Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 19 of 36

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

Tragedy struck off the coast of Manly on Boxing Day after a boat carrying 11 friends capsized in a violent storm, claiming the lives of three men who were all set to enjoy their annual fishing trip to Moreton Bay.

The victims were Robert Holden, Stephen Tait, and David “Mario” Logan, whose untimely deaths have left a profound void in the hearts of many.

Robert, 48, a resident of Alexandra Hills, was a revered figure both in his professional and personal life. He was a devoted family man, married to Michelle for 19 years, and a father who was the bedrock of his family.

Stephen, a former Queensland rugby player who taught at Iona College, was known for his larger-than-life personality and his immense contribution to the rugby community. As a father, he was deeply cherished, remembered through his daughter’s poignant social media tribute as “the most selfless person” she knew.

Mario, another rugby icon, was a figure deeply entrenched in the Queensland rugby scene. His playful nature, coupled with his passion for the sport, made him a beloved character.

As the boat succumbed to the tempestuous seas, heroism surfaced as recounted Michelle, who received a distressing call from her husband, leading her to alert the coastguard. The survivors, eight in total, were brought to safety at Manly Harbour, though the three men tragically did not survive.

# Manly Paramedics have transported 8 patients to various Brisbane hospitals following a boating incident in Moreton Bay late this afternoon. All are in a stable condition.
— Queensland Ambulance (@QldAmbulance) December 26, 2023

The aftermath at Manly Harbour was a poignant scene of collective mourning. The community, along with the families of the deceased, grappled with the sudden loss.

This boating disaster was part of a larger destruction caused by the supercell storm that battered South East Queensland during the Christmas holidays. The toll of seven lives lost in just two days, including those in Moreton Bay, underscored the severity of the weather’s impact.

Published 29-Dec-2023

Manly State School Grapples with Devastation Following Boxing Day Storm

Families returning to Wynnum and Manly after the festive holidays have been confronted by scenes of destruction int he wake of the Boxing Day storm. Among the affected areas, Manly State School bears significant damage, with one of its buildings losing its roof.

Shocking photos reveal the extent of damage in the area, prompting a surge in calls for assistance from the State Emergency Service.

Manly State School Recovery Update

Despite the structural damage, the school is grateful that no injuries were reported and is determined to rebuild and continue serving the community.

Manly State School officials expressed gratitude to the Manly community for their support and kind wishes. The school reported that builders are already on-site to assess and repair the damaged building. A future working bee is planned to involve the community in the recovery effort.

Builders are working diligently to make the damaged area safe and to isolate the solar system on the damaged roof. Safety fencing will be erected to allow limited access to the school grounds for vacation care, to fully reopen to the public in a few weeks.

Local Community Initiative

Residents rallied to clear debris and trees blocking roads. Iconic trees along the foreshore were also uprooted, adding to the post-storm challenges faced by the community.

Regrettably, the wild weather also led to the tragic death of three individuals, including a local teacher, in a boating accident off the coast of Manly.

Some local businesses, such as Mate’s restaurant and bar in Wynnum, sustained damage from the storm. Cracked ceilings and water damage were reported, causing disruptions to operations.

SES Response and Ongoing Assistance

Local Controller for the Brisbane City State Emergency Service Unit, Lowry Boyd, reported a continuous stream of requests for assistance as the storm barrelled the city. SES units from other regions have also offered help, but resource constraints have limited their capacity to assist.

Mr Boyd emphasised that many of the storm-related issues could have been prevented with proper preparation, such as clearing gutters of debris, securing loose objects, and trimming overhanging tree branches before a storm.

Meanwhile, Brisbane City Council is offering support to residents affected by the storm by providing free sandbags at various locations and allowing free green waste disposal until 31 Jan 2024.

Boyd also asked for patience from the community during major events, as the SES primarily relies on volunteers who may also be affected by the storms. Response times may be extended, but every effort will be made to address all requests for assistance.

Published 28-Dec-2023

Firefighters Respond To Gas Main Rupture In Manly

Photo Credit: Facebook / Fire and Rescue NSW Station 51 Forestville

A gas main rupture was reported in Manly, which caused a fierce blaze. Fire crews acted swiftly, preventing a potential explosion. Over a dozen firefighters worked for two and a half hours.

Just after 10:45 am on November 22, it was believed that construction workers inadvertently struck a gas line, igniting a fierce blaze that engulfed the surrounding area.

