Sandgate Archives - Aspley News

Achieving 10,000 Steps at Shorncliffe Walk: Explore the Best Walking Routes

Achieving 10,000 steps a day is more than a fitness goal: a way to explore the beauty of your local area. For residents of Aspley, Sandgate and the nearby suburbs, iconic routes like the scenic Shorncliffe Walk offer not just steps but stunning views, fresh air, and a chance to connect with the vibrant charm of the northern suburbs.

Getting your recommended 10,000 steps per day can seem daunting, but for residents in these northern suburbs, there are plenty of local routes to help you hit that target while enjoying the beauty of your surroundings.

Walking not only keeps you physically fit but also provides a mental health boost, making it a valuable part of any daily routine. Here’s how you can structure your walks throughout the day in these areas, with a highlight on the picturesque Shorncliffe Walk.

*Photo Credit: Unsplash/Christian Gertenbach*

The 10,000-step goal originated as a general benchmark for physical activity, roughly equivalent to walking about 7 to 8 kilometers, depending on your stride length.

This level of activity is associated with numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better weight management, enhanced mental clarity, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. Importantly, these steps don’t need to be done all at once. They can be accumulated through short walks during different parts of your day.

The Shorncliffe Walk: A Scenic Highlight

The Shorncliffe Walk is one of the most scenic and relaxing routes in Brisbane’s north. Situated along the Moreton Bay shoreline, this walk offers sweeping ocean views, fresh sea breezes, and a chance to experience the historical charm of the Shorncliffe Pier.

Route Overview:

Distance: Approximately 2 to 2.5 kilometers (return)
Starting Point: Shorncliffe Station, corner of Friday Street and Allpass Parade
End Point: Shorncliffe Pier

This leisurely walk combines natural beauty with a touch of history, making it a popular choice for locals looking to unwind and clock up their steps.

Breaking Down the Shorncliffe Walk into Daily Chunks

Since many people accumulate their steps in segments throughout the day, the Shorncliffe Walk can be easily integrated into your routine. Here’s a suggested breakdown:

Morning Stroll (2,500 Steps)

Start your day with a brisk walk from Shorncliffe Station to the pier and back. The cool morning air and serene waters of Moreton Bay create the perfect atmosphere to clear your mind and energise your body for the day ahead.

Lunchtime Break (2,500 Steps)

Use your lunch break to revisit the Shorncliffe Walk. Take a short detour along the foreshore, and perhaps stop for a coffee at one of the nearby cafes. A midday walk like this not only helps you accumulate steps but also provides a mental reset for the rest of your day.

Evening Wind-Down (2,500 Steps)

As the day winds down, return to the Shorncliffe Walk for a sunset stroll. The golden hues over the bay make this the most magical time to walk, offering tranquillity and a perfect way to reflect on your day.

These three sessions add up to around 7,500 steps. To hit your 10,000-step goal, you can easily incorporate additional short walks or daily activities like walking around your home or workplace.

Walking Routes in Aspley

While Aspley lacks the coastal charm of Shorncliffe, it offers several convenient and scenic walking routes:

Aspley Hypermarket to Marchant Park (3,000 Steps)

Distance: 2.5 kilometers (one way)
Route: Start at the Aspley Hypermarket and head towards Marchant Park, where you can enjoy the open green spaces and walking tracks.
Best Time: Morning or evening to avoid the heat.

Marchant Park is also an excellent spot for families, with playgrounds and shaded areas for a relaxing break.

Aspley to Chermside Loop (5,000 Steps)

Distance: 4 kilometers (loop)
Route: Start in central Aspley, head down Gympie Road towards Chermside Shopping Centre, and return via quieter residential streets.
Highlights: This route provides a mix of urban and suburban views, making it ideal for those who enjoy variety in their walks.

