Manly Archives - Manly Today

War Stories Unearthed in Shoebox Inspire Brisbane Author

At Manly RSL this May, a Brisbane writer will share the hidden story of his grandfather’s role in a forgotten WWI scene — one that hung on his wall all his life.

Manly Book Launch to Share Lost Family War Stories Unearthed in a Shoebox

A family war story buried for decades is set to be shared at the Manly-Lota RSL, where Brisbane writer Paul Dobbyn will launch a book that traces his grandfather’s forgotten role in one of World War I’s most haunting moments.

The event will take place on Friday, 9 May, at the Manly-Lota RSL Sub Branch Hall. The date is meaningful to Dobbyn’s family. It marks the anniversary of both his grandfather’s survival at the Battle of Aubers Ridge in 1915 and his uncle’s death during a 1944 Royal Air Force mission in France.

A Personal Discovery Leads to Public Sharing

Wynnum journalist and poet Paul Dobbyn found the heart of War Spoils in a leather-bound journal left by his grandfather, Captain Henry Dobbyn, a World War I veteran of the Indian Royal Munster Fusiliers. Discovered after his father’s death in 1991, the journal detailed frontline injuries, including wounds at the Somme, and the hardship of raising five children alone in Toowoomba.

A childhood memory of a painting gained new meaning when Dobbyn realised his grandfather was among the soldiers shown receiving a battlefield blessing in The Last General Absolution of the Munsters at Rue du Bois. Though the image hung in family homes, the connection had never been spoken of. It is a quiet discovery that became the book’s emotional centre.

Wartime Sacrifices Across Three Generations

The book follows Henry Dobbyn’s sons, Denis, who served in Papua New Guinea, and Robert, a Pathfinder pilot killed in 1944, with their stories rebuilt from family records and a blog that retraced Robert’s final flight.

War Spoils blends family history with poetry, drawing on Dobbyn’s public readings from the 1990s, enriched by archival images and wartime music.

Local Reflections for Anzac Day

With a foreword by RSL President Major General Greg Melick and praise from historian Dr Greg Poulgrain, the book is recognised as a moving tribute across three generations. Dobbyn will also present poetry and music from War Spoils at a Wynnum community event on Sunday, 28 April, from 3pm at the Waterloo Bay Leisure Centre.

For Dobbyn, sharing these stories in Manly and Wynnum is about honouring those who served and highlighting the personal side of Australia’s wartime history.

Published 16-April-2025

Wynnum Manly Juniors Picked for City Team in Under-17 State Clash

Photo Credit: Wynnum Manly Seagulls/Facebook

Manly’s footy pride steps up to the state stage, with five Wynnum Manly Seagulls named in the Under-17 City squad for the City vs. Country clash. Selected for their standout junior form, they’ll represent Brisbane’s southeast on April 16 at Totally Workwear Stadium.

A Big Day for Local Footy

The Under-17 City vs. Country matches are part of Queensland Rugby League’s development program, featuring top young talent from across the state. Boys and girls take part in a four-day camp with training and high-performance education ahead of the games.

*Photo Credit: Wynnum Manly Seagulls/Facebook*

The Manly-based Seagulls club has made its presence known this year with five boys chosen for the City team. Representing Wynnum Manly are:

Lachlan Hooker
Franck Iraguha
Ezekiel Jones
Koby McGarrity
Dean Tauaa

All five have stood out through their junior competitions, showing strong skills, teamwork, and leadership on the field. Their selection is not just a personal achievement, but a moment of pride for their families, schools, and the wider Bayside community.

Recognition for the Club

Wynnum Manly Seagulls’ strong junior program continues to produce top talent, with this year’s City selections showcasing players who’ve risen through the club’s youth system, backed by dedicated coaches and staff.

Coaches Shayne Boyd, Will Pei, and Steve Crawford will lead the boys’ camp, with past support from Manly club staff helping build a strong culture of growth and community in rep rugby league.

