Man Charged with Dangerous Driving in Manly

A 25-year-old Hillcrest man has been charged with dangerous driving offences following incidents in Manly on Friday, September 20, 2024.



Between 12:30 AM and 2 AM, police received multiple reports from members of the public about a black Ford Falcon driving dangerously in the area, including performing burnouts.

The suspect was located and apprehended at a Carlton Terrace address around 2 PM on Saturday, September 21. He has been issued a Notice to Appear for Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle and is scheduled to face the Wynnum Magistrates Court on December 16.

Law enforcement officials are now appealing to the public for additional evidence. They are requesting anyone in the Manly area who may have captured vision of the vehicle, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to contact the police.



Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Policelink by using the online suspicious activity form available 24/7 at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

The police have assigned the reference number QP2401620669 to this case for all related inquiries and information submissions.

Published 21-September-2024

Manly Dragon Boat Club Paddles into the Heart of the World Championships

The Manly Dragon Boat Club recently showcased their skills at the 14th International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) Club Crew World Championships held in Ravenna, Italy. This prestigious event attracted teams from around the globe, highlighting the growing popularity of dragon boat racing.



The championships took place from 3 September to 8 September at the Standiana Regatta Course, a renowned venue for water sports. Crews competed in various categories and distances. This year, the event featured 163 clubs from 30 countries, making it one of history’s largest gatherings of dragon boat teams. 

The IDBF Club Crew World Championships transcends mere competition. It celebrates the sport’s rich cultural heritage, rooted in ancient Chinese traditions. The event fosters international camaraderie, uniting paddlers from diverse backgrounds in a shared passion for dragon boat racing. For clubs like Manly, it’s a chance to showcase their training, teamwork, and dedication globally.

Manly’s Quest for Glory

The Manly Dragon Boat Club, known for its competitive spirit and dedication, was among the clubs representing Australia. The team trained rigorously in preparation for the championships, focusing on teamwork, technique, and endurance. Their participation reflects their commitment to the sport and aims to elevate the profile of dragon boat racing in Australia.

Highlights and Performances

Throughout the competition, teams raced in traditional dragon boats, accommodating 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a steerer. Participants’ camaraderie and fierce competition were the races’ defining characteristics. The Manly Dragon Boat Club’s athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the championships.



The event served as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together diverse communities united by a shared passion for dragon boat racing. The Manly Dragon Boat Club’s involvement highlights the importance of sports in fostering international friendships and promoting cultural understanding.

Published Date 09-September-2024

Wynnum Manly Seagulls Prepare for a Stronger 2025

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls have wrapped up their 2024 season following a hard-fought elimination final against the PNG Hunters in Port Moresby.

Read: From Brisbane to Italy: Manly Dragon Boat Club Takes on World Championship

Wynnum Manly Seagulls end season in PNG

After getting the 8th spot on the ladder with a Round 23 loss to the Brisbane Tigers, the Seagulls faced the tough challenge of playing away at the Santos National Football Stadium.

Despite starting strong with an 8th-minute try from Connor Broadhurst, followed by a conversion and penalty kick by Bryce Donovan, the Seagulls trailed 16-8 at halftime.

The second half was a battle for possession, but a 59th-minute try by the Hunters and a late field goal secured a 23-8 victory for the home side.

2024 in review

The Seagulls finished the 2024 season with a 10-9-1 record, falling just one point shy of last year’s total. Their home form was particularly strong, with an impressive 5-3-1 record at BMD Kougari Oval. The team kicked off the season with four consecutive wins on home turf, giving fans plenty to cheer about.

Though the season ended earlier than hoped, the club highlighted several key improvements both on and off the field, laying a solid foundation for future success.

Looking ahead to 2025

As the Seagulls look towards the 2025 season, they are excited to announce the opening of applications for their TAFE at School Program.

Based at the Kougari Oval, this initiative allows high school students to combine their passion for rugby league with education, offering them a unique pathway to both personal and professional growth.

Visit here for more details.

Read: Manly Mourns the Passing of Jan Power, Iconic Farmers Market Founder

As the Wynnum Manly Seagulls reflect on their 2024 season and gear up for 2025, the club remains committed to excellence both on the field and in developing the next generation of rugby league professionals.

Published 06-September-2024

Australian Sailing Champions Push to Reintroduce Sailing in Brisbane 2032 Paralympics

Australian Sailing has embarked on a passionate campaign to reintroduce sailing to the Paralympic Games in Brisbane 2032, spotlighting inclusivity and community engagement. The campaign centers around the vibrant sailing community of Manly, a suburb with a rich maritime heritage and a natural fit for this cause.



In a decisive move, World Sailing, the sport’s international governing body, unveiled its Para Inclusive Strategy, aiming to make sailing more accessible to athletes with disabilities. 

Australian Sailing’s CEO, Ben Houston, emphasized the significance of this initiative, expressing that past Paralympic sailors have been a source of immense national pride. He lamented the sailing’s exclusion from the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games, calling it a setback for the next generation of Australian para Sailors. 

