a platform on which to voice their opinion. Responsibility for the accuracy of the content of submissions remains with the contributor.
Next Distribution dates, Issue 130 is the 4th June - Bribie Island, Sandstone Point & Ningi. 26th June and 27th JuneBeachmere, Caboolture, Toorbul, Donnybrook and surrounding areas.
Delivered to homes and local businesses in the following areas:-
Bribie Island, Sandstone Point, Ningi, Godwin Beach, Beachmere (including Peel Road & Beachmere Road) Bribie Pines, Toorbul, Donnybrook, Meldale, Central Lakes, Caboolture and Elimbah. Copies can also be picked up from IGA and other local businesses in these districts.
We have a lot to cover in this Issue! The federal budget was handed down on May 12 and it’s certainly caused a lot of controversy. Sheree has put together an article about the winners and losers and what Treasurer Jim Chalmers had to say. It seems some people have been rewarded, others not so much. Which one are you?
Sheree also gives us an update on the work taking place at the northern tip of Bribie Island opposite Golden Beach. It’s been a huge job!
The 27th Bribie Classic Boat Regatta was held on May 16 and 17. As usual, there were plenty of classic boats on display at Sylvan Beach. We show you the winners and talk to a local newcomer to the event, the owner of Silver Arrow a stunning 50-foot Halvorsen bridge deck cruiser. There were certainly some impressive vessels showcased across the weekend.
If you have some free time and feel you can help one of our local groups, the Bribie Island Butterfly House is in need of volunteers and would love to hear from the community.
Chase has also written about the Bronco’s, covering their recent wins/ losses and where the results leave them sitting on the competition ladder.
As usual, we cover a wide variety of local issues, while showcasing our local businesses. It is our local businesses who make this publication possible, so please support them.
Until next month.
Warm regards, Belinda
Letters To The Editor
The views expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of the Editor or publishers of the newspaper.
“Please keep letters to a maximum of 200 words” all Letters to the Editor can be emailed to belinda@islandandsurrounds. com.au
To bridge or not to bridge – that is the question
The Local News Issue 128 published a commentary by Ms Sheree Hoddinett about the progress of the second bridge concept development.
I would like to ask the commentary author for an opinion on the possible huge problem with the current second bridge concept.
In about 10 years in 2035 when the new bridge is likely to be in operation, the old bridge will be more than 70-years-old. Possibly, due to its age, it will require a replacement which means that the whole process would be repeated again to plan for a construction of another new bridge. Would it be better to now allow for a construction of a dual carriageway suspended bridge in line with 21st century technology. This will limit the environmental disturbance allowing for construction of only two suspension pylons in water.
An approach could be made to Chinese experts in this bridge technology to ask for an expression of interest in providing the best solution for our problem.
Regards
L Antczak
Bribie Island
Response from Member for Pumicestone
I write in response to recent commentary regarding the future of the Bribie Island Bridge.
It’s important to clarify that the existing bridge is not nearing the end of its life in the way suggested. Engineering assessments confirm that the current bridge retains approximately 60 years of structural integrity, meaning it is expected to remain safe and serviceable well into the future and will have ongoing maintenance to ensure longevity.
The purpose of the new bridge is not to replace a failing structure, but to increase capacity, improve safety and future-proof transport connections for our growing community. Under the current plan, the existing bridge will continue to play an important role in carrying westbound traffic while the new bridge will carry eastbound traffic and include a dedicated
active transport path.
This approach avoids unnecessary duplication, minimises environmental impact and delivers a practical, staged solution that meets both current and future demand.
Major infrastructure decisions must be grounded in evidence, not assumptions about asset life. Right now, the evidence supports a dual-bridge solution that makes the best use of existing infrastructure while planning responsibly for the future.
Currently, we are in the tendering process to have a construction company undertake the detailed design work for the new bridge.
Ariana Doolan Member for Pumicestone Honesty!!
Some honest person handed in my wallet, which I left on the seat with EVERYTHING IN IT!! in the Bribie Cinema.
A very distraught me saw the owner the next day, when she welcomed me with the great news!!
A BIG THANK YOU to the wonderful person who handed it in. Most appreciated. Unfortunately, they didn’t give their name.
S Brady Bribie Island
My Country No More (with apologies to Dorothea Mackellar) loved a godless country, A land of sweeping generalisations, Where politics ranges from left to left-er, With selfish, feel-good sensations. I shun her blinkered vision, I snub her minocracy whose policies encourage terror. Pray tell, what’s in it for me?
Colin Bongaree Reform
With yet another rate rise, young families and firsthome buyers are once again being squeezed the hardest. Inflation may be a national problem, but the pain of fixing it is being dumped on a tiny group of Australians — people with mortgages, often early in their careers, already stretched to the edge.
What makes this even harder to swallow is that the people making these decisions barely feel the consequences. Government spending keeps climbing, yet the Reserve Bank is left to slam the brakes through rate hikes. The pattern is now familiar - younger Australians absorb the shock while those in power remain insulated.
If fairness actually matters, we need real
Boats and community spirit shine at Bribie Classic Boat Regatta
By Chase Christensen
The 27th Bribie Classic Boat Regatta proved once again that a little rain forecast was never going to stop a community passionate about life on the water.
Despite predictions of wet weather leading into the weekend, Bribie Island was treated to bright blue skies, mostly sunny conditions and strong crowds as visitors gathered to celebrate classic boats, maritime history and community spirit.
Organised by Bribie Aquatic Community Events (BACE) and run entirely by local volunteers, the regatta has grown into one of Queensland’s best-loved classic boating events. This year’s fleet featured an impressive mix of vessels, from elegant sailing boats and puttputt steamboats to beautifully restored cruisers carrying decades of history.
Boat owners travelled from across the country, including the New South Wales south coast and as far north as Cairns, highlighting the growing reputation of the Bribie Classic Boat Regatta on the national boating calendar.
Among the many vessels drawing attention this year was Silver Arrow, a stunning 50-foot Halvorsen bridge deck cruiser with a remarkable story stretching back almost 90 years.
