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Street Spotlight: Manly Rd, Manly West

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Manly Road in Manly West tells a compelling story of transformation and community stability. Historical records from 1936 show a sparsely populated streetscape that bears little resemblance to today’s established residential corridor.

With 85% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 9 years and 8 months, the street demonstrates strong neighborhood attachment. This commitment to community is further evidenced by the fact that 31% of residents have called Manly Road home for over a decade. The area’s evolution is reflected in its property values – a notable example being 106 Manly Road, which sold for $20,000 in June 1974, a figure that provides fascinating context when compared to current market values. Below, an aerial photograph from 1936 captures the street’s humble beginnings, offering a striking contrast to the 425 properties that now line this sought-after thoroughfare.

Manly Rd, Manly West Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 425
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 9 years and 8 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 31%

Manly Rd, Manly West – As It Looked in 1936

Manly Rd, Manly West in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON ST MANLY RD, MANLY WEST

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
53/312 Manly, Manly West	$800,000	Nov 2024
180 Manly, Manly West	$1,750,000	Nov 2024
357 Manly, Manly West	$1,145,000	Oct 2024
8/320 Manly, Manly West	$760,000	Sep 2024
27/312 Manly, Manly West	$962,700	Sep 2024
2/312 Manly, Manly West	$925,200	Sep 2024
15/320 Manly, Manly West	$720,000	Aug 2024
72 Manly, Manly West	$1,750,000	Aug 2024
493 Manly, Manly West	$1,900,000	Aug 2024
81 Manly, Manly West	$870,000	Jul 2024
12/320 Manly, Manly West	$710,000	Jul 2024
12/250 Manly, Manly West	$650,000	Jul 2024
197 Manly, Manly West	$1,210,000	Jun 2024
473 Manly, Manly West	$1,270,000	May 2024
6/320 Manly, Manly West	$705,000	Apr 2024
200 Manly, Manly West	$1,200,000	Mar 2024
16/250 Manly, Manly West	$635,000	Feb 2024
28/312 Manly, Manly West	$907,500	Feb 2024
80/312 Manly, Manly West	$780,000	Feb 2024
102 Manly, Manly West	$900,000	Jan 2024
487 Manly, Manly West	$1,050,000	Jan 2024
65/312 Manly, Manly West	$850,000	Jan 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON MANLY RD FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
106 Manly, Manly West	$20,000	Jun 1974
175 Manly, Manly West	$55,000	Apr 1980
68 Manly, Manly West	$52,000	Oct 1980

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Manly West in 2024 was $1,000,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Manly West in 2020 was $590,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3-BEDROOM HOUSE IN MANLY WEST SINCE 2020 : $510,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Manly West in 2024 was $1,226,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Manly West in 2020 was $730,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4-BEDROOM HOUSE IN MANLY WEST SINCE 2020 : $496,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Manly West in 2024 was $1,558,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Manly West in 2020 was $777,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5-BEDROOM HOUSE IN MANLY WEST SINCE 2020 : $781,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Manly West in 2024 was $755,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Manly West in 2020 was $393,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN MANLY WEST SINCE 2020 : $362,000

If you know Manly Rd, Manly West well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Parents and Students Voice Frustration Over Parking Changes at Manly West School

Photo Credit: StreetSmarts QLD Gov

Parents and students at Moreton Bay College in Manly West are expressing frustration over new parking restrictions that prevent P-plate drivers from parking on campus, citing concerns about convenience and limited transport alternatives.

Moreton Bay College, a Uniting Church girls’ school in Manly West, recently implemented parking restrictions for student drivers due to construction works that began over the holiday period.

The school initially informed students of the changes in June last year, advising that parking would no longer be available on campus and discouraging students from driving to school. The decision has sparked discontent among students and parents who had planned their transport arrangements around the availability of on-site parking.

Safety vs. Convenience

In an email to parents, the school cited limited parking availability and safety concerns as the primary reasons for the changes. The directive also extends to the adjacent Uniting Church car park, which is now off-limits to students.