Looking Ahead to Game Day

The City vs. Country match is more than just a curtain-raiser for bigger competitions, it’s a crucial step in the representative pathway. Many past players have gone on to wear the Maroons jersey or sign with NRL clubs after taking part in this level of play.

For the five Wynnum Manly players, this is a milestone worth celebrating. It recognises years of training, dedication, and passion. It also offers a chance to grow, learn, and play alongside other top-tier juniors from around the state.

Kickoff for the boys’ match is at 1:00pm, following the girls’ match at 11:30am. Both games will be held at Totally Workwear Stadium in Brisbane.

A Community Moment

This selection is not only a personal win for the boys and their families, but a reminder of how strong grassroots footy remains in Manly. The support from the club and local community plays a big part in shaping these young players. With continued encouragement, these five may soon be household names in the sport.

Congratulations to Lachlan, Franck, Ezekiel, Koby, and Dean — your community is proud, and all of Manly is behind you.

Published 9-April-2025

Maritime Safety Queensland Targets Manly Waters in Easter Boating Safety Checks

Photo Credit: Maritime Safety Queensland

Maritime Safety Queensland is strongly reminding Manly boaties and others across state waters to follow important safety rules, especially new lifejacket laws, following the worrying fact that 59 out of 64 people who drowned in recent Queensland boating accidents were not wearing a lifejacket.

Easter Safety Campaign Underway

Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) officers are conducting an intensive safety campaign on the state’s waterways, including areas around Manly. This safety focus runs from 5 April to 21 April, covering the busy Easter school holiday period. MSQ officers will be out on the water checking boats and talking to people. The main goals are to ensure people follow the rules for wearing lifejackets and travelling at safe speeds, as these are the two biggest factors in boating deaths.

New Lifejacket Rules Explained

New rules for wearing lifejackets were enacted on 1 December 2024 to help keep people safer in risky situations. Wearing a lifejacket is now required by law when crossing designated coastal bars in open boats or the open area of any boat. It’s also required when boating alone in an open boat under 4.8 metres long or in a vessel between sunset and sunrise.

Furthermore, all children aged between one and twelve years must wear a lifejacket while in an open boat or the open area of any underway boat. An open boat generally means one without a permanent rigid cabin or deckhouse.

Lifejacket Standards and Conditions

Boaties are reminded that lifejackets must be kept in good condition to work properly. This means checking that the material colour is still bright, the stitching is intact, and the straps are not worn out. Inflatable lifejackets need regular servicing according to the maker’s instructions, which might involve professional or careful self-servicing following specific steps.

It is also important for boat owners to know that all lifejackets must meet the current Australian Standard AS 4758 by 1 September 2025, as older types are being phased out. Different types of lifejackets are available, rated for different water conditions, such as open or smooth waters.

Enforcement and Penalties

While MSQ officers focus on educating boaters about the new lifejacket rules, they will begin enforcing compliance with fines from 1 July 2025. However, officers can issue fines immediately to boaties caught speeding. Speeding is a major risk because it gives boat operators less time to react to unexpected situations or dangers on the water.

Official Safety Message

Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillon emphasised that a lifejacket can only save someone’s life if they are wearing it. He stated that the new laws aim to ensure that lifejackets are worn during high-risk times, such as boating alone, at night, crossing bars, or when children are onboard.

Mr Dillon urged all boaties to make wearing lifejackets a normal part of their boating routine. He also warned that speeding reduces reaction time and increases the risk of serious accidents. The core message for boaties this Easter is straightforward: wear your lifejacket, slow down, and ensure a safe return home.

Published Date 07-April-2025

Mansfield State High Draws Families From Across Brisbane

Photo Credit: Mansfield State High

Mansfield State High, a large state school in Brisbane, attracts families from far and wide. Nearly a third of its students travel outside the local area to attend.

