggested that designs should be put forward for the people to decide, a sentiment echoed by her neighbours, who stated that the Council needs to listen to the community and develop a design that truly reflects the spirit of Suttons Beach.
Photo Credit: lahznimmo architects/Instagram
Another resident appreciated the beachy and summery concept, likening it to Palm Springs, and praised the covered walkway extension. In contrast, yet another resident criticised the design, calling it terrible and expressing hope that it would improve with the addition of trees.
Some community members likewise raised concerns about the lack of shelter for hot summer days and lamented the design’s failure to pay tribute to the original structure. Others suggested a design more akin to an island village and found the lack of an art deco look and sun protection disappointing.
However, another individual found the design stunning, calling it the facelift Redcliffe needs.
Project Background and Funding
The former Suttons Beach Pavilion, which first opened in the 1930s as change rooms and a kiosk, was an iconic landmark on the Redcliffe Peninsula.
However, it was not heritage-listed and had been expanded and sections rebuilt over the decades. Major building defects and concerns led to its demolition, costing $1.94 million. The overall project, including demolition and rebuild, is estimated at $19 million, with $11.33 million secured from the SEQ Liveability Fund.
Photo Credit: lahznimmo architects/Instagram
Council investigations in January 2022 revealed the extent of the building defects, leading to the decision to demolish the structures. This decision prompted a grassroots community campaign lobbying the council to restore or rebuild the pavilion.
Mayor Peter Flannery expressed his excitement about the progress around the new mixed-use facility at Suttons Beach and emphasized the importance of revitalising the area.
Cr Karl Winchester described the project as a unique opportunity to return this iconic destination to community use and allow a new generation to enjoy it anew. Council is looking forward to engaging the successful candidates to deliver more detailed building designs for this beloved foreshore location.
As demolition concludes and design development progresses, the community awaits the final version of the new Suttons Beach Pavilion, hoping it will balance modern needs with historical significance.
The Suttons Beach Pavilion, a historic and cultural landmark of the Redcliffe community for nearly nine decades, has been demolished, marking the end of a significant era in the bayside suburb’s history.
Located at 50 Marine Parade, Redcliffe, the pavilion was originally constructed in 1937 as a bathing pavilion and has since hosted countless significant life events, from weddings to casual gatherings.
On 27 March 2024, the demolition was executed amidst a wet and sombre atmosphere. It came after the Moreton Bay City Council decided to rebuild the facility following a 2022 assessment by Covey Associates.
This assessment revealed that the pavilion suffered from structural issues and failed to meet contemporary building standards. Despite discussions about renovation, the council and community ultimately leaned towards reconstruction for practicality and cost-efficiency.
Residents of Redcliffe displayed mixed reactions to the demolition, expressing sadness over the loss of the historic structure and optimism about the future redevelopment.
The Moreton Bay Council has initiated an architectural design competition, inviting submissions from across Australia to shape the new pavilion’s design. Stages of the competition are already underway.
Extensive community feedback on the site’s future use, preferred architectural styles, and the broader master planning for the park, including potential foreshore activations, will also be undertaken to ensure that redevelopment will accommodate community needs, attract tourists, and support local businesses.
“We have invited architects via Stage One to submit an expression of interest in the competition and the jury is reviewing those applications,” the project manager stated.
“We are hoping to advise and publish the shortlisted parties on our website in the coming weeks. The shortlisted architects will further develop their designs which will then be seen and reviewed by the appointed jury members, and the winning design will be announced and shared with the community in mid-2024.
“In terms of activity on the site, Council has been diligently working with our contractor to safely demolish the existing Suttons Beach Pavilion Structures. During the demolition works we have discovered a second old floor slab tucked under Pavilion 2 and material under and behind the existing retaining wall behind Pavilion 2. Both issues have now been addressed with the second slab removed and a new section of retaining wall being constructed.”
“Currently, the contractor is carefully anchoring the retaining wall behind Pavilion 1 to maintain bank stability as the building is removed. Demolition of Pavilion 1 is expected to commence in the coming week. Removal of Pavilion 1 will also include the salvage of the red bricks where reasonable and feasible to do so.”
The demolition signifies the pavilion’s physical removal and evokes reflection on the balance between preserving history and making way for progress. As the community awaits the unveiling the new pavilion design, the legacy of the old Suttons Beach Pavilion will undoubtedly continue to resonate with many.
The award put a cap on what was an extremely successful competitive season for 14-year-old Emily.
She also took home the 2022/23 Sunshine Coast Junior Lifesaver of the Year award, her club’s own Nipper of the Year award, and the Most Outstanding Surf Rescue Cadet award. Emily admits that she was shocked when she found out she won the state-level award.
As part of earning the state’s top junior lifesaving award, Emily was given a $500 educational stipend and the opportunity to take part in PCYC’s week-long ESCape emergency services workshop.
Emily has been a member of the Redcliffe Peninsula SLSC since she was 8 years old in the “Nippers” junior program. She moved up to the competitive lifesaving cadet squad this season as a 14-year-old.
She says she loves being a part of the club, which she describes as being like a big family.
About Redcliffe Peninsula SLSC
Redcliffe Peninsula Surf Life Saving Club is situated along the Suttons Beach coastline just 40 km from Brisbane’s CBD. The club prides itself on providing surf safety and awareness programming for both families and competitive athletes alike.
