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Police Investigate Suspicious Car, Moreton Bay College Lockdown Lifted

Moreton Bay College in Manly West was swiftly placed into lockdown in response to a reported suspicious vehicle, with Queensland Police promptly summoned to the scene.

Early on Tuesday morning, 16 April 2024, Moreton Bay College experienced a situation when a suspicious car was reported on its Wondall Rd campus. Queensland Police were alerted and arrived at the school by 9:15 a.m.

The school administration, taking no chances, initiated a lockdown as a team of officers conducted a comprehensive sweep of the area.

Multiple units responded to the potential threat during the police operation. Officers methodically searched the premises but found no suspect vehicle on the school grounds. After ensuring the area was secure, the lockdown was lifted at approximately 9:55 a.m. and students were informed that it was safe to resume their activities.

Richard Henry, the executive principal of Moreton Bay College, reassured the public and school community following the incident.

“Earlier today, Moreton Bay College initiated our lockdown procedures as a precautionary measure in regard to a suspect vehicle at our Wondall Rd campus at Manly West,” Mr. Henry stated. He highlighted the efficiency of the lockdown procedures and the rapid response of the police.

“Everyone is safe and support is being provided to students and members of the college community in regard to this matter,” he added.

The quick resolution of the incident minimised disruption to the school day, and educational activities were promptly resumed. The school has pledged ongoing support to all students and staff affected by the morning’s events, ensuring a continued focus on safety and well-being.

Published 21-April-2024

The Manly Hotel Unveils Transformed Spaces After Reopening

After recently reopening its doors to the public, the iconic Manly Hotel has finally revealed its transformed spaces. The renovated venue showcases a modern aesthetic whilst preserving its historic charm.

Read: The Manly Hotel Celebrates Its Centennial with $7M Renovation

The hotel, which has been a fixture in the Manly community for exactly 100 years in 2024, was recently taken over by hospitality group Endeavour and has undergone a $7 million revamp.

The refurbished hotel boasts an impressive 54 taps across five new bars, offering patrons an extensive selection of beverages.

The hotel’s new design incorporates natural elements, with the designers adding lush greenery throughout the various bar spaces to create a fresh, inviting atmosphere. The iconic Manly bell has also been preserved and will take pride of place within the revamped hotel.

In addition to the expanded bar offerings, the venue now features a full-service restaurant with an à la carte menu, a sprawling terrace dining area, a lively sports bar, and over 20 accommodation rooms.

A representative for the hotel stated that they have been listening closely to the local community to ensure they create the perfect environment for them. They expressed confidence that they have hit all the right notes and can’t wait for everyone to experience the new and improved venue.

The hotel will soon introduce the ‘Manly Seafood Tower’ (Photo credit: The Manly Hotel/Instagram)

The chefs worked tirelessly to develop the opening menu, which features a range of delectable offerings. Sneak peeks shared on the hotel’s social media channels have already got locals salivating, with mouth-watering images of their “Manly Seafood Tower” and various steak options.

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

With its revamped interior and updated amenities, the Hotel has positioned itself to remain an enduring destination for both locals and visitors alike. By skillfully blending contemporary style with nods to its storied past, the iconic venue aims to uphold its reputation as a cherished gathering place for years to come.

Follow them on Facebook on Facebook and Instagram for further updates.

Published 15-April-2024

Ferry Operator Revives Brisbane to North Stradbroke Island Route, Adds ‘Manly Shuttle’ Service

After temporarily suspending operations, River to Bay has decided to resume its fast ferry service, whilst introducing a new ‘Manly Shuttle’ route, providing seamless connectivity for passengers embarking on the journey from the city.

Read: New Ferry Service Offers Fast Trips to Stradbroke from Manly

River to Bay has reached an agreement to pay the necessary charges after initially cancelling their services due to what they called “exorbitant” fees imposed by the local council for using a public jetty on the island.

This paves the way for their fast ferry service to recommence shuttling passengers from Brisbane River to North Stradbroke Island.

“This is a massive undertaking for our small business, and we need your support to make it work. I know not everyone will like our plan, our timetable, our pricing, our business model or even our boats BUT so many good people have got behind us and that has encouraged us to keep going,” the company said in a Facebook post.