Owned by Vicki and Bruce Ramsay, Silver Arrow was built in 1936 by renowned boatbuilder Lars Halvorsen at Neutral Bay on Sydney Harbour. The Halvorsen family played an important role in Australia’s boating history after Lars migrated from Norway via South Africa in the early 1920s. Starting with little more than determination and the help of his 14-year-old son Harold, Lars began building wooden boats in Sydney before later bringing his wife, Bergithe and their remaining children to Australia for a new life. By the mid-1930s, the Halvorsen business had become one of the country’s leading boat builders, known for producing beautifully crafted timber vessels.
Silver Arrow was completed on October 31, 1936, but sadly Lars Halvorsen never lived to see her launch. He died just weeks earlier on October 5 at only 49 years of age from osteomyelitis, an
illness that may have been treatable only a few years later with the arrival of penicillin.
During World War II, Silver Arrow served as a patrol boat in Papua New Guinea under the command of the American Navy between 1943 and 1944. Today, the vessel is recognised as historically significant because of both her wartime service and her connection to the Halvorsen family.
Following the war, the cruiser spent many years on Sydney’s Hawkesbury River under private ownership before later operating as a charter vessel for special events. From the 1970s through to 1999, she was moored in Salt Pan Creek off the Georges River at Lugarno in southern Sydney.
For Bruce Ramsay, seeing Silver Arrow at the regatta was the result of a dream that began decades earlier.
“As a young bloke, I would drive across Salt Pan Creek Bridge on Henry Lawson Drive and admire Silver Arrow moored in the creek,” he said. “I never dreamed one day we would own that beautiful boat, but fate stepped in and my wife and were lucky enough to purchase her.”
Between 1999 and 2004, the vessel underwent extensive rebuilding work by shipwrights in Pittwater, NSW, although the full restoration was never completed. After sitting largely unused at Bobbin Head Marina for several years, Bruce and Vicki purchased the cruiser in 2010 and began the long process of restoring her.
In 2012 the couple relocated to the Gold Coast transporting Silver Arrow by truck to Coomera Boat Works before relaunching her into the Nerang River.
In September last year, with around 90% of the restoration complete, the Ramsays moved to Bribie Island and built a new pontoon at their Banksia Beach home, where Silver Arrow now proudly sits in the canal outside their house.
At this year’s regatta, the beautifully restored cruiser attracted constant admiration from visitors and boating enthusiasts, not only for her elegant appearance but also for the incredible history she carries.
The event itself was filled with color and activity both on and off the water.
Bribie Dragon Boats joined Bombora Outriggers, Dragons Abreast and Pink Dragons to create a lively spectacle, while families enjoyed face painting and balloon twisting throughout the weekend.
The People’s Choice Award went to Percy, a former fishing boat believed to
have been built by Kuskopf in the 1960s, while the Pride of Fleet Award was presented to Mahogany built by Gary Doornbos in Southport during the 1980s.
After another successful year celebrating Australia’s rich boating heritage, organisers are already looking ahead to the 28th Bribie Classic Boat Regatta in May 2027.
Celebrating dedicated Bribie home care nurse
If Mark Lister’s face looks familiar, chances are you may have come across him in his nursing role in the community.
Mark has been caring for seniors through various roles with Carinity Home Care for the past 17 years, ranging from nurse to aged care home manager.
This has included working on the frontline during the COVID-19 pandemic as an infection control nurse. Mark currently supports Bribie Island seniors as a Registered Nurse with Carinity.
Inspired by his mother, sister and wife who were nurses, Mark got out of the laundry and dry-cleaning industry almost two decades ago and embarked on his own nursing career.
His current role encompasses undertaking assessment of new clients to ascertain their care needs, devising falls prevention strategies and providing clini-
cal care tasks.
“My role is to make seniors feel more comfortable and help them live where they want to live for longer,” Mark said. “I help seniors to live the life they want to live – on their own terms.”
Mark is dedicated to supporting people in need in the Bribie Island community, just like famous nursing pioneer, Florence Nightingale. International Nurses Day (held annually on May 12 - the anniversary of the birth of the founder of modern nursing Florence Nightingale) is a global day of celebration recognising the amazing nurses and everything they do for those in their care.
“Working as a nurse requires patience, kindness and compassion – and caring for older people also takes incredible skill and an extensive and deep knowledge base,” Carinity Aged Care Executive Manager Heidi Wiebe said.
Mark Lister has been supporting seniors through various nursing roles for almost 20 years.
The Percy - The people's choice winner.
The Mahogany- The Pride of Fleet Award Winner.
OUT AND ABOUT with Ariana
May has been another incredibly rewarding month across the Pumicestone electorate, with so much to celebrate throughout our community.
I’ve loved connecting with residents, businesses and community groups at a range of fantastic events across the region. This month, I was honoured to attend Seastainable Bags’ grand opening in Bongaree, celebrate local finalists at a beautiful event hosted by Bribie Island Picnics for the Pumicestone Business Excellence Awards and visit the Bribie Island Arts Centre to see the inspiring work of newest Artist of the Month, Sabine Von Graz.
was thrilled to support several local community organisations and frontline services with funding to help deliver new training, equipment and facility upgrades across our region.
Among the recipients were the incredible frontline men and women at the Bribie Island Ambulance Service, who invited me to the station to discuss the difference this funding will make for both staff and the wider Bribie community.
Through the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, the station received a total of $11,368 to support their important work.
Also receiving funding were two of our fantastic local sporting clubs. The Bribie Island District Junior Rugby League Club and Beachmere Rugby League Club. This funding will go towards vital facility upgrades, helping ensure our young athletes have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive both on and off the field.
I’m pleased to share the Crisafulli Government has expanded its “Adult Crime, Adult Time” laws as part of a tougher approach to youth crime, backed by increased policing and targeted reforms. With more than 1600 new officers and new enforcement measures, this is a 7.2% drop in crime victims compared to 2025 and is early evidence of progress.
As always, am here to represent and assist you. Please do not hesitate to contact my office on (07) 3474 2100 or email pumicestone@parliament.qld. gov.au if I can be of help.
Ariana
By Sheree Hoddinett
A different look for Bribie’s northern tip
Dredgers digging dip and the movement of multiple layers of sand have culminated in months of emergency restoration works finally coming to an end at the northern tip of Bribie Island.
Let’s go back a little bit to where it all started. In 2025, the Queensland Government launched a review into the Bribie Island erosion and breakthrough events to better understand their causes and impacts, while helping safeguard the future safety and prosperity of nearby communities.