A Legacy Interrupted

Para Sailing boasts a proud history within the Paralympic movement, first appearing in the 1996 Atlanta Games and continuing for five consecutive Games until its last appearance in Rio 2016. The sport’s removal from subsequent Paralympics was met with widespread disappointment, not least in Australia, where the sailing community has long embraced diversity and inclusion. 

Undeterred, Australian Sailing has made it a cornerstone of its SAILING 2032 Strategy to advocate for the sport’s return, particularly for the Brisbane 2032 Games. Mr Houston reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to collaborating with World Sailing, aiming to bring the sport back to the Paralympic stage.  By promoting sailing as a sport for all, the campaign seeks to inspire a new generation of sailors and build a more diverse and inclusive sailing community.

Manly’s Role and Community Impact

Manly, with its strong sailing traditions, is poised to play a crucial role in the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics. The Manly Boat Harbour, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and ideal sailing conditions, is being positioned as a prime venue for both competitive and recreational sailing events. 

Manly
Photo Credit: Google Maps

The campaign to reinstate sailing in the Paralympics is driven not only by competitive ambitions but also by a strong desire to foster community involvement and ensure sailing remains accessible, particularly to those with disabilities.

Sailing is woven into the fabric of Australian culture, and the Brisbane 2032 Games offer a unique opportunity to showcase this heritage on the global stage. The efforts to make the sport more inclusive are not just about growth and sustainability; they are about celebrating and preserving the country’s rich maritime traditions.



Published 8-Aug-2024

Winifred Davenport: The Marine Engineer Who Shaped Manly Harbour

Winifred Davenport, one of Australia’s pioneering female engineers, left an indelible mark on Brisbane’s coastline with her significant contributions to the design of Manly Harbour, now a key gateway to Moreton Bay and future Olympic sailing venue.



Davenport’s contributions to marine and civil engineering have been recognised through various honours, including the naming of the “Winifred Davenport Centre” at the Queensland Maritime Museum in 1989. Born on 18 February 1924, Davenport’s career spanned nearly five decades, during which she played a crucial role in shaping Queensland’s coastline.

In 1950, Davenport joined the Harbours and Marine Department as an associate engineer, where she would spend the majority of her career. Her colleague, cartographer Shirly Webb, described her as “a very calm and pleasant person, gentle-natured and understanding and down to earth. She put a lot into her work but was never strident about it.”

Landmark Projects

One of Davenport’s most significant contributions was her input to the Manly Harbour project. The harbour, which is set to host sailing events during the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, has become a centerpiece of the Manly area, attracting visitors with its marina and seafood restaurants.

Pamela Davenport, Winifred’s cousin, noted, “She had always had a talent with mathematics which eventually led her to pursue a career in engineering.”

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

Recognition and Legacy

Throughout her career, Davenport broke numerous barriers:

– In 1951, she became the first female corporate member of the Institution of Engineers Australia.
– In 1958, she was accepted as a member of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects.
– In 1990, she was awarded the Order of Australia for her service in engineering.

Davenport’s impact extends beyond her engineering feats. Her book, “Harbours and Marine: Port and Harbour Development in Queensland from 1824 to 1985,” has become an invaluable resource for historians and genealogists alike.

Manly Harbour Significance

The Manly Boat Harbour project was significant for Brisbane in several ways. It is the largest boat harbour on the east coast of Australia and serves as Brisbane’s gateway to the Moreton Bay Marine Park, providing access to offshore reefs, wetlands, seagrass meadows, and sandy beaches.

The Manly Boat Harbour is a key part of the local tourism infrastructure and serves as a centerpiece of the Manly area. Its marina, crowded with yachts and top seafood restaurants, attracts visitors.

The harbour is set to host the Olympic sailing events during the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, with a spectator capacity of up to 10,000 people including temporary seating. This highlights its importance as a major venue for the games.



The site is undergoing an expansion project, with MA Financial’s $33 million acquisition of the nearby East Coast Marina to facilitate the expansion. This demonstrates the ongoing importance of the harbour to Brisbane’s development.

Published 6-Aug-2024

Manly Foreshore Transformed into Living Canvas of Light and Local Lore

With the unveiling of its stunning new artwork, “From the Hills to the Bay,” Manly Harbour Village is illuminating its shoreline with a vivid celebration of Indigenous heritage and local coastal life.



Created by artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, the series of light projections weaves together the natural history of the area with community stories, casting a mesmerizing glow upon the waterfront.

Cockatoo-Collins, who engaged the community in a twine-making workshop to gather stories and inspiration, has crafted four distinct projection series. Each series comprises four individual designs, painting a multifaceted portrait of Manly’s unique character.

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council

The “Tawalpin” series pays homage to the beach hibiscus tree, known as “tawalpin” in the Jandai language. This coastal tree has been a vital resource for the local Indigenous people, providing materials for spear-making, twine, and even children’s play. The series captures the essence of this intertwined relationship between humans and nature, depicting leaves, nets, fish, and the act of twine-making itself.