High Demand for State Schools

The popularity of state schools like Mansfield State High and Brisbane State High School (BSHS) is changing the property market in certain Brisbane suburbs. In West End, the area linked to BSHS, real estate agents often highlight the school’s catchment zone in property advertisements.

This demand has pushed housing prices, with the median house price in West End reaching $1.65 million. Families are renting in the area simply to gain access to the school, despite the strict enrolment policies in place to prevent those who do not live within the catchment from enrolling. These policies require substantial proof of residency, including lease agreements and utility bills.

Capacity and Overcrowding

Despite having a maximum capacity of 3,000 students, BSHS had 3,521 students enrolled last year. Mansfield State High, which can hold 3,252 students, also exceeds its capacity with 3,651 students. This overcrowding concerns local community groups, who worry that planned high-density developments in areas like the Kurilpa peninsula will put even more pressure on schools and local infrastructure.

The P&C groups from both BSHS and West End State School have raised concerns about the impact of increased residents on schools, green spaces, and transport.

Alternative Schooling Options

While state schools are popular in areas like West End and Mansfield, other suburbs prefer private education. Suburbs such as Sandgate, Ashgrove, Kedron, and Camp Hill have more students attending Catholic high schools. Ascot, Gumdale, Chelmer, Bulimba, and East Brisbane have more students attending independent schools.

Interestingly, the median income of families in West End, who prefer state schools, is higher than that of some of the suburbs, which favour private schools. This shows that school choice is not solely based on income.

Planning for the Future

The Queensland school planning reference committee has indicated that a new primary school may be required in the South Brisbane, West End, Highgate Hill area within the next ten years. The government opened Brisbane South State Secondary College in Dutton Park in 2021 to relieve pressure on BSHS.

This new school has a capacity of 1,524 and currently has 968 students. 62% of its students live outside its catchment area. Brisbane’s ongoing population growth means careful planning is needed to ensure all students have access to quality education.

Published Date 25-March-2025

Manly and Nearby Suburbs Eligible for Cyclone Alfred Relief Payments

Photo Credit: Kara Cook/Facebook

Residents of Manly and surrounding suburbs (Manly West, Lota, Lytton, Belmont, Gumdale, Tingalpa & Wakerley) are now eligible for disaster relief payments following the devastating impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. This includes direct payments, hardship grants, and income support measures.

Cyclone Alfred’s Impact

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred swept through south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales. It caused widespread damage, loss of essential services, and economic hardship for many residents. In response, the local officials and the State have announced financial aid programs to assist individuals and businesses affected by the disaster.

*Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Kara Cook/Facebook*

Types of Financial Assistance Available

Residents in Manly and surrounding areas (Manly West, Lota, Lytton, Belmont, Gumdale, Tingalpa & Wakerley) impacted by Cyclone Alfred can access several forms of financial support, including:

Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP): It is a one-off, non-means-tested payment worth $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child for individuals significantly affected by the disaster.
Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA): Up to 13 weeks of income support for workers and sole traders who have experienced a loss of income due to the cyclone. Paid up to $1,007 per fortnight.
Queensland Government Personal Hardship Grants: Covering immediate needs such as food, clothing, and temporary accommodation. Payments of $180 per individual and up to $900 per family.
Essential Household Contents Grant: Up to $1,765 for individuals and $5,300 for families. It can be used to replace essential items lost in the cyclone.
Structural Assistance Grant: Providing up to $80,000 for uninsured low-income homeowners needing to repair their homes to make them safe and habitable.

CHECK AGDRP ELIGIBILITY

How to Apply for Assistance

Residents can apply for financial aid through official government channels:

AGDRP and DRA applications: Via myGov account.
Queensland Government grants: Through the Community Recovery Hub or online.

CHECK QLD GRANTS ELIGIBILITY

Community Recovery Efforts in Manly and Surrounding Suburbs

Community Recovery Hubs have been established in several affected areas, including Manly, Gumdale, Tingalpa, and Wakerley, to provide residents with in-person assistance. These hubs offer support with applications and referrals to other relief programs.

