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Chandler BMX Program Maps Nine Days Of Racing

Photo Credit: 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships

The Chandler BMX program will move from championship practice and finals into four Challenge competition days, bringing riders from more than 40 nations to the Brisbane SX International BMX Centre.

Running from Friday, 17 July to Saturday, 25 July, the 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships will divide its nine-day schedule between the Championship and Challenge programs.

Three Days Decide The Championship Titles

The opening Friday will place the championship field on the track for official practice from 10am to 2pm.

Meet Your Heroes Day will run alongside the session, with selected members of the Australian team taking part in appearances, signing sessions and a live question-and-answer program.

Qualification will follow on Saturday, 18 July. Riders are scheduled on the track from 9:10am until 4pm, with the first race beginning at noon.

The Championship finals and awards will be held on Sunday, 19 July. Track activity will run from 9:50am to 3pm, and the first race is again scheduled for noon.

Sunday’s winners will earn the right to wear the UCI rainbow jersey until the following world championships. The jersey carries bands of blue, red, black, yellow and green.

*Photo Credit: 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships*

Australian Riders Face An International Field

Olympic champion Saya Sakakibara and Gold Coast rider Izaac Kennedy are among the Australians identified as contenders in Chandler.

Sakakibara has won the past three overall UCI BMX Racing World Cup titles. She moved back to the Gold Coast and has spent more time riding the Brisbane track before the world championships.

Kennedy won a Brisbane World Cup round in 2024 before claiming the overall series title that year. He followed that result with silver at the 2025 UCI World Championships.

Defending women’s world champion Bethany Shriever arrives with three world titles and an Olympic gold medal from Tokyo 2020.

The women’s field also includes Canadian Molly Simpson, who won the opening round of the 2026 World Cup, five-time European champion Laura Smulders and Olympic bronze medallist Zoé Claessens.

Alongside Kennedy, the men listed to watch include Eddy Clerté of France, Dutch rider Jaymio Brink, Swiss champion Loris Aeberhard and Colombia’s Diego Arboleda Ospina.

Aeberhard recorded his first two World Cup victories in consecutive rounds before Brisbane. Arboleda Ospina collected the third World Cup win of his career during the opening weekend of the 2026 series in Sarrians, France.

The competing-nations list covers Australia and more than 40 other national teams from across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa and Oceania.

Chandler BMX Program Continues With Challenge Racing

After the Championship finals, Challenge practice will take over the track on Monday, 20 July and Tuesday, 21 July.

Car parks will open at 7am on both days, followed by spectator entry at 7:30am and track activity from 8am.

Challenge competition begins on Wednesday, 22 July and continues for four consecutive days. The first race is scheduled for 10am each day, with awards included in every competition-day program.

Riders will be on the track until 4pm on Wednesday and Thursday. Venue closing is scheduled for 4:30pm on both days.

Friday’s track program will run until 4:20pm, followed by a scheduled venue closure at 5pm. The final Saturday session will place riders on the track until 3:55pm, with the venue due to close at 4:30pm.

All closing times may change if racing is delayed.

Eight-Metre Start Ramp Shapes The Trackside View

The Brisbane SX International BMX Centre includes an eight-metre start ramp, placing riders above the opening section of the course before the gate drops.

Each start follows a random delay of between 0.1 and 2.7 seconds. Riders then receive four lights and four beeps, with the gate beginning to fall on the fourth signal.

Once racing begins, riders can pedal at up to 220 revolutions per minute, approaching four complete rotations each second.

Ground-pass spectators will watch from trackside areas between the start hills and Turn 3. Grandstand seats run along the finish straight, while outdoor screens will operate between Turns 1 and 3 and near the awards stage.

Another screen will be available inside the Anna Meares Velodrome, which also provides seating and undercover protection away from the track.

Entry, Transport And Venue Facilities

About 40,000 spectators are expected across the nine-day event.

Parking at Sleeman Sports Complex and the Belmont Shooting Complex must be booked in advance. Bus routes 250 and 270 stop at the Sleeman Centre on Old Cleveland Road, and bicycle parking will be available near the Brisbane Aquatic Centre.

Ticket QR codes will be scanned through the AXS app. Visitors will also pass through security screening, including bag checks, when entering the venue.