Additionally, students have been advised against parking in nearby streets or commercial areas, including the local Bunnings car park. Parents argue that the lack of parking options will create significant inconvenience, particularly for students with after-school commitments such as work and extracurricular activities.

Exploring Other Options

Despite lobbying from parents, the school has yet to provide alternative parking solutions or suggestions. Some parents have called for temporary parking arrangements or shuttle services to mitigate the impact.

Others suggest that the school should have considered staggered schedules or designated off-site parking areas to accommodate students affected by the restrictions.

Voices from the School Community

Many parents and students have expressed dissatisfaction on social media, calling the move “unreasonable” and “inconvenient.” Concerns have been expressed concerning increased travel time and dependency on public transportation, which some claim is unsustainable owing to long commuting hours and insufficient services.

However, some community members support the school’s stance, citing the need for safety and logistical considerations during construction.

What Lies Ahead for Students and Parents?

Moreton Bay College students — *Photo Credit: Moreton Bay College*

The parking restrictions at Moreton Bay College in Manly West remain a contentious issue, with parents and students continuing to advocate for revised solutions. While the school maintains that the measures are necessary for safety and construction purposes, the long-term impact on students’ daily routines remains a concern.

Further discussions between school administrators and families may be required to address ongoing grievances.

Published 27-Jan-2025

Ransome Tragedy: Father and Son Killed in Intersection Crash

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

A tragic car crash in Ransome has claimed the lives of a local father and his four-year-old son after their vehicle collided with another car at a busy intersection.

The devastating accident has left the community in shock after Chris Vrbesic, 37, and his four-year-old son lost their lives in a two-car collision. The crash occurred just before 9 a.m. on Sunday, 26 January 2025, at the intersection of Rickertt Rd and Chelsea Rd, an area where local residents have previously raised concerns about traffic safety.

Mr Vrbesic, a father of three from Manly West, was behind the wheel of his limited-edition Holden Commodore VK Brock sedan when the collision happened. His young son was a passenger in the vehicle.

Ransome car crash — *Photo Credit: Seven of Clubs Mazda Car Club/Facebook*

Breaking Down the Collision: Facts and Figures

Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, where Mr Vrbesic was pronounced dead. His son was transported to Queensland Children’s Hospital in a critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries.

The red Mitsubishi Lancer involved in the crash was driven by a 29-year-old man from Birkdale. He sustained minor injuries. Authorities have not released further details about his condition.

Police reports suggest the vehicles T-boned at the intersection, and the Forensic Crash Unit is investigating whether speed was a contributing factor.

Heartbreak in Ransome: Community Responses

The local and automotive communities have been left devastated by the loss. Mr Vrbesic, a well-known car enthusiast and project manager at Innate Developments, was a familiar face at Joe’s Diner, a popular meeting spot for car and motorcycle enthusiasts.

Ransome community pay tribute to the victims of the car crash — *Photo Credit: Matthew Reberger/Facebook*

Tributes have poured in online, with friends describing Mr Vrbesic as a “family man with a big heart” who was always willing to lend a hand. The Seven of Clubs Mazda Car Club of Queensland, where he was a longstanding member, shared their condolences, stating he would be “dearly missed by all.”

Looking Ahead: Safety Measures and Memorials

The Forensic Crash Unit continues to investigate the incident and has urged witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage to come forward. Authorities will be assessing whether further safety measures are needed at the intersection to prevent future tragedies.

Meanwhile, the Ransome community has begun laying floral tributes at the crash site in memory of Mr Vrbesic and his son, reflecting on the profound loss of a father and child taken too soon.

Published 27-Jan-2025

Modern Asian Flavor Arrives at Wang Chung in Manly

Photo Credit: Wang Chung/Instagram

Wang Chung, a new modern Asian restaurant, has opened on William Gunn Jetty, enhancing the dining landscape of Manly with its innovative pan-Asian cuisine.