Persistent erosion had significantly reduced the width of the northern tip of Bribie Island, leaving several vulnerable areas. In 2022, heavy wave activity created a new channel through the Island’s weakest section opposite Nelson Street at Golden Beach. The breakthrough quickly expanded, forming a new ocean entrance. Shortly afterwards, the original Caloundra Bar closed over, restricting marine access and limiting passage for vessels, including the Caloundra Coast Guard.
Further extreme weather associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred in 2025 widened the original 2022 breakthrough and caused additional damage, including major erosion of the foredune at Lions Park. The cyclone also triggered a second breakthrough south of Lions Park. It all highlighted a growing problem and one that needed more than just a quick fix.
Emergency works began in late September 2025 with Hall Contracting moving their equipment in to get started
on quite a mammoth task.
• In total, more than 1.1 million cubic metres of sand were dredged to close the Island breakthroughs.
- 1.1 million cubic metres of sand is equivalent to about 73,333 school yard sand pits This comparison is based on a standard school sand pit size of 15 cubic metres That’s a lot of sand!!
• An internal channel was opened between the northern end of
Pumicestone Passage and the tidal entrance at breakthrough #1.
• An extensive sand erosion buffer of about five metres high was built (see Bluey’s Photography image below).
• Breakthroughs 2 and 3 were both closed and stabilised.
• The completed work meant the Caloundra Coast Guard was able to return to its headquarters in Bulcock Beach, in turn significantly
improving their ability to respond quickly to any marine incidents needing their attention.
• Public access through the channel to Bulcock Beach has also been restored.
As mentioned in previous updates, all three breakthroughs have now been closed, enhancing protection of Golden Beach and the Pumicestone Passage, improving water quality and navigation through the passage.
Think your little pile doesn’t matter? It does.
we’re capturing tonnes of green waste. You’re making compost happen.
Apply to opt-in to the GO service or order additional bins.
Breakthrough #2 successfully closed: November 13, 2025
Breakthrough #3 successfully closed: November 28, 2025
Second dredger deployed: November 29, 2025
Channel Deepening campaign commenced: February 9, 2026
Dredging works completed: March 19, 2026
Stabilisation works: April 2026
Woorim Park restoration: April 2026
While the emergency works have provided immediate protection to local communities and their coastal and marine environments, investigations and early planning continue to progress considerations and recommendations of the Bribie Island Erosion and Breakthrough Review.
IMAGE CREDIT
Major milestones reached throughout the project Site established: August 29, 2025 Dredging commenced (the Arnhem from Hall Contracting): September 27, 2025
Doug “Bluey” Bazley has captured all the changes and restoration stages with thanks to his trusty sidekick “Buzz”. You can check it all out via Bluey’s Photography on Facebook.
air.
We all had nothing, yet we went everywhere from sunup to sundown on adventures that would probably terrify our parents if they knew. Our bikes and our feet were our transport and the world outside was our playground.
structural change - not more fingerwagging about “belt tightening”. One overdue reform is allowing firsthome buyers to deduct mortgage interest. Investors already enjoy this privilege while owneroccupiers - especially those scraping together their first deposit - get nothing.
A responsible version of this policy could be tightly targeted - limited to firsthome-owneroccupiers, capped to the first $500,000–$700,000 of the loan, available only for the first 7–10 years when households are under the most pressure. Income phaseouts and exclusions for redraws or equity loans would ensure support goes exactly where it’s needed. This would ease the pressure on those hit hardest by rising rates and finally narrow the gap between firsthome buyers and investors - a fairness correction long overdue.
Home ownership has always been a cornerstone of Australian life. If we want that to remain true, policymakers must share the burden instead of piling it onto those least able to carry it.
R Hansen Bongaree
A childhood lost
As a young grandparent still recovering from the last school holidays, find myself genuinely frightened for today’s children. Too many are growing up without the simple, lifegiving joys that once shaped our childhoods — riding bikes, running outdoors while filling our lungs with fresh
The battleline
who wins and who loses in the latest budget
By Sheree Hoddinett
Every year we wait with bated breath to see the outcome of the federal government budget.
It’s not so much to see what we might actually receive, but more a case of what we will likely miss out on.
Australians struggling with rising grocery bills, soaring rents and mortgage pressure may have been handed some targeted relief, but economists warn many households may still feel little immediate financial relief as inflation continues to bite.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down what has been described as one of the most politically risky federal budgets in recent memory, delivering tax changes aimed at easing the housing crisis while offering targeted relief for workers and families battling rising living costs.
The budget positions younger Australians, first-home buyers and wage earners as the major winners, while property investors, landlords and wealthier Australians relying on tax concessions are among those expected to feel the greatest impact.
At the centre of the budget is a sweeping overhaul of negative gearing and capital gains tax arrangements, which the government says will help an additional 75,000 Australians buy homes over the next decade.
Under the changes, negative gearing will be limited to newly built homes purchased after budget night, while the long-standing 50% capital gains tax discount will be replaced with an inflation-linked system for future investments. Existing property investments will be grandfathered under the current rules.
Today, many children have everything except the one thing they need most — movement. They go nowhere, do very little and spend countless hours sitting in front of screens. We are watching a generation slip into inactivity, loneliness and poor health. It is heartbreaking to think that some children may face the devastating possibility of dying younger than their parents. No family should ever have to confront that fear.
This isn’t about blaming anyone. It’s about waking up. Children need adventure, scraped knees, muddy shoes and the freedom to explore. A walk in the rain never hurt anyone. They need real experiences — not endless hours staring at devices that quietly drain their time, their energy and their wellbeing.
There is still hope that childhood can be reclaimed. A bike ride after school, a walk to the park, a game outside with friends — these small choices can rebuild the foundations of a healthy life. As a community, we can encourage outdoor play, create safe spaces and remind children of the world waiting beyond the screen.
Our kids deserve a future full of life, health and opportunity.
R Hansen Bongaree
You should be concerned
The proposed Sandstone Point Resort Complex and Mixed-Use Centre (DA/2025/3908) is one of the biggest planning decisions affecting the Bribie
Continued on page 11
be plenty of disappointment over the absence of broader support to offset rising wages, insurance and operating expenses.
