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The Manly Hotel: McDonald Family Ends Lease After 51 Years

A year after celebrating the 50th anniversary of The Manly Hotel at the Manly Harbour, siblings Jenny Bradley, Doug and Sandy McDonald sadly announced that they are leaving the iconic property, which has been managed by their family for half a century.

Sandy confirmed they will no longer renew their lease to The Manly Hotel come springtime after a year of mulling over moving on. He said that the owner of the property has a different plan but he believes that the site on Cambridge Parade will remain a hotel despite the changes.

When the McDonald Family Took Over

In 1970, Stewart and Dulcie McDonald, the trio’s parents, took over the hotel’s license. Not long after that, they passed on the management to three of their seven adult children.

Jenny, Doug and Sandy succeeded in continuing their parents’ legacy by employing the same loyal staff. Some of their employees have been with the family for at least three decades.

Over the years, Sandy said that they’ve experienced competition growing in this bayside precinct, as well as the increase of women patrons with better earning capacity than men. The hotel also changed as the times changed, making the facilities more accessible for everyone, including those with special needs.

The family also improved the Clipper Lounge Gaming Room and introduced new concepts and for entertaining their patrons.

Time to Move On

Inspite their wonderful journey, the McDonald siblings said that it was time to move on. Whilst it’s natural to feel sad about letting go of the establishment that has molded their family’s history, as well as the community’s history, the siblings said they are now ready to focus on something else.

Word of the McDonald’s exit has spread on social media.

“Shame it’s a great local, I have been going there for 41 years. It will get a new lease of life I’m sure. All the very best Sandy and family enjoy your retirement,” one local said.

“All the best in your retirement Sandy. It was a pleasure knowing you for all those years at the Manly hotel and brother Doug the place will never be the same again. Congratulations on 51 years. Not many people last that long.”

“My grandad Daniel Teer had his own seat with his name on it in your pub at the bar. My Grandad spend many many many years at the Manly Hotel. You guys to him were family and vise versa.”

The McDonald siblings will be serving their guests the last drinks at The Manly Hotel on 30 Sept 2021.

Rivergate Prepares as Brisbane Olympics Projected to Break Superyacht Record

Luxurious, privately-owned superyachts carrying A-list guests are expected to sail to Queensland if Brisbane becomes successful in its bid to host the 2032 Olympics, potentially boosting the marine and tourism industries at various riverside hotspots in the region, including Rivergate in Murarrie.

Prior to the lockdown disruptions, about 160 superyachts were estimated to dock for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and America’s Cup in Auckland. With these numbers, Rivergate Director Tom Hill said that the upcoming Brisbane Olympics could easily attract a record number of superyachts as this region has “exceptional cruising opportunities.”

“We know that there is substantial pent-up demand among superyacht owners to visit Australia and the Olympics would be another huge drawcard, provided we have the necessary infrastructure to accommodate these vessels,” Mr Hill said.

“The world is experiencing a superyacht building boom and the average size of the vessels is increasing, so we expect there will be many more of these large boats in service by 2032.”

Mr Hill added that research has shown an added 60 superyacht visits a year could bring in 2,000 new jobs and almost $1 billion into the region’s economy.

“Imagine the boost to jobs and the economy if more than three times this number of vessels dropped in for the 2032 Olympic Games.”

The projection comes as Rivergate Marina and Shipyard, which was established in 2006, has unveiled its plans to expand the Murarrie facility, bringing a $200 million superyacht hub able to lift vessels of up to 3,000 tonnes and 90 metres for vital inspections, repairs and refits.

By 2032, Rivergate could be a world-class site and completely ready for the Olympics with its extra berthing options, three new refit sheds, and a 5-storey Trade Centre and resort-style crew accommodation for superyachts visitors.

“As the largest facility in the Asia Pacific capable of lifting out and servicing multiple superyachts, the Rivergate expansion would enable more vessels to visit for the Olympics and stay on to cruise the Great Barrier Reef and other spectacular destinations on our doorstep,” Mr Hill said.

Rivergate has earned a reputation for being one of three top shipyards in the whole world, respected by the yacht owners and crew for its safe environment, hospitality and highly-skilled workers.

