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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

Olympics or Recovery: Birkdale Whitewater Venue Being Debated After Multiple Weather Disasters

Has the recent wave of storms and floods washed away Birkdale’s hopes of being a whitewater venue for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics? A damage assessment is being conducted to find out.

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

State Development has ordered an assessment of whether the $100-million facility is the best use of public funds, after receiving a petition from nearly 400 Redland residents concerned about costs.

Chief petitioner Lavinia Wood welcomed the review, saying it would remind the government to spend frugally after the $2-billion storm damage bill from the Christmas Day severe thunderstorms and flooding.

Artist’s impression of the proposed Birkdale whitewater rafting facility and public swimming lagoon (Photo credit: Redland City Council)

Ms Wood argues there are cheaper alternatives, like temporary facilities or using existing venues interstate, such as the existing facilities in Penrith. She said even government supporters are angry about Olympics spending when families are homeless due to the storms.

Penrith Whitewater Stadium (Photo credit: Brett Williams-Brown)

In September 2023, the state government and Redland City Council insisted Birkdale was the right choice and would deliver a lasting benefit. The facility was planned as a legacy project, eventually becoming an adventure park for the community.

It was also slated to be a training site for first responders, including swift-water rescue. But after the storms in late December, a legacy of adventure tourism and training facilities seems uncertain.

State Development Min Grace Grace confirmed the complex is one of six new proposed venues for the 2032 Olympic Games. However, she said the review will evaluate whether Birkdale is necessary and makes best use of current facilities.

The future of the whitewater venue will likely depend on the recovery efforts from the devastating storms. With so many residents still rebuilding their lives, government funding may need to be redirected.

Read: Manly State School Grapples with Devastation Following Boxing Day Storm

The review’s recommendations, expected by March 2024, will determine if dreams of an Olympic legacy at Birkdale will wash away.

Published 15-January-2024

Birkdale Lass Making a Difference for Young Australians with Chronic Illness

Hayleigh Carter, a 21-year-old resident of Birkdale had always aspired to become a professional dancer until her life took an unexpected turn, when she was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder.

Hayleigh is now dedicated to assisting fellow young Queenslanders grappling with debilitating illnesses, offering them vital therapy and emotional support through Mater’s Young Adult Support Unit (YASU).

Hayleigh’s diagnosis of EDS and Mast Cell Activation Disorder significantly impacts her daily life, affecting not only her connective tissues, skin, joints, and blood vessels but also her organs and bones, severely limiting her functionality. With an estimated one in 5000 people worldwide diagnosed with this condition each year, Hayleigh’s journey is not unique.

“What I am living with is basically bendy joints, stretchy skin and lots of pain,” Ms Carter said.

“I am in so much pain I can’t dance anymore. Some days I am confined to a wheelchair.

“There are days where I can’t even get out of bed.

“I miss my days as an actress and dancer. As a qualified allied health assistant my heart lies in working with children living with disabilities.”

She describes the fortnightly support therapy at YASU as “life-altering”.

Hayleigh Carter Mater Hospital — Photo Credit: Annette Dew/Supplied

“I can’t work, I can’t play sport, and going out to meet friends is a lot of effort,” she said.

“But what I can do is encourage other young people not to sit in silence and to get help.”

Ms Carter’s health battles started when she was just 15. Her struggle has significantly impacted her mental health.

“I have depression and anxiety and have wanted to give up on life so many times, but my mum, who is my carer, and the support workers and team at YASU have been there for me,” she said.

“The care I have received at Mater has been immeasurable. The YASU has been the only place where I have been able to connect with therapists and receive the help I need.”

The Birkdale youth also suffers from multiple other conditions including functional neurological disorder (FND), fibromyalgia and intestinal dismobility, which makes day-to-day activities a challenge.

She also has dysautonomia, which is a dysfunction of the nerves that regulate non-voluntary body functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure and sweating, as well as postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS), which causes her heart rate to increase very quickly after getting up from sitting or lying down.