Tips to Accumulate Steps Throughout the Day

If you find it challenging to dedicate time for long walks, here are some practical ways to increase your daily step count:

Take Short Breaks: Incorporate short, 5-10 minute walks during your work breaks. These small bursts can add up significantly by the end of the day.
Park Further Away: When running errands or commuting, park your car further from your destination to sneak in extra steps.
Walk While You Wait: Whether you’re waiting for an appointment or cooking dinner, use the time to pace or take a short walk.
Use Technology: Track your steps using a fitness tracker or smartphone app. Many apps also allow you to set step reminders or track your progress over time.
Make It Social: Walk with family, friends, or neighbours. Walking is more enjoyable when shared, and it keeps you motivated.

Health Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the most convenient and efficient ways of exercise. Regular walking provides various benefits, including:

Improved Cardiovascular Health: Strengthens the heart and lowers the chance of heart disease.
Weight management: Aids in the burning of calories and the maintenance of a healthy weight.
Mental Wellness: Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms while increasing general mood.
Increased Energy Levels: Improves circulation and oxygen flow throughout the body.
Joint and Bone Health: Strengthens bones and joints, lowering the risk of osteoporosis and arthritis.

Walking your way to 10,000 steps per day doesn’t have to be a chore. With routes like the Shorncliffe Walk in Sandgate offering breathtaking seaside views and Aspley’s convenient suburban paths, there’s something for everyone.

Breaking your walks into manageable chunks throughout the day allows you to integrate exercise seamlessly into your routine while enjoying the local scenery. So, lace up your walking shoes, explore these beautiful routes, and take steps toward a healthier, happier lifestyle!

Published 26-Dec-2024

Study Highlights Need for Improved E-scooter Safety Measures in Sandgate and other Suburbs

Photo Credit: Lime Mobility

A new study by the Jamieson Trauma Institute has revealed that one-third of e-scooter riders admitted to emergency rooms were travelling above the legal speed limit of 25km/h, leading to serious facial and head injuries in popular bayside suburbs like Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Brighton.

This trend has prompted experts to call for changes to e-scooter safety standards, including the use of full-face helmets and a shift towards sit-down scooters.

Study Findings

The study, jointly funded by RACQ and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, found that many riders, particularly those on privately owned e-scooters, exceed the speed limit, leading to more severe injuries. Professor Doctor Michael Schuetz, Jamieson Trauma Institute Director and RBWH Orthopaedic Surgeon expressed concerns over the high proportion of private e-scooter users requiring urgent medical attention and hospital admission.

He urged riders to follow the rules, avoid speeding and drink-riding, wear helmets, and ride in appropriate areas to minimise the risk of serious injuries.

Helmet Effectiveness Questioned

E-scooter Safety — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

While 65% of riders reported wearing helmets, the high number of facial injuries suggests that standard helmets may not provide adequate protection. Dr Michael Kane, RACQ’s head of public policy, highlighted the dangers of crashing face-first on hard surfaces when riding stand-up scooters. He stressed the need for full-face helmets for private e-scooter riders and advocated for rental companies to transition to sit-down scooters.

Sit-Down Scooters: A Safer Option?

With their lower centre of gravity and increased stability, sit-down scooters offer a safer alternative to traditional stand-up models. Lime Mobility, a Brisbane rental provider, will soon introduce seated e-scooters.

A Lime spokeswoman emphasised the company’s commitment to safety and highlighted the design features of their seated scooters, such as increased suspension and larger wheels. However, Andrew Demack, Bicycles Queensland advocacy director, pointed out that sit-down scooters are bulkier and less convenient than stand-up models, potentially reducing their appeal.

Call for Improved Infrastructure

Demack also emphasised the need for better active transport infrastructure in Brisbane to support safe e-scooter riding. He believes that a comprehensive and well-maintained network of bike paths and dedicated e-scooter lanes is crucial for preventing accidents. This is particularly important in areas like Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Brighton, where e-scooters are a popular mode of transport for residents and visitors.

Community Impact

The high rate of e-scooter accidents is a concern for the Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Brighton communities. Residents are worried about the safety of riders and pedestrians alike. Local businesses are also affected, as accidents can disrupt traffic and create a negative image of the area. Community leaders call for greater awareness of e-scooter safety and stricter enforcement of traffic rules to protect everyone.