The facility has near-perfect weather for year-round operations and it’s also close to the services around the capital, making it the given option for boats arriving in Australia for the Brisbane Olympics.

Wynnum Manly Leagues Club to Offer New Facilities in April

The Wynnum Manly Leagues Club is expected to open its newest facilities in April after undergoing a series of upgrades and developments worth $10 million. With the new facilities come 70 new job opportunities!

After over a year in the works, the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club is slowly but steadily nearing the completion of its most ambitious overhaul yet, with the construction of a brand-new cafe, bar and reception area, plus a new lounge area scheduled for completion in late March.

The first stage of the club’s redevelopment began in October, 2020, which revolved around the creation of a new gaming area and an entirely new wing. Stage two began in December, which focused on the club’s new restaurant and café area.

To boost the local economy, the club aims to hire local talents to work in customer service roles. Over the last few months, a little under 20 new hirees have been taken in, and with a list of 70 jobs to fill, there’s plenty of room for more on their roster.

With the creation of new facilities and features for patrons, the club seeks to employ 50 additional members staff to cater to the needs of the club’s patrons. With the bulk of its renovations now nearing completion, the club aims to open its new facilities to the public sometime in April.

Follow the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club’s Facebook page for the latest promotions, meals, and deals, as well as updates on the progress of their renovations.

Find them at 92 Wondall Road Manly West, open from 9:00AM to 3:00AM on weekdays, and 10:00AM to 3:00AM on weekends.

It’s a Go! Controversial Manly Development to Start Soon

Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Despite attracting backlash from the community, construction will soon commence on a 43-unit residential and retail project at 195-201 Stratton Terrace in Manly, just a few months after Brisbane City Council sent the proposals back to the developer for a redesign.

The approval comes after the developer made changes to the development application first lodged in July 2019. Katwal Pty initially proposed 49 units but they reduced the number of units to 43. The developer also lowered the height of the buildings and reduced the retail space from 900 sqm to 140 sqm.

Some of the issues raised by residents on the original proposal are the character, bulk, scale, size, height, density, design and external appearance of the development which did not meet the reasonable expectation in Manly Harbour Village. The Ellivo-designed proposal will be for two 4-storey buildings with a green courtyard separation off Stratton Terrace, plus a rooftop pergola on part of Building 1, offering views to Moreton Bay.

Photo Credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

There are residents who are concerned about the limited parking in the area, and property values of those impacted by the height and size of this development.

Costing over $40 million, it’s dubbed as the biggest ever residential project in Manly. While construction hasn’t started yet, sales for the new development have already exceeded $10 million – and it does not come as a surprise, given its proximity to every amenity, including shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Construction is scheduled to start in 2020, but was delayed after bayside residents appealed to Council. It is expected to start in July with the completion date slated for late 2022.

Manly Boathouse: Bayside’s Newest Seafood Go-To Opens

Despite some unexpected structural issues during the redevelopment and a burglary days before its scheduled opening date, Bayside’s newest restaurant, Manly Boathouse, has finally welcomed diners at the site of the former Wilson’s Boathouse.

Bound to be the new seafood go-to, Manly Boathouse is from the team behind Newstead’s Reef Seafood and Sushi, Nikki and Greg Kay, both old-timers in the seafood industry.

Braden White is the talented chef heading the kitchen, where he will be creating and cooking up mouthwatering culinary treats, such as this winning sand crab linguine.

Diners can expect to order a plate full of fresh sashimi, buckets of prawns, hefty seafood platters, and wood-grilled seafood goodness like barramundi or swordfish, as well as a range of roasted BBQ chicken, slow-cooked lamb shoulders or premium steaks. (SEE MENU)

To complement the food, the restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines from France, Italy, Spain, New Zealand and some local favourites. The choices for cocktails or craft beers are extensive as well.

The boulangerie serves a rotating selection of pastries like croissants, danishes and cream puffs.

Photo Credit: The White Boathouse/Instagram

Within the next few days, Manly Boathouse will open its outdoor kiosks right by The Patio section. The kiosks will feature a fish & chippery, a coffee bar and a gelateria boasting of freshly-made cold treats.