The “Straddie Shuttle” ferry services from Manly to Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island will resume operations next Saturday, March 30, whilst Manly Shuttle will also commence that day. They will run all services on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with the potential to add more days to the schedule if demand warrants it.

They commenced operations on March 1, offering direct connections between Hamilton Wharf, Manly, and the island’s One Mile jetty. However, the company announced that services would cease on Sunday, citing prohibitive annual fees of $78,000 allegedly demanded by the Redland City Council for their two vessels to dock at the island’s public pontoon.

The operators expressed frustration, alleging that the council’s actions were effectively stifling tourism to the island. They claimed to have been notified of the substantial fee hike just a day before the service’s launch, leaving them blindsided.

Despite efforts to plead with the council to reassess the “exorbitant” fees, the company grudgingly halted services, citing the regulatory and financial constraints as unsustainable. They contrasted the council’s approach with that of Brisbane City Council, where ferry operators are not charged fees to use public jetties.

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

Regarding this issue, Redland City council defended its position, stating that it has an approved schedule of fees applicable to all commercial operators using council-owned or managed jetties. The council cited the need to maintain jetties in good working order and alleviate the cost burden on ratepayers as justification for the fees.

Published 22-March-2024

Man Comes Forward as $2M Winner from Wynnum Manly Leagues Club

The mystery surrounding the recipient of a staggering $2.2 million prize has finally been dispelled, ending days of speculation at the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club in Manly West.

The massive windfall, drawn last Thursday, 14th March 2024, had remained unclaimed, igniting considerable curiosity about the lucky individual.

A Hamilton man has emerged as the fortunate winner, confirming that he had purchased the winning entry in draw 852 at the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club. The announcement came amidst intense anticipation as patrons and onlookers eagerly awaited news of the jackpot’s recipient.

The club’s manager expressed astonishment, noting that this win marked the largest prize claimed by anyone at the establishment in “years and years.” The revelation sparked significant discussions among patrons, highlighting the enduring appeal and interest in the game.

Wynnum Manly Leagues Club — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Preferring to remain anonymous, the Hamilton man still grappled with disbelief. He confessed to not having concrete plans yet but acknowledged that the windfall would undoubtedly bring about new opportunities for himself and his family.

Reflecting on the surreal nature of his newfound fortune, the winner expressed his astonishment at the realisation that his long-standing numbers had clinched the victory. Despite the initial shock, he expressed optimism about the positive impact the prize would have on his family’s future.

In 2023, players across the eastern states of mainland Australia collectively celebrated over 67.31 million wins, surpassing a cumulative worth of $1 billion. This staggering figure underscores the game’s enduring popularity and widespread success among Australians.

Published 22-March-2024

Fire Mitigation Works at Scribbly Gums Conservation Area, Alexandra Hills

The Conservation Unit in Redland will be conducting fire mitigation works in the bushland area of Scribbly Gums Conservation Area, located in Alexandra Hills.

Weather permitting, these efforts aim to fortify the region against potential fire hazards. They are scheduled for Thursday, 21st, and Friday, 22nd of March 2024.

The primary objective of these fire mitigation works is to eliminate combustible vegetation, including grasses, shrubs, and dead tree debris, particularly near the Magic Mountain Bike Track. Additionally, the initiative seeks to establish and reinforce control lines within the conservation area.

The Council aims to facilitate future maintenance activities and planned burn operations within the bushland area in the ensuing weeks by undertaking these measures.

Scribbly Gums — *Photo Credit: Paige Cole/Google Maps*

As part of the fire mitigation efforts, the Magic Mountain Bike Track will remain closed on Thursday and Friday to ensure the safety of the public and workers involved in the undertaking. Access to the track will be restricted, with signage and barrier mesh installed at track entrances to deter entry during the scheduled works.

Council personnel will utilise noisy equipment during the fire mitigation works. The Council acknowledges potential disruptions this may cause and extends apologies for any inconvenience experienced by local residents or visitors to the area.

Published 22-March-2024

Seagulls vs Dolphins: Old Gulls Day Rivalry Clash

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls are gearing up for a highly anticipated Hostplus Cup clash against the Redcliffe Dolphins this Sunday, March 24, at BMD Kougari Oval. Seagulls vs Dolphins promises to be a thrilling spectacle for local residents and dedicated fans alike.