Published Date 02-December-2024

PCYC Zillmere and Sandgate to Host Community Open Days

Residents of Zillmere and Sandgate will have the opportunity to explore their local Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) during upcoming open days, offering a range of free activities and the chance to win gym memberships.

The events are scheduled for Saturday, 6 July 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at both PCYC Zillmere and PCYC Sandgate locations.

Community Engagement

PCYC Queensland aims to strengthen community ties through these open days. The events are designed to welcome both long-time members and newcomers, providing a glimpse into the clubs’ contributions to local neighbourhoods.

“This is a perfect opportunity to see what PCYC is all about and how we contribute to the community with your help,” said a PCYC spokesperson.

PCYC Sandgate — Photo Credit: *PCYCSandgate and Zillmere*

Activities and Attractions

Both locations will feature a variety of family-friendly activities:

– Free trial classes
– Sausage sizzle
– Face painting
– Jumping castle
– Meet and greet with PCYC staff

Zillmere-specific offerings:	Sandgate-specific offerings:
– Chance to win a 12-month gym and fitness membership – Fitness challenges – Interactive sports and games – Soft play area – Key ring making – Photo opportunities with a police car	– Gymnastics, trampoline, and freeG (ninja/parkour) classes – Little n active program for children under 5

*Photo Credit: PCYCSandgate and Zillmere*

How to Participate

Interested community members can RSVP through the respective Facebook event pages. Attendees are encouraged to invite friends and family to join the festivities.

For more information, visitors can check the PCYC Queensland website or contact the clubs directly:

Zillmere: zillmere@pcyc.org.au or (07) 3633 0244 the Facebook event page.

Sandgate: Contact details available on their Facebook page.

The PCYC open days promise to be an engaging start to the school holiday weekend, fostering community spirit and showcasing the clubs’ commitment to youth development and local engagement.

Published 5-July-2024

Netball Fever! Sandgate Hawks Registration Opens for Another Big Season

Looking to try out a fast-paced, exciting new sport? The Sandgate Hawks Netball Club is now signing up players for their 2024 team.

Read: NRL Schoolboy Signings: Penrith Panthers Secure St. Joseph’s Nudgee College Sensation Prestyn Laine-Sietu

The club will hold a Sign On Barbecue on Friday, February 2 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Bill Brown Sports Reserve in Fitzgibbon across from the Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre.

In addition to registration, the club will also host free “Come & Try” sessions for boys and girls turning seven years old this year. These sessions aim to introduce netball to new, young players.

Photo credit: Sandgate Hawks Netball Club Inc/Facebook

Those interested in joining the Sandgate Hawks Netball Club for the 2024 season are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Registrations close on February 4, so be sure to visit the club’s website and register before the deadline to secure your spot for the upcoming netball season.

The club is excited to get everyone signed up and ready for new netball competitions this year.

About the Sandgate Hawks Netball Club

Since first taking the court in 1985, the club has been a stalwart community organisation providing players on Brisbane’s Northside with a welcoming place to play the sport they love.

Run as a not-for-profit, the club fields teams for players of all ages and abilities with the goal of promoting participation and healthy competition in a supportive environment.

Read: First-Class Sporting Precinct Takes Shape at Nudgee Recreation Reserve

Over nearly 40 years, generations of aspiring netballers have honed their talents with the Sandgate Hawks – building skills, friendships and memories along the way. As the new season approaches, the club remains committed to being the top choice for aspiring players seeking fun, sociable netball action.

Published 8-January-2024

Resilience and Reverence: The Sandgate Baptist Church

On a bright Christmas Day in 1887, the Sandgate Baptist Church opened, becoming the second Baptist church to open in the charming seaside community. But the story of this historic place of worship is more than just its elegant facade; it’s a tale of faith, growth, and resilience.

Building a Spiritual Anchor

Queensland had its first taste of Baptist presence in 1851, and by 1855, they were firmly established in Brisbane. Reverend B. G. Wilson’s arrival in 1859 led to the construction of a church on Wharf Street in Brisbane, becoming the epicentre from which the Baptist faith radiated outward.