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council

The “Quandamooka Sea Life” series dives into the rich marine ecosystem of the Quandamooka waters. The return of the dugong, or “yungan,” and the playful presence of turtles, or “bunbiya,” are celebrated in luminous detail. This series serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of the local environment and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council

“Along the Foreshore” looks at the intricate ecosystems that thrive along Manly’s shoreline. The clicking of fiddler crabs, the protective embrace of mangroves, and the delectable kinyingarra oysters are all brought to life through mesmerising projections. This series highlights the interconnectedness of all living things, from the smallest crab to towering mangroves.

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council

Finally, “From the Hills to the Bay” encapsulates the essence of Manly’s landscape, tracing the journey from the lush hills down to the water’s edge. The iconic Moreton Bay fig trees, the majestic sea eagle, or “mirrigimpa,” and the graceful black swan all appear. This series is a testament to the area’s natural beauty and the enduring spirit of its wildlife.



The slow rotation of the projections adds a dynamic element to the artwork, simulating the ebb and flow of tides and the gentle caress of the wind. The result is a meditative and interactive experience that transforms Manly Harbour Village into an enchanting nighttime destination.

This innovative project, a product of the Manly Harbour Village Precinct Project, stands as a shining example of how art can enrich public spaces and foster a deeper connection to the environment and cultural heritage of a place.

Published Date 28-June-2024

WM Seagulls vs Bears: Burleigh Ends Wynnum Manly Win Streak

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls’ impressive four-game winning streak comes to a halt as they suffer a 28-14 defeat at the hands of the Burleigh Bears in Round 12. WM Seagulls vs Bears kicked off Saturday, June 1, at Kougari Oval.

Read: d’Albora Expands Network with New Marina Acquisition in Manly

WM Seagulls vs Bears

The second-placed Bears raced to an early 14-0 lead after scoring tries in the 2nd, 8th, and 12th minutes.

Cory Paix managed to get the first-placed Seagulls on the board with a strong effort from close range. However, the home side trailed 14-6 at the halftime break, with Paix being denied another try moments before the break.

The Seagulls continue their trend of scoring early in the second half, as Jon Reuben crosses over in the 42nd minute to make it 14-10. The Bears respond with tries in the 53rd and 64th minutes to extend their lead to 24-10.

Justin Frain scores out wide for the Seagulls in the 74th minute, but it proves to be a consolation as the Bears add a late try to seal a 28-14 victory.

Onto the Tigers

The Seagulls’ attention now turns to their Round 13 clash against their nearest rivals, the Brisbane Tigers. The match kicks off 3:00 p.m. on June 8 at Totally Workwear Stadium.

Read: The Manly Hotel Unveils Transformed Spaces After Reopening

The Seagulls faithful are expected to turn out in force to support their team as they look to bounce back from the disappointing loss against the Bears.

Published 07-June-2024

d’Albora Expands Network with New Marina Acquisition in Manly

The MA Marina Fund has acquired East Coast Marina in Manly, expanding d’Albora’s network to 13 premium marina locations across the southern hemisphere.



Strategic Expansion

MA Financial Group, a leading global alternative asset manager, has strengthened its presence in the marine sector by adding East Coast Marina to its portfolio. Located approximately 20 kilometres from Brisbane CBD, within Manly Boat Harbour—the largest small-boat harbour in Australia—the marina integrates 535 berths, comprising 295 wet berths and 240 premium dry storage racks.

The acquisition increases d’Albora’s capacity and enhances its offering of full-service facilities including a boatyard, commercial tenancies, waterfront dining, and an on-site marina office complemented by ample parking. 

This strategic move is poised to reinforce d’Albora’s stature as Australia’s largest full-service marina network, providing comprehensive marine services in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

East Coast Marina stands out not only for its scale and quality of facilities but also for its commitment to environmental sustainability. The site boasts significant investments in water recycling for boat washing and landscape irrigation, alongside nearly 300 solar panels that generate renewable energy, underscoring MA Financial Group’s dedication to sustainable development within its real estate assets.

Julien Pouteau, Managing Director of d’Albora, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition’s potential to broaden their market reach.

“This latest addition to the network in Southeast Queensland will provide even more opportunity for our brand, allowing d’Albora services and customer benefits to be experienced by more of the Australian boating public,” said Ms Pouteau.

Echoing this sentiment, Julian Biggins, Joint CEO of MA Financial, highlighted the strategic alignment of the purchase with the company’s growth objectives. 

“We are delighted with the acquisition of East Coast Marina. The purchase aligns with the MA Marina Fund’s growth objectives and is driven by significant investor demand for exposure to alternative real estate assets,” Mr Biggins stated.



About MA Financial Group

MA Financial is a diversified global alternative asset manager specializing in private credit, real estate, and hospitality. The firm manages $9.6 billion on behalf of clients, is responsible for over $112 billion in managed loans, and has advised on over $120 billion in advisory and equity capital market transactions. With a robust team of over 600 professionals, MA Financial maintains a formidable presence across Australia, China, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United States.

Published 23-May-2024

Residents Evacuated After Shed Fire in Manly

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

Photo Credit: Facebook / Brett Tranter

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

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.

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

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.

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

“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.”

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

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.

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au
Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

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.

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au
Photo Credit: realestate.com.au
Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

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.

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au
Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

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