Read: Manly West Restaurateur Fights Hefty Fine Over Outdoor Seating

Thrilling victory over Capras in the BMD Premiership

Heading into Old Gulls Day, the Seagulls are riding high on the momentum of a hard-fought 24-22 victory over the Central QLD Capras in Rockhampton last weekend. The BMD Premiership team showcased remarkable resilience, weathering an early storm to establish a commanding 18-0 lead, courtesy of tries from Lilly Green, Julia Robinson, Destiny Mino-Sinapati, and Karina Brown.

Despite the Capras’ spirited comeback, which narrowed the gap to just two points, the Seagulls held their nerve, with Destiny Mino-Sinapati scoring a crucial try and Brianna Clark converting to secure the 24-22 triumph.

In the Hostplus Cup, however, the Seagulls experienced a setback in their season opener, suffering a 36-22 loss away against the Hunters on March 9.

Old Gulls Day festivities

This Sunday’s clash against the Redcliffe Dolphins holds special significance as it marks both the QRL’s Rivalry Round and the Seagulls’ Old Gulls Day celebration. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as the two teams renew their storied rivalry on the field.

Rugby league enthusiasts can catch all the action from the BMD Premiership and Hostplus Cup matches, which will be broadcast live and free on Kayo Freebies, Channel 9Now, and QPlus TV.

The BMD Premiership match against the Tigers kicks off at 1:35 PM, while the Seagulls vs Dolphins Hostplus Cup clash will round out the day’s proceedings at 3:40 PM.

WM Seagulls vs Dolphins: last year’s matchup

In a closely contested match, the Seagulls edged out their rivals by a mere two points, with a conversion from Josh Rogers separating the two sides in a 28-26 scoreline.

Read: The Manly Hotel Celebrates Its Centennial with $7M Renovation

With the fervour of the Rivalry Round and Old Gulls Day festivities, fans can expect an unforgettable day of top-notch rugby league action at BMD Kougari Oval.

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls are proudly sponsored by

Published 21-March-2024

Manly West Restaurateur Fights Hefty Fine Over Outdoor Seating

The owner of Casa di Louie in Manly West is taking legal action over a hefty fine issued for setting up an outdoor dining area three years ago.

Read: Manly West Shopping Centre Looks to Grow with Expansion Plans

The owner of the popular Italian eatery is reportedly headed to the magistrates court to contest the penalty amounting to $15,480.

The controversy started in 2021 when the restaurateur was offered a 10-year lease by the landlord of a retail space on Radford Road. After signing a letter expressing his need for additional room, the owner alleges the landlord’s representative proposed utilising three of the precinct’s 95 parking spots for expanded seating.

Recognising the necessity of separating diners from vehicles, the restaurateur hired a builder, who informed him that council approval would be required for such an arrangement. When he contacted the council’s business hotline, officials stated that the proposed outdoor expansion would not be permitted.

At this point, the owner claims he informed the landlord of his willingness to terminate the lease agreement. However, he alleges the landlord’s agent advised him to proceed with the outdoor seating expansion despite the council’s stance against it.

The agent representing the landlord corroborated that he verbally relayed to the restaurateur his understanding, based on “high-level” advice from a town planner, that extending the outdoor dining area would not pose an issue.

Although it technically exceeded the precinct’s originally approved gross leasable area, the agent noted the carpark had never reached full capacity.

The agent asserted that the council had never issued the restaurateur a show-cause notice or offer to remedy the situation, which he insisted was the crux of the matter.

The restaurateur stated that for three years after the expansion, he received no communication from the council until October of the previous year when they informed him of a single complaint pertaining to “safety.” However, the council declined to disclose the complainant’s identity or provide the investigation report, only citing concerns about “manoeuvrability” in the area.

A council spokeswoman explained that they had repeatedly made it clear to the restaurateur that the infringement was a result of installing an outdoor dining area without approval and against the advice they had provided.

Read: European-style Mobile Restaurant to Roll Out Soon

Whilst acknowledging the resident’s frustration, she stated the council was obligated to investigate complaints, and the situation could have been avoided had the restaurateur followed their initial guidance.

Published 14-March-2024

Residents Evacuated After Shed Fire in Manly

Photo Credit: Facebook / Brett Tranter

Manly residents were evacuated from their homes Thursday evening after a shed caught on fire, authorities report.

