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Inside the Shorncliffe Station Upgrade: Closure, Heritage Works and Reopening Plans

Brisbane’s historic Shorncliffe Station is undergoing a once-in-a-generation transformation to restore its century-old features while improving accessibility and safety for passengers.

Preserving Local History

Shorncliffe Station, a Brisbane landmark since 1897, closed in late November 2025 for major heritage and modernisation works. Originally a seaside resort stop, it remains one of the most intact surviving designs linked to Queensland Railways architect Henrik Hansen.

Photo Credit: Queensland Rail

The project will restore the station closer to its 1914 layout while preserving key heritage elements, including the World War II air raid shelter beside it.

In 2019, more than 400 artefacts were found under the ticket office floor, including century-old tickets, newspapers, and a 1940s sailor’s cap. The discovery prompted a detailed heritage and archaeological review, helping shape the final restoration plan.

Improving Access and Safety

The upgrade will include a 90-metre platform section raised for easier boarding, new ramps, accessible toilets, tactile surfaces, and hearing augmentation loops. Passenger areas will also receive upgraded lighting, CCTV, and real-time information screens.

Additional works include an accessible ticket window, restored awnings, and improved seating, designed to integrate modern functionality with the station’s historic character.

Photo Credit: Queensland Rail

The project is expected to balance heritage preservation with improved accessibility for all users. Planning and cost revisions were also undertaken following the archaeological phase.

Temporary Closures and Community Support

Site preparation started in October 2025, with the station closing from late November as major works began. Construction is expected to continue through 2026.

During the construction period, passengers are being transported via shuttle buses connecting to nearby Sandgate Station. A dedicated service is also in place for St Patrick’s College students travelling between the school and Sandgate.

Works are being carried out with a focus on safety, heritage protection, and minimising disruption to the local community.

A Station for the Next Generation

The project is expected to deliver long-term benefits while protecting one of Brisbane’s most recognisable coastal stations.

Read: Historic Sandgate Marine Rescue Service Returns to Its Roots with New Identity

Once complete, Shorncliffe railway station is expected to reopen with its historic form more faithfully restored, while meeting modern accessibility standards.

Once completed, Shorncliffe Station will combine historic charm with modern functionality, ensuring it continues to serve as both a travel hub and a symbol of the suburb’s heritage.

Updated 6 August 2026

Brighton Retirement Village Plans Cut To 148 Units

Photo Credit: DA/A006934945

Plans for a Brighton retirement village have been revised to 148 units and 217 car parks, while the proposed building heights remain above the four-storey acceptable outcome.

LDK Seniors’ Living lodged the development application for The Baybrook at 16 Twenty-Fourth Avenue, Brighton, in January as its first Brisbane venture.

The earlier proposal involved 155 units across two buildings. Building A was planned at seven storeys with a recessed rooftop level, while Building B was six storeys. It also included 19 higher-care and memory-care units as part of a two-stage development.

Brighton Retirement Village Reduced To 148 Units

The latest amendments reduce the overall number of units to 148 and car parking to 217 spaces.

Changes have also been made to the buildings themselves. The plans include an additional storey on Building A, a recessed extra storey on Building B, a slight increase to the central podium height, revised setbacks and an amended roof profile for Building A.

BCC had advised LDK Seniors’ Living that the proposed heights exceeded the acceptable outcome of four storeys for sites adjoining a residential area, where surrounding housing reaches up to two storeys.

The amended plans remain above that four-storey acceptable outcome.

Residents Raise Height And Amenity Concerns

The Brighton retirement village proposal has attracted objections from neighbouring residents, including responses to revised plans submitted during June.

One formal objection raised concerns about building height, privacy and overlooking, winter overshadowing, traffic, infrastructure and landscaping. The residents asked for the buildings to be reduced to the four-storey acceptable outcome or for the application to be refused in its current form.

A separate objection dated 4 July also raised height and overshadowing, along with concerns about water and stormwater infrastructure and road access.

The objections place particular emphasis on the relationship between the proposed multi-storey buildings and neighbouring residential properties.

Support Focuses On Continuing Care

Other submissions have supported The Baybrook, particularly its combination of retirement accommodation and access to higher levels of care.

Two support submissions dated 10 July described the ability to remain within the same development as care requirements changed as an important feature of the proposal. One focused on allowing couples to continue living together when one resident required additional care.

Another submission supported the prospect of moving from retirement accommodation into higher care without relocating to another facility. The Brighton bayside setting and access to major roads and transport were also cited as reasons for supporting the development.

The Baybrook is identified under development application A006934945.

On 3 August, BCC had sought permission for the application’s decision period to continue until 7 August.

Published 5-August-2026

Hot Mum Walk Club Brings Fortnightly Mum Walks to Sandgate

Hot Mum Walk Club is heading to Sandgate, with a new fortnightly Tuesday walk set down for local mums looking for a relaxed way to get out, move and connect.

The group will meet at The Bay Sandgate, 231 Flinders Parade, from 9am on August 11 and then again on August 25. The walk is planned to start around 9.30am, after coffee. It will follow a 5km loop from Pool to Pier before finishing back at The Bay.

The event is being billed as a welcoming space for mums at different stages of life. Prams are welcome, and support people can come along too. In other words, it is set up to be an easy local outing rather than a formal fitness session.