First Baptist Church in Brisbane (Wharf Street)
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

By 1868, open-air Baptist services were already drawing congregants to the shores of Sandgate, setting the stage for the church’s eventual arrival.

Sandgate itself was emerging as a coastal gem. James Charles Burnett surveyed the area in 1852, and land sales began in 1853. Distinguished figures, including early Governors of Queensland, sought solace in Sandgate, and guesthouses and rental homes became readily available.

The population grew, hotels and shops sprouted, and by the 1860s, Sandgate had evolved into a seaside haven, offering respite from the oppressive Brisbane summer heat.

Holiday makers in Sandgate — Holiday Makers in Sandgate
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

A Gathering Place for All

By 1882, the Sandgate railway line connected the town to Brisbane, making it an even more appealing place to live and visit. With the population swelling to 1,598 by 1886, the old chapel on Loudon Street could no longer accommodate the growing congregation.

A generous gift of land from church member George Phillips near the seafront led to the construction of the magnificent church designed by renowned Brisbane architect Richard Gailey.

Sandgate Baptist Church 1890 — Sandgate Baptist Church, 1890
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Mr Gailey, a skilled architect hailing from Ireland, left an indelible mark on Brisbane’s architectural landscape. A devout Baptist himself, he offered his services to design several churches, including the Sandgate Baptist Church.

The Sandgate Baptist Church was constructed with seating for 350 individuals. It wasn’t just a place of worship; it became a meeting point for various organizations, even the Freemasons.

The construction was entrusted to local builder William Street, with the towering spires handled by steeplejack Mr. Collins. Originally crowned with shingled roofs and illuminated by kerosene lamps, the church swiftly became a symbol of Sandgate’s vitality, attracting not only the local community but also visitors and holidaymakers alike.

The first Masonic Lodge in Sandgate called it home from 1894 until they acquired their lodge in 1920.

Changing with the Tides of Time

Over the years, it underwent several renovations in 1928, 1945, and 1986. Its roof transitioned from shingles to iron sheeting to coloured metal sheeting, and its illumination shifted from kerosene lamps to gas, and then electricity. However, despite these changes, the church’s essence remained unaltered, preserving its historic charm.

In later years, a modern metal garage was added to the rear, accompanied by a single-story brick hall from the 1960s. However, these additions have since made way for a purpose-built kindergarten building, reflecting the changing needs of the community.

As the years went by, the Sandgate Baptist Church continued to serve its congregation faithfully. In 2010, it found a new purpose as a childcare centre, adapting once again to meet the evolving needs of the community it had long nurtured.

In May 2012, the Sandgate Baptist congregation merged with the Geebung Baptist congregation, marking the end of an era for this historic church. Together, they established a new place of worship, the Connect Baptist Church at Deagon, carrying forward the Baptist tradition to a new chapter.

Trailblazing Susan Kiefel, From Sandgate District SHS, Retires as Australia’s First Female Chief Justice

Photo Credit: First 100 Years/YouTube

Susan Kiefel didn’t think higher education was for her when, at age 15, she left Sandgate District State High School after Year 10. She changed her mind later on, completed college and pursued law studies, and going on to later become the first woman to serve as Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia. She retires in November 2023.

A Unique Journey from Sandgate to the High Court

In her own words, Susan Kiefel said she didn’t particularly enjoy high school and found little encouragement to pursue higher education, especially as a young girl; so she left school after Year 10.

She ventured into the workforce, learning typing and administrative skills at Kangaroo Point Technical College. She became a secretary for a group of barristers at a Brisbane legal practice.

It was during her time as a secretary that she discovered her passion for the legal profession. The camaraderie and dedication of the barristers she worked for inspired her.

Despite the challenges, Ms Kiefel’s determination led her to finish college. She then studied law part-time, a process that took eight years. Her perseverance paid off as she received support from experienced barristers like Sir Gerard Brennan, who became a Chief Justice of the High Court. Her tenacity led her to a successful career in law.

