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Wynnum Manly Seagulls Prepare for a Stronger 2025

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls have wrapped up their 2024 season following a hard-fought elimination final against the PNG Hunters in Port Moresby.

Read: From Brisbane to Italy: Manly Dragon Boat Club Takes on World Championship

Wynnum Manly Seagulls end season in PNG

After getting the 8th spot on the ladder with a Round 23 loss to the Brisbane Tigers, the Seagulls faced the tough challenge of playing away at the Santos National Football Stadium.

Despite starting strong with an 8th-minute try from Connor Broadhurst, followed by a conversion and penalty kick by Bryce Donovan, the Seagulls trailed 16-8 at halftime.

The second half was a battle for possession, but a 59th-minute try by the Hunters and a late field goal secured a 23-8 victory for the home side.

2024 in review

The Seagulls finished the 2024 season with a 10-9-1 record, falling just one point shy of last year’s total. Their home form was particularly strong, with an impressive 5-3-1 record at BMD Kougari Oval. The team kicked off the season with four consecutive wins on home turf, giving fans plenty to cheer about.

Though the season ended earlier than hoped, the club highlighted several key improvements both on and off the field, laying a solid foundation for future success.

Looking ahead to 2025

As the Seagulls look towards the 2025 season, they are excited to announce the opening of applications for their TAFE at School Program.

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Based at the Kougari Oval, this initiative allows high school students to combine their passion for rugby league with education, offering them a unique pathway to both personal and professional growth.

Visit here for more details.

Read: Manly Mourns the Passing of Jan Power, Iconic Farmers Market Founder

As the Wynnum Manly Seagulls reflect on their 2024 season and gear up for 2025, the club remains committed to excellence both on the field and in developing the next generation of rugby league professionals.

Published 06-October-2024

Manly West Local Sentenced to Community Service for Improper Sale of Shared Caravan

A Manly West local has been sentenced to community service for allegedly selling a jointly-owned caravan without her former partner’s consent.

Read: Cycling Incident on Manly Road Prompts Safety Concerns

The 55-year-old woman, identified as Leona Mercia McKinnon, pleaded guilty to a single charge of fraud at Maroochydore Magistrates Court last week.

The court heard that the defendant, who works as a veterinary assistant in Manly West, sold the recreational vehicle to a reputable dealer in Woombye for $27,000 in March this year. The Manly West local allegedly forged her ex-partner’s signature on sale documents and provided a copy of his driver’s licence without permission. The funds were deposited into a joint bank account.

According to the police prosecutor, the woman’s actions were “always doomed” to fail due to the lack of sophistication in the scheme. The victim, who was unaware of the sale, submitted an impact statement detailing the financial loss incurred.

The defence lawyer argued that the defendant’s actions occurred in the context of a relationship marked by domestic violence, describing her as being in a “terrible position” at the time. The lawyer requested that no conviction be recorded.

Acting Magistrate Anna Smith acknowledged the context of the offence but noted that the victim had been compensated for the caravan, a fact not disclosed in the impact statement. She gave limited weight to claims of social, psychological, or physical effects on the victim due to lack of supporting evidence.

Read: Two-Vehicle Accident at Bognor Street Intersection Leaves Driver in Critical Condition

The magistrate reportedly ordered the defendant to complete 100 hours of community service. No conviction was recorded, and no restitution orders were made.

This case highlights the complexities that can arise in property disputes following relationship breakdowns and the legal consequences of unauthorised sales of jointly-owned assets.

Published 1-October-2024

Man Charged with Dangerous Driving in Manly

Photo Credit: myPolice Riverside

A 25-year-old Hillcrest man has been charged with dangerous driving offences following incidents in Manly on Friday, September 20, 2024.

Between 12:30 AM and 2 AM, police received multiple reports from members of the public about a black Ford Falcon driving dangerously in the area, including performing burnouts.