LOCATE THE NEAREST COMMUNITY RECOVERY HUB

Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery

Emergency financial support is now available. Residents of Manly and neighbouring areas can begin the process of rebuilding. However, challenges remain, particularly for those who have suffered significant property damage or income loss. Authorities continue to assess the long-term needs of affected communities to provide ongoing support.

Published 13-Mar-2025

Moreton Bay College’s Amelia Sherrard Shines on the National Stage

Moreton Bay College’s Amelia Sherrard is quickly becoming a household name in the world of youth track and field. Her recent performances have been nothing short of extraordinary, with a string of victories that have solidified her position as one of the nation’s most promising young athletes.

Read: Moreton Bay College Alumna Dr Bronwyn Herbert, 90, Named Queensland Senior Australian of the Year

From Netball Court to Running Track

What makes her achievements even more impressive is that Sherrard’s athletic journey began just three years ago when she transitioned from netball to running. Her natural athleticism and commitment to training have allowed her to excel in her new sport, particularly in middle-distance events.

Sherrard’s path to success started at Lourdes Hill College, where she discovered her love for running after participating in school cross-country events. Having played netball throughout her childhood provided her with a strong foundation of fitness to build upon. She began her running journey three years ago, dedicating herself to training twice a week, and quickly found a passion for the sport.

Her dedication paid off, and she quickly progressed to competing at state-level championships. Seeking to further enhance her performance, Sherrard began training with renowned middle-distance coach Brian Norton at the On Track Club. Norton’s expertise in developing speed and endurance proved invaluable, contributing significantly to her improved performance.

The move to Moreton Bay College in Manly West played a massive role in her development. The school’s comprehensive athletic program and state-of-the-art facilities provided Sherrard with the resources and support she needed to thrive. The recent announcement that elite coaches Andrew Iselin and Eric Brown will be joining Moreton Bay College in 2025 is another testament to the school’s commitment to athletic excellence.

A Golden Run of Success for Amelia Sherrard

Sherrard’s string of accomplishments speak for themselves. She secured gold medals in both the 800m and 1500m events at the Queensland Representative School Sport championships and replicated this success at the All Schools Queensland competition.

Her most impressive performances, however, were at the All Schools Australia championships. Sherrard demonstrated exceptional courage and determination to win silver in the 800m, achieving a season-best time of 2:13.21—a result that puts her within reach of the national record. She continued her winning streak with a bronze medal in the 1500m, cementing her status as a force to be reckoned with in Australian athletics just three years after focusing on the sport.

Read: Premium Gumdale Estate Features Five-Pavilion Design

With her sights set on national and Olympic glory, Sherrard’ journey is just beginning. Keep an eye on this rising star—she is destined for greatness.

Published 14-January-2025

Final Design Released for Signalised Upgrade at Wynnum Road and Hemmant-Tingalpa Road Intersection

The final design has been released for the long-awaited upgrade of the Wynnum Road and Hemmant-Tingalpa Road intersection at Tingalpa, which will transition from its current unsignalised setup to one with full traffic light control. This upgrade aims to improve both safety and traffic flow at the busy junction.

Read: Community Engagement Wraps Up on Planned Cambridge Parade Intersection Upgrades

Background

The intersection, currently governed by a “give-way” sign on Hemmant-Tingalpa Road, prioritises traffic along Wynnum Road. Between 2016 and 2023, the intersection recorded 10 crashes, with nine resulting in medical treatment or hospitalisation.

High traffic volumes and long wait times at the intersection are believed to contribute to motorists misjudging safe gaps when turning into and out of Hemmant-Tingalpa Road.