Overcoming Gender Bias in the Legal Profession

Entering the legal field as a woman in 1975 was no easy feat. Ms Kiefel was one of only three women at the Queensland bar that year, and she faced gender-based bias. Some clients even withdrew briefs upon realising she was a woman, and certain law firms had policies against briefing women. However, her dedication and support from senior barristers helped her establish herself.

She went on to achieve remarkable milestones, becoming the first female Queen’s Counsel in Queensland in 1987 and the second female member of the Queensland Supreme Court in 1991. Ms Kiefel’s journey then took her to the Federal Court in 1994, and in 2007, she was appointed to the High Court, where she later became Chief Justice in 2017.

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

A Voice Against Sexual Harassment

Chief Justice Susan Kiefel made significant contributions to the legal profession during her tenure. In June 2020, an independent investigation upheld sexual harassment complaints against a retired High Court judge, Dyson Heydon.

Whilst not discussing the particulars of the case, Ms Kiefel emphasized that the High Court’s approach shed light on the issue of sexual harassment and led to the development of effective mechanisms to address such concerns, extending to bullying in workplaces.

Promoting Joint Judgments and Encouraging Female Barristers

Throughout her career, the chief justice advocated for joint judgments, believing they provide clarity and certainty in the law. As she steps down from her role, Ms Kiefel expressed a desire to see more female barristers appear before the High Court. Whilst recognising that women have made significant strides, she highlighted the need for women in leadership positions across the legal profession.

Ms Kiefel’s story is an inspiration to many, illustrating that with determination and hard work, anyone can succeed, regardless of their background. Her legacy will continue to pave the way for future generations of women in the legal field, encouraging them to aim high and persevere, just as she did.

Published 31-Oct-2023

New Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan to Be Adopted in 2023

The revised Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan is almost ready, and will be adopted in March 2023. Here are some changes coming to Sandgate and neighbouring suburbs once the amended plan becomes official.

Read: Residents Thumb Down 5-Storey Developments in Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan

The Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan includes the suburbs of Sandgate, Deagon, Shorncliffe and Brighton.

The plan received support from the Queensland Government with no changes required, after a huge majority of the LNP Council voted for the plan in November 2022. There were only seven from Greens, Labor, and independent councillors who voted against the revised plan.

Sandgate

Sandgate, one of the oldest bayside villages in Brisbane, will undergo major changes as part of the new neighbourhood plan, as it would allow a maximum building height of five storeys for the Lagoon Street sub-precinct.

The draft amendment package also seeks to maintain and enhance the Sandgate centre as the primary centre for the area, providing a balance of commercial and residential development close to public transport.

Deagon

Separated from Sandgate from a series of lagoons, Deagon is a residential suburb which has been selected as one of the focus of the neighbourhood plan.

Council has removed plans to rezone the area around Deagon railway station to low-medium residential (units and townhouses) after some residents raised their concerns regarding the plan.

The draft amendment package retains the Low-density residential zoning and Character residential zoning around the Deagon railway station.

Connaught St, located north of Deagon sports grounds will be retained to low impact industry zoning to support local employment and business opportunities in the area.

Shorncliffe

Shorncliffe, which was once part of Sandgate, became a separate suburb in Brisbane in 1975.

Shorncliffe has been identified as one of the study areas having potential growth. The draft proposes character residential zoning in Shorncliffe to better protect traditional building character in the suburb.

The bayside suburb is home to many character homes or those built in 1946 or earlier. Many homes in Shorncliffe even have a history that dates back to the early 1900s.

Brighton

Brighton, an established area of low-density housing, was not included in the neighbourhood planning process. All current planning outcomes for Brighton are retained in the draft amendment package.

The draft Sandgate District Neighbourhood Plan became a subject of discussion in the last three years, after the initial plan suggested up to six storeys for Sandgate’s main street, Brighton Rd. The draft plan was eventually revised after residents voiced their opposition. No major policy changes have been proposed to the suburb, based on the updated draft.

