Manly Archives - Page 2 of 12

Manly War Memorial: The Full Story of the Vandalised Statue

Before it was a cherished park, the site of the Manly War Memorial was a simple water reserve known as the Manly Dam, chosen to become a place of honour for 16 local men.

A Solemn Beginning

The community first gathered for the memorial’s dedication on 5 March 1921. It was established to remember 16 local men who did not return from the First World War. The original structure was impressive, featuring a life-sized soldier crafted from white Carrara marble. This statue stood on a pedestal of Helidon brown freestone and a base of Enoggera granite, representing the qualities of the ideal Australian: courage, loyalty, and youth.

A Symbol Targeted

Over the years, the memorial sadly became a target for vandalism. This destructive behaviour reached a low point in 1992 when the marble soldier was torn from its pedestal and its head was broken off. For many years after this incident, the pedestal stood empty, a stark reminder of the statue’s absence and a source of distress for the local community.

The Digger’s Return

The community did not give up on its memorial. In 2007, a concrete replica of the original soldier was installed, finally filling the space. The figure stands in the traditional position of remembrance, with its head bowed and arms reversed. In a surprising twist, the damaged original marble statue, which many thought was lost forever, was found in 2013. It had been stored in a Brisbane City Council depot in Lota.

From Water Reserve to Honoured Park

The ground on which the memorial stands has its own deep history. Before it was a place of remembrance, the land was a water reserve known as the Manly Dam. In 1919, the local mayor, Richard Russell, selected the site for the memorial park. In recognition of his foresight, the park was officially named Richard Russell Park in 1990.

The site’s importance to the state was formally recognised when it was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992. Today, the memorial honours not only the original 16 men but also the 21 locals who died in the Second World War, along with those who served in the Korean and Vietnam wars.

Published Date 10-November-2025

Brisbane Launches First Aerial Mosquito Sprays of the Season

Helicopters buzzed over Tingalpa Creek, as the first aerial mosquito sprays of the season took place across Brisbane’s bayside suburbs. Around 500 hectares were sprayed to curb early outbreaks of saltmarsh mosquitoes that had emerged after recent rainfall.

Read: Lota Creek Catchment Properties Among Thousands Affected by Flood Risk Map Update

The operation, which took off from Myrtletown Reserve on 30 October 2025, focused on coastal and creek areas including Port of Brisbane, Tingalpa, Hemmant, and the waterways around Bulimba and Tingalpa creeks. Mud Island, St Helena Island, and Green Island were also included in the program.

Brisbane’s entomology team said the sprays were scheduled when mosquito hatching activity was detected. The work was part of an extensive mosquito management programme that ran throughout the year to keep pest numbers under control and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Photo credit: Instagram/Cr Adrian Schrinner

Chief Entomologist Dr Martin Shivas said mosquito activity tended to rise sharply once the warmer months arrived. He explained that the combination of heat, rainfall and king tides between December and March created ideal conditions for breeding, and that the timing and intensity of each season depended on these environmental factors.

Dr Shivas added that while the team worked continuously on ground treatments across more than 2,400 freshwater breeding sites, aerial spraying was carried out whenever there was a significant saltmarsh hatch. Each year’s mosquito season, he said, presents different challenges depending on rainfall, tides and temperature, with aerial and ground treatments scheduled accordingly.

Last season, Brisbane conducted 12 aerial treatments between October and March, covering more than 16,000 hectares. With the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting above-average rainfall for southeast Queensland over the following months, local residents were encouraged to do their part in minimising breeding grounds around their homes.

How residents can prepare for the mosquito season

Residents can take simple but effective steps to reduce mosquito numbers over the coming season. They should empty water-holding containers such as buckets, pot plant saucers and bird baths, which can quickly become breeding sites after rain. It also helps to ensure gutters are clear of leaves and that rainwater tank openings are properly screened to prevent mosquitoes from entering.

When mosquitoes are active, residents are advised to wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs, and to apply insect repellent to exposed skin. Limiting time outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active can further reduce the risk of bites. Additional protection can come from using mosquito coils, lanterns or insecticide emanators during outdoor activities.

Read: Unexpected Encounters: Koalas Found in the Strangest of Places in Mansfield

By following these steps, bayside residents, from Manly to Tingalpa, Hemmant and beyond, can help reduce mosquito numbers over the summer and enjoy the outdoors with fewer of the season’s unwelcome visitors.