The casual open-space dining area, set with picnic tables and striped umbrellas, requires no reservation and promptly opens at 5:00 a.m. for breakfast lovers who can enjoy classic dishes with a gourmet twist.

Follow @manlyboathouse on Instagram for updates and book a table online via OpenTable.

The Arsonist To Take Over Little and Oliver’s at the Esplanade

A new restaurant is aiming to open by Easter at the Esplanade, on the site of the Little and Oliver’s bistro. Aptly named The Arsonist, this eatery will specialise in smoky, gourmet and wood-fired delights.

There’s still a lot of mystery behind The Arsonist, which was registered with the Australian Securities & Investment Commission (ASIC) on 20 Jan. 2021. But it is from the same group that owns Tide on the Jetty, which is just a short distance down the bayside.

The Arsonist will be supervised by Chef Mat Fulford in the kitchen. Mr Fulford said that Manly Esplanade doesn’t have enough flame-grilled restaurants and this new restaurant hopes to fill the gap.

The chef said that he has always loved this cooking method using direct heat, wood chips or charcoal. He hints at a menu where meals like whole suckling pig, roasted bone marrow or bistecca are meant to be shared. Diners will also get to try a signature bespoke charcuterie featuring free-range cured meats.

In the next few months, the site that housed the bistro and cafe will undergo a transformation. The Arsonist will have a custom-built wood-fired oven and grill installed in the kitchen, as well as several dry-age meat cabinets.

Customers who love drinking whisky may order a bottle or two to be stored in the restaurant’s safe, which they could drink on their next visits.

Meanwhile, it’s still unclear what’s next for Little and Oliver’s. The BYO cafe and restaurant has been trading in the area for more than three years.

Spike in Tree Poisoning, Illegal Tree Removal in Manly Concerns Residents & Council

Several trees providing shade and coolness to Manly residents, especially those who enjoy the breeze and views at the Esplanade, have been needlessly poisoned and illegally removed in the last six months. The Council has issued an appeal to the public to report the incidents so that the culprits may be properly identified and apprehended.

In December 2020, signs were tied around the trees asking the public for information as residents said the unlawful practice has been happening for some time.

On Manly’s Falcon Street, at least three of four beautiful trees have died because of the holes drilled in its trunks to administer the poison. The dead trees are now potential street safety hazards that could topple down and hit people or cars with some strong winds.

Photo Credit: Maiara Muller Pedroso/Google Maps

City Standards, Community Health and Safety Chair Councillor Kim Marx reminded the public that it’s an offence to remove trees without the permission of the Council.

In the last two years, over 23,000 trees have been planted around Brisbane. Ms Marx appealed to the residents to seriously protect the natural vegetation and greenery around them.

The Council receives an average of three to four complaints of tree poisoning a day, with multiple reports on some locations. The previous year saw a rise in these reports at over 1,4000 locations, including Manly. Ms Marx said that each of these reports is checked and investigated but the culprits have yet to be caught.

To contact Ms Marx’s office, send an email at chair.standards@brisbane.qld.gov.au.

Development Application for 30 Townhouses on Manly Road Lodged

A development application seeking to establish multiple dwellings on Manly Road, Manly West has been lodged.

Situated at 358 Manly Road, Manly West, the proposed development is for 30 low-medium density townhouses. Five of the 30 units will be 2-bedroom units while 25 will have three bedrooms. The maximum height for the building is proposed to be 2 to 3 storeys.

Proposed sub floor
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Proposed first level
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Manly Road — Proposed second level
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

There are 60 parking spaces that will be provided (50 for 3-bedroom units, 10 for 2-bedroom units) plus 11 parking spaces for visitors.

The overall site cover for the proposed development is 27%. There will be three communal spaces with a total area of 500sqm for seating, barbeque, shade and lawn space, and will be located along the southern section of the site. Whilst each townhouse will have private open space (courtyards, terrace, and balconies).

“The proposed development has been designed to represent a series of row house developments consistent with the “missing middle” design sought by Shaping SEQ. The design as a whole has been stepped with the slope of the land and will provide a great deal of articulation through the introduction of recesses within the façade and the variety of building materials utilised,” the planners at Steffan Town Planning said.