Food and drink outlets, free water refill points, first aid, accessible toilets and an accessible viewing platform will operate within the precinct. Pram storage and baby-change facilities will also be available.

Umbrellas and camp chairs are not permitted. Smoking and vaping are prohibited within the ticketed area, with a separate designated area outside the perimeter.

The published schedule remains subject to change, including adjustments caused by racing delays.

Published 15-July-2026

Chandler BMX Weekend Opens With Rider Access And Family Day

Photo Credit: 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships

Before the world titles are decided, the Chandler BMX weekend will give spectators a close look at championship practice, seven Australian riders and a qualifying day accompanied by family activities.

Final Practice Brings Australian Riders Closer To Fans

Meet Your Heroes Day will begin the public program at the Brisbane SX International BMX Centre on Friday, 17 July.

Spectators will be able to watch the championship field complete its official practice between 10am and 2pm, providing an early view of the riders before qualification and finals racing begins.

The Australian appearance line-up features Olympic champion Saya Sakakibara and four-time Olympian Lauren Reynolds, who are scheduled to take part in a live question-and-answer session.

Meet Your Heroes Day — *Photo Credit: 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships*

Jesse Asmus, Sienna Pal, Jordan Callum, Mia Webster and Zane Bourke are also listed for signing sessions and other appearances. The sessions will provide opportunities for autographs, signed rider cards and photographs.

Asmus enters the event as the reigning elite national champion. Pal won silver in the junior category at a UCI World Championships before moving directly into elite competition at 18, while Callum, Webster and Bourke compete for Australia at under-23 level.

The appearance program remains subject to change because of competition, training, travel, illness or other team commitments.

Car parks will open at 9am and spectator gates at 9:30am. The venue is scheduled to close at 2:30pm, subject to any delays, while adult tickets start from $10.

Chandler BMX Weekend Moves Into Qualification

The focus will shift to racing and family activities on Saturday, 18 July, when Family Day runs alongside the championship qualification program.

Riders are scheduled to be on the track from 9:10am until 4pm, with the first race beginning at noon. Car parks will open at 8am, followed by spectator entry from 8:30am.

Bluey and Bingo are due to appear during three meet-and-greet sessions. Participation is included with event entry, but advance registration is required and places are limited.

Potential activities listed for the day include face painting, photographs, prizes, giveaways and other meet-and-greet opportunities. A scavenger hunt will be available to the first 1,000 spectators through the gates.

Chandler BMX Weekend — *Photo Credit: 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships*

Giant bubbles, stilt walkers and roaming entertainment are also planned, while food trucks and the event village will operate around the racing program.

Family Day tickets are listed at $60 for adults, $40 for children aged five to 12 and $180 for a family. Children aged four and under can enter free. A separate grandstand ticket is required when a child aged four or under will occupy a seat.

The venue is scheduled to close at 4:30pm, although that time may change if racing is delayed.

Two Opening Days Lead Into Championship Finals

The Brisbane SX International BMX Centre sits within the Sleeman Sports Complex at the corner of Old Cleveland Road and Tilley Road in Chandler.

Friday’s practice and Saturday’s qualification program will lead into the championship finals and awards on Sunday, 19 July.

Car parks will open at 9am on finals day, with spectator gates opening at 9:30am. Riders are scheduled on the track from 9:50am until 3pm, and the first race will begin at noon.

Published 15-July-2026

Coorparoo Quilters Hold 42nd Anniversary Quilt Show in Belmont

Photo Credit: Coorparoo Quilters/Facebook

Manly residents looking for a unique weekend outing are invited to a vibrant community event in nearby Belmont, where the Coorparoo Quilters will celebrate their 42nd anniversary with a spectacular biennial show.

Dubbed 42: A Fantastic Journey, the exhibition runs from Saturday 18 July to Sunday 19 July at the Belmont Shooting Complex.

Imagination stitched into reality

This year’s theme draws inspiration from science fiction, fantasy, and adventure. Visitors will be treated to more than 100 quilts and wall hangings reflecting creative interpretations of books, films, and imaginary worlds.

The event will also feature the Cosplay Youth Challenge, giving young makers an opportunity to showcase their talent alongside experienced quilters. Together, the displays highlight how traditional craftsmanship continues to evolve through contemporary design.