Defence emerged as another major winner, with an additional $53 billion committed over the next decade, including a $14 billion lift in spending in the next four years. A big chunk of the new spending is tied to major projects like the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program, but there is also spending on long-range strike missiles, drones and counter-drone technology.
Renewable energy and manufacturing projects also secured fresh support as the government continues its push toward cleaner energy and industrial transition.
However, the budget’s biggest losers are widely seen as property investors and landlords. The changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax represent the most significant shake-up to investment property taxation in decades, with critics warning the reforms could reduce housing supply and increase rents in some markets.
The federal government has abolished the additional private health insurance rebate previously available to Australians aged over 65, a move expected to leave more than three million people paying an extra $226 to $255 a year on average.
Under the previous system, Australians aged between 65 and 69 were eligible for a 28% rebate on their private health insurance premiums, while those aged 70 and over received a 32% rebate. Australians under 65 currently receive a 24% rebate and the changes mean that lower rate will now apply across all age groups.
Mr Chalmers described the budget as a responsible one that is “all about resilience and reform”.
“It’s all about getting Australians through the global oil shock and building an economy that works for more people,” he said. “We’re delivering more cost-of living help and building a more productive economy, a better tax system, a fairer housing market and a stronger and more sustainable budget. The conflict in the Middle East is weighing heavily on our economy and compounding cost-ofliving pressures facing Australians.
The government is also banking on a new Working Australians Tax Offset worth $250 annually for more than 13 million workers from 2027–28 onward.
Combined with previously announced tax cuts, energy rebates and healthcare funding, the budget is heavily focused on cost-of-living relief. Among the clear winners are ordinary wage earners, with the budget delivering additional tax relief, cheaper medicines and expanded Medicare funding. The government has committed billions to bulk billing incentives, urgent care clinics and PBS savings aimed at reducing healthcare costs for households.
The budget also includes $2 billion over four years to help councils and utilities deliver roads, sewerage, power and water infrastructure needed to accelerate housing construction.
Small businesses received a mixed outcome. While the permanent extension of the $20,000 instant asset write-off will be welcomed by many, there’s likely to
Health Minister Mark Butler said the measure was expected to save about $3 billion over the forward estimates and about $11 billion over the next decade. The savings will help fund an additional 5000 aged care beds and expand inhome aged care services.
However, the budget also included some relief for older Australians, with almost $450 million over five years committed to providing free RSV vaccinations for Australians aged 75 and over, as well as Indigenous Australians aged over 60.
Despite modest improvements in projected budget deficits over the next four years, the federal budget is still not expected to return to surplus until 2034–35. The deficit for this financial year is now forecast at $31.5 billion, $2.8 billion lower than predicted in the mid-year economic and fiscal outlook (MYEFO).
The projected deficit for 2025–26 has also been reduced by $8.5 billion. Small improvements have also been recorded in the forecast deficits for 2027–28 and 2028–29, alongside slight reductions in both net and gross debt projections. However, gross debt is still expected to surpass the $1 trillion mark under the latest budget forecasts.
On a local level, budget highlights for City of Moreton Bay include an allocation of $812.5m to upgrade the Bruce Highway between the Gateway Motorway and Dohles Rocks Road, as well as the new Local Infrastructure Fund to expedite enabling infrastructure resulting in more housing.
Labor’s Budget Exposes a Government Built on Lies
In his powerful Paul Murray Live segment on Sky News, Paul Murray cut through the political spin with a forensic, evidence-heavy takedown of the Albanese Labor government’s latest budget. As someone fed up with the endless broken promises, I fully back Murray’s unsparing verdict: this isn’t just policy failure - it’s a government
defined by serial deception and everyday Australians are the ones suffering.
Murray didn’t hold back. He reminded viewers of Anthony Albanese’s own preelection words: “My word is my bond”.
Then delivered the killer line: “We all know there are three words that apply to him all the time. It’s a lie.” Murray backed that up by walking through the many, many, many lies with clips of past statements versus today’s grim reality.
The original lie — cost-of-living.
Labor campaigned relentlessly on easing pressures for working families. Murray rightly called this the foundational deception. Instead of relief, we’ve seen wave after wave of interest rate rises, mortgage stress hammering households and living standards slipping compared to peer nations. As Murray highlighted, year after year Albanese has promised to make things better on costof-living — yet everything has gotten worse. Families in Queensland and right across the country are feeling it in their grocery bills, rents and power costs. Energy prices.
Who can forget the repeated assurances, including that infamous promise of $275 a year cheaper power bills through the renewables transition? Murray replayed the commitments and contrasted them brutally with the higher bills households
are actually paying. Another promise, another failure.
Immigration.
The government pledged to return migration to “sustainable levels.” Murray exposed this as yet another lie, pointing to budget figures showing upgrades of around tens of thousands more arrivals and net overseas migration staying stubbornly high well above prepandemic levels. The numbers tell the real story.
Transparency.
Albanese promised a more open government. Murray cited the damning drop in Freedom of Information request approval rates — down sharply, with only around 25% fully granted under Labor. So much for openness.
Murray also hammered the fresh tax betrayal in this budget. Despite clear pre-election assurances not to touch capital gains tax discounts or negative gearing, Labor has done exactly that. He rightly called out Treasurer Jim Chalmers as one of the biggest offenders in this government for the flip-flops on superannuation, stage three tax cuts and property investment rules. This budget simply confirms the litany of broken promises.
On the ministerial front, Murray exposed the pattern of misleading the public. He detailed cases involving former
Immigration Minister Andrew Giles on detainee monitoring, Communications Minister Anika Wells and disputed travel expenses and the handling of other controversies. Particularly damning was his take-down of the “fear campaign” over Coalition welfare policies for noncitizens. As Murray put it about one Labor minister pushing the misleading line: “She knows it’s a lie. But she’s telling everyone share it anyway”. That’s not leadership — it’s contempt for voters.
What makes Paul Murray’s analysis so compelling is how he ties it all together. Albanese promised honesty and relief. Instead, we get higher costs, more taxes, less transparency and more spin. Murray is doing the job much of the media avoids — holding this government to account with the receipts, night after night.
This pattern isn’t sustainable. As Murray has documented, it shows “how crazy Australian politics have become”. Voters are waking up to the reality, especially with cost-of-living pain still biting hard. The electorate will have its say and if Labor’s word continues to mean so little, that verdict won’t be kind.