The fire broke out around 5:40 pm in a shed located at a residence on the corner of Ernest Street and School Lane. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services rushed multiple crews to the scene after receiving reports of explosions coming from the burning shed.

There were initial reports of explosions which prompted an immediate evacuation of surrounding homes as a safety precaution.

A Queensland Ambulance Services spokeswoman confirmed that no injuries were reported from the incident. Firefighters were able to get the blaze under control by 7:05 pm, nearly an hour and a half after the first calls came in.

Fire crews remain on site investigating the cause of the shed fire.

Authorities have not released any details about potential damage to surrounding properties or the suspected origin of the flames. More information will be provided as it becomes available from emergency personnel.

Published 14-March-2024

Historic Manly Mansion Hits Market for First Time in 60 Years

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

The historic Cloncrew estate at 12 Valetta Street, an original Spanish Mission-style Manly mansion, hits the market for the first time in 60 years after being owned by the same family for seven decades.

Built in 1938 by renowned Brisbane architect Eric Percival Trewern for barrister Dennis O’Connor, who had longstanding ties to Manly dating back to 1898, the sprawling 2,548 square meter hilltop property offers a grand blend of Spanish mission architecture and Art Deco design.

Its prime waterfront location captures stunning panoramic views of Moreton Bay and the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron marina that many Manly residents know and love.

“Cloncrew is truly one of our area’s landmark estates and most significant remaining historic properties,” said Danny Day of Ocean Realty, who is marketing the property. “Its original condition is immaculately preserved.”

Indeed, many of Cloncrew’s breathtaking original details remain intact, including soaring ornate ceilings, glazed lead-light double doors, walls veneered in rich Queensland timbers, and the home’s pièce de résistance — a spectacular semicircular Piazza terrace overlooking the bay.

Other standout period features are the grand living room’s cantilevered fireplace with Helidon freestone and carved timber mantle, the elegant dining room with servery window, and the opulent main bathroom’s Terrazzo floors and handmade Italian tiled shower.

While the kitchen has been updated, Day notes there is opportunity for the new owners to pursue further modernisation or additions like a glass atrium, subject to heritage approvals to preserve Cloncrew’s history and architectural integrity.

The property has already drawn interest from local buyers, as well as house hunters from Sydney and Melbourne, just days after hitting the market.

“This is really a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own an irreplaceable piece of Manly’s rich history and community fabric,” Day said. “I envision the new owners will be blown away by Cloncrew’s beauty and pedigree, and committed to honouring its past while adding their own vision.”

An indicative sale price is available by application, reflecting the property’s immense historic value and significance to Manly’s character. Locals will surely be watching with anticipation as this iconic estate finds its new custodians.

Published 29-February-2024

The Manly Hotel Celebrates Its Centennial with $7M Renovation

The historic Manly Hotel is undergoing a $7-million renovation and expansion ahead of its 100th anniversary celebrations this year. The historic seaside pub, owned by The Endeavour Group, will reopen in late March or early April with five new bars, 50 taps, a restaurant, gaming room, courtyard, and more.

The Manly Hotel upgrade led by hospitality giant

After taking over The Manly Hotel in 2021, The Endeavour Group is leading the venue’s revitalization. The Australian hospitality corporation already operates over 330 venues across the country. The renovation project began last March and is on track for completion this spring.

When finished, The Manly will feature five bars with 54 taps in total, a full-service restaurant with an a la carte menu, al fresco terrace dining, an outdoor courtyard, a dedicated sports bar, over 20 rooms of accommodations, a gaming lounge, and a bottle shop. The variety of offerings aims to appeal to a wide patronage.

Community support for historic pub

According to Manly Hotel manager Antoinette Simic, the bayside venue has always been the “heart of the community” with a loyal local following. She says the community response on social media during the renovation has been “overwhelming” and buzzing with excitement. The goal is to make patrons feel part of the iconic pub’s history.

The extensive renovations have also created approximately 50 new employment opportunities at The Manly. Recruitment is underway to fill the new roles ahead of the reopening.

The newly renovated Manly Hotel plans special events and offerings to celebrate its 100th birthday this year. After half-a-century under the McDonald family, the pub will welcome its next century with The Endeavour Group at the helm.

Published 21-February-2024