Fire crews found themselves in a race against time, hosing down a tree affected by the gas main rupture leak as they worked tirelessly to contain the escalating inferno.

Despite the intensity of the blaze, the concerted efforts of the firefighters helped in cooling down the area, preventing what could have been a devastating explosion.

Reports indicate that a young man in his twenties sustained minor burns in the chaos and was swiftly transported to Northern Beaches Hospital for treatment.

Published 28-November-2023

The Dolphins Make Big Play for Brisbane Broncos Star Ezra Mam

The Brisbane Broncos could face a fight to retain grand final star Ezra Mam, with NRL rivals the Dolphins emerging as contenders for the star playmaker’s signature.

Off-contract at the end of 2024, Mam has attracted interest from the Dolphins after his stellar 2023 season. Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett confirmed the club’s interest. He praised Mam as “the best player on the ground in the grand final.”

The Dolphins are armed with salary cap space at the end of 2024 and view Mam as a quality addition to strengthen their halves. According to Bennett, “If he comes onto the market, we would certainly be interested.”

Broncos face cap constraints

While the Broncos are confident of signing Mam to a long-term extension, the club is facing salary cap pressure as their talented squad enters negotiations. Stars such as Reece Walsh and Mam are in line for big pay rises. In addition, 23-year-old Payne Haas signed an extension last August that made him the highest-paid player in Broncos history.

The Dolphins have a recent history of targeting Broncos talent, having already signed Herbie Farnworth and Thomas Flegler.

Ezra Mam key to Broncos’ future

Despite rival interest, the Broncos see Mam as central to their long-term plans, especially after his starring role in their 2023 grand final appearance. With 12 months remaining on his current contract, the Broncos remain confident that Mam will re-sign.

The Dolphins’ interest, however, underlines Mam’s status as one of the league’s elite game-changers. His signature promises to be one of the most sought-after in the NRL ahead of the 2024 season.

Published 20-November-2023

Developers Seek to Transform Retirement Community in Manly into Modern Oasis

A retirement community in Manly could soon enter a new era of modern luxury and amenities if an extensive masterplan for upgrades and expansions is approved.

Read: Manly Pays Tribute to War Heroes on Remembrance Day

Designed by O’Neil Architecture, the proposal at 162 Oceana Terrace in Manly would replace seven outdated independent living units across two new buildings, numbered 5 and 6, adding 87 contemporary residences.

This transformation would build upon previously approved plans for 100 high-quality units in four buildings at the southern end of the sprawling grounds. Those approved plans call for two four-story and two six-story buildings, connected by a porte cochere entrance and anchored by over 1,500 square meters of communal facilities. The first stage would focus on the six-story buildings paired with shared amenities.

The proposed community facilities will include a dining hall and café, a cinema, gym, and library for entertainment and activity spaces. Medical suites will provide on-site healthcare services. For social gatherings, plans call for a club, lounge, and bar. Recreational amenities will include a swimming pool and bowling green for residents to enjoy.

The new proposal would take the total number of residential units to 287 within a nearly 28,000 sqm development. It would modify the previously approved buildings by lowering their base to the ground level, removing the porte cochere, and relocating community facilities to the new proposed buildings 5 and 6. An internal road with southern drop off would improve access and circulation.

The positioning of new construction on the exterior of the grounds allows Lota House, classified as a Queensland Heritage Place, to remain undisturbed at the heart of the community. Careful heritage assessments could enable approval for necessary demolition and maintenance work on the surrounding non-protected areas, if the plans are greenlit.

Drawing inspiration from Lota House’s architecture, the design incorporates rendered masonry walls, metal cladding, glass balustrades, and color banding that lightens towards the upper floors. This would help blend the modern forms into the landscape and heritage context if approved as envisioned. The end result could be a seamlessly integrated expansion with all the amenities today’s residents expect.

Read: Rugby Legend Shane McNally Remembered Ahead of 1983 BRL Grand Final Anniversary

The multi-phase project would ensure continuous comfortable living for all residents at the retirement community during construction, if given the go-ahead. When complete, the new Lota House could provide premium senior living options and uphold the site’s rich 135-year history.

Published 10-November-2023

Manly Pays Tribute to War Heroes on Remembrance Day

Photo Credit: Manly-Lota RSL/Facebook

Manly is gearing up to pay its respects to those who have served and sacrificed for their nation on the annual Remembrance Day services.