Paul Murray called it straight — and he’s spot on. Australians deserve a government whose promises actually mean something.
Happy Days Chameleon
Check out the full program here:-
The proposal raises serious concerns about traffic congestion, flooding, coastal hazards, visual impacts and the gradual urbanisation of the Bribie gateway. The Bribie access corridor is already heavily congested during weekends, holidays and emergencies. Even the applicant’s own reports identify the need for major traffic upgrades.
The site is also close to Ramsar-connect ed wetlands, koala habitat and migratory bird areas. Once large-scale intensifi cation occurs in these sensitive coastal locations, the impacts are permanent. This proposal may also set a precedent for future high-rise development around the passage.
Residents do not need to be planning experts to make a submission. Council needs to hear community views about overdevelopment, traffic, environmental impacts and protecting the coastal char acter of the Bribie region.
Public submissions to the City of Moreton Bay Council close on May 27.
L Rushby Bribie Island
The pursuit of growth
With most of the world’s economies be ing taken over by corporations pursuing wealth, I’m not surprised by the Chame leon’s mindset, foreseeing Bribie as a future Silver Coast. His piece sounded like a real estate ad. I wonder whether he lives in the real world of Bribie.
He appears unaware of the downsides of continuing to cram more people on our fragile island and entice weekend visitors to stay. Getting around is not ‘simply’ using the buses, which do not go where one wants to go, resulting in long waits for connections. That is why we need on demand transport (ODT).
Send cardS for Phoenix’S 13th birthday
of you might be familiar with
He conveniently presents the traffic problem as ‘occasional bottlenecks’. They are actually quite regular - at least three times a day. A 10-minute trip in 2018 now takes 20 minutes, if one chooses these times. Hopefully the ODT will reduce those bottlenecks.
H
Myers, especially if you follow The Adventures of Phoudini on Facebook.
Phoenix is about to reach a big milestone, the teenage years! He turns 13 on July 4 and you have the chance to share your well wishes with the Beachmere local.
You might remember a similar event happening a few years ago when Phoenix turned 10. He received almost 800 cards from around the world and now Phoenix and his family are hoping to outdo that number.
If you want to send a card to help Phoenix celebrate, the address is PO Box 295, Beachmere 4510.
You can also drop your card off at the following locations:
Member for Pumicestone Ariana Doolan’s office – 43 Benabrow Avenue, Bellara.
• Price Busters Variety BeachmereShop 10/6 James St, Beachmere
• Inside Out Therapy Burpengary –8/164-168 Station Road, Burpengary
Inside Out Therapy Kallangur –5/1420 Anzac Avenue, Kallangur
• Inside Out Therapy Zillmere – 432 Zillmere Road, Zillmere
Beneke Banksia Beach
Many
Phoenix
Volunteers needed at Bribie Island Butterfly House
If you have some spare time, love helping others and enjoy getting involved with the environment, Bribie Island Butterfly House would love to hear from you!
The not-for-profit organisation has been in the community for nine years and has helped give more than $1.2 million away to worthy charities with 50% going back to the Island. Some of the groups they support include:
They also help support CADA, Eats4Streets, Inverts Australia, Wanda Nerida, Mt Mee State School and overseas projects through ENTRUST.
The amazing team of volunteers has roles including gardeners, butterfly breeders, tour guides and the ticket office. You join an amazing supportive team with regular morning teas/sausage sizzles/monthly raffles and will make lifelong friendships.
They are also Centrelink approved, so if you are required to do 15 hours for Centrelink they can help you with that.
Along with the days they are open to the public (Wednesday and Sunday between 9am and 3pm), volunteers also work seven days a week between 7am and 12.30pm, giving you plenty of days
to choose from.
If you feel you could spare some time to help out a worthy organisation, please contact operations manager Peta Daraz via info@bribieislandbutterflyhouse.org
OR you can pop in for a visit to speak to Peta for a volunteer form any day between 9am and 10am.
Bribie Island Butterfly House is located at 206B First Avenue, on the right-hand side heading towards Woorim. You’ll find them behind the Orchid Society Hall.
New Planning Scheme survey
Early engagement is underway to gather community feedback that will inform a new planning scheme and ongoing amendments and updates.
Find out more and take part now
Learn more, have your say in the city-wide survey and register for planning scheme updates.
Survey closes 12 July 2026
Help us reimagine your city
moretonbay.qld.gov.au/imagine
Men charged following violent robbery in Caboolture
Two men have been charged with attempted murder after a robbery with violence incident at a licenced premise on Aerodrome Road in Caboolture on Saturday May 9.
A group of three people allegedly stole money from a 31-year-old man at the location at about 10.30pm. The man confronted the group at a carpark a short time later, before he was assaulted and sustained a stab wound to his neck. The offenders allegedly fled the scene on foot prior to police arriving on scene.
Officers provided first aid to the victim when they arrived on scene, before he was taken to Royal Brisbane Hospital with life-threatening injuries. He is now in a serious but stable condition.
Following further investigations, on Sunday May 10 at about 7.30pm a 20-year-old Kallangur man was located at an address in Bray Park and arrested. He was charged with one count each of attempted murder, acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm and armed robbery and was remanded in custody to next face Caboolture Magistrates Court on July 15.
On May 12, at about 11pm, detectives declared a crime scene at an address in Clontarf where it is alleged a man fled the scene before being apprehended by the Moreton Dog Squad a short time later. A 20-year-old Redcliffe man was charged with one count each of attempted murder, acts intended to cause griev-
ous bodily harm and armed robbery. He was due to face Caboolture Magistrates Court on May 13.
Subsequent enquiries also led detectives from Rockhampton CIB to arrest a 22-year-old Clontarf man at an address in Wandal. He was charged with one count of armed robbery and was due to face Rockhampton Magistrates Court on May 13.
Do you have a function or you want us to cover an event that you want to share? Get in touch with our team.
SEND YOUR PHOTOS AND STORY TO: belinda@islandandsurrounds. com.au
Helping keep waterfront homes strong for the future
For more than 30 years, Bribie and surrounding residents living along the Island’s canals and waterways have trusted one local name to help them make the most of waterfront living, Bribie Pontoons.