Published 3-November-2025

A Year of Crime in Manly & Manly West: Property Offences Lead, Evenings Busiest

Manly and Manly West recorded a combined 746 offences between 16 October 2024 and 16 October 2025, according to the Queensland Police Service’s Online Crime Map. Within that total, Manly accounted for 351 offences and Manly West 518.

The offence mix across the two suburbs was led by other theft (excluding unlawful entry), followed by drug offences, unlawful entry, and other property damage. Smaller but regular categories included traffic and related offences, assault, good order offences, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, trespassing & vagrancy, and handling stolen goods.

By time of day, offences were most frequent 2 pm–10 pm (297 incidents), then 6 am–2 pm (226), and 10 pm–6 am (223).

By day of the week, Friday, Saturday and Sunday were the busiest days, while Tuesday was the quietest.

Looking month-to-month, the highest totals were June 2025 (84), March 2025 (73) and December 2024 (70). The lowest were February 2025 (43) and May 2025 (47).

Overall, the combined area shows a property-heavy profile typical of busy bayside suburbs, with incidents clustering around shopping strips, arterial roads and nearby residential streets. Routine precautions — locking vehicles, securing valuables and reporting suspicious activity promptly — remain the most effective ways to reduce opportunistic crime.

Published 16-Oct-2025

Tingalpa’s Valenhold and Garth Chester Named Brisbane Business Awards Finalists

Tingalpa will take the spotlight at this year’s Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Business Awards, with local company Valenhold and its co-founder and managing director Garth Chester announced as 2025 finalists.

Recognising Local Excellence

The Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Business Awards celebrate organisations and individuals making a significant impact across the city. Tingalpa-based Valenhold is a finalist in the ISPT Investment in Brisbane Award. Chester is also shortlisted for The Courier-Mail Business Person of the Year.

Winners will be announced at a gala ceremony on Thursday, November 6 at Brisbane City Hall.

A Veteran’s Path to Business Leadership

Chester’s journey to business recognition follows over two decades of service in aviation, defence and resources. In 2022, he was named Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year, acknowledging his efforts to build a successful enterprise after military service while also supporting other veterans into civilian careers.

*Photo Credit:* *Matt Thistlethwaite MP*/Facebook

His career has included leading billion-dollar cost-saving programs, supporting start-ups and expanding international market reach. With Valenhold, Chester has focused on delivering practical solutions that combine global supply chains with skilled Australian service providers.

Valenhold’s Role in Industry

Operating from Tingalpa, Valenhold was founded in 2015 and has become known for bridging the gap between overseas manufacturers and local industries in mining, infrastructure, renewables and civil construction.

By offering cost-efficient, high-quality solutions, the company not only supports national industries but also strengthens opportunities for employment within the community.

Community Pride in Tingalpa

Having both a local company and a local business leader recognised at the Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Business Awards puts Tingalpa firmly on the map as a hub of innovation and leadership.

Chester has said in past public statements that his work is about more than building a successful company, it is also about delivering value to communities and supporting the next generation of veterans as they enter civilian careers.

Published 30-September-2025

Diving Success for Kiarra Milligan in Manly Spotlight

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay College/Facebook

Manly diver Kiarra Milligan, a Moreton Bay College graduate, has continued her rise on the international stage while balancing a scholarship career at the University of Michigan.

Strong Roots in Manly

Kiarra Milligan, who completed her schooling at Moreton Bay College in Manly in 2021, has gone on to combine academic and sporting success overseas. She remains connected to her school community through the Old Girls’ network, which highlights the journeys of past students.

Achievements at Michigan

Since joining the University of Michigan on a scholarship, Milligan has competed across major collegiate competitions in the United States. At the NCAA Division I Women’s Championships from 19 to 21 March 2025, she placed 16th in the three-metre dive, earning All-America Second Team honours. Earlier in her career, she was part of the 2023 Big Ten Championships, finishing second in the one-metre event.

She has also recorded multiple first-place finishes in dual meets, including top results against Ohio State in January 2025 and at the Notre Dame and Wisconsin meet in October 2024. She added further podium placings at competitions such as Indiana.

Her consistent performances have seen her recognised as Michigan’s Diver of the Year in 2025. She has twice been named Academic All-Big Ten and also earned Scholar All-American status.

*Photo Credit: Moreton Bay College/Facebook*

International Representation

In 2025, Milligan represented Australia at the FISU World University Games in Berlin. She reached the finals in both the one-metre and three-metre springboard events, competing against some of the strongest university athletes in the world.