On Saturday, 11 Nov 2023, the Manly-Lota RSL Sub Branch invites the local community to join their Remembrance Day service at Richard Russell Park, Cnr Ferguson St & Carlton Tec.

The event is a poignant commemoration of the Armistice that ended World War I, and an opportunity to remember all who have given their lives in service, be it in wars, conflicts, or peacekeeping operations.

Honoring the 11th Hour

The significance of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month cannot be overstated. It marks the anniversary of the Armistice that brought an end to the devastating conflict with Germany during World War I.

In remembrance, a touching ceremony in Manly will encompass various elements, including the solemn laying of wreaths, the haunting sound of the Last Post, and a minute of silence observed at 11 a.m.

This day is a time for the community to come together and pay their respects to the brave souls who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Supporting Veterans and Their Families

RSL Queensland, a steadfast supporter of veterans and their families across the nation, recognises the invaluable contribution of Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel.

This event is open to all veterans, serving members, and members of the community, providing an opportunity to come together, share stories, and show solidarity with those who have served our country.

State Remembrance Day Ceremony at Brisbane’s Shrine of Remembrance

For those who wish to participate in a larger-scale Remembrance Day ceremony, RSL Queensland is extending an invitation to the State Remembrance Day ceremony, which will be held at Brisbane’s Shrine of Remembrance. This solemn event serves as a city and national-wide remembrance for all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

Attend a service, wear a poppy, or observe a minute’s silence at 11am, and help keep the legacy of our service people alive. Lest we forget.
RSL Queensland

Published 8-Nov-2023

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

A concept plan to improve safety at the intersection of Cambridge Parade, Melville Terrace, and Arnold Street in Manly has been released.

Read: Manly Harbour Village to be Rebranded as ‘The Mall’ After Makeover

The proposed upgrade aims to increase compliance with the 40km/h speed limit, enhance visibility for pedestrians and motorists, and reduce accidents at the busy junction.

The proposed features to be included as part of this project are:

Install a raised pedestrian crossing on Cambridge Parade, east of the intersection.
Introduce a new road surface treatment for the 40 Kilometres per hour speed zone on Cambridge Parade on the western approach to the intersection, with raised islands on either side of the treatment.
Replace the Stop signs and line marking with Give Way signs and line marking on Melville Terrace and Arnold Street at the intersection with Cambridge Parade.
Construct kerb buildouts on the northwest corner of Melville Terrace and Cambridge Parade.
Install minor landscaping improvements at the kerb buildouts and raised pedestrian crossing.
Reconstruct and extend existing concrete median islands on Arnold Street and Melville Parade and reconstruct new sections of footpath.
Remove 14 on-street parking spaces to allow for improved motorist visibility of people walking and riding.

Cambridge Parade — Concept design (Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au)

In addition to installing new road surface treatments to promote compliance of the 40km/h speed limit, the proposed upgrades would also improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians by constructing a raised crossing at the intersection. Visibility for both pedestrians and drivers would also be enhanced by removing some on-street parking spaces around the junction.

A survey will be available on Brisbane City Council’s website in the coming weeks for residents to provide their feedback about the proposed improvements.

Read: Community Unites to Transform Hargreaves Road Park into Nature Haven

To find out more about the project, you can call the project team on 1800 669 416 or email cityprojects@brisbane.qld.gov.au.

Published 2-November-2023

Entries Open for 2023-2024 Australian Hobie Cat National Championships in Manly

Excitement is building across Australia as the highly anticipated 2023-2024 Australian Hobie Cat National Championships, hosted by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly, open for entries.

The championship tour follows the grand success of the 50th Australian Championships held in late December 2022. Expectations for this year’s event are sky-high, making it the highlight of the Australian summer sailing calendar.

The Queensland Hobie Cat Association has been working hard to make sure this year’s championships are a big success and has enlisted help from Yacht Share, Sunstate Watersports, Cat Covers, and Gill to make it all happen.