The suspect was located and apprehended at a Carlton Terrace address around 2 PM on Saturday, September 21. He has been issued a Notice to Appear for Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle and is scheduled to face the Wynnum Magistrates Court on December 16.

Law enforcement officials are now appealing to the public for additional evidence. They are requesting anyone in the Manly area who may have captured vision of the vehicle, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to contact the police.

Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Policelink by using the online suspicious activity form available 24/7 at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

The police have assigned the reference number QP2401620669 to this case for all related inquiries and information submissions.

Published 21-September-2024

Community Input Sought on Concept Plans for Cambridge Parade Intersection Upgrade

Two new concept plans for improvements to the intersection of Cambridge Parade, Melville Terrace, and Arnold Street have been released for community feedback.

Read: Safety and Visibility Upgrade Proposed for Manly’s Cambridge Parade Intersection

These designs, developed based on community feedback received in late 2023, aim to enhance safety and traffic flow in the area. An online survey has been launched to gather public input, opening on September 6 and set to close at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 6 October 2024.

Residents are now encouraged to review the proposed designs and share their opinions on the features and benefits of each plan.

Both designs propose replacing Stop signs with Give Way signs on Melville Terrace and Arnold Street at their intersections with Cambridge Parade. They also include plans to reconstruct and extend kerb buildouts, install new footpath sections, and implement minor landscaping improvements.

Design A

Design A features a new raised speed platform on Cambridge Parade, designed to accommodate boat trailers, with coloured road markings indicating the 40km/h speed limit. This plan would introduce 30 formal on-street parking spaces along Cambridge Parade while removing 5 informal spaces.

Design B

Design B, on the other hand, proposes new coloured road markings for the 40km/h speed zone with a garden bed island to the north and a new traffic island to the south on Cambridge Parade. This design would also add 30 formal parking spaces but remove 8 informal ones.

Both concepts aim to improve safety and traffic management in the area while considering parking needs and aesthetic enhancements.

Brisbane City Council has provided additional considerations for residents to keep in mind when evaluating the proposed designs. One key difference between the two plans relates to parking and visibility.

Design A, which incorporates a raised speed platform, is expected to be more effective in ensuring motorists comply with the 40km/h speed limit. As a result, this design requires less parking removal to achieve adequate sightlines for drivers exiting Arnold Street or Melville Terrace onto Cambridge Parade.

In contrast, Design B relies on coloured road markings to promote adherence to the speed limit. While these markings can encourage slower speeds, they are not as effective as physical speed platforms in ensuring compliance. Consequently, Design B necessitates the removal of more parking spaces to provide sufficient visibility for drivers at the intersections.

Read: Cycling Incident on Manly Road Prompts Safety Concerns

Residents are urged to participate in the survey to help shape the final decision on these important local infrastructure improvements. Visit Council’s website to have your say about the plans.

Published 19-September-2024

Manly Dragon Boat Club Paddles into the Heart of the World Championships

Photo Credit: Manly Dragon Boat Club/ Facebook

The Manly Dragon Boat Club recently showcased their skills at the 14th International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) Club Crew World Championships held in Ravenna, Italy. This prestigious event attracted teams from around the globe, highlighting the growing popularity of dragon boat racing.

The championships took place from 3 September to 8 September at the Standiana Regatta Course, a renowned venue for water sports. Crews competed in various categories and distances. This year, the event featured 163 clubs from 30 countries, making it one of history’s largest gatherings of dragon boat teams.

The IDBF Club Crew World Championships transcends mere competition. It celebrates the sport’s rich cultural heritage, rooted in ancient Chinese traditions. The event fosters international camaraderie, uniting paddlers from diverse backgrounds in a shared passion for dragon boat racing. For clubs like Manly, it’s a chance to showcase their training, teamwork, and dedication globally.

