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Newport Marina Plan Adds 17 Homes, Dining Hubs Beside Working Berths

Newport is set for a fresh wave of waterfront living, with approved plans for 17 three-bedroom homes and a dining and office hub at Newport Marina on Griffith Road, keeping boating services and moorings operating for locals.

The decision came after a complete development assessment and public notice period linked to application DA/2024/4618. Key details indicate a reconfiguration of parking bays that still allows the marina to function.

What’s Approved

According to the lodged plans, the project covers part of the marina land on Griffith Road, pairing 17 three-bedroom homes with shared on-site facilities. The balance of the lot continues to service marina users, including access to existing moorings and an amenities block.

Council set the groundwork for change in a precinct update covering 156, 156A and 158 Griffith Road, describing the area as an industrial site with limited and declining marine-industry use and outlining a pathway to regulate future development. A formal development application followed, with public notification completed before the approval. The proponent’s architect later recorded the approval publicly.

Moving to Newport

If you are weighing a move to the Redcliffe peninsula, this project adds low-rise, three-bedroom dwellings right on the water, with everyday conveniences built in. The plan keeps the marina active, so residents still see sails, masts and local boating on their doorstep.

Newport Marina — Photo Credit: Betts and Partners/Instagram

A small restaurant and office space are included, creating a walkable pocket that suits after-work meals or coffee without driving into a bigger centre. Council materials and the original reports indicate marina parking will be reduced but still meet operational needs, which addresses one of the typical local worries about new homes near the water.

For people moving here, the marina’s retained activity means the area keeps its nautical feel. The added dining option and offices are sized for the precinct rather than a major centre, helping maintain a local pace.

That balance—homes plus a working marina—shapes the character many Newport residents say they want: close to the bay, practical to live in, and still a place where boats matter.

Published 20-Aug-2025

Damaged Yacht Stranded on Margate Foreshore as Authorities Work on Safe Removal

A damaged yacht that broke free from its mooring and ran aground at Margate Beach has prompted Moreton Bay Regional Council to issue safety warnings to the local community.

The vessel became stranded on the popular Redcliffe Peninsula beach after breaking loose from its mooring on Thursday, 7 August. Council officers have confirmed the yacht sustained significant structural damage to its hull, making refloating efforts particularly challenging.

Local residents have been advised to maintain a safe distance from the grounded vessel, with council emphasising that the yacht remains private property and should not be approached or interfered with by members of the public.

The yacht’s contents have been carefully removed from the vessel since it came ashore. A council representative confirmed that initial inspections revealed substantial hull damage, and there are indications the vessel may have been taking on water before it grounded on the beach.

Environmental concerns were addressed early, with preliminary inspections finding no evidence of fuel or oil pollution from the incident. However, more comprehensive environmental assessments are planned for the coming days to ensure no contamination has occurred.

Maritime Safety Queensland, working under the Queensland Government’s commitment to waterway safety and vessel management, is collaborating closely with the yacht’s owner to coordinate the safe removal of the stranded vessel.

The grounding location offers direct views across Moreton Bay toward Moreton Island and the historic Tangalooma shipwrecks, making it a popular spot for beachgoers and families.

With August traditionally bringing strong westerly winds across South East Queensland, maritime authorities have been maintaining an increased presence on Moreton Bay waters to ensure boating safety during this challenging weather period.

Boat owners are being reminded to plan their trips carefully, monitor weather conditions continuously, ensure proper mooring security, and always wear lifejackets when on the water.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of regular vessel maintenance and secure mooring practices, particularly during periods of challenging weather conditions that can affect watercraft throughout the region.

Council and maritime safety officials will continue monitoring the situation as removal plans are finalised.

Published 16-August-2025

Fundraiser Launched to Help Newport Dad Rebuild after Devastating House Fire

The Newport community is rallying behind single father-of-two Grant Schukow after a fire destroyed his home last month, killing one of his daughters’ beloved cats and leaving him with no insurance to cover the loss.

Read: Young New Zealand Fur Seal Found in Newport Back in the Ocean After Six Weeks of Care

Friends Tayla and Trent have launched a fundraising campaign to help Grant, who shares custody of his two girls, aged seven and 10, rebuild his life. The blaze is believed to have started in the garage, possibly from a charging vacuum cleaner and spread rapidly.

fire — Photo credit: Tayla Bayne/GoFundMe

The garage, which Grant had transformed into a music recording studio, was engulfed within minutes. Although flames didn’t reach every room, the intense heat and smoke wave destroyed or melted almost everything inside. By the time firefighters arrived, the damage was beyond saving.

The fundraiser aims to cover a wide range of urgent needs, from emergency accommodation and essentials to replacing furniture, clothes, toys, and household items. Funds will also go towards clean-up and demolition, full home restoration, and creating a safe, stable space for his daughters.

“Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference,” Tayla and Trent said in their appeal. “It helps ease the weight on Grant’s shoulders and brings him one step closer to putting his life back together. If you’re not in a position to donate, even sharing this page means the world.”

Grant, who has been unable to work and is currently on Work Cover, had let his home insurance lapse late last year due to financial pressures. He had been prioritising expenses for his daughters when the fire struck, just minutes after he dropped them at their mother’s home.

Read: Major Dredging Project Targets Newport Waterways

Tayla and Trent said the campaign is about more than just raising money — it’s about showing solidarity. “Let’s remind Grant what community really means,” they said. “That when everything falls apart, people show up.”

“He’s a kind, quiet, genuine person, completely overwhelmed by the scale of this loss. He’s grieving, in shock, and trying to stay strong for his daughters. What he needs now is to know he’s not alone. That his community is behind him. That there’s still hope.”

Donations can be made via the GoFundMe page: Help Rebuild Grant’s Life After a Devastating House Fire.

Featured image credit: Tayla Bayne/GoFundMe

Published 15-August-2025

Newport Cruising Yacht Club Hosts Weekly Sailing and Social Events

Newport Cruising Yacht Club on the Redcliffe Peninsula continues to host weekly sailing races and social gatherings for members and visiting crews.

Sailing Activities in Newport

The Newport Cruising Yacht Club operates from Scarborough and Newport, north of Brisbane, with events starting and finishing near the Newport Waterways Outer Leads. The club’s home waters span the northern end of Moreton Bay, including Deception Bay.

Regular weekly pursuit races are held on Wednesday afternoons (WAGS – Wednesday Afternoon Good Sailing) and Saturday afternoons (SAGS – Saturday Afternoon Good Sailing). These races are structured to allow yachts to finish around the same time before crews return to the clubhouse for presentations.

A RUMS (Saturday Afternoon Good Sailing) event is scheduled for 6 September 2025. The most recent SAGS race was cancelled due to forecast strong winds and rain.

*Photo Credit: Newport Cruising Yacht Club/Facebook*

Special and Annual Events

The club also runs an annual calendar of special races, including the NCYC Regatta, Rolly Hill Short Handed Race, Lucinda Bay Classic, Lady Skippers’ Yacht Race, Single Handed Yacht Race, NCYC Marathon, Australia Day Sailing, and Labour Day Sprints. Early in 2024, a race series allowing the use of spinnakers was reintroduced.

Membership and Crewing

Those interested in sailing or crewing can attend the clubhouse at 166 Klingner Road, Kippa Ring, via the Dick Tosser Turner Gate at the east end of Walkers Creek bridge. Members gather every Wednesday and Saturday from about 4 p.m. after events. Visitors can meet members, learn about boat ownership, and discuss opportunities to crew or cruise.

Membership applications, yacht registration details, event calendars, and proxy forms are available through the club’s website.

Redcliffe sailing — *Photo Credit: Newport Cruising Yacht Club/Facebook*

Community and Support

The Newport Cruising Yacht Club actively promotes family participation and social interaction. It supports Redcliffe Coast Guard onshore and receives on-water assistance from QF3. The club also partners with local businesses, including Sea Salt & Vine Café, Scarborough Pest Control, and Dirty Boat Bottoms.

Upcoming Events and Meetings

Members can log on to the club website for race details and results. Upcoming gatherings include a coffee meet-up at Sea Salt & Vine on 19 August 2025, and the club’s AGM and GM on 26 August 2025.

Published 10-Aug-2025

Featured Image Credit: Newport Cruising Yacht Club/Facebook

Newport Marketplace to Welcome New Hotel and Child Care Centre

Newport residents are set to experience a major change as plans for a hotel and new child care centre move ahead at the popular Newport Marketplace, reshaping the heart of their waterfront suburb and meeting calls for more local services. The updated plans, part of Stages 2 and 3 of the development at 10 Lakeview Promenade, promise to bring more family-friendly options, social spaces and essential facilities closer to home, right where the Newport community gathers.

A Growing Hub for Newport

According to newly released planning documents, the next stages of Newport Marketplace will see the original club proposal replaced by a purpose-built hotel, featuring spaces for dining, a bar, a function room and bottleshop.

The venue is designed to fit the needs of Newport locals, offering a smaller, more accessible setting for socialising compared to larger venues elsewhere in the Redcliffe area. The new plans reflect feedback from Newport residents who wanted a place nearby where they could meet for a drink, meal or gathering, without driving out of the neighbourhood.

Alongside the hotel, a brand new child care centre for up to 95 children is proposed for the southern end of the site, with the existing Greenleaves operator set to manage the service.