Wang Chung is situated at the iconic William Gunn Jetty in Manly, previously home to Tide on the Jetty. The restaurant’s launch on 18 January 2025 marks a significant turn towards upscale, modern Asian culinary offerings in the area. Spearheaded by The Consortium QLD, the establishment seeks to fill a niche in the local food scene with high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients and a unique, shareable menu.

The menu at Wang Chung features an array of dishes that highlight regional produce like Mooloolaba tuna and local prawns, fused with bold Asian flavors. Notable offerings include lobster sandos, barbecued prawns, and master-stock-braised pork belly with soba noodles. The restaurant also presents a cocktail list inspired by Asian ingredients, such as oolong and black sesame, complementing its culinary delights.

Before its rebranding, Tide on the Jetty offered a more traditional dining experience. Wang Chung’s concept introduces a more relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, aiming to attract a diverse clientele with its approachable and innovative menu.

Wang CHung Manly — *Photo Credit: Wang Chung/Instagram*

Menu Highlights

Wang Chung’s menu is a testament to its commitment to excellence and innovation in Asian cuisine. Some of their dishes include:

Bites:

Pacific Oyster with mint and cucumber salsa or white ponzu: $6 each
Hervey Bay Scallop with wasabi butter: $7 each

Small Plates:

Lobster Sando with Japanese mayo and house pickle: $16
Rendang Spiced Beef Tartare with sesame leaf, chilli, coconut: $14
Raw Local Snapper Wonton Taco with nam jim, ginger mayo, kaffir lime: $14

Large Plates:

Master Stock Braised Pork Belly with soba noodles, enoki mushrooms, green mustard, sesame: $60
Market Fish with local prawn tom yum, rice noodles, herbs, fried shallots: Market Price
Smoked Stockyard Wagyu Brisket Red Curry with Thai basil, bean shoots: $75

Sides:

Steamed Rice: $12
Roti: $12
Asian Greens with soy, ginger: $14
Togarashi Fries with Japanese mayo: $14

Desserts:

Salted Chilli Caramel and Dark Chocolate Parfait with Tamarind Cream: $20
Coconut Crème Brûlée with Sesame Snaps: $18

New Asian restaurant Manly — *Photo Credit: Wang Chung/Manly*

VIEW MENU

Operating Hours and Service Offerings

Wang Chung offers distinct dining hours tailored to accommodate both locals and visitors in Manly. Lunch and dinner services run from Monday to Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and extend from Thursday to Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until late.

Commencing Tuesday, January 28, Wang Chung will also begin serving coffee and a light breakfast from 9:00 a.m. daily. This new morning service is available for walk-ins only, providing a casual, convenient option for early risers or those in search of a quick morning refreshment alongside spectacular views.

Wang Ching interior — *Photo Credit: Wang Chung/Instagram*

This expansion of service hours reflects Wang Chung’s commitment to enhancing its offerings and accessibility to cater to a broader audience.

Wang Chung is poised to become a staple in Manly’s culinary circuit, with plans to continue enhancing its menu and maintaining strong community engagement. The restaurant’s success reflects a growing trend towards diverse and high-quality dining experiences in the area.

Published 27-Jan-2025

Expanded Pre-Prep Program Helps Kids Get Ready for School in Manly

St John Vianney’s Primary School in Manly has expanded its Pre-Prep program to help children and their families feel more comfortable and confident about starting Prep.

The school used to offer orientation mornings to introduce children to their new environment. However, they saw the need for a more hands-on approach and have now added more activities and support for both kids and parents. The new program focuses on play-based learning, getting involved with the community, and supporting parents through the transition.

Expanded Pre-Prep program in Manly supports school readiness. — *Photo Credit: St John Vianney’s Manly/Facebook*

What’s New in the Pre-Prep Program?