Read: Brighton Residents Seek Upgrade of 1946 Drainage to End Flooding for Good

To learn more about the Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan, visit Brisbane City Council’s website.

Kerbside Collection Is Coming to Brisbane’s Northside

Photo Credit: manfredrichter / Pixabay

Heads up, people on the northside! Kerbside Collection is coming to Brighton, Deagon, Sandgate, Taigum, Shorncliffe, Boondall, Zillmere, Virginia, and Geebung this October.

The 2022 Kerbside Collection pick-up schedule will be as follows:

3 October – Brighton, Deagon, Sandgate, Taigum
10 October – Shorncliffe
17 October – Boondall, Zillmere, Virginia, Geebung

For the schedule of other suburbs, Brisbane City Council has a Kerbside Collection calendar.

Check the calendar

For periodic reminders so you won’t forget your schedule, download Council’s free Brisbane Bin and Recycling app and keep push notifications enabled.

Residents are advised to place all acceptable materials for collection on the kerbside the weekend before the collection starts. These items should be on the kerbside in front of your home by 6 am at the start of the collection period.

Some of the acceptable items for collection include bath and laundry tubs, bicycles and sporting equipment, carpet and rugs, electronic waste* (e.g. televisions and computers), furniture and white goods (e.g. fridges and stoves), small household appliances (e.g. fans and toasters), and wood products less than 1.5 metres.

You may also consider donating your still-usable items to organisations that can recycle or find other uses for them including GIVIT, Charitable Recycling Australia and BCC’s Treasure Troves.

GIVIT

This not-for-profit organisation serves as a link between the communities in urgent need of essential items and those who have and are willing to donate. GIVIT was established in 2019 by Juliette Wright. Their platform allows charities to make potential donors aware of what are the exact items currently needed by the individuals that they support.

DONATE to GIVIT

Charitable Recycling Australia

Charitable Recycling Australia proudly supports circular economy transition through charitable reuse and recycling. With the help of member enterprises who provide their decades of expertise in the collecting and sale of donated goods, the organisation has been extending the life of about 285 million products each year and pioneering the concept of circularity even before it was officially named.

donate to Charitable Recycling Australia

Treasure Troves

Council currently operates two second-hand shops which sell donated items for Brisbane residents. The items come from BCC’s resource recovery centres.

Brisbane City Council’s Treasure Troves are open from 8 am to 4 pm every weekend (excluding Easter Sunday, as well as Christmas Day and New Year’s Day when these days fall on a weekend).

Visit Treasure Troves

These shops are located at 46 Colebard Street West in Acacia Ridge and at 27A Prosperity Place in Geebung.

The resource recovery centres are located here:

Chandler Resource Recovery Centre, 728 Tilley Road, Chandler
Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centre, 101 Upper Kedron Road, Ferny Grove
Nudgee Resource Recovery Centre, 1372 Nudgee Road, Nudgee Beach
Willawong Resource Recovery Centre, 360 Sherbrooke Road, Willawong

Sandgate Update: Get To Know Bluenose Betty

Photo credit: Bluenose Betty / Instagram

Get to know Bluenose Betty, the latest restaurant, bar & beer garden to grace the Sandgate dining scene.

Bluenose Betty has pretty much kept the vintage vibe of the old billiard saloon it now occupies with an impressive interior decor that marries sophistication and comfort.

Bluenose Betty bar — Photo credit: Bluenose Betty / Instagram

Inside, patrons will be greeted by a well-lit and spacious dining area with alfresco seating next to the central garden. And the bar is just as classy with its deep red counter plus a wine bottle-filled bookcase.

The menu is quite extensive, so everyone has plenty to choose from. Their tasty bites such as Baked Pretzel, Charred Breads, Beer Battered Fries, Popcorn Chicken, Spiced Tempura Zucchini Fritters and Salt and Pepper Squid Strips are guaranteed to help you work up an appetite

Bluenose Betty zucchini fritters — Zucchini Fritters | Photo credit: Bluenose Betty / Instagram

If you’re ready for something more filling then you can try their Big Chicken Schnitty, Rump Steak, Mediterranean Salad, Warm Roasted Field Mushroom or Haloumi Salad.