Newport Marketplace childcare centre — Photo Credit: DA/2025/2060

Planners say this expansion comes as the only other child care centre in Newport has reached full capacity, leaving families looking for more local options. The new centre aims to ease the shortage and support the area’s growing population, with modern indoor and outdoor facilities designed for young children.

Community Needs at the Centre

The updated development reduces some retail and office space originally planned for Stage 3, focusing instead on essential services that locals have asked for most. The hotel, at 870 square metres, and the child care centre, at 832 square metres, represent a shift to meet current community needs.

Planners say the site layout has also been changed after suggestions from council, with the child care centre now located away from the main retail and hospitality areas to reduce noise for nearby residents and provide a quieter space for families. Parking will also be expanded, with 54 spaces planned for Stages 2 and 3.

Noise and traffic impacts have been addressed in detailed planning reports, with recommendations to ensure that the new facilities fit comfortably into the Newport neighbourhood. Other aspects, such as landscape design, car park layout and access for pedestrians and cyclists, have also been updated in line with council feedback and requirements.

Building on the Heart of Newport

The updated plans are part of a long-term vision to create a welcoming, convenient and lively waterfront centre for Newport. The site, which overlooks Jabiru Canal and is already home to shops, a supermarket, and a medical centre, has become a meeting place for residents since Stage 1 opened in 2022.

Developers and planners say the new facilities will support the needs of Newport’s growing population, with the suburb now estimated to be home to around 6,000 people.

Final approval and construction timing will follow the standard council and planning processes. Local residents will be able to view details and updates online, with the development designed to serve the evolving needs of the Newport community into the future.

Published 5-Aug-2025

Major Dredging Project Targets Newport Waterways

A major dredging project is set to reshape the Newport canal system, as the City of Moreton Bay gets ready to clear built-up sediment from some of the area’s most important waterways. Newport locals are being urged to prepare for months of work that will affect boat access and daily routines, with council leaders emphasising the importance of keeping the canals safe and navigable for the whole community.

Project Schedule and Scope

According to the City of Moreton Bay, the maintenance dredging is now scheduled to begin in November 2025 and will continue for about five months, depending on weather and site conditions.

The project will target key sections of the Newport canal network, including Kingfisher Canal, the Northern Marina Basin, the intersection of Kestrel and Albatross canals, Curlew Canal, Skua Canal, and Walkers Creek Canal.

The city’s environmental team explained that tides and natural movement from Deception Bay have carried sediment into Newport’s canals for years, making regular dredging essential to prevent blockages and keep the waterways accessible for boats and safe for families.

The operation will involve a cutter-suction dredge, with work scheduled from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday, excluding public holidays. Hydrographic surveys and preparation works have already taken place, and a final survey will follow the dredging to ensure the job is done thoroughly and with minimal disruption to surrounding homes and businesses.

Impact on the Community

For Newport’s boating and waterside community, the dredging is both a challenge and a relief. While some inconvenience is expected, such as restricted boat access and construction noise, council communications have focused on safety and long-term benefits.

Regular updates will be provided to residents, with a project update planned before works begin. Council said that maintaining these waterways is a shared responsibility and has reassured residents that every effort will be made to keep impacts as low as possible.

The project will also help reduce future maintenance needs, supporting the area’s lifestyle and property values.

Newport Waterways — Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Newport Canals Dredging Project – Timeline

Late 2024 – Early 2025

Preliminary Planning & Community Notification:
Council begins planning and informs residents about the upcoming dredging, originally scheduled for early 2025.

February 2025

Pre-commencement Activities:
- Hydrographic survey and preparatory works begin
- Early site setup and assessment at Griffith Roa

May 2025

Resident Updates:
- Council issues a project update to impacted residents
- Some schedule adjustments are hinted due to logistical factors

June 2025

Original Dredging Start Date:
- Dredging was initially scheduled to start in late June 2025
- Project faces delays (likely due to weather, permits, or contractor availability)

July–August 2025

Official Announcement of New Timeline:
- Council confirms dredging will start in November 2025 instead of mid-2025
- Public notices updated on council and local news sites

November 2025

Dredging Works Commence:
- Cutter-suction dredging begins in targeted canal areas:
- Kingfisher Canal
- Northern Marina Basin
- Kestrel & Albatross intersection
- Curlew Canal
- Skua Canal
- Walkers Creek Canal
- Work hours: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday

November 2025 – March/April 2026

Dredging Operations:
- Ongoing removal of sediment
- Periodic project updates issued to residents.

Post-Completion (Expected March/April 2026)

Final Survey and Demobilization:
- Post-dredging hydrographic survey
- Site restoration and demobilization
- Final report to council and community

Once dredging is complete, the Newport canal system is expected to be safer and more usable for all. The City of Moreton Bay will carry out a post-dredging survey and provide a summary to the community.