The updated program now includes Prep Play and Stay afternoons in Term 2, giving children a chance to explore their new surroundings in a relaxed and friendly way. In Term 3, parents can attend workshops and take part in three orientation sessions to help them prepare for the school journey. By Term 4, Pre-Prep students can start borrowing library books to build an early love for reading.

Assistant Principal Religious Education Carmel Smith said the school is also working closely with local kindergartens like Treehouse Early Learning Manly and Wings Early Learning Manly. Throughout Term 3, Year 6 students visited these centres to play with the kindergarteners, helping them feel more comfortable about moving to “big school.”

Parents are happy with the changes. Prep parent Ashleigh Zarif said her son is excited to start school, and she appreciates how the program helps children feel at ease and ready to learn.

Pre-Prep program Manly — *Photo Credit: St John Vianney’s Manly/Facebook*

Helping Families Prepare for School

To support parents, the school now offers sessions on important topics like reading, maths, and building emotional resilience. These sessions also give parents the chance to meet each other and feel like part of the school community.

Carmel Smith’s Top 5 Tips for Parents When Getting Ready for Prep

Encourage independence – Let your child practise dressing themselves and doing simple tasks like putting on shoes to build their confidence.
Create a goodbye routine – A simple routine, like a hug or a special phrase, can help make goodbyes easier and less stressful.
Introduce the teacher – Talk to your child about their teacher and explain how they are there to help and make learning fun.
Get involved in the school community – Go to school events, set up playdates, and join in parish activities to help your child make friends and feel comfortable.
Talk about feelings – Let your child know it’s okay to feel excited or nervous about starting school and encourage them to share their feelings.

With the positive response to the expanded Pre-Prep program, St John Vianney’s Primary School will continue improving how they help children get ready for school. The school is now taking enrolments for Prep 2026.

Published 24-Jan-2025

Teens’ Cupboard Hide-and-Seek Fails to Fool Police in Tingalpa Raid

Two teenagers were discovered crammed into cupboards in a Tingalpa residence after police executed a search warrant in connection with a series of alleged offences across Brisbane.

The youths had squeezed themselves into the tight spaces above the shelves, but their efforts to evade capture proved unsuccessful.

The Boondall Tactical Crime Squad and Hendra Criminal Investigation Branch officers descended upon the Tingalpa property on 15 January following an alleged crime wave that spanned 16 suburbs and stretched from 29 December to 15 January.

In addition to apprehending the four teenagers, police also located an allegedly stolen vehicle at the Tingalpa address. Bodycam footage captured the moment an officer discovered one of the teens awkwardly perched inside a cupboard.

The youth was instructed to climb down and was subsequently handcuffed. A second teenager was found hiding in a cupboard in another room.

Four teenagers, aged between 15 and 17, were arrested and charged with a variety of offences. A 17-year-old from Sunnybank Hills faces the most extensive charges, including multiple counts of unauthorised motor vehicle use, attempted break-in, and theft. He was also charged with fraud and obstruction of police.

A 15-year-old from Redbank Plains, a 17-year-old from Crestmead, and a 16-year-old from South Ripley were also charged in connection with the alleged crime spree. All four appeared before the Brisbane Children’s Court on January 16.

Published Date 22-Jan-2025

Moreton Bay College’s Amelia Sherrard Shines on the National Stage

Moreton Bay College’s Amelia Sherrard is quickly becoming a household name in the world of youth track and field. Her recent performances have been nothing short of extraordinary, with a string of victories that have solidified her position as one of the nation’s most promising young athletes.

Read: Moreton Bay College Alumna Dr Bronwyn Herbert, 90, Named Queensland Senior Australian of the Year

From Netball Court to Running Track

What makes her achievements even more impressive is that Sherrard’s athletic journey began just three years ago when she transitioned from netball to running. Her natural athleticism and commitment to training have allowed her to excel in her new sport, particularly in middle-distance events.