Burger fans won’t be disappointed as well with options including Classic Wagyu Cheese Burger (wagyu beef with American red cheddar, tomato, rocket, dill pickles, black hops pale ale burger sauce), BBQ Pork Burger (hickory smoked bbq pulled pork with creamy house slaw), and Crispy Chicken Burger (crispy chicken breast schnitzel and bacon with camembert, mixed leaves, tomato, lemon and tarragon aioli).

Or how about a Vegan Burger (plant-based mince patty with vegan cheese, tomato, rocket, dill pickles, vegan aioli) or Halloumi and Mushroom Burger (grilled halloumi with roasted field mushroom, tomato, mixed leaves, roasted garlic aioli).

Bluenose Betty plates — Photo credit: Bluenose_Betty / Instagram

Then there are flatbread pizza options: Margherita (fresh cherry tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, mozzarella, fresh basil, olive oil, Napoli base), Vego (artichoke, capsicum, kalamata olives, mushroom, onion, mozzarella, fresh basil, Napoli base, balsamic glaze), BBQ Chicken (grilled chicken, bacon, cherry tomato, red onion, pineapple, mozzarella, creamy aioli, and bbq base), Garlic Prawn and Salami (garlic prawns, mild salami, red onion, rocket, mozzarella, Napoli base).

As for drinks, Bluenose Betty offers a rotating selection of draft beers on tap plus a wide selection of wine, spirits and cocktails.

Bluenose Betty is located at 73 Rainbow Street, Sandgate and opens midday until 11 pm daily.

Bluenose Betty | 73 Rainbow St, Sandgate QLD 4017, Australia

Residents Thumb Down 5-Storey Developments in Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan

Following the release of the amended Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan draft, residents have united to oppose the proposed construction of five-storey buildings in the bayside village.

If approved, Sandgate residents fear that the tall buildings in a mostly single and double-storey landscape would alter the area completely. Members of the Protect Sandgate’s Character community group have come up with a mock-up scale of the 5-storey buildings against the existing surround.

“These images do not illustrate building design (that’s entirely up to the developers), but instead illustrate the SCALE of the buildings that are allowed for in the draft plan, by showing the space in which buildings could be built,” Neil McCrossin said.

“These images make much clearer to us the building heights in the draft plan for the Lagoon St sub-precinct. Is this good for the historical suburb of Sandgate?”

In a petition on Brisbane City Council’s official site, the residents stated their reasons for rejecting the Sandgate Neighbourhood Plan draft:

To protect the appearance of one of the entry points (Rainbow Street) for residents and visitors to the Historic Sandgate shopping village.
To protect our unique Historic Bayside Village identity and lifestyle of over 100 years of history.
To protect our heritage and character of commercial and residential buildings which are integral to the community village feel of low-level buildings and architecture with 360-degree views, no matter where you stand.
To protect our fragile environment, wildlife, lagoons, wetlands, parklands and waterfront from pollution and overpopulating such a small area.
To protect Residents and visitors alike from overshadowing, while preserving the exceptional views, right to privacy, unobstructed sunlight and natural sea breezes.
To prevent major problems with traffic congestion, parking, public transport, pollution, flooding issues, overfull schools. The safety of residents and children must come first with the problems this would raise in an already built-up Historical village.

Nearly 500 residents have signed the petition as of press time.

Protect Sandgate Character members said that they are not against changes and have mostly agreed that the medical hub included in the plan would benefit the community. However, the group said that they want the changes to “incorporate the history of the area, and enhance the lives of people of Sandgate” by giving value to the suburb’s natural environment and open green spaces.

The plan’s draft is under review with Council and the Queensland Government after submissions for community feedback have been closed on 21 June. Should the plan go ahead, Council expects to adopt the changes by late 2021 or early 2022.

Visit the official site for updates.