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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

New Ferry Service Offers Fast Trips to Stradbroke from Manly

A new high-speed ferry service launching from Manly next month will provide an alternative way to reach North Stradbroke Island without going through Cleveland.

Read: MA Financial’s $33 Million Acquisition to Deliver Manly Harbour Expansion

Tour operator River To Bay announced that starting March 1, its fast boats will run multiple trips per day between Stradbroke and Brisbane. Departures will be from Manly and Hamilton up to six days a week.

According to a spokesperson from the company, the target market is tourists and daytrippers wanting a quicker journey to the island.

The journey time will be just 30 minutes from Manly, versus an hour from Hamilton. The boats can hold between 28 and 38 passengers and are designed for an adventurous, albeit potentially wet ride.

Passengers will meet the ferry at Manly Harbour’s William Gunn Jetty on Wyvernleigh Close, and the boat will arrive at One Mile Jetty on Dunwich.

The new Stradbroke ferry service includes a choice of one way or return tickets, life vests, bathrooms on board, and knowledgeable local staff to assist passengers in planning their time on the island.

In the past, River To Bay operated tours but not a regular ferry service. The new owners decided to restart passenger transport to Stradbroke, announcing the decision on social media earlier this month.

Bookings are recommended to guarantee a spot, but walk-on passengers can also pay on board. The first few days are fully booked, with tickets already up for grabs for Manly trips starting in March.

The company stated that the new service will hopefully provide economic benefits to Stradbroke residents and businesses that have struggled to attract tourists from Brisbane. The company also clarified that they do not aim to take business away from the Cleveland ferries used by locals.

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

For more details, including timetable and ticket prices, visit River to Bay’s website.

Published 19-February-2024

MA Financial’s $33 Million Acquisition to Deliver Manly Harbour Expansion

MA Financial has made a significant move in the maritime sector by acquiring East Coast Marina in Manly Harbour for $33 million amidst a surge in development within the alternative asset class.

The purchase of East Coast Marina, located 20km south of Brisbane CBD, was facilitated through an expressions-of-interest sale conducted by McVay Real Estate in August 2023. This acquisition, the 13th marina purchase for the group, expands its portfolio significantly.

The site includes 330 berths, dry storage for 240 vessels, 595 sq m of commercial buildings, and 160 carparks, making it a substantial addition to MA Financial’s holdings.

East Coast Marina Manly Harbour — Photo Credit: Google Maps

MA Financial already holds marinas at Rushcutters Bay, The Spit, Batemans Bay, Port Macquarie, and Cabarita Point in Sydney Harbour, as well as two near Melbourne CBD.

This latest transaction underscores the company’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio and capitalising on the growing investor interest in alternative real estate assets.

Government Support for Maritime Development

The acquisition coincides with government initiatives to bolster maritime infrastructure.

The Queensland Government recently announced funding for a new 42-berth marina at Morningside near the Gateway Bridge, aimed at supporting marine tourism operators affected by floods and waterfront developments across Brisbane.

Additionally, plans for a $200-million expansion of the Rivergate marina, transforming it into a superyacht shipyard, are underway.

Rising Interest in Alternative Real Estate Assets

Originally established as Moelis & Company in Australia in 2009, MA Financial was listed on the ASX in 2017.

MA Financial joint chief executive Julian Biggins highlighted that the East Coast Marina acquisition aligns with the firm’s strategy, catering to the increasing investor interest in alternative real estate assets.

The MA Marina Fund, which targets an annual distribution yield exceeding 7 per cent and a 13 per cent plus internal rate of return, aims for further growth through value-add projects and additional acquisitions.

Published 19 February 2024

Giant Teenager Ben Te Kura Primed for Broncos Debut against Wynnum Manly

The Brisbane Broncos will field the tallest player in NRL history in Ben Te Kura when they take on Wynnum Manly in a preseason trial this Saturday night.

Benjamin Te Kura, teenage giant

Nineteen-year-old prop Ben Te Kura stands at a towering 205cm (6ft 9in). At 125kg, he has the size to match up with the biggest men in the NRL.

Te Kura exceeds the height of past giants like 201cm duo Garrick Morgan and Phil Mann. He also out-measures current monster forwards like the 200cm Nelson Asofa-Solomona and 197cm Tino Fa’asuamaleaui .

Raw talent with ‘enormous’ potential

Benjamin Te Kura — Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

Te Kura remains raw and is still learning from Broncos veterans. But club great Corey Parker believes he has enormous potential. Former Bronco Tevita Pangai Jr labelled the youngster “a beast of a kid.”

The focus will be on Te Kura maintaining fitness to handle the pace of the NRL. The Broncos have him signed through 2026 to develop.

Junior star building hype

A Redcliffe junior, Te Kura attended Wavell High – the alma mater of hero Greg Inglis. He plays an aggressive front row style, powering through the line.

Te Kura debuted in a Broncos trial in 2021 aged 17. He returns to Kougari Oval on Saturday to kickstart his case for an NRL debut this season.

Published 09-February-2024

Manly West Shopping Centre Looks to Grow with Expansion Plans

Plans have been submitted for the expansion of a shopping centre on Burnett Street in Manly West.

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

The proposed expansion plans call for an infill addition to the northeastern section of the existing Mayfair Village at Manly Shopping Centre.

The project design, rendered by architecture firm V Architecture, calls for an extension to be built on the northeast corner of the site, providing space for new retail offerings and upgrading pedestrian access. The plans do not alter existing parking or vehicle entry from Burnett Street.

Aerial view of site (Photo credit: Urbis)

The shopping centre slated for expansion is located at 11-31 Burnett St, Manly West. The proposed addition consists of 475 square metres across two levels.

