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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

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

A two-vehicle collision in Manly West has left a 30-year-old man hospitalised with potentially life-threatening head injuries. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, July 6, at the intersection of Bognor Street and Wondall Road.

Read: Police Investigate Suspicious Car, Moreton Bay College Lockdown Lifted

Emergency services responded to reports of the crash at approximately 1:34 a.m. Critical care paramedics treated the injured man at Bognor Street before transporting him to Princess Alexandra Hospital. According to a Queensland Ambulance Service spokesperson, the victim’s head injuries are considered potentially life-threatening.

Queensland Police Service confirmed that the injured driver was operating a Toyota RAV4 at the time of the collision. Details regarding the second vehicle involved remain unclear, with authorities unable to confirm whether it was parked or in motion during the incident.

No other injuries were reported, and no additional individuals required medical attention at the scene.

The Queensland Police Service has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. They are urging anyone with relevant information or who may have witnessed suspicious activity to come forward. Reports can be submitted through the official Policelink website or anonymously via Crime Stoppers.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety. QPS continues its efforts to reduce road fatalities and serious crashes, emphasising the need for drivers to avoid the ‘Fatal Five’ behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

Read: Man Dead After Jumping Into Waters at Manly Harbour

As investigations continue, authorities stress that road safety is a shared responsibility and encourage all road users to stay informed about safe driving practices.

Published 9-July-2024

Manly Foreshore Transformed into Living Canvas of Light and Local Lore

Photo Credit: Delvene Cockatoo-Collins

With the unveiling of its stunning new artwork, “From the Hills to the Bay,” Manly Harbour Village is illuminating its shoreline with a vivid celebration of Indigenous heritage and local coastal life.

Created by artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, the series of light projections weaves together the natural history of the area with community stories, casting a mesmerizing glow upon the waterfront.

Cockatoo-Collins, who engaged the community in a twine-making workshop to gather stories and inspiration, has crafted four distinct projection series. Each series comprises four individual designs, painting a multifaceted portrait of Manly’s unique character.

The “Tawalpin” series pays homage to the beach hibiscus tree, known as “tawalpin” in the Jandai language. This coastal tree has been a vital resource for the local Indigenous people, providing materials for spear-making, twine, and even children’s play. The series captures the essence of this intertwined relationship between humans and nature, depicting leaves, nets, fish, and the act of twine-making itself.

The “Quandamooka Sea Life” series dives into the rich marine ecosystem of the Quandamooka waters. The return of the dugong, or “yungan,” and the playful presence of turtles, or “bunbiya,” are celebrated in luminous detail. This series serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of the local environment and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

“Along the Foreshore” looks at the intricate ecosystems that thrive along Manly’s shoreline. The clicking of fiddler crabs, the protective embrace of mangroves, and the delectable kinyingarra oysters are all brought to life through mesmerising projections. This series highlights the interconnectedness of all living things, from the smallest crab to towering mangroves.

Finally, “From the Hills to the Bay” encapsulates the essence of Manly’s landscape, tracing the journey from the lush hills down to the water’s edge. The iconic Moreton Bay fig trees, the majestic sea eagle, or “mirrigimpa,” and the graceful black swan all appear. This series is a testament to the area’s natural beauty and the enduring spirit of its wildlife.

The slow rotation of the projections adds a dynamic element to the artwork, simulating the ebb and flow of tides and the gentle caress of the wind. The result is a meditative and interactive experience that transforms Manly Harbour Village into an enchanting nighttime destination.

This innovative project, a product of the Manly Harbour Village Precinct Project, stands as a shining example of how art can enrich public spaces and foster a deeper connection to the environment and cultural heritage of a place.

Published Date 28-June-2024

WM Seagulls vs Bears: Burleigh Ends Wynnum Manly Win Streak

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls’ impressive four-game winning streak comes to a halt as they suffer a 28-14 defeat at the hands of the Burleigh Bears in Round 12. WM Seagulls vs Bears kicked off Saturday, June 1, at Kougari Oval.

Read: d’Albora Expands Network with New Marina Acquisition in Manly

WM Seagulls vs Bears

The second-placed Bears raced to an early 14-0 lead after scoring tries in the 2nd, 8th, and 12th minutes.

Cory Paix managed to get the first-placed Seagulls on the board with a strong effort from close range. However, the home side trailed 14-6 at the halftime break, with Paix being denied another try moments before the break.

The Seagulls continue their trend of scoring early in the second half, as Jon Reuben crosses over in the 42nd minute to make it 14-10. The Bears respond with tries in the 53rd and 64th minutes to extend their lead to 24-10.

Justin Frain scores out wide for the Seagulls in the 74th minute, but it proves to be a consolation as the Bears add a late try to seal a 28-14 victory.

Onto the Tigers

The Seagulls’ attention now turns to their Round 13 clash against their nearest rivals, the Brisbane Tigers. The match kicks off 3:00 p.m. on June 8 at Totally Workwear Stadium.

Read: The Manly Hotel Unveils Transformed Spaces After Reopening

The Seagulls faithful are expected to turn out in force to support their team as they look to bounce back from the disappointing loss against the Bears.

Published 07-June-2024

d’Albora Expands Network with New Marina Acquisition in Manly

The MA Marina Fund has acquired East Coast Marina in Manly, expanding d’Albora’s network to 13 premium marina locations across the southern hemisphere.

Strategic Expansion

MA Financial Group, a leading global alternative asset manager, has strengthened its presence in the marine sector by adding East Coast Marina to its portfolio. Located approximately 20 kilometres from Brisbane CBD, within Manly Boat Harbour—the largest small-boat harbour in Australia—the marina integrates 535 berths, comprising 295 wet berths and 240 premium dry storage racks.

The acquisition increases d’Albora’s capacity and enhances its offering of full-service facilities including a boatyard, commercial tenancies, waterfront dining, and an on-site marina office complemented by ample parking.

This strategic move is poised to reinforce d’Albora’s stature as Australia’s largest full-service marina network, providing comprehensive marine services in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

East Coast Marina stands out not only for its scale and quality of facilities but also for its commitment to environmental sustainability. The site boasts significant investments in water recycling for boat washing and landscape irrigation, alongside nearly 300 solar panels that generate renewable energy, underscoring MA Financial Group’s dedication to sustainable development within its real estate assets.

Julien Pouteau, Managing Director of d’Albora, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition’s potential to broaden their market reach.

“This latest addition to the network in Southeast Queensland will provide even more opportunity for our brand, allowing d’Albora services and customer benefits to be experienced by more of the Australian boating public,” said Ms Pouteau.

Echoing this sentiment, Julian Biggins, Joint CEO of MA Financial, highlighted the strategic alignment of the purchase with the company’s growth objectives.

“We are delighted with the acquisition of East Coast Marina. The purchase aligns with the MA Marina Fund’s growth objectives and is driven by significant investor demand for exposure to alternative real estate assets,” Mr Biggins stated.

About MA Financial Group

MA Financial is a diversified global alternative asset manager specializing in private credit, real estate, and hospitality. The firm manages $9.6 billion on behalf of clients, is responsible for over $112 billion in managed loans, and has advised on over $120 billion in advisory and equity capital market transactions. With a robust team of over 600 professionals, MA Financial maintains a formidable presence across Australia, China, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United States.

Published 23-May-2024