Prizes, crafts, and community spirit

Beyond the quilting displays, the weekend offers plenty of activities for the whole family. Visitors can browse handmade craft stalls, enjoy light refreshments, and enter a raffle packed with major prizes. Up for grabs is a sewing machine donated by River City Sewing Centre, a retro-style quilt, a three-day craft retreat, and various gourmet hampers.

With adult entry set at $5 and free admission for children (including high school students), it makes for an affordable family day out close to the bayside.

Supporting local causes

Every ticket purchased directly funds the group’s community work. Coorparoo Quilters regularly produce and donate handmade items to those in need across Queensland.

Recent donations include 150 Christmas placemats for Carina Meals on Wheels, and 175 quilts distributed to major institutions, including the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Redland Hospital, the Lutheran Women’s and Children’s Shelter, and the Quilts of Valour program.

Event Details:

Where: Belmont Shooting Complex, 1485 Old Cleveland Road, Belmont (Entry via Old Cleveland Road).
When:
- Saturday 18 July: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (Last entry 3:00 pm)
- Sunday 19 July: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (Last entry 2:00 pm)
More info: Available on the Coorparoo Quilters website.

Published 15-July-2026

Manly-Lota RSL Leads Nation With New Service for Modern Veterans

Photo Credit: RSL Queensland

The Manly-Lota RSL is making history this month by launching the nation’s first dedicated service specifically designed to honour the unique contributions of modern Australian veterans.

A New Chapter for Local Service

For generations, the Returned and Services League has been synonymous with the major dates that define Australia’s military past. While these moments remain vital to the national identity, members at the Manly branch recognised a growing need to better acknowledge those whose service took place outside of those traditional historical windows.

This new initiative aims to bridge that gap by highlighting the varied roles performed by members of the Australian Defence Force since the end of the Vietnam War. This includes the dedication shown by those involved in complex peacekeeping missions, various homeland defence tasks, and rigorous overseas deployments.

Honouring Modern Contributions

The idea for this event grew from discussions among local RSL members who are still actively serving in the Royal Australian Navy. Bruce Christensen and Fiona Ewington, who helped drive the creation of this service, expressed a strong desire to ensure that every generation of service is valued equally.

Mr. Christensen noted that many who served in recent decades have operated in demanding circumstances that sometimes feel overlooked by the wider public. By formalising this recognition, the branch hopes to reinforce the message that the RSL provides support and community for all veterans, regardless of when or where they wore the uniform.

Joining the Community

This event is intended to be a welcoming environment for all eligible service members, and there is no requirement to be an existing RSL member to attend. Organisers have specifically encouraged veterans to reach out to their former colleagues and bring a mate along, viewing it as a valuable opportunity to reconnect with those they served alongside. The inaugural service is scheduled to take place at the Manly War Memorial in Richard Russell Park.

Following the formal remembrance, a luncheon will be held at the nearby Manly-Lota RSL Hall on Melville Terrace to allow for further conversation and fellowship. Interested participants are encouraged to contact the Manly-Lota RSL for any additional details regarding the day.

The commemorative service will be held on Sunday, 19 July, beginning at 1:00 PM.

Published Date 14-July-2026

New Live Music Series Brings Intimate Performances to Manly

Photo Credit: Mansfield Sessions/ Facebook

Local live music fans are transforming the way they experience performances as a new concert series brings world-class artists to an intimate setting in the heart of Manly.

The introduction of these regular events offers a fresh way for residents to connect with the arts. By converting the local arena into a space designed for listening, organisers are moving away from traditional large-scale concert formats.

This approach focuses on quality sound and a comfortable atmosphere that allows the audience to sit close to the stage. Whether it is a quiet jazz performance or an energetic blues set, the goal is to create a setting that prioritises the connection between the performer and the listener.

The jazz sessions scheduled for Thursday, 30 July 2026, starting at 6:30 PM, will feature the talents of Robyn Brown and The Indigo Collective. This group plans to lead the audience through a range of styles including early blues, swing, and original songs. The focus is on the skill of the musicians, who have a long history of performing in top venues across the globe.