Before her college career, she was part of the Australian Elite International Divers program and competed at events including the 2019 FINA Diving Grand Prix and the World Junior Diving Championships in Kiev.

Australian diving — *Photo Credit: Moreton Bay College/Facebook*

Community Support

Her achievements continue to draw messages of support from her former school community in Manly, where peers and teachers celebrate her sporting and academic accomplishments. Social media tributes from the Moreton Bay College community have commended her dedication, both in and out of the pool.

Continuing Commitments

Milligan continues to balance international competition with her academic studies and collegiate career, while maintaining strong ties to Manly and Moreton Bay College.

Published 25-Sep-2025

Community Consultation Opens for Wynnum Manly Safer School Precinct

Parents, students, residents, and local businesses will soon have their chance to help shape the future of safer, smoother travel around the Wynnum and Manly school community.

Read: Land Secured in Manly for New Special School Planning

Community consultation opens on Monday, 15 September, as part of the Wynnum Manly Safer School Precinct project. The initiative covers Manly State School, Wynnum State High School, and St John Vianney’s Primary School, as well as surrounding residents and businesses.

For six weeks, the consultation period will gather feedback on everyday experiences of moving around the precinct, from driving and cycling to walking and public transport. Locals are encouraged to share their expectations, challenges and ideas to improve safety and ease congestion, particularly during busy school drop-off and pick-up times.

The insights collected will help develop a plan to address issues such as traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and accessibility. With three schools and a mix of residential and commercial areas in close proximity, the precinct is a focal point for daily travel, making community input critical to shaping practical and lasting solutions.

Community members can have their say through surveys and engagement sessions, ensuring their voices contribute to creating a precinct that is safer and more efficient for everyone.

HAVE YOUR SAY

About Brisbane’s Safer School Precincts

The Safer School Precincts program is designed to support Brisbane’s growing suburbs while creating lasting benefits for local communities.

The program places its focus on road safety upgrades, stronger pedestrian connections and better opportunities for active travel. These improvements are intended to make it safer for students on their journeys to and from school.

Read: Mansfield State High Draws Families From Across Brisbane

Planned improvements aim to strengthen connections to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games venues, with upgraded pathways and public transport options making it easier for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to move within precincts and access key destinations.

Published 11-September-2025

Lota Creek Catchment Properties Among Thousands Affected by Flood Risk Map Update

Residents in Lota, Manly, and neighbouring bayside suburbs are among thousands across Brisbane set to appear on a newly updated flood risk map to be released next month.

Read: Manly and Nearby Suburbs Eligible for Cyclone Alfred Relief Payments

From 19 September, the council will incorporate revised flood modelling into its planning scheme, reflecting the latest studies conducted in the Lota Creek, Breakfast Creek, and Jindalee catchments. City-wide, 17,246 properties will be affected: 10,129 properties will be included for the first time, more than 2,000 properties will shift into a higher risk category, and about 400 properties will be removed.

Photo credit: Brisbane Flood Awareness Map

For the bayside, the Lota Creek catchment spans parts of Lota, Manly, Manly West, Ransome, Wakerley, Gumdale, and Chandler. The updated modelling focuses solely on creek and waterway flooding, meaning it does not apply to Brisbane River or overland flooding. The mapping reflects recent flood events, advances in technology, and new national guidelines that account for greater climate change impacts, raising projected rainfall allowances in modelling by as much as 60 percent.

flood risk map — Photo credit: Marissa Jackson/Google Maps

Council says the revised flood awareness tool is intended to help residents better understand potential risks, make informed property decisions, and plan for resilience. Some affected properties may face only a very low likelihood of flooding, such as a one-in-2,000-year event, but will still be included for awareness and planning purposes.

While the council has urged insurers not to use the new mapping to impose excessive premium increases, it has acknowledged it cannot control how insurance companies respond. Residents concerned about potential financial impacts are encouraged to contact their insurer and, if necessary, seek competitive quotes.

For those in the Lota Creek catchment, especially low-lying streets near the creek mouth and adjacent wetlands, the update is an opportunity to review flood preparation plans, consider property modifications, and understand the level of risk, however small, that may now apply.

Resident Checklist: Lota & Manly Flood Risk Map Update

1. Check your property’s updated flood risk

Visit Brisbane’s Flood Awareness Map online.
Enter your address, select the Creek/Waterway Flooding layer, and review your property’s category.

2. Read your council letter carefully

Look out for an official letter from Council explaining your flood category change.
Keep this for insurance and property records.