Amy Kemp-Paton brings the Sandgate sessions to life

Sandgate’s new walk will be hosted by Amy Kemp-Paton, who says she knows first-hand how important it is for mums to have a place to connect.

Amy is a mum of two young girls and says she wanted to help create a space where women can walk, talk and feel supported. Her role gives the Sandgate group a local feel, with the focus firmly on community and conversation.

That approach will sound familiar to many locals. Sandgate already has a strong morning coffee culture, and the foreshore is a regular stop for walkers, parents and anyone keen to start the day by the water.

A simple idea that fits the foreshore

The appeal of Hot Mum Walk Club is its simplicity. Mums can turn up, join the walk and stay for coffee and a chat afterwards.

The Sandgate route adds a fresh option for local families who want to get outside without needing to travel far. It also gives mums another chance to meet others in the area and share the everyday realities of family life.

As more parents look for low-key ways to stay connected, this kind of community event is likely to find its place quickly. For Sandgate, it brings a friendly new rhythm to Tuesday mornings.

Published 5-August-2026

Sandgate Tradie Celebrates $201,000 Windfall After Winning Top Prize

A Sandgate construction worker has won $200,000 in the latest Mega Jackpot draw.

The Queensland tradie also pocketed a consolation prize, taking his total windfall to $201,000.

He was still at work when the news came through.

“Bloody hell!” he said.

“That’s pretty good! I don’t mind that news today.

“I’m at work. It’s long hours as usual. I’m in the construction industry.”

He said he had seen missed calls the day before, but had not given them much thought at the time.

“I had no idea about this. I saw your calls yesterday but I didn’t really think twice about them,” he said.

The winner said he had been taking part for about a year, but did not expect a result like this.

“I’ve been playing for about a year now. I’ve never won something like this,” he said.

The first thing on his mind was a few jobs around the house, along with a holiday for the missus.

“Thank you very much! We’ll be able to do some work on the house, and I can take the missus on a holiday,” he said.

Sandgate shop celebrates the win

His winning entry of three consecutive numbers was bought at Sandgate News & Gifts, Shop 3, Ibis Shopping Centre, 11 Bowser Parade, Sandgate.

Team member Pep Cerdan said the shop was thrilled to hear one of its customers had landed such a life-changing prize.

“We’re jumping out of our skin! We couldn’t believe the news!” she said.

“To be a part of someone’s win like this is wonderful. That sort of money is life-changing.

“We’re so happy for our winner and wish them all the best with their prize.

“We also want to thank all our lovely customers for their support. Here’s to another win soon!”

The win adds to a strong run for Brisbane’s northern suburbs, which have now had six major wins in 2026 worth more than $4.8 million in prize money.

The Mega Jackpot prize is now $1.24 million for draw 1788, while the Super Jackpot prize has climbed to $4.79 million for draw 11090.

Published 3-August-2026

Back in Blue and Yellow: Max Mackinnon Returns to Brisbane Bullets

The Brisbane Bullets have signed Max Mackinnon to a two-year deal as the club continues building its roster for the upcoming Hungry Jack’s NBL season. The 22-year-old returns to the club after previously spending the NBL22 season as a development player with the Bullets, who play their home games at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: Beyond the Brisbane Entertainment Centre: Housing, Jobs, and Hockey Tipped for Boondall’s Next Chapter

The signing marks Mackinnon’s return to the organisation where he first spent time as a development player before completing four years in the United States college system. During that period, he played for Elon, Portland and LSU before earning opportunities with the NBL Next Stars team at the 2026 adidas EuroCamp and the Charlotte Hornets at the 2026 NBA Summer League.

As the son of former Brisbane Bullets captain and NBL champion Sam Mackinnon, he returns to Brisbane following several seasons of college basketball in the United States.

Four Years of College Basketball

Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall, Mackinnon completed a four-year collegiate career that began at Elon before continuing at Portland and finishing at LSU.

His senior season at LSU produced career-best scoring numbers. Across 31 appearances for the Tigers, he averaged 15.7 points per game while shooting 37.6 per cent from three-point range. He also averaged 2.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

Earlier this year, Mackinnon represented the NBL Next Stars team at the 2026 adidas EuroCamp in Italy before joining the Charlotte Hornets at the 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Back with the Bullets

Mackinnon has agreed to a two-year contract with the Bullets after previously being part of the organisation during the Hungry Jack’s NBL22 season.

He joins a roster featuring Tyrell Harrison, Nate Hinton, Arnas Velička, Jacob Holt, Sam McDaniel, Lat Mayen, Taine Murray, Mitch Norton, Harry Rouhliadeff and Rio Bruton under coach Will Weaver.

The signing adds a player with previous experience in the Bullets program and four seasons in United States college basketball.

Read: New Disney On Ice Production Brings Global Debut to Brisbane Entertainment Centre

The club also promoted the signing on its social media channels, sharing: “Can’t wait to see Max Mackinnon doing this in blue and yellow.”

The signing marks Mackinnon’s return to the Bullets after four seasons in American college basketball. He will be part of Brisbane’s squad for the upcoming NBL season at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Published 3-August-2026

Historic Shorncliffe Station Ready