Former Wilson’s Boathouse to Open as Manly Boathouse This Summer

A new food and lifestyle precinct at the former Wilson’s Boathouse site will open at the Manly Harbour this summer. New tenants Nikki and Greg Kay, who run the popular Reef Seafood and Sushi in Newstead, have moved in to establish Manly Boathouse.

Wilson’s Boathouse lost its bid to remain in the waterfront after the Supreme Court stepped in and ordered the owners to vacate the premises. The restaurant closed permanently after 18 years of operation.

The award-winning seafood restaurant, which was once visited by Hollywood star Angeline Jolie, lost its tenancy effective 15 Oct 2020. Despite fighting to stay open, Wilson’s Boathouse owners Neil Jedid and Diane Mansfield said it was an unequal match against the government.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads owns the land where the restaurant stood.

“This is a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported us for the past 18yrs,” the owners posted on Facebook. “We appreciated your loyalty immensely, we love our community. Everyone knows what happened to us, and we thank everyone who helped us with our cause. We’re looking forward for another venture, you’ll see Wilson’s Boathouse somewhere soon.”

Meanwhile, refurbishments and renovations are on-going for the new restaurant. The Kays are adding picnic tables by the waterfront of the Manly Boathouse, which will have a gelateria, a French patisserie and a fish and chippery.

Two private dining rooms will be added to the main building where intimate parties like weddings and other functions can take place.

Chef Braden White will head Manly Boathouse’s kitchen, which will open from breakfast to dinner for the whole week. The Kays also plans to add a drive-through service for boaties.

Manly Boathouse‘s redevelopment is expected to be completed by the end of the year and will open in time for the summer. For store updates, follow their Facebook page.

Lota House: COVID-19 Delays New Retirement Village Construction

The COVID-19 pandemic will delay the redevelopment of the heritage-listed Lota House. Detailed designs of the $67 million retirement village facility, located some two kilometres off the Manly Boat Harbour, are still in the process of finalisation.

A spokesperson for the Village Retirement Group confirmed that the pandemic has impacted plans for Lota House. It comes after the Manly retirement village project received heavy opposition from Bayside residents.

Brisbane City Council previously rejected the development application but the Planning and Environment Court overturned the ruling in late 2019. Locals said that the planned retirement village will ruin the view, character area and habitat surrounding the Edwin Marsden Tooth Memorial Building (Lota House).

Photo Credit: PD Online/Brisbane City Council

Brief History of the Lota House

Located at 162 Oceana Terrace, this house was built in 1865 for William Duckett White and his family. It remained in the Duckett White family until a grandson, also named William, subdivided the estate in 1911.

In 1913, a cousin, Graham Ernest Mylne, bought the property and moved in with his wife and children. Following his death in 1958, his wife Kathleen sold Lota House to the Anglican Church. The church used the money gifted by Mr Marsden Tooth, a businessman and philanthropist, to establish a home care facility.

The Lota House was listed as a heritage site in 1992 as significant to the establishment of the upper-class estates in Brisbane’s eastern bayside area. It is one of the oldest surviving residential homes in Manly-Lota, showing a glimpse of the 1860s Georgian influence.

The property is still owned by the Anglican Church.

Why Residents Opposed Redevelopment

About 100 Bayside residents protested after the original ruling saying no to development was overturned. Locals don’t want a high-rise in the area.

“Multi-storey developments would significantly change the area and ruin it in our eyes,” one resident said. “Lota is a quiet leafy suburb with beautiful green space and picnic/playground areas on the waterfront. Increasing density opens up the area to significant commercial development. Friends, family, neighbours and locals alike that I have spoken to, invested in this area for the quiet retreat that it is.”

The Bayside Action Group also opposes the development because the planned retirement village will cost between $755,000 and $849,000 per unit.

“This means that many local residents who currently live in the area will not be able to afford these units and will need to look at options outside the area. The Anglican Church says that the local community wants this development so families can remain close, but it appears that most will not be able to afford to live in this development if built.”