Project Details

Detailed design project plan (Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au)

Set to begin construction in mid-2025, the upgrade includes several major changes:

Traffic Signals: The installation of new traffic lights to fully control all movements at the intersection, enhancing safety for all road users.
Dedicated Turn Pockets: Modifications to the centre traffic islands on Wynnum Road, with dedicated turning lanes on all approaches, helping to separate turning vehicles from through traffic.
Signalised U-Turn Facilities: New U-turn provisions with signalisation for vehicles traveling in both directions along Wynnum Road.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Improvements: New footpaths and kerb ramps, plus a new path along Hemmant-Tingalpa Road, to improve connectivity and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Safety Features: The upgrade will also include pedestrian crossings on two of the intersection’s three arms, enhancing accessibility.

This project is jointly funded by BCC and Australia’s Roads to Recovery Program.

Community Feedback

East Bug Inc, a local cycling and pedestrian advocacy group, was among those who provided feedback on the project. While they acknowledged some improvements, they raised concerns about specific design elements.

“We remain disappointed that the re-modelled intersection will only include pedestrian crossings on only two of the 3 arms of the intersection,” East Bug stated.

The group also expressed concerns regarding cycling provisions, noting that while bike exit ramps are included, there is no clear path for cyclists to safely rejoin the road. “Off-road shared paths and footpaths have limitations (lack of maintenance, poor lighting, drainage issues, over-hanging vegetation, dangerous cross-overs, etc), and sometimes re-joining the road is still the best option to get where you need to go.”

Despite these concerns, East Bug Inc recognised the efforts to address some of their issues, stating, “Wynnum Road features in the Principal Cycle Network Plan, and even with these improvements, we would never rate this as a high-standard route. However we do appreciate the efforts of Council’s design team to provide functional upgrades that we think will address some of the concerns we raised last year.”

Read: Brisbane Metro Expansion Targets Belmont Rifle Range Connection

Looking Ahead

With construction set to begin in mid-2025, the upgrade aims to improve both safety and travel reliability for all road users. Further updates will be provided as work progresses, and the community is encouraged to stay informed and continue offering feedback on future transport projects.

Published 6-January-2025

Community Engagement Wraps Up on Planned Cambridge Parade Intersection Upgrades

Community consultation has concluded for proposed improvements to the intersection of Cambridge Parade, Melville Terrace, and Arnold Street in Manly.

Read: Community Input Sought on Concept Plans for Cambridge Parade Intersection Upgrade

Brisbane released two concept designs—Design A and Design B—for feedback, with the majority of respondents supporting Design A.

Design A Gains Community Support

Design A features a raised speed platform on Cambridge Parade, specifically designed to accommodate vehicles towing boat trailers. The platform aims to reduce vehicle speeds as motorists enter the Manly precinct, improving safety for all road users.

Design B, which proposed new colored road markings for the 40km/h speed zone and a garden bed island to the north, received less support from the community.

Next Steps for Design A

Brisbane’s project team will now undertake technical investigations to finalize Design A. While funding for construction will need to be assessed against other city-wide priorities, Brisbane has confirmed that the project remains a high priority.

On its website, BCC stated:
“While budget to construct the improvements will be considered against other city-wide priorities, the project remains high on Council’s priority list. More information about timeframes for construction will be shared once budget is confirmed.”

Benefits of the Project

The proposed improvements aim to deliver the following benefits:

Improved Safety: Enhancing motorist compliance with the 40km/h speed limit by installing a raised speed platform designed to accommodate heavy vehicles and boat trailers.
Enhanced Visibility: Increasing safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers by removing select informal on-street parking spaces.
Formalized Parking: Adding white line-marking to create 30 formal on-street car parking spaces along Cambridge Parade, between Melville Terrace and Stratton Terrace.

Read: E-Scooter Safety Crisis: Experts Call for Full-Face Helmets and Sit-Down Designs

Brisbane’s planned upgrades demonstrate its ongoing commitment to enhancing safety and accessibility in key local precincts. Construction timelines will be shared once funding is secured.