The series also prioritises the discovery of new artists through its dedicated blues nights. The first of these gatherings takes place on Friday, July 24, 2026, beginning at 7:00 PM. This portion of the programme spotlights local acts such as Midnight Sound Machine, Sugarbag Blonde, and Shadie Hadie. By gathering these specific groups together, the organisers hope to foster a local scene where people can find new favourite bands and meet others who share an appreciation for soulful music.

These events are designed to be more than just a concert, providing a space where people can enjoy a meal or a drink while hearing music that is meant to be felt. The organisers believe that bringing original music to the local stage supports the broader creative community on the southside. By offering a consistent schedule of performances, the project seeks to build a lasting home for artists who represent a wide variety of musical backgrounds, from country and folk to rock and soul.

Published Date 14-July-2026

Bayside Residents Keep Close Watch as Brisbane’s Flight Path Review Continues

A renewed debate over Brisbane’s southern flight paths is bringing fresh attention to aircraft noise, with aviation authorities and community groups offering different views on the best path forward.

At the centre of the discussion is the departure flight path review, part of Airservices Australia’s ongoing Noise Action Plan for Brisbane. While community group Transparent Skies Network (TSN) believes another route deserves greater consideration, aviation authorities say aircraft noise can only be reduced within the limits of aviation safety, weather and operational requirements.

The debate has become less about whether aircraft noise should be reduced and more about which approach will deliver the best outcome.

Community group wants Gateway Motorway option explained

Transparent Skies Network has renewed calls for Airservices Australia to provide greater transparency around how future departure routes are being assessed.

The group says Airservices Australia’s consultant identified an alternative route following the Gateway Motorway corridor between Minnippi Parklands and the Belmont Rifle Range. According to TSN, directing more aircraft over existing transport corridors and nearby open space could reduce aircraft noise over homes and schools in Brisbane’s eastern suburbs.

TSN is also calling on Airservices Australia to release comparative noise modelling comparing the Gateway Motorway proposal with the option currently under consideration. The group says making that information public would help residents better understand how decisions affecting local communities are made.

The campaign also cites historical radar data showing that aircraft were once dispersed across a wider area before advances in navigation technology concentrated flights along narrower flight paths.

Airservices says changes are already reducing noise over the bayside

While campaigners are calling for additional changes, Airservices Australia says it has already introduced several measures through its Brisbane Noise Action Plan to reduce the impact of aircraft noise where operationally possible.

One of its key initiatives is increasing the use of Simultaneous Opposite Direction Parallel Runway Operations, known as SODPROPS. Under this operating mode, aircraft arrive over Moreton Bay to Brisbane Airport’s western runway while departures leave from the eastern runway over water whenever conditions allow.

According to Airservices Australia’s 2026 progress update, changes introduced in late 2024 aligned over-water departure paths and increased the altitude of aircraft crossing the mainland coastline. The agency says aircraft now cross bayside communities about 4,000 to 5,000 feet higher than before, reducing noise impacts while flying over fewer people.

Airservices says the use of SODPROPS increased from 1.4 per cent of Brisbane Airport flights in 2024 to 2.63 per cent in 2025. It also reports operational improvements have increased its ability to use the system by about 40 per cent when weather conditions are comparable.

The report states that each over-water departure means about 300,000 fewer people are overflown during southerly wind conditions and about 500,000 fewer people during northerly wind conditions compared with standard operations.

Updated flight paths as of 2026 — *Photo Credit: Airservices Australia*

Overnight trial is testing another way to reduce aircraft noise

Noise reduction efforts are also continuing through a separate Brisbane Airport initiative.

In December 2025, Brisbane Airport launched an 18-month voluntary tailwind data trial in partnership with Airservices Australia and with support from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

The trial is collecting operational data to determine whether more aircraft can safely use over-water arrival and departure routes during overnight hours between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. It allows participating pilots to voluntarily operate with tailwinds of up to 10 knots when strict safety and weather conditions are met.

Brisbane Airport says greater use of over-water operations, particularly at night, has the potential to reduce aircraft noise for surrounding communities. The airport also reported that 63 per cent of overnight aircraft movements between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. had already arrived or departed over water during the six months leading up to the trial.

The second stage of the trial, which includes both arrivals and departures, is now underway and is expected to continue until mid-2027.