Sherrard’s path to success started at Lourdes Hill College, where she discovered her love for running after participating in school cross-country events. Having played netball throughout her childhood provided her with a strong foundation of fitness to build upon. She began her running journey three years ago, dedicating herself to training twice a week, and quickly found a passion for the sport.

Her dedication paid off, and she quickly progressed to competing at state-level championships. Seeking to further enhance her performance, Sherrard began training with renowned middle-distance coach Brian Norton at the On Track Club. Norton’s expertise in developing speed and endurance proved invaluable, contributing significantly to her improved performance.

The move to Moreton Bay College in Manly West played a massive role in her development. The school’s comprehensive athletic program and state-of-the-art facilities provided Sherrard with the resources and support she needed to thrive. The recent announcement that elite coaches Andrew Iselin and Eric Brown will be joining Moreton Bay College in 2025 is another testament to the school’s commitment to athletic excellence.

A Golden Run of Success for Amelia Sherrard

Sherrard’s string of accomplishments speak for themselves. She secured gold medals in both the 800m and 1500m events at the Queensland Representative School Sport championships and replicated this success at the All Schools Queensland competition.

Her most impressive performances, however, were at the All Schools Australia championships. Sherrard demonstrated exceptional courage and determination to win silver in the 800m, achieving a season-best time of 2:13.21—a result that puts her within reach of the national record. She continued her winning streak with a bronze medal in the 1500m, cementing her status as a force to be reckoned with in Australian athletics just three years after focusing on the sport.

Read: Premium Gumdale Estate Features Five-Pavilion Design

With her sights set on national and Olympic glory, Sherrard’ journey is just beginning. Keep an eye on this rising star—she is destined for greatness.

Published 14-January-2025

Moreton Bay College Alumna Dr Bronwyn Herbert, 90, Named Queensland Senior Australian of the Year

Dr Bronwyn Herbert from Moreton Bay College in Manly West, who became a social worker at 40 and earned her PhD at 90, has been named the 2025 Queensland Senior Australian of the Year.

She received the prestigious award for her tireless work combatting homelessness and dedication to lifelong learning.

Dr Herbert’s journey into social work began after a personal tragedy and witnessing the struggles of others. As a young widow, she was moved by the lack of support for a couple who lost their baby and inspired by her parents’ generosity towards those in need. This led her to pursue a career in social work that lasted 60 years.

During her extensive career, she noticed a troubling pattern: many children who experienced homelessness ended up homeless again as adults. Determined to understand this cycle, Dr Herbert retired as Community Program Manager at Silky Oak Children’s Haven at 81 to focus on her research.

Her PhD thesis, completed at the University of Queensland, explored the factors contributing to intergenerational homelessness. Dr Herbert examined how early experiences of homelessness affected young people’s relationships, education, and job prospects. She wanted to find ways to break this cycle and offer better support to vulnerable families.

Throughout her career, Dr Herbert has been recognised for her outstanding contributions. She received awards for her work at the Royal Children’s Hospital, where she developed programs to support struggling families. Moreton Bay College, where she graduated, also awarded her the MBC Medal in 2009 for her exceptional community service.

Dr Herbert’s dedication to helping others and her passion for learning have inspired many. Even at 91, she makes a difference by sharing the stories of people who have overcome adversity. Her remarkable achievements serve as a reminder that it’s never too late to learn and make a positive impact on the world.

Dr Herbert’s work has significantly improved the lives of countless individuals and families affected by homelessness. Her research has provided valuable insights into the complex causes of intergenerational homelessness and has informed the development of more effective support programs.

Her path to success was not without its challenges. She faced personal tragedies, including the loss of her son, and overcame health issues such as a heart operation and a fall requiring hospitalisation. However, with her family’s and university advisors’ support, she persevered and achieved her goals.

Published Date 08-Jan-2024

Premium Gumdale Estate Features Five-Pavilion Design

Photo Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

A notable Gumdale property at 18 Judd Street has been listed for sale, featuring a distinctive five-pavilion design on 4.47 acres. The award-winning residence, currently listed by Tyson Clarke at Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty, offers 35,972 square feet of living space.