Artist’s impression of shopping centre’s proposed expansion (Photo credit: V Architecture)

It includes reconfigured tenancies on the first floor and a new retail space above two existing ones. A new lift and stairway are part of the blueprints, along with enhanced landscaping.

Roughly half of the property is currently unoccupied, while a single-story commercial building occupies the other half. This structure will be removed to make way for the development. In total, there will be 94 parking spaces for residents and visitors once completed.

Planners at Urbis say the extension will significantly improve the streetscape on Burnett Street, which presently lacks connection to the shopping centre. The new build-out and entry points will provide better visibility and bolster the overall coherence of the site.

Shopping centre — Photo credit: V Architecture

“Importantly, the proposal capitalises on the underutilised ground floor space and enhances pedestrian connections to the surrounding residential neighbourhood through solving the topographical change between the site and the east Burnett Street frontage,” said Urbis.

“Overarchingly the proposal demonstrates an enhanced interface with Burnett Street to the north and east, whilst maintaining key connections from the development area to the remainder of the Mayfair Village on Manly shopping centre.”

Read: Developers Seek to Transform Retirement Community in Manly into Modern Oasis

The application for expanding the Manly West shopping centre is now under assessment by local officials.

Published 6-February-2024

Fresh Catch: Manly Boathouse Launches New Seafood Market The Trawler

The Manly Boathouse is already known for its seafood, drinks, and bay views. Now, the restaurant is expanding its ocean offerings with The Trawler, a seafood marketplace selling the freshest catch.

Read: New Look For Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club As Major Renovations Finally Begin

The Trawler is a refurbished fishing trawler that is now a marketplace for delicious local seafood, situated on The Dock at the back of Manly Boathouse.

Run by owners Nikki and Greg, who have over 25 years of seafood experience, this new seafood market sources premium local seafood straight from their fishing boats and a small network of trusted fishermen.

On offer is a mouthwatering selection of seafood like Mooloolaba ocean king prawns, green headless prawns, cooked medium or large sand crabs, knobby snapper, Sydney rock oysters, and whole Moreton Bay bugs. Prices are at wholesale rates, providing an affordable way to shop for the very best seafood.

Beyond the fresh catches, they also offer accoutrements like sauces whipped up by Manly Boathouse’s head chef Braden White. You can also pick up Trawler-branded gear like eskys, buckets, and caps to complete your seafood experience.

Before or after shopping at The Manly Boathouse’s seafood market, grab a coffee or brekkie at Manly Boathouse’s Patio. Or enjoy the seafood at the adjoining restaurant and soak in the spectacular bay views.

For seafood lovers, this new seafood marketplace at Manly Boathouse is a new weekend ritual. Swing by the pontoon to shop for premium catches straight from the ocean at unbeatable prices.

Read: Inside SeaVibes Manly, The Esplanade’s Go-To For Fresh Seafood

The Trawler operates every Saturday and Sunday from 6:00 -10:30 a.m. Visit Manly Boathouse’s website to view their menu or follow them on Instagram @thetrawlermanlyboathouse for updates.

Published 21-January-2024

Birkdale Olympic Whitewater Venue Faces Controversy Over WWII Radio Antenna Removal

Photo Credit: Q2032

Plans for the construction of a $100-million Birkdale Olympic whitewater venue have ignited a heated debate due to the revelation that a heritage-listed World War II radio antenna, along with associated structures, could be dismantled to make way for the project.

The State Government has initiated a 60-day cost analysis for all proposed Olympic projects in Brisbane’s bayside area, with the fate of the Birkdale Olympic whitewater venue hanging in the balance.

Heritage Protection Clashes with Olympic Aspirations

The historic World War II radio receiving station building, along with its antenna and radio poles, enjoys heritage protection. Whilst the tower in question was built after the war and is not listed, the building itself has been safeguarded for years.

The controversy arises from the need to remove the heritage-listed 1943 radio antenna with four posts to facilitate road construction and other project works to prepare for the Olympics. The Birkdale location is also complicated by the Willards Farm, raising environmental concerns, including the presence of koalas in the area.

Supporters of other locations contend that choosing the Penrith site for the Olympic whitewater venue could save $100 million, highlighting that Olympic venues can be located outside the host state.

Historical Significance of Birkdale Site

Situated on Old Cleveland Rd East, the Birkdale site holds historical significance as the place where Australia received the first message of the Japanese surrender, marking the end of WWII in the Pacific. It includes an original brick building that once served as a Postmaster-Generals office.

In 2020, it was added to Queensland’s Heritage Register after the Redland City Council acquired the land for community purposes from the Federal Government in 2019. The agreement with the Federal Government stipulated the development of a heritage management plan and protection of the radio station, which comprises an antenna and four posts in a rhombic array.

US Army Radio Receiving Station — Photo Credit: Queensland Heritage Register

Redland City Council asserts that the diamond-shaped antenna array, whilst heritage-listed, is located east of the receiving station and away from the proposed whitewater centre. It will be removed to simplify the construction of the precinct’s access roads.

The Council compiled a costings briefing of the Birkdale Olympic whitewater venue as three of the site’s four antenna posts are at risk of being damaged. The plan underscored that these posts will be stored temporarily whilst the construction is ongoing. These posts will later be re-erected in the same location under the guidance of an expert from the Australian Heritage Specialists contracted by the council.

Meanwhile, locals are encouraged to have their say on this plan, as well as other plans for the Olympic venues by emailing venuereviewfeedback@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au

Review of the
2032 Olympic and Paralympic venue
Master Plan

Published 21-Jan-2024