Weather and safety still limit over-water operations

Airservices Australia says increasing over-water departures is not simply a matter of selecting a different route.

According to the agency, SODPROPS can only operate when weather, visibility, traffic levels and runway conditions all meet strict safety requirements. During 2025, suitable conditions existed for only 968 of the 4,377 priority operating hours identified for the system. When those conditions were available, Airservices says controllers used SODPROPS about 82 per cent of the time.

The agency says weather remains the biggest factor limiting the use of over-water departures, even though further operational improvements continue to be explored. Flight path design must also account for aircraft performance, interactions with other aircraft, military airspace, airport capacity and national aviation safety standards.

Adding to the discussion

Queensland Senator Paul Scarr recently questioned why aircraft continue to fly over residential neighbourhoods rather than following the Gateway Motorway corridor. In a public statement, he said communities wanted to understand why a route he described as providing the best noise outcome for the greatest number of people had not been adopted.

Gateway Motorway flight path — *Photo Credit: SenatorPaulScarr/Facebook*

His comments reflect concerns raised by some residents and community groups seeking greater transparency around the assessment of alternative flight paths.

Aircraft noise has remained a major community issue since Brisbane Airport’s second runway opened in 2020, and there is little sign the discussion will end soon.

Published 6-July-2026

Wakerley Homeowners Face One of Brisbane’s Biggest Rate Rises Under New Budget

Wikipedia/CC0

Wakerley residents are among the biggest losers in Brisbane City Council’s latest budget, with homeowners facing a 7.47 per cent rates increase — one of the highest rises recorded across the city this year.

The $3.9 billion budget includes major spending on roads, parks, community facilities and transport infrastructure, alongside residential rate increases that average 3.97 per cent across the city. For the typical owner-occupier, this amounts to about $63 a year, or roughly $1.22 a week.

While the citywide increase remains below 4 per cent, some suburbs are facing rises of more than 7 per cent, while others will see little change or even a slight reduction in their rates bill.

Brisbane rates remain among the region’s lowest

Brisbane City Council adopted its 2026-27 budget on 18 June, outlining spending plans for the year ahead as the city continues to deal with population growth, infrastructure demands and rising costs.

LM Adrian Schrinner said the budget was designed to balance investment in local services and infrastructure while keeping residential rates lower than many other councils in South East Queensland.

The budget retains the council’s $60 on-time payment discount for eligible ratepayers. Pensioners will also receive additional support, with the maximum pensioner rates rebate increasing to $1,350.

Council figures show the average owner-occupier rates increase across Brisbane will be 3.97 per cent.

Property values continue to influence rates outcomes

Although Brisbane City Council sets the overall rating structure, the amount paid by individual households can vary considerably between suburbs.

Differences in land valuations and rating categories can result in some areas experiencing larger increases than others. This year’s figures show a wide gap between the suburbs at the upper and lower ends of the scale.

Suburbs with more than 7% increase	Rate
Bulwer (Moreton Island)	7.50%
Cowan Cowan (Moreton Island)	7.50%
Lake Manchester	7.50%
Robertson	7.47%
Wakerley	7.47%
Runcorn	7.44%
Middle Park	7.43%
Mackenzie	7.42%
Algester	7.41%
Corinda	7.33%
Eight Mile Plains	7.32%
Sandgate	7.29%
Brighton	7.24%

Other areas such as Dutton Park, Fairfield and Enoggera Reservoir are expected to see slight reductions in rates, while suburbs including Kangaroo Point and Woolloongabba will experience increases of less than 1 per cent.

The variation means neighbouring suburbs can receive very different outcomes despite being part of the same council area.

What homeowners can expect next

Like councils across Australia, Brisbane is also facing higher construction and maintenance costs, as well as increased demand on local infrastructure as the city’s population continues to grow. These pressures have played a role in the council’s budget and rates decisions for the year ahead.

Updated rates notices will be issued to Brisbane property owners during the next billing cycle. Eligible owner-occupiers who pay on time will continue to receive the council’s $60 discount, while pensioners may qualify for the increased rebate support announced in the budget.

Residents seeking further information about how the changes affect their property can access detailed rates information and budget documents through Brisbane City Council.