3. Contact your insurer

Inform your insurer of your current risk category and request confirmation of any premium changes.
If your premiums rise, compare quotes from other providers.

4. Review your flood preparation plan

Identify evacuation routes and nearby safe areas.
Keep an emergency kit with essentials such as bottled water, non-perishable food, important documents, and a torch.

5. Consider property upgrades

For homes in higher risk zones, explore flood-resilient building materials, raised electrical outlets, and improved drainage.
Seek professional advice for cost-effective flood mitigation.

Read: Cyclone Alfred Aftermath: Road Closures and Recovery in Tingalpa

6. Stay informed

Subscribe to council alerts for severe weather warnings.
Attend any community information sessions if announced for the Lota Creek catchment.

7. Keep communication open

Talk to neighbours, especially if they’re elderly or new to the area, so they’re aware of the changes.
Share reliable information, not rumours, about the flood map update.

Published 14-August-2025

Wynnum and Manly Identified for Ongoing Rental Growth

Photo Credit: Pexels

Wynnum and Manly have been identified as Brisbane suburbs where rents are expected to keep rising, driven by limited housing supply and sustained demand from tenants.

Rental Market Outlook for Brisbane’s Bayside

Wynnum and Manly have been included in a national list of 20 suburbs where rents are forecast to continue increasing over the next 12 months. The latest analysis attributes the pressure to ongoing low vacancy rates, constrained housing supply, and a rental market that remains more accessible than home ownership in these areas.

These bayside suburbs were identified along with other Queensland locations such as Loganlea and The Gap, which also face tight rental conditions and low stock availability.

Wynnum and Manly rents — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Bayside Demand Reflects in Market Figures

In Wynnum, house rents have increased by 6.1 per cent over the past year to an average of $700 per week. Unit rents have grown 5.5 per cent, now averaging $580. House values in the suburb rose by 24.5 per cent over the same period, while units saw a 15.2 per cent increase.

Manly has reported a median weekly rent of $780 for houses and $620 for units. The rental yield for houses currently stands at 2.86 per cent, while units return 3.80 per cent. Properties in the suburb are moving steadily, with houses spending 32 days on the market and units 16 days.

Suburb Characteristics and Growth Drivers

Wynnum combines older Queenslander-style housing with newer developments and is supported by proximity to schools, parks, public transport, and a growing local population. A $1 billion redevelopment of Wynnum Plaza is in progress, with completion expected by late 2025.

Manly offers a marina-side lifestyle and remains popular with families and professionals. In 2021, 68 per cent of homes in Manly were owner-occupied, reflecting the area’s residential stability and long-term appeal.

Together, Wynnum and Manly form a connected bayside corridor that benefits from established infrastructure, coastal amenities, and ongoing urban renewal.

Brisbane rental market — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Broader Market Conditions

Across Australia, the rental market continues to face pressure. SQM Research reported a national vacancy rate of 1.2 per cent in May, reflecting a slight improvement from April but still well below pre-pandemic levels. With rental listings limited and population growth continuing, demand is expected to remain elevated.

This sustained imbalance between supply and demand suggests that suburbs like Wynnum and Manly are likely to see further upward pressure on rents into 2025 and beyond.

Published 18-June-2025

Bayside Bliss in Manly: Olivera Opens Doors to Mediterranean Charm

Photo Credit: Olivera/ Facebook

Manly has welcomed Olivera, a new refined Mediterranean restaurant that is quickly cementing the bayside area’s growing reputation as a premier dining destination.

Located prominently on the corner of Cambridge Parade and the Esplanade, Olivera is the latest undertaking by Consortium QLD, the group behind popular establishments like The Arsonist and Wang Chung.

This addition aims to blend the vibrant flavours of Southern Europe with a relaxed Queensland charm, offering a bright and airy dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

A Culinary Journey

Heading the kitchen at Olivera is Chef Sean Garrett, who brings considerable experience from renowned kitchens around the world, including Michelin-starred establishments in the UK. The menu reflects a focus on fresh ingredients and refined cooking techniques. Diners can choose from a range of small plates, perfect for sharing, or larger main courses.

Notable dishes include a rich Southern Rock Lobster linguine, prepared with a bisque reduction, blistered cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Another hearty option is the slow-cooked lamb shoulder, served alongside caramelised yoghurt, silverbeet, smoked olive, and rosemary jus. For those with a sweet tooth, the caramelised goat’s milk panna cotta with fig leaf granita has already become a popular choice.