The estate’s main residence spreads across a single level, with five luxury pavilions connected by a glass gallery. Four en suite bedrooms are distributed across three separate pavilions, complemented by multiple entertainment spaces including an al fresco deck and state-of-the-art cinema.

The property features a gourmet kitchen with cool room and a 15-car showroom. Notable architectural elements include reclaimed timber, internationally sourced stone, soaring ceilings, and full-height glazing throughout the residence.

The grounds showcase over 2,000 established plants and trees surrounding a natural freshwater swimming pond. Additional outdoor features include a basketball court and garden gazebo. Two supersized sheds provide extra storage space.

A modern second dwelling on the property offers two bedrooms and two bathrooms. In total, the estate provides seven bedrooms and six full bathrooms.

The property is currently listed at price upon request through Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty.

Published 7-January-2025

Final Design Released for Signalised Upgrade at Wynnum Road and Hemmant-Tingalpa Road Intersection

The final design has been released for the long-awaited upgrade of the Wynnum Road and Hemmant-Tingalpa Road intersection at Tingalpa, which will transition from its current unsignalised setup to one with full traffic light control. This upgrade aims to improve both safety and traffic flow at the busy junction.

Read: Community Engagement Wraps Up on Planned Cambridge Parade Intersection Upgrades

Background

The intersection, currently governed by a “give-way” sign on Hemmant-Tingalpa Road, prioritises traffic along Wynnum Road. Between 2016 and 2023, the intersection recorded 10 crashes, with nine resulting in medical treatment or hospitalisation.

High traffic volumes and long wait times at the intersection are believed to contribute to motorists misjudging safe gaps when turning into and out of Hemmant-Tingalpa Road.

Project Details

Detailed design project plan (Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au)

Set to begin construction in mid-2025, the upgrade includes several major changes:

Traffic Signals: The installation of new traffic lights to fully control all movements at the intersection, enhancing safety for all road users.
Dedicated Turn Pockets: Modifications to the centre traffic islands on Wynnum Road, with dedicated turning lanes on all approaches, helping to separate turning vehicles from through traffic.
Signalised U-Turn Facilities: New U-turn provisions with signalisation for vehicles traveling in both directions along Wynnum Road.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Improvements: New footpaths and kerb ramps, plus a new path along Hemmant-Tingalpa Road, to improve connectivity and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Safety Features: The upgrade will also include pedestrian crossings on two of the intersection’s three arms, enhancing accessibility.

This project is jointly funded by BCC and Australia’s Roads to Recovery Program.

Community Feedback

East Bug Inc, a local cycling and pedestrian advocacy group, was among those who provided feedback on the project. While they acknowledged some improvements, they raised concerns about specific design elements.

“We remain disappointed that the re-modelled intersection will only include pedestrian crossings on only two of the 3 arms of the intersection,” East Bug stated.

The group also expressed concerns regarding cycling provisions, noting that while bike exit ramps are included, there is no clear path for cyclists to safely rejoin the road. “Off-road shared paths and footpaths have limitations (lack of maintenance, poor lighting, drainage issues, over-hanging vegetation, dangerous cross-overs, etc), and sometimes re-joining the road is still the best option to get where you need to go.”

Despite these concerns, East Bug Inc recognised the efforts to address some of their issues, stating, “Wynnum Road features in the Principal Cycle Network Plan, and even with these improvements, we would never rate this as a high-standard route. However we do appreciate the efforts of Council’s design team to provide functional upgrades that we think will address some of the concerns we raised last year.”

Read: Brisbane Metro Expansion Targets Belmont Rifle Range Connection

Looking Ahead

With construction set to begin in mid-2025, the upgrade aims to improve both safety and travel reliability for all road users. Further updates will be provided as work progresses, and the community is encouraged to stay informed and continue offering feedback on future transport projects.

Published 6-January-2025