2026-2027 BRISBANE BUDGET

Published 18-June-2026

Manly-Lota’s High Melanoma Burden Highlights Importance of New Research

Photo Credit: Wikimedia/reative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

Residents in Manly and Lota are living in one of Queensland’s higher-risk areas for melanoma, with local diagnosis rates sitting 81 per cent above the Australian average, according to Australian Cancer Atlas data. The findings come as Brisbane researchers have completed the world’s largest genetic study of moles and melanoma, identifying dozens of previously unknown genetic regions that may help explain why some people are more likely to develop the disease.

Scientists from QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Herston analysed genetic information from 85,965 people and discovered 24 new genetic regions linked to mole development. The study, published in Nature Communications, is expected to improve understanding of melanoma and may help shape future screening and treatment strategies.

Melanoma Rates Have Remained High Across Manly and Lota

Australian Cancer Atlas data shows invasive melanoma diagnosis rates in the Manly-Lota area are significantly higher than the national average.

The Atlas classifies the difference as likely to be a genuine variation rather than a statistical anomaly. Historical data also shows the area’s melanoma rate has remained consistently elevated for more than two decades, tracking well above the Australian average between 1996 and 2019.

The Atlas also found overall cancer diagnoses in Manly-Lota were 19 per cent above the national average.

While the Atlas does not identify specific causes for the higher melanoma rate, researchers have long recognised that melanoma risk is shaped by a combination of environmental exposure and inherited genetic factors.

Study Focuses on the Link Between Moles and Melanoma

The new study examined the genetics behind what researchers call nevus count, more commonly known as the number of moles a person develops.

Lead author Shanika Jayasinghe and senior author Associate Professor Matthew Law from QIMR Berghofer said understanding mole development is important because moles and melanomas begin in the same type of pigment-producing skin cell known as a melanocyte.

A mole forms when melanocytes multiply and then stop growing. Melanoma occurs when those cells continue growing and become cancerous.

Researchers identified 29 genetic regions associated with mole count, including 24 that had not previously been identified in studies focused solely on moles. More than 250 genes were also flagged for further investigation.

New Genetic Regions Offer Fresh Paths for Research

One of the newly identified genes, known as SIKE1, is involved in regulating immune responses.

Researchers believe the gene may influence the body’s ability to detect and control abnormal melanocyte growth. Further studies will be needed to determine whether this pathway could eventually become a target for future melanoma treatments.

The research also found links to biological pathways associated with several other cancers, including breast, prostate and brain cancers. Scientists say this suggests melanoma may share some underlying mechanisms with diseases that are not traditionally linked to skin pigmentation.

Future Screening Could Include Genetic Risk Scores

The team used the study findings to develop a Polygenic Risk Score designed to estimate a person’s inherited tendency to develop large numbers of moles.

While still in the research stage, the approach could eventually help doctors identify people who face a greater risk of melanoma and may benefit from closer monitoring.

The study also reinforced previous evidence that people with high mole counts face a greater likelihood of developing melanoma. Researchers found strong genetic overlap between the factors that influence mole numbers and those linked to melanoma risk.

Early Detection Remains Critical

Despite significant advances in treatment over the past decade, melanoma remains Australia’s deadliest form of skin cancer and claims around 1,400 lives nationally each year.

Researchers stress that genetic discoveries are not a substitute for established prevention measures. Regular skin checks, protective clothing, sunscreen use and limiting exposure to ultraviolet radiation remain important tools for reducing melanoma risk.

For communities such as Manly and Lota, where melanoma rates remain substantially higher than the national average, the latest research may help improve future screening programs and identify those most at risk before the disease develops.

Published 17-June-2026

Manly and Bayside Suburbs Among Big Winners in Brisbane’s Biggest-Ever Pothole Repair Push

Manly and its neighbouring suburbs each picked up a share of 246 pothole repairs during Brisbane’s biggest-ever repair blitz, completed across Bayside in just five days in May 2026.

Read: Bridge Business Case Funding Unlocks Next Step For Rickertt Road Upgrade

The citywide “Big Fill” campaign, run by Brisbane from May 19 to 23, saw crews tackle more than 1800 potholes across Brisbane following heavy rainfall on May 18 and 19 that opened up fresh damage across the city’s 5700-kilometre road network. The results were felt across a string of Bayside suburbs.