Prior to the Brisbane event, the Championship Tour is set for several exciting stops:

Cat Classic: Nedlands Yacht Club, WA | September 24-25, 2023
Bill Cheal Memorial Regatta: Toukley Sailing Club, NSW | September 30 – October 1, 2023
Phil Johnston Memorial 14ft Regatta: Mannering Park Amateur Sailing Club, NSW | October 14-15, 2023
NSW State Championships: Top Gun Regatta, Kurnell Catamaran Club, NSW | November 4-5, 2023
Beware the Bullets: Palm Beach Sailing Club, NSW | November 18-19, 2023
Victorian Catamaran Championships: McCrae Yacht Club, VIC | November 26-27, 2023
Sail Brisbane: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, QLD | December 10-11, 2023

CHECK THE EVENTS CALENDAR

With a lineup of such thrilling events leading up to the Australian Hobie Cat National Championships, sailors and sailing enthusiasts alike are in for an action-packed and unforgettable season of competitive sailing.

For those eager to participate, all the registration details and important information regarding the Australian Championships can be found on the Hobie Cat Nationals’ official site. This includes the Notice of Race, a schedule of events, and information on local accommodations. Prospective entrants can easily register for both Series 1 and Series 2 by visiting the homepage, which will redirect them to RQYS.

Published 29-Sept-2023

John McDonald, Rugby Legend and Inaugural Maroons Coach, Passes Away at 79

Former Manly captain and inaugural Queensland State of Origin coach John McDonald has passed away at the age of 79.

John McDonald, a giant of the game

McDonald played 62 games for Manly between 1969 and 1971 after joining the club from Toowoomba. The imposing centre or winger scored 30 tries during his career with the Sea Eagles and captained the team that lost 23-12 to South Sydney in the 1970 Grand Final.

In addition to Manly, McDonald represented Queensland on 10 occasions between 1965 and 1968. Internationally, McDonald played 13 Tests for Australia and toured with the Kangaroos as vice-captain in 1969.

Coach, administrator, visionary

While Mcdonald’s on-field exploits were remarkable, his off-field contributions to the game were even greater. After coaching at Toowoomba, McDonald took charge of Queensland’s inaugural State of Origin team in 1980. Queensland won that historic match 20-10, laying the foundations for an Origin dynasty. According to current Australia coach Mal Meninga, who played under McDonald, the coach’s words still inspire Maroons camps today.

Besides coaching, McDonald’s contribution as an administrator was enormous. He served as QRL chairman for 20 years and was the first Queenslander to become ARL chairman. In the 1990s he was part of the partnership that reunited the game after the Super League war.

John McDonald grew up playing rugby league in Toowoomba alongside Ross Livermore, who went on to become a long-time QRL colleague. Queensland Sport inducted McDonald into its Hall of Fame in 2016.

Tributes have poured in from across Australian rugby league following McDonald’s passing. He is remembered as a gentleman and a great leader who impacted the game at every stage of his career. McDonald leaves a legacy as one of the most influential figures in Manly and Queensland, both on and off the field.

Published 17 September 2023

Rugby Legend Shane McNally Remembered Ahead of 1983 BRL Grand Final Anniversary

With the 40th anniversary of Easts Tigers’ 1983 BRL premiership win over Redcliffe Dolphins just a week away, Shane McNally’s contributions to the club and code are being fondly remembered. McNally, a legendary figure in Brisbane rugby league and former coach of the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, passed away last month at the age of 69.

As a player, McNally represented both Queensland Country and Queensland in the front row. He played more than 100 games for the Easts Tigers, including their 1982 State League title and 1983 BRL premiership.

Starring role in memorable 1983 BRL Grand Final

In the 1983 BRL Grand Final, Shane McNally kicked three goals as Easts defeated Redcliffe 14-6 in front of 25,000 fans at Lang Park. His steady boot helped the Tigers to a 2-0 half-time lead.

Weeks after the 1983 decider, McNally toured England with a pioneering Queensland side that beat Wigan and Leeds. He kicked eleven goals in those two victories.

A career of class on and off the field

At the Tigers, McNally still holds the club records for most points scored (871) and most goals kicked (406) in a career. He was the competition’s top scorer on three occasions.

After hanging up his boots in 1984, McNally took up coaching. He coached Easts in the 1987 BRL season, the last before the formation of the Brisbane Broncos.

He coached the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in 63 Queensland Cup games between 2007 and 2009, reaching the final in 2008.

In administration roles with organisations like Queensland Rugby League and Rugby League Brisbane, McNally contributed to improvements across the code at junior and senior levels.

Shane McNally has dedicated his life to the development of rugby league in Queensland. As the 40th anniversary of Easts’ 1983 premiership approaches, his passion and dedication to the club and the game will be remembered and celebrated.

Published 11 September 2023