Published 6-January-2025

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Welcomes Over 230 Sailors for Sail Brisbane

As summer reaches its peak, the waters off Moreton Bay have been transformed into a vibrant stage for sailing excellence with the commencement of Sail Brisbane 2024. This prestigious regatta, co-hosted by Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and Australian Sailing, has drawn over 230 sailors this week, solidifying its position as one of the most significant events on Australia’s sailing calendar.

Read: Former Manly Hospital Site to Become Health and Wellbeing Precinct

A unique blend of youth and experience at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Reflecting sailing’s inclusive spirit, Sail Brisbane has united an extraordinary range of competitors. The boat park at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is alive with activity, as seven-year-old novices prepare their dinghies alongside seasoned Olympians. This dynamic environment fosters unique opportunities for mentorship, inspiration, and a shared passion for the sport.

Championship racing across multiple disciplines

Running from 17 to 21 December, the regatta features four distinct racing courses spread across Moreton Bay’s pristine waters. The Alpha course is home to the high-performance classes, including the 49er and 49er FX, while the Bravo course hosts traditional single-handed classes such as Finn and ILCA. On the Charlie course, junior sailors in Flying 11s and Optimists compete, while the Delta course showcases cutting-edge foiling vessels that push the boundaries of sailing technology.

Inspiring the next generation of sailors

Sail Brisbane plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of sailing champions. By racing alongside their sporting heroes, young competitors witness firsthand the dedication and skill required to excel in the sport. The regatta’s inclusive format not only inspires but also prepares aspiring athletes for future success on national and international stages.

Read: Freedom Boat Club in Manly Joins EcoMarines in Moreton Bay Cleanup Mission

As the final major sailing event of 2024, Sail Brisbane is a celebration of the strength and vitality of Australia’s sailing community. With racing continuing through to Saturday, 21 December, the waters off Moreton Bay will shine as the backdrop for intense competition and camaraderie.

Published 17-December-2024

Wynnum Manly Sea Eagles: Cultivating the Next Generation of Cricket Superstars

The Wynnum Manly Sea Eagles’ youth development program is producing some of the state’s most promising junior cricketers, with seven players named among Queensland’s top male prospects.

Read: Homegrown Christmas Market: A Festive Affair in Manly

Iona College talent pipeline

*Harvey Malpass. Photo Credit: Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club/Facebook*

Leading the pack is Harley Malpass, who has established himself as a key all-rounder for both Wynnum-Manly’s Taverners and Iona College’s First XI. Malpass combines reliable batting with economical medium-fast bowling, consistently taking wickets across competitions.

Another one out of Iona College, Joshua Ritchie has made significant strides this season, emerging as a reliable opening batsman. With a sound technique and the ability to score big runs, Ritchie looks set to make a mark in the 2025 AIC cricket competition.

Representing Queensland

Jackson Steinhardt continues to impress selectors, earning back-to-back Queensland under-17 selections. The versatile all-rounder has transitioned smoothly to senior cricket, making valuable contributions with both bat and ball.

Breakthrough performances

Hayden Hamilton has emerged as a standout performer in the Taverners competition, amassing runs at an impressive rate (565 runs at an average of 62.78 as of 13 November). His success has also carried over to grade cricket, where he has continued to deliver impactful performances.

Meanwhile, Kethmin Meegasdeniya has led the Sea Eagles’ spin attack with his unpredictable variations, proving a handful for opposing batters. Alongside him, the emerging all-rounder Shoubhit Jain has showcased his potential with the ball.

Read: Wakerley Carols 2024: Celebrating 11 Years of Christmas Magic

Newest addition to the Wynnum Manly Sea Eagles

The club’s latest recruit, Jack Law, arrives from Brothers Mackay with state under-15 experience already under his belt. The power-hitting all-rounder will add depth and further strengthen the Sea Eagles’ impressive youth roster.

Published 13-November-2024