Mater Young Adult Support Unit psychologist and team leader Annalise Foster said the YASU provides integrated and holistic strengths-based assessment and evidence-based treatment to help patients like Ms Carter “develop, thrive, prosper and flourish”.

“There are few services specifically for adolescents and young adults in Australia,” Ms Foster said.

“Chronic and complex medical conditions can impact a person’s physical, psychological, social and occupational wellbeing.

“Young people with chronic and complex conditions often face more difficulties negotiating the tasks of adolescence and young adulthood than their healthy peers.”

YASU has doctors, a psychiatrist, psychologists, a social worker, a nurse and an occupational therapist who are dedicated to helping patients live an active and fulfilling life.

Medical reviews, one-on-one mental health support and group programs are also available.

To access the service you must be aged up to 26 years and receiving ongoing service provision from the Mater Hospital South Brisbane for a chronic medical condition.

Published 8-Jan-2024

Man Dead After Jumping Into Waters at Manly Harbour

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

Authorities have confirmed the death of a 46-year-old man after jumping into the waters at Manly Harbour late last night.

A frantic search operation was done after he failed to resurface.

**A search operation was done after he failed to resurface.**
Photo Credit: Facebook / The Bay Today

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, overseeing the marina where the incident occurred, expressed deep sadness and shock. CEO Karen Baldwin conveyed the sorrow felt by their team, mentioning the lack of on-site staff during the late hours when the tragedy unfolded.

**CEO Karen Baldwin of Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron**
Photo Credit: LinkedIn

Emergency services swiftly responded to the call for help at Davenport Drive, near the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. Police, fire, rescue, and ambulance services mobilized immediately, commencing an extensive water search at first light this morning.

The search, involving Water Police, Police divers, and specialized emergency units, concluded tragically with the discovery of a body. The process of formal identification is underway, with authorities preparing a report for the coroner.

This incident adds to recent tragedies in bayside waters, further impacting the close-knit community. Just days ago, another incident claimed three lives when a boat capsized near Green Island in Moreton Bay during a fishing trip on Boxing Day.

The CEO, Karen Baldwin, highlighted the festive season and expressed profound condolences for the family and friends affected by this unexpected loss. The entire community mourns alongside the family, sharing in their sorrow during what should have been a joyful time of the year.

As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event, the community grapples with the shock and sadness of this sudden loss. The residents of Manly are urged to support each other during this difficult time, extending their thoughts and sympathies to those impacted.

Published 2-January-2024

Wynnum Manly Legend Ross Nunn Reflects on Decorated Career

After winning the 1971 grand final with the Booval Swifts, talented player Ross Nunn headed to the bay to join the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in 1972. This kicked off an illustrious career with the Seagulls, where Nunn contributed greatly before returning to Ipswich later in his career.

Tough early years at Wynnum Manly

In the early 1970s, Wynnum Manly was struggling, winning just two games in 1972 and three in 1973. Nunn recalls that coach Jim Lewis, father of future star Wally Lewis, was fantastic but results were not there yet.

Under new coach Tom Berry in 1975, Wynnum Manly finally broke a 16-year finals drought. Nunn has fond memories of their incredible upset win over favourites Easts Tigers late in the season. However, they could not replicate this performance against the Redcliffe Dolphins the following week.

Nev Hornery’s brutal style transforms club

According to Nunn, the arrival of “Nasty Nev” Hornery in 1977 was transformative for Wynnum Manly. Hornery brought a new level of ruthlessness and winning mentality. Nunn never played against Hornery but understands why he struck fear in opponents.

Fond memories of talented teammates

Wynnum Manly Seagulls — *Photo Credit: Seagulls Forever*

Nunn looks back fondly on the many great players from Ipswich he got to play alongside in Brisbane. Talented players like Jeff Denman, Ian Robson, and John Crilly made the transition easier. He particularly recalls Tony Obst as one of the best he played with and against.

Ross Nunn is proud to have played a role in Wynnum Manly’s journey from strugglers to powerhouse. His fondest memories are of the club’s incredible supporters and the strong parallels with his hometown of Ipswich.

Published 30-December-2023