Manly’s Quest for Glory

The Manly Dragon Boat Club, known for its competitive spirit and dedication, was among the clubs representing Australia. The team trained rigorously in preparation for the championships, focusing on teamwork, technique, and endurance. Their participation reflects their commitment to the sport and aims to elevate the profile of dragon boat racing in Australia.

Highlights and Performances

Throughout the competition, teams raced in traditional dragon boats, accommodating 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a steerer. Participants’ camaraderie and fierce competition were the races’ defining characteristics. The Manly Dragon Boat Club’s athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the championships.

The event served as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together diverse communities united by a shared passion for dragon boat racing. The Manly Dragon Boat Club’s involvement highlights the importance of sports in fostering international friendships and promoting cultural understanding.

Published Date 09-September-2024

Manly Mourns the Passing of Jan Power, Iconic Farmers Market Founder

Jan Power, the dynamic founder of Manly’s beloved farmers market and a significant figure in Brisbane’s culinary scene, has died at 85 following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

The seminal figure in Brisbane’s community and culinary world passed away peacefully in her sleep on 31 August 2024 at St Vincent’s Aged Care in Kangaroo Point. Known for her vibrant personality and unwavering support of local produce and the arts, Power leaves behind a legacy marked by her passion for connecting the city with the countryside and championing Queensland’s farmers.

Manly’s Market Maven

The Jan Powers Farmers Markets, a name synonymous with quality and community, stand as a testament to Jan’s vision and dedication. Particularly notable is the market held in Manly, which operates every first and third Saturday of the month and has become a cornerstone of the local community.

Under the shade of trees by the harbour, residents and visitors alike enjoy not only the freshest seafood, straight off the boats, but also a vibrant village atmosphere that epitomises Jan’s commitment to celebrating local food and culture.

A Legacy of Laughter and Produce

Jan was so much more than a market founder; she was Brisbane’s first true foodie, infusing her work with humour and a genuine love for fresh produce.

Her motto, “Life is uncertain, always eat dessert first,” and her humorous goal to elevate the reputation of the Queensland choko reflect her approach to both life and food, which was always full of joy and a bit of cheek.

As a former food editor in a news daily and a regular on local television and radio, Power used her platform to advocate for local farmers and quality produce, significantly influencing Brisbane’s food landscape.

From Stanthorpe to Culinary Stardom

Born Jan Bergen on 18 May 1939, in Glen Innes, northern NSW, Jan grew up on a sheep property in Stanthorpe, developing a deep connection to the land and its produce from an early age. Her journey led her to London where she trained at Le Cordon Bleu, honing her skills that would later define her culinary and entrepreneurial spirit.

Returning to Brisbane, she became a celebrated socialite, known for her colourful outfits and striking presence, and began a career that would see her become a major food influencer in the city.

Family Remembers a Spirited Life

Jan’s daughter, Astrid Gates, reflects on her mother’s vibrant character. The family shared a touching moment from Jan’s final days, recalling how her last spoken word was “marvellous” in response to seeing a bunch of yellow daffodils, her favourite flowers.

Her passing coincided with Brisbane’s Riverfire festival, adding a poignant note to her departure, as described by Astrid: “She loved a bit of theatre and wanted to go out with a big bang, so she waited for Riverfire and when the entire Story Bridge went off, she drew her last breath.”

The legacy of Jan Power will undoubtedly continue through her family, with her daughter Astrid Gates and granddaughters Emily, Olivia, and India now at the helm of the farmers markets.

Published 2-Sept-2024

From Brisbane to Italy: Manly Dragon Boat Club Takes on World Championship

In a thrilling development for Queensland’s dragon boating community, around 40 members of the Manly Dragon Boat Club are gearing up for an extraordinary journey to Italy.

Read: Australian Sailing Champions Push to Reintroduce Sailing in Brisbane 2032 Paralympics

This dedicated group will represent their club at the prestigious Club Crew World Championship, scheduled for 3-8 September 2024, in Ravenna, Emilia-Romagna.