Wynnum West came out on top among Bayside suburbs, recording 84 pothole repairs during the blitz period. Gumdale followed with 67 fixes, and Murarrie notched up 32. Wakerley and Ransome each had 13 potholes filled, Chandler recorded 12, and Wynnum nine. Manly itself had five repairs completed, with Manly West accounting for four.

Photo credit: Instagram/BCC

The repair push was fuelled in part by residents picking up the phone and flagging problem spots. Across the Bayside area, 93 customer reports were lodged during the campaign. Murarrie generated the most contacts with 20 reports, followed by Tingalpa on 14, Hemmant on 10, and Wakerley on nine. Manly West submitted seven reports, Chandler and Wynnum each logged six, while Lytton and Manly both recorded four contacts each.

At its peak on May 21, crews across Brisbane filled a record 565 potholes in a single day, meaning a pothole was being patched roughly every two minutes. Around 100 tonnes of asphalt were used across the five-day operation. Before the blitz, the daily average sat at 157 repairs city-wide.

Cr Adrian Schrinner said the campaign demonstrated the city’s ability to respond quickly when wet weather hits. He said Brisbane residents became the city’s eyes on the road, with every report helping crews track down and fill damage faster. He added that when heavy rain punches holes in roads, the response is to get out there immediately rather than wait for dry conditions.

Read: Man Critical Following Motorcycle Collision On Old Cleveland Road

The blitz is part of a busy year of repairs already underway. By the end of April, Brisbane’s road crews had already filled 47,645 potholes across the network. More than 1134 potholes were reported by residents during the “Big Fill” campaign alone, helping crews respond faster to damaged roads.

Anyone who spots a pothole can call 3403 8888 or lodge a request through the Brisbane City website.

Published 10-June-2026

Manly Boathouse Lodges Plans for Major Waterfront Expansion

Photo credit: Manly Boathouse

A development application has been lodged to significantly expand the Manly Boathouse restaurant and function facility at Manly Marina.

Read: Fresh Catch: Manly Boathouse Launches New Seafood Market The Trawler

The application was submitted to Brisbane City in May 2026, seeking approval to extend the existing venue at 34 Fairlead Crescent into the vacant land sitting to its west.

Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online – A007024544

The proposal, designed by JA Design, calls for a two-storey building alongside a single-storey private dining area that would physically connect the new structure to the existing seafood restaurant. According to application documents lodged with Brisbane, the extension would cover a gross floor area of around 908 square metres, nearly doubling the venue’s existing floor area.

What the Expansion Includes

The new two-storey building would deliver a ground floor of 612 square metres and a mezzanine of 197 square metres, while a dedicated private dining area would add a further 99 square metres. The building would stand 8.868 metres tall, within the precinct’s three-storey allowance.

Manly Boathouse — Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online – A007024544

Alongside the new structure, the plans include additional kitchen space, a bar, staff room, toilets, indoor and outdoor dining areas, landscaping, and five new on-site car parking spaces including accessible parking, according to documents published on Brisbane City Council’s development portal.

The venue would operate under a dual-use model. From Thursday to Sunday, the extended spaces would function as a food and drink outlet, while Mondays to Wednesdays would be reserved for use as a function facility, targeting small-scale events such as weddings during periods of lower activity at the marina. The existing approved operating hours of 6am to midnight would remain in place, with noise management controls including music level restrictions and limited delivery hours between 7am and 6pm.

The proposal also relies partly on shared parking across the broader marina precinct rather than exclusively on-site spaces, a point addressed in the town planning report submitted with the application.

Read: Take A Look Inside The Newly Opened Manly Boathouse

A Site Ready for Its Next Chapter

Willowtree Planning, in documents included with the application, noted there is existing support from the Transport and Main Roads Department to see the undeveloped land to the west of the boathouse put to better use. The department, as the Manly Boat Harbour owner, has offered conditional consent to the application, though it noted it may require all or part of the works to be removed at the end of the boathouse’s current lease. That lease is set to expire in 2030, with options available to renew.

Planners added that the proposal is substantially compliant with the Brisbane City Planning Scheme 2014, sitting within the Wynnum-Manly Neighbourhood Plan and zoned as a Specialised Centre (Marina).

The application remains before Brisbane City for assessment.

Published 2-June-2026