Now, with a new generation stepping into leadership following the retirement of the previous owner, the long-standing business is continuing its legacy while bringing fresh expertise to the table. Between Sam Hosier as general manager and the director group of Mitch, Tom and Henry, the team now benefits from professional experience in civil engineering, drilling and law, to enhance the core technical skills of pontoons fabrication and installation which have been the foundation of their offering. While there may be new faces guiding the business, Sam said the heart of Bribie Pontoons remains the same, experienced locals who know the waterways better than anyone.
“Bribie Pontoons has been operating in our community for over 30 years and our leading hands have been front and centre through much of this journey,” Sam said. “Many of our customers will know Jason S and Jason G who lead our operational teams and bring decades of experience in the specific waterways we work in. They are supported and enabled by our expert aluminium fabricator Calum.”
Bribie Pontoons specialises in manufacturing and installing pontoons and overwater deck systems, while also offering canal wall maintenance, repairs and recarpeting services for existing pontoons. Their work supports homeowners across Southeast Queensland who rely
on safe, durable marine infrastructure to enjoy their waterfront lifestyle.
“Put simply, we help people enjoy their life on the water,” Sam said.
However, beyond creating beautiful pontoons and marine structures, Sam believes one of the biggest challenges is helping homeowners understand the importance of ongoing maintenance, particularly when it comes to revetment walls protecting canal-front properties.
“Revetment walls are the primary structure protecting canal properties from foundation settlement and erosion,” he explains. “In saltwater environments, these walls are under constant stress from tides, rainfall and groundwater build-up on both sides of the wall.” Sam said blocked drainage systems, failed joints and saltwater exposure could gradually weaken walls, leading to cracking, soil wash-out, corrosion and structural movement if left untreated.
“Most revetment wall failures begin as minor drainage, joint or surface deterioration issues,” he said. “Regular inspection and preventative maintenance
address the risk of structural damage, protect property value, and help avoid costly remediation once everything has gone wrong. Bribie Pontoons offers comprehensive inspection, maintenance and repair services to identify problems early and extend the lifespan of canal walls and pontoons before major issues arise.”
Sam compares regular pontoon maintenance to routine healthcare for a home.
“In a lot of cases, maintenance is like a routine visit to the dentist,” he said. “It is easy to conclude that because it doesn't move very much and because it's a solid structure, that no maintenance is required. But as with all other aspects of home ownership, without some occasional care, expensive problems will arise.”
He encourages homeowners to think of maintenance not as an inconvenience, but as an investment in protecting both their property value and lifestyle.
“We encourage our customers to consider maintenance for their pontoon, and their canal walls more broadly, as an important aspect of protecting the
value of their home and ensuring it can be enjoyed for many years to come,” Sam said.
The long-term durability of the company’s work speaks for itself, with many installations from decades ago still standing strong today.
“We still have pontoons on the water today that we installed over 30 years ago, which continue to provide value and joy with the benefit of a small amount of routine maintenance.”
As a business deeply tied to the Island, Sam said the team took great pride in supporting the local community and share the same love for waterfront living as their customers.
“Most of our operators live on or near Bribie and we are always looking for how we can further circulate work amongst Bribie locals,” he said. “Just like our customers, we love living and working by the water.”
To find out more visit www.bribiepontoons.com, email hello@bribiepontoons. com phone the team on 0418 455 702 or follow @bribiepontoons on Instagram.
Morayfield Road to undergo resurfacing work
If you use Morayfield Road on a regular basis, keep an eye out for roadworks. The necessary roadwork is all about creating a smoother safer surface and driving experience for all motorists who travel the very busy road.
Covering a 3.2km stretch, rehabilitation and resurfacing work will be undertaken between the Supercentre entrance (312 Morayfield Road) and Parkland Crescent, Caboolture South. The work is expected to take about five months (weather permitting) and will take place from Sunday to Thursday between the hours of 7pm and 6am.
What can road users expect?
• Reduced speed limits, lane closures, traffic controllers and signage.
• Access to businesses will be maintained during operating hours, wherever possible.
• Delays and increased travel times during construction.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads acknowledge the large volume of traffic and many businesses in the area and will make every effort to keep disruptions to a minimum as works progress. They appreciate your patience as they work to deliver safer, better roads
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Redefining Luxury Waterfront Living
Positioned within the prestigious canal precinct of Banksia Beach, 20 Marlin Court is redefining luxury waterfront living with a residence that combines grand-scale entertaining with relaxed coastal elegance.
Set on a sprawling 896m2 canal-front allotment, the spectacular five-bedroom home has been thoughtfully designed to maximise its stunning water outlook and seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle. From the moment guests step through the striking timber and glass entry doors, the home delivers an unforgettable first impression, with soaring vaulted ceilings framing uninterrupted views across the infinity-edge pool to the tranquil canal beyond.
At the heart of the home lies an expansive pavilion-style alfresco entertaining area, perfectly suited to Queensland living. The impressive 50,000-litre saltwater infinity pool, complete with cascading waterfall and stylish cabana, creates a resort atmosphere ideal for both entertaining and quiet relaxation.
Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the property’s direct deep-water access and powered private nine-metre pontoon equipped with rollers and a winch, allowing effortless access to the waterways for fishing, cruising or weekend adventures.
Inside, the two-storey split-level design offers multiple living zones, catering to both family comfort and entertaining. A dedicated media room with a seven-
Garden advice from the depths of the earth
Gardening for wildlife on the edge
Creating butterfly and bird havens in a changing Island landscape
Bribie Island and its surrounding suburbs sit at a fascinating crossroads
— where suburban backyards meet the edge of coastal national park, wetlands and dunes. With more than 340 bird species recorded in the area and a rich array of butterflies, our gardens represent a massive opportunity for conservation. Yet many yards remain ‘green deserts’ of lawns and exotic plants that offer little to local wildlife.
BIEPA’s Backyard Biodiversity project highlights this perfectly: the Island’s gardens could support thousands more native birds and butterflies if we shift toward native planting suited to our sandy, nutrient-poor soils.
Why it matters here
Bribie’s unique position makes backyard habitat especially valuable. Urban pressures, habitat fragmentation and a changing climate (stronger storms, salt intrusion, shifting rainfall) challenge local wildlife. Migratory shorebirds rely on our foreshores, while resident species like lorikeets, honeyeaters and fairywrens need reliable food and shelter yearround. Butterflies depend on specific host plants for caterpillars and nectar sources for adults.