This international competition marks a significant milestone for the club, which has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 2006. Founded by Bob White, the Manly Dragon Boat Club started with just 20 members who initially had to borrow a boat from the Chinese Dragon Boat Club for training.

Over the years, the club has demonstrated remarkable growth and achievement. Early successes included a first-place finish in the Minor Final of the Senior A Mixed 20’s at their first State Championship.

Photo credit: Manly Dragon Boat Club/Facebook

The club’s commitment to excellence was further evidenced by their purchase of their own boats and their inaugural participation in the Nationals in 2009, where they competed in the Senior A Women’s 20’s 200m event.

A pivotal moment came in 2013 when the club saw its first members selected for the Auroras, Australia’s national dragon boat team. These paddlers proudly represented their country at the World Championships in Szeged, Hungary, that year.

Today, the club stands as a shining example of community spirit and sporting passion. Operating from within the Wynnum Manly Yacht Club grounds, it relies on grants and sponsorships to develop and maintain its equipment.

Read: Winifred Davenport: The Marine Engineer Who Shaped Manly Harbour

For those inspired by the club’s journey and eager to try their hand at this exciting sport, there’s good news. The club is offering ‘come and try’ sessions on the first Saturday of each month in October, November, and December. Interested individuals can find registration details on the club’s website.

Published 8-August-2024

Australian Sailing Champions Push to Reintroduce Sailing in Brisbane 2032 Paralympics

Australian Sailing has embarked on a passionate campaign to reintroduce sailing to the Paralympic Games in Brisbane 2032, spotlighting inclusivity and community engagement. The campaign centers around the vibrant sailing community of Manly, a suburb with a rich maritime heritage and a natural fit for this cause.

In a decisive move, World Sailing, the sport’s international governing body, unveiled its Para Inclusive Strategy, aiming to make sailing more accessible to athletes with disabilities.

Australian Sailing’s CEO, Ben Houston, emphasized the significance of this initiative, expressing that past Paralympic sailors have been a source of immense national pride. He lamented the sailing’s exclusion from the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games, calling it a setback for the next generation of Australian para Sailors.

A Legacy Interrupted

Para Sailing boasts a proud history within the Paralympic movement, first appearing in the 1996 Atlanta Games and continuing for five consecutive Games until its last appearance in Rio 2016. The sport’s removal from subsequent Paralympics was met with widespread disappointment, not least in Australia, where the sailing community has long embraced diversity and inclusion.

Undeterred, Australian Sailing has made it a cornerstone of its SAILING 2032 Strategy to advocate for the sport’s return, particularly for the Brisbane 2032 Games. Mr Houston reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to collaborating with World Sailing, aiming to bring the sport back to the Paralympic stage. By promoting sailing as a sport for all, the campaign seeks to inspire a new generation of sailors and build a more diverse and inclusive sailing community.

Manly’s Role and Community Impact

Manly, with its strong sailing traditions, is poised to play a crucial role in the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics. The Manly Boat Harbour, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and ideal sailing conditions, is being positioned as a prime venue for both competitive and recreational sailing events.

The campaign to reinstate sailing in the Paralympics is driven not only by competitive ambitions but also by a strong desire to foster community involvement and ensure sailing remains accessible, particularly to those with disabilities.

Sailing is woven into the fabric of Australian culture, and the Brisbane 2032 Games offer a unique opportunity to showcase this heritage on the global stage. The efforts to make the sport more inclusive are not just about growth and sustainability; they are about celebrating and preserving the country’s rich maritime traditions.

Published 8-Aug-2024

Winifred Davenport: The Marine Engineer Who Shaped Manly Harbour

Winifred Davenport, one of Australia’s pioneering female engineers, left an indelible mark on Brisbane’s coastline with her significant contributions to the design of Manly Harbour, now a key gateway to Moreton Bay and future Olympic sailing venue.