The beverage selection is equally thoughtful, featuring a variety of carefully created cocktails. Examples include a delicate chamomile daiquiri, made with chamomile and vanilla-infused rum and lime, and a more robust fig old-fashioned, which balances fig-infused bourbon with honey and walnut bitters.

A Sanctuary by the Bay

Olivera was conceived with the idea of creating a place where elegance, warmth, and flavour come together. The restaurant is named after the olive tree, a symbol often associated with peace, prosperity, and connection, aiming to be a comforting space for those seeking authentic Mediterranean food and enjoyable shared moments.

The design of the venue enhances this atmosphere, with reviewers noting its beautiful decor and a high ceiling that helps carry in the refreshing sea breeze. The overall feel is described as a relaxed yet refined dining space, offering views across Manly Harbour and exuding a Mediterranean warmth combined with a bayside Hamptons lifestyle vibe.

The approach to cooking at Olivera is described as intentional, with dishes garnished thoughtfully and presented with poise. Each meal is designed as a tribute to the sun-drenched coasts that provide inspiration, hoping every visit feels like coming home.

Community Focus and Positive Reception

Olivera is quickly garnering positive attention within the community for its quality food and service. Reviewers have consistently praised the food as “delicious” and “packed with flavour.” Standout items frequently mentioned include the fresh focaccia bread, grilled prawns, squid Bolognese balls, pork chop, lamb ribs, scallops, and yellowfin tuna. Special dishes like the Ouzio Snapper with fennel and tomatoes, and the cumin-and-coriander-crusted slow-roasted lamb shoulder, have also received particular acclaim.

The restaurant’s thoughtful wine list and creative cocktail menu have also been well-received. Olivera is seen as a suitable venue for special occasions and is highly recommended for groups, contributing to Manly’s appeal as a place for celebratory gatherings and quality dining experiences. One reviewer noted that “every dish was packed with flavour and looked amazing,” after experiencing the $90 set menu.

Published Date 11-Jun-2025

Retirement Development Progresses in Manly as Sales Pass 50%

Photo Credit: The Village Manly

Over half of the first-stage apartments at The Village Manly retirement development in Brisbane’s bayside suburb of Manly have been sold within six months.

Background and Development Timeline

The Village Manly, a retirement living project in Manly developed by The Village Retirement Group in partnership with Anglicare Southern Queensland, has reached a key sales milestone. The first stage of the project—comprising 76 three-bedroom apartments across two six-storey buildings—has sold more than 50 per cent of its available units.

Initial plans for the project were released in August 2021, following development approval granted by the Queensland Planning and Environment Court in December 2019. Construction was delayed following a request in October 2023 to amend the approved plans, changing the original four-storey design to a six-storey configuration.

Revised Design and Facilities

The revised development includes a total of 187 one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom units across six multi-storey buildings, ranging between four to six levels. The buildings are located next to Anglicare’s EM Tooth Aged Care facility and the heritage-listed Lota House.

Stage 1 features basement car parking and community amenities, with architectural design by O’Neill Architecture and construction led by FKG Group. Three-bedroom units in Stage 1 are priced from $1.3 million, with penthouse contributions listed between $1.65 million and $2.5 million, as outlined in the Village Comparison Document issued by the State.

Manly retirement living — *Photo Credit: The Village Manly*

Local Context and Living Features in Manly

Situated approximately 20 kilometres from Brisbane CBD, the Manly site offers water views and is positioned to meet the growing demand for retirement accommodation in the region. The development is promoted as a premium lifestyle option, with community facilities including a heated pool, gym, yoga studio, café, cinema, arts and craft rooms, and a medical and allied health suite.

Apartments have been designed to maximise bay breezes and greenery, with a focus on functionality and liveability. The partnership also supports access to homecare services and proximity to residential aged care.

Retirement development — *Photo Credit: The Village Manly*

Community Feedback and Future Construction

Local residents and stakeholders have shared mixed views regarding the revised plans. Some expressed concerns over the increased building height, while others acknowledged the need for additional retirement housing options in Manly.

The development team has stated that the design balances demand with heritage considerations, particularly the nearby Lota House. This marks the second collaboration between Anglicare Southern Queensland and The Village Retirement Group, following an earlier project in Taigum.

The Village Manly Stage 1 development — *Photo Credit: The Village Manly*

Next Steps

Construction for the revised Stage 1 is expected to be completed by mid-2026. The remaining apartments in Stage 1 are currently on the market, with 38 units still available.

Published 6-June-2025