Published 5-Aug-2025

Moreton Bay Area Sports Results – Aug 1 to 3

Sat, August 2, 2025 – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 15
• University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 86 | Moreton Bay QAFLW Seniors 0

Sat, August 2, 2025 – FQPL1 – Men – Round 19
• SWQ Thunder 3 | Caboolture Sports FC 2

Sat, August 2, 2025 – FQPL1 – Women – Round 15
• Logan Lightning 2 | Caboolture Sports FC 3
• Grange Thistle 2 | Moreton City Excelsior 0
• Peninsula Power 1 | Olympic FC 1

Sat, August 2, 2025 – NPL – Men – Round 19
• Peninsula Power 1 | Lions FC 2
• Moreton City Excelsior 2 | St George Willawong 5

Sun, August 3, 2025 – NPL – Women – Round 24
• North Lakes United 2 | Souths United 4

Kickstart Your Day with Fitness Sessions at Newport Park

If you’re looking to add a burst of energy to your mornings, the free fitness sessions at Newport Park might be just what you need.

Read: Young New Zealand Fur Seal Found in Newport Back in the Ocean After Six Weeks of Care

Held during school terms from Monday to Friday at 6:15 am, these early-morning classes are part of a community wellness initiative hosted by Live Life Get Active and supported by Council and Stockland. Whether you’re a fitness regular or just starting out, the program is designed to help you move more, feel better, and connect with others, without spending a cent.

Photo credit: Stockland/stockland.com.au

Newport Park becomes a lively hub each weekday morning as locals roll out their mats or lace up their gloves. The sessions rotate between three key activities: Active Yoga, Active Boxing, and Active X Training. Each brings something different to the table:

Active Yoga helps with flexibility, balance, and mindfulness—ideal if you’re after a gentle, grounding start to the day.
Active Boxing is fast-paced and energising, combining cardio and coordination to wake up both mind and body.
Active X Training delivers a full-body workout, blending strength and endurance drills for those craving a challenge.

The beauty of these sessions lies not just in the physical benefits, but in the social atmosphere. They’re a great way to meet like-minded locals who value health and community. Imagine a sunrise backdrop, cool morning air, and a supportive group pushing through planks or tree poses—it’s both invigorating and motivating.

Joining is simple. A quick 10-minute registration process gets you access to book as many classes as you’d like. There are no fees or catches; just a genuine offer to help people live healthier lives.

Read: The Beginnings of Collins Estate, the ‘Most Cheerful’ Address in Annerley

So if you’ve been meaning to add some movement to your mornings, the Newport Park fitness classes offer a refreshing, friendly way to make it happen. Bring a water bottle, wear comfortable clothes, and take that first step towards a more active, connected lifestyle—your future self will thank you. To join, visit Live Life Get Active’s website.

Featured image credit: Live Life Get Active

Published 5-August-2025

Young New Zealand Fur Seal Found in Newport Back in the Ocean After Six Weeks of Care

A young New Zealand fur seal that was rescued from the canals of Newport has made a successful return to the ocean, following six weeks of intensive rehabilitation. The juvenile female was discovered in distress and far from her usual habitat in June, suffering from a serious shark bite and in poor condition.

Rescued by the Sea World Foundation, the seal was taken to the Gold Coast facility where veterinarians and animal care teams worked around the clock to stabilise her. She had a deep wound on her left side, was underweight, and showed signs of weakness and disorientation.

Initially, her outlook was uncertain. However, after receiving urgent fluid therapy, wound care, and specialised nutrition, the seal began to recover. Within weeks, she was eating independently and displaying strong signs of improvement. Her rehabilitation was closely monitored to ensure she could eventually be released back into the wild.

Last week, the young seal was released at the Solitary Islands off the coast of Coffs Harbour. She is now equipped with a satellite tracking tag to help researchers follow her movements as she re-adapts to life in the wild.

Photo credit: Screen capture from Sea World Foundation’s video/Facebook

“After six weeks of rehabilitation at Sea World – Gold Coast, Australia the young seal was returned to the Solitary Islands on Tuesday with a satellite tag deployed to allow the team to monitor her movements, with data already showing she has travelled south to Scotts Head,” the Sea World Foundation stated through a Facebook post.

The satellite tag is part of the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Seabirds to Seascapes – Protecting Coastal Biodiversity project. This initiative aims to gather data to better understand and conserve marine ecosystems and species.

At an estimated 12 to 18 months old, the New Zealand Fur Seal is now navigating waters closer to her natural range, and her progress will contribute to broader research efforts around marine mammal behaviour, rehabilitation outcomes, and species conservation. Her journey from injury to recovery highlights the vital work of marine rescue and conservation teams, and the importance of collaborative efforts in protecting vulnerable wildlife along Australia’s coastline.

Featured image credit: Screen capture from Sea World Foundation’s video/Facebook

Published 4-August-2025