Every garden becomes a potential corridor linking suburbs to protected areas like Bribie Island National Park.
Key elements of a Bribie wildlife haven
Create four essentials: food, water, shelter and places to breed
Layer your planting— from tall trees and shrubs down to groundcovers mimicking natural coastal ecosystems.
Native plants thrive in our conditions and support far more local insects (the foundation of the food web) than exotics.
Recommended plants for Bribie gardens
Visit the Bribie Island Community
Nursery or Bribie Island Butterfly House for local advice and stock.
For butterflies (nectar + host plants):
• Lomandra species and native grasses: Shelter and host for various butterflies.
Banksia and Grevillea (local varieties): Prolific nectar for butterflies and honeyeaters. Slender Rice Flower (Pimelea linifolia): Important for ‘Blues’ and other small butterflies.
• Butterfly Bush alternatives and other nectar-rich plants that are
avoid invasiveness).
For birds:
• Callistemon (bottlebrushes) and
• Melaleuca: Nectar and insects.
• Fruiting natives like certain Lilly pillies or Figs (choose noninvasive).
• Eucalypts or Acacias suited to sandy soils for seeds and shelter
• Groundcovers and dense shrubs for nesting (e.g. coastal rosemary or native hibiscus)
General tips for success on Bribie:
• Improve sandy soil with compost, mulch (use local leaf litter or banksia cones) and worm castings.
• Group plants in layers for wind protection and microclimates.
• Add a shallow birdbath or pond with rocks for safe access. Reduce or eliminate pesticides — they kill the insects, birds and baby butterflies need.
Real impact on the edge
Local efforts show what’s possible.
BIEPA’s model gardens and nature strip transformations demonstrate how even small patches can boost biodiversity.
Bribie Island Butterfly House educates thousands of visitors while showcasing plants that work in home gardens.
In a changing landscape, these havens provide refuge during extremes and help species adapt by offering connected habitat.
Start small, think big
You don’t need a huge yard. Begin with a corner dedicated to natives, replace part of your lawn, or transform your nature strip. Contact BIEPA’s flora team if you
LIVINGSTONE LI V ING ST ONE
CONCRETE CONCR ET E
Fishing Report: Late April to Mid-May 2026 – Bribie Island & Pumicestone Passage
G’day all, hope your month of fishing has been a cracker. Having a look around the area and the reports coming through, here’s my general overall take on how things have been fishing for land-based anglers in the Bribie Island and Pumicestone Passage channels and flats from the end of April through to mid-May. The changeover from autumn into the cooler months is definitely underway. Water temperatures have dropped noticeably and we’ve had some unsettled weather with variable winds at times, which made things tricky on some days. Still, when the tides and wind lined up, the passage and accessible shore spots have fished quite well for this time of year.
Overall picture by species
Whiting: One of the standouts again. Good numbers and some solid fish have been coming from the shallower flats and channel edges, especially on peeled prawns and worms. The last few hours of the incoming tide have been the most productive for many anglers.
Bream: Improving nicely as the water cools. Better-sized fish are showing around the structure, bridge pylons and mangrove edges. Fresh bait and small plastics have both worked well.
Tight lines if you’re getting out there — check the tides and weather and stay safe on the water. Let me know how you’ve been going, email me (design1@ islandandsurrounds.com.au) your catches and stories, I’ll make you famous! Roger
guessed it - they showed up again.
As we had to travel seven miles back towards the Cape to navigate the wild banks, a decision was made to head off home. Halfway to Yellow Patch the wind died off moving to the S/E affording us a beautiful glassy run home.
If it’s not your day – it’s NOT your day. Here’s hoping the weather breaks soon. Remember if you see me out – say HI!
Paul
Flathead: Very consistent on the flats and shallow channels. Areas around the oyster jetty flats, mainland side and near White Patch have produced good numbers, including plenty of keepers in the 40-50cm range. Soft plastics fished early morning or late afternoon on the runout tide have been effective. I’ve also had great success using prawns at White Patch.
Other action: First signs of tailor moving through the system — chopper sizes so far, with better fish likely to follow. Grunter have been more active in the passage on plastics and yabbies. Squid numbers are building in the channels, particularly in low light. Mangrove Jack are still possible in the creeks, but slowing down. Jewfish/Mulloway remain sporadic around deeper holes and bridge areas, best targeted at night or on slack tide with bigger baits.
Crabbing has stayed fairly reliable for both sand and mud crabs in the passage after the recent water flows.
General takeaways:
full moon. The moon was perfect, tide was good and with the stars aligned all things pointed to another good day. As the swell was 2.5-3m we headed straight to the cape – wasn’t crossing the wild banks in that! Arrived at Comby Point right on first light after easily making it through the breakers. And that my friends is where the prefect day ended. The cape greeted us with a very sloppy 3m of S/E swell and 10 knots of wind from the N/W. Conditions couldn’t get much worse with wind against swell. Started at a rock N/E of the cape as plenty of fish showing. First drop, each of us hooked a nice Pearl Perch. Sadly, neither of them made it up with our friends in the grey overcoats stealing our prize. Oh well... no biggie – just move on - right!
The land-based fishing has been steady rather than spectacular, with the best results coming on the change of tide in the shallower protected spots. Fresh local baits are still hard to beat, but soft plastics have accounted for plenty of flathead and grunter. Popular easy-access areas include the Bribie bridge surrounds, mainland flats south of the bridge and the White Patch region. Overall, it’s been a decent autumn-to-winter transition in the Pumicestone Passage. The whiting and flathead have been the most reliable, while the cooler-water species are starting to fire up. Looks like good signs ahead for the coming months.
Moving 2.5 miles north to a bigger area 70m east of Hutchison Shoal, we thought we could give the sharks the run around by continually moving a few hundred metres. Nope! Covered five spots along that reef area and those predators of the sea were on everyone. Not to be put off, we kept moving north up to Jennifer Kay wreck – same story. Trying not to be deterred, we moved to the southern end of Caloundra wide. Success at last! No sharks and a good patch of fish. Within 15 minutes we hauled two Rosy Jobfish, three Pearlies at 51, 54 and 65 and a good Tuskfish. However another 15 minutes and you
Close-up of local native flowers with honeyeaters
butterflies. A layered Bribie-style backyard with banksias, grevilleas and butterflies.
Before/after garden transformation on sandy soil.
Birdbath with native plants and visiting birds.
A great haul by Paul.
Broncos midseason slump means only one thing
By Chase Christensen
Twelve rounds have come and gone in the 2026 NRL season. Our pre-season predictions have almost been perfectly on point, as we selected the Dragons to take home the dreaded ‘Wooden Spoon’ and the Warriors to be the most improved and dark horse of the competition. There was one prediction that is looking quite shaky now though, as our predicted grand final winner, the Brisbane Broncos, have slumped to a third straight loss, making their record five wins and six losses. This has placed them eleventh on the ladder before they collect two guaranteed points in their first of three bye rounds in the week before the first Origin.
There is never a true ‘good’ loss in the NRL, but Brisbane were the closest thing to it when they were defeated by the Roosters. They trailed 30 points to nil early in the second half. It was a bloodbath for Brisbane in every department during the first half, as Easts looked unstoppable.
In the blink of an eye, the score was 30-24 with a mammoth amount of time remaining in the match. However, an absolute brain explosion from Katoni Staggs resulted in a sin bin, which left him off the field for the remainder of the game. It was an elbow into an opposition player that gave the Chooks an advantage, which they capitalised on by scoring a match-ending try. It was one of the best halves of footy the Broncos have played all year; however, their awful first-half defence, with barely any ball in hand, cost them the two competition points.
There was only one positive that came in the following week’s match in Manly, and that was Thomas Dufty. His limited game time didn’t put any points on the board, but Brisbane’s attack looked the most dangerous when he was on the field. This was back-to-back great performances from Brisbane’s fresh young halfback, who has a massive career ahead of him. The rest of the team was below average, as the end score was
32-4. This was their worst performance of the season and it was going to take something special to bounce back at Magic Round the following week.
On the final day of Suncorp Stadium’s annual Magic Round, the crowd was set for a blockbuster battle between the Broncos and Warriors. Despite the match being played at Brisbane’s home ground, it felt like a Warriors home game; Caxton Street was packed from top to bottom with Wahs fans marching to the stadium. Once they entered the arena, you couldn’t hear yourself think. Every play was met with belted emotions from the Warriors supporters.
2026 Repco Supercars Championship: Mid-Season
Thriller as Feeney Edges Kostecki in Tight Title Fight
The dominance of the crowd certainly gave the Warriors an advantage over Brisbane and they capitalised as they led 22 points to nil at half-time. They had more than 70% of possession, which forced barely any chances for their opposition. Despite an early Adam Reynolds second half try, it did not have much of an impact on the match, as the Warriors responded strongly by not even giving the Bronx a sniff at pulling off a comeback. The match resulted in a 30-point defeat for Brisbane.
Three straight losses could be detrimental to the momentum of the Broncos’ season, or could they? Last year, they lost in Magic Round by a very similar margin of 24 points against the Panthers. They also had a 5-6 record at the same stage of last season. This is not a coincidence. If anything, it gives Broncos fans even more belief that they will become back-to-back premiers in 2026. It’s inevitable and it starts with what should be two simple wins against the St George Dragons and Gold Coast Titans in their next two matches.
Despite the horror stretch, Brisbane’s season is far from over. Their form mirrors last year’s premiership run almost perfectly and with key players still firing, the Broncos remain a genuine threat. If they can tighten their defence and rediscover consistency, this slump may simply become another chapter in a successful 2026 campaign.
By Roger Small
The 2026 Supercars season – the 28th running of the championship and the first with Toyota’s GR Supra joining the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro –has delivered high drama, close racing and a genuine three-way title battle heading into the mid-year rounds.
With an expanded 14-round calendar featuring a New Zealand double-header and a mix of sprint, enduro and finals formats, the grid has produced plenty of surprises and standout performances. Drivers’ Championship: Feeney leads a fierce pack
As of mid-May 2026, Red Bull Ampol Racing’s Broc Feeney (Triple Eight Race Engineering) sits atop the drivers’ standings with 925 points The young gun has secured three wins and two poles, showing consistency and speed in equal measure.
Hot on his heels is Brodie Kostecki (Shell V-Power Racing Team / Dick Johnson Racing) on 902 points boasting an impressive five wins and three poles. Kostecki has been a dominant force in several races and remains a major threat.
Matthew Payne (Penrite Racing / Grove Racing) completes an ultra-competitive top three with 879 points two wins and three poles. Payne and teammate Kai Allen have made Grove Racing a powerhouse this season. Further back:
The top drivers represent multiple teams, highlighting the depth and parity across the field this year.
Teams’ Championship: Triple Eight vs Grove Battle
In the teams’ standings, Triple Eight
Race Engineering (Red Bull Ampol Racing) leads with 1557 points thanks largely to Feeney’s strong form.
Grove Racing(Penrite) is breathing down their necks in 2nd on 1547 points propelled by the Payne-Allen pairing. The rest of the top six includes:
• Walkinshaw TWG Racing – 3rd, 1291 points
• Tickford Racing – 4th, 1249 points
• Dick Johnson Racing – 5th, 1234 points
Season highlights so far
The season kicked off at the Dunlop Sydney 500 with Feeney claiming victories in Races 1 and 3, while Anton De Pasquale (Team 18) took Race 2. The Melbourne SuperSprint saw Kostecki shine with strong results.
The New Zealand leg, including the Christchurch Super 440, delivered more excitement, with Grove Racing cars (Payne and Allen) locking out the front row and podium places in key races.
Toyota’s entry has added intrigue, with the GR Supra adapting to the Gen3 formula and bringing new manufacturer rivalry. The field remains tightly packed, and with enduros (Bathurst 1000) and the new finals series still to come, the championship is wide open. What lies ahead
Upcoming rounds in Tasmania, Darwin, Townsville and Perth will be crucial before the high-stakes enduro and finals phases. Feeney holds a slender lead, but Kostecki’s win rate and Grove’s team strength make this one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory.
Expect more wheel-to-wheel battles, strategic masterclasses and plenty of V8 thunder as Australia’s premier motorsport series continues to thrill fans across an expanded international calendar.
16/04/26 SINGLE STROKE
DIV 1 WINNER Ros Gardiner 71. 2nd Sandy Smith 74. 3rd Suzanne Vallely 75.