From September to March, the club offers activities for members ages 5 and up. All equipment is provided free to members.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
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.
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.
Expect a seaside gig packed with live music, fun activities, great food and more as the Redcliffe Festival of Sails unfurls at Suttons Beach on Good Friday. Best of all, entry is FREE!
On Good Friday, the 15th of April 2022, a day of Easter-themed entertainment and activities await families from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. as the annual Redcliffe Festival of Sails returns.
Kids and adults alike are sure to have a grand time at the festival which will feature a host of activities including seven stages of live music, kids zone, sand sculptures by Dennis Massoud of Sand In Your Eyes. There will also be an Easter Bunny meet and greet and Easter Bunny’s Easter egg hunt plus market stalls, pop-up ice cream fair and other fun activities.
Easter Bunny meet and greet | Photo Credit: Redcliffe Festival of Sails Sand sculptures by Dennis Massoud of Sand In Your Eyes | Photo Credit: Redcliffe Festival of Sails
Be sure to arrive early to secure the perfect spot to watch the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race which enters its 74th year this 2022. The annual Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is considered one of Australia’s largest yacht races. Witness entrants set sail from Shorncliffe to the North West Channel up to Caloundra and through to Gladstone as they compete for the Courier Mail Cup.
Two food courts plus a Pop-up Ice Cream Fair and Seafood Lawn| Photo Credit :Redcliffe Festival of Sails
Two food courts plus a Pop-up Ice Cream Fair and Seafood Lawn will be available to satisfy your appetite. From international cuisines to festival classics, the choices are endless.
List of Starboard Food Court food trucks (Southern end)
The Wiener Wagon
Red Oriental
Z’FiANORA Lebanese Street Food
CHIPSTARS
Whatcha Brewing Specialty Coffee Co
Icy Snow shaved ice snow cones
Potato Slinky
Piante Pizza
Rustic Pastel
Jimbo’s Delights
Fresh Gozleme
Patrick’s Crêpes
Jakarta’s
Casa Nova Churros
List of Port Food Court food trucks (Northern end)
Schnitzel Von Yumm Food Truck
Deadwood_pizza
OMG Decadent Donuts Australia
Hierba Santa – Organic Teahouse
Smokin Butts & Racks
El corazon mexican
London Spuds
Joseph’s Hungarian Langos
Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race enters its 74th year this 2022 | Photo Credit: Redcliffe Festival of Sails
The Redcliffe Festival of Sails will be held on the 15th April 2022 at Suttons Beach Park, Marine Parade, Redcliffe. Visit the official website here for more information and a full list of activities.
Work has started on a new apartment complex in Marine Parade, Redcliffe that features a breathtaking view of the ocean and heaps of amenities to assimilate a resort-like lifestyle.
The 124-unit complex, which will be called Mirada Suttons Beach at launch, will be divided across two eight-storey towers directly opposite Suttons Beach. The apartments have been designed with three bedrooms and a balcony for each unit.
Whilst the beach is nearby, residents may also enjoy a dip in the 25-metre swimming pool on the ground floor. Mirada Suttons Beach has been designed with various communal facilities like a gym, games room, barbecue pavilions, and lounges for socialising among the apartment neighbours.
Photo Credit: DA Tracker/Moreton Bay CouncilPhoto Credit: MiradaSuttonsBeachPhoto Credit: MiradaSuttonsBeach
Moreton Bay Regional Council first approved the Marine Parade block for development in 2017 but the community expressed concerns for the proposal, such as issues like traffic, noise, and privacy. After some amendments and a change in the developer, Council signed off on the plans (DA/37680/2018/VCHG/1) in 2019.
Almost 60 percent of the units have been sold with 95 percent of the owners intending to move in once the construction has finished in late 2022. Construction will be simultaneous for the two towers to limit the disturbance within the community.
A fun yet laid-back celebration awaits for this year’s Australia Day in Redcliffe!
Happening on Saturday, 26 January 2019, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., this grand celebration at the dazzling golden sands of Suttons Beach will be filled with music, games, and activities that everyone will surely enjoy.
What to Expect
Be prepared to watch amazing performances from invited guests and bands, whilst savouring a tasty meal from a wide selection of food vendors. The Lamington Eating Competition will also take place, and it will be open for both kids and adults. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get our tummies ready for a bountiful feast!
Photo credit: Moreton Life Magazine / Facebook
If playing sports is what you are in for, you can spend the afternoon with a game of Beach Cricket and Beach Volleyball. Everyone can also make use of these free inflatables by the beach: Shark Slide, Dart Soccer, 3 in 1 Sports Game and Ninja Junior.
And finally, catch the spectacular fireworks display in the evening to cap off this one-of-a-kind Australia Day celebration.
Photo credit: Moreton Life Magazine / Facebook
Stage Programme
Time
Performer
3:00 p.m.
Official Event Welcome
3:10 p.m.
James Tyler
4:00 p.m.
Lamington Eating Competition (Under 12)
4:15 p.m.
Asa Broomhall
5:00 p. m.
Lamington Eating Competition (13+)
5:15 p.m.
The Lighthearts
6:15 p.m.
The Shine
8:00 p.m.
Fireworks
Location
Suttons Beach – 15 Marine Parade, Redcliffe
Cost
Free entry
This event is presented and supported by the Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism (MBRIT) and the Moreton Bay Regional Council.