Davenport’s contributions to marine and civil engineering have been recognised through various honours, including the naming of the “Winifred Davenport Centre” at the Queensland Maritime Museum in 1989. Born on 18 February 1924, Davenport’s career spanned nearly five decades, during which she played a crucial role in shaping Queensland’s coastline.

In 1950, Davenport joined the Harbours and Marine Department as an associate engineer, where she would spend the majority of her career. Her colleague, cartographer Shirly Webb, described her as “a very calm and pleasant person, gentle-natured and understanding and down to earth. She put a lot into her work but was never strident about it.”

Landmark Projects

One of Davenport’s most significant contributions was her input to the Manly Harbour project. The harbour, which is set to host sailing events during the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, has become a centerpiece of the Manly area, attracting visitors with its marina and seafood restaurants.

Pamela Davenport, Winifred’s cousin, noted, “She had always had a talent with mathematics which eventually led her to pursue a career in engineering.”

*Photo Credit: National Library of Australia*

Recognition and Legacy

Throughout her career, Davenport broke numerous barriers:

– In 1951, she became the first female corporate member of the Institution of Engineers Australia.
– In 1958, she was accepted as a member of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects.
– In 1990, she was awarded the Order of Australia for her service in engineering.

Davenport’s impact extends beyond her engineering feats. Her book, “Harbours and Marine: Port and Harbour Development in Queensland from 1824 to 1985,” has become an invaluable resource for historians and genealogists alike.

Manly Harbour Significance

The Manly Boat Harbour project was significant for Brisbane in several ways. It is the largest boat harbour on the east coast of Australia and serves as Brisbane’s gateway to the Moreton Bay Marine Park, providing access to offshore reefs, wetlands, seagrass meadows, and sandy beaches.

The Manly Boat Harbour is a key part of the local tourism infrastructure and serves as a centerpiece of the Manly area. Its marina, crowded with yachts and top seafood restaurants, attracts visitors.

The harbour is set to host the Olympic sailing events during the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, with a spectator capacity of up to 10,000 people including temporary seating. This highlights its importance as a major venue for the games.

The site is undergoing an expansion project, with MA Financial’s $33 million acquisition of the nearby East Coast Marina to facilitate the expansion. This demonstrates the ongoing importance of the harbour to Brisbane’s development.

Published 6-Aug-2024

Cycling Incident on Manly Road Prompts Safety Concerns

A serious bicycle incident in Manly West has left a male cyclist fighting for his life. The event occurred on Saturday, July 20, at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Manly Road, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.

Read: Two-Vehicle Accident at Bognor Street Intersection Leaves Driver in Critical Condition

Critical care paramedics were dispatched to the scene and subsequently transported the injured cyclist to the Princess Alexandra Hospital. Medical authorities have described the man’s condition as life-threatening, underscoring the severity of the incident.

Details surrounding the circumstances of the accident remain unclear, with local authorities yet to release an official statement.

Road Safety Statistics

Recent data from the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ Weekly Road Fatality Report paints a sobering picture of road safety in Queensland.

As of the latest report, there have been a total of 161 fatalities on Queensland roads in 2024. Around four of these fatalities involved bicycle riders. These statistics underscore the ongoing challenges in ensuring road safety for all users, particularly vulnerable road users such as cyclists.

Safety Recommendations

In light of this event, safety experts are reminding cyclists of crucial measures to prevent such accidents. Key recommendations include:

Wearing high-visibility cycling gear and equipment to ensure motorists can easily spot riders, especially during early morning hours when visibility may be compromised.
Choosing the safest lane position to maintain visibility and avoid potential hazards.
Using clear hand signals to communicate intentions to other road users effectively.
Considering alternative routes to avoid high-traffic arterial roads where possible, as these often present increased risks due to higher vehicle speeds and volumes.

Read: Tragic Turn in Manly: A Storm, a Capsized Boat, and a Community in Mourning

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by cyclists on urban roads. Authorities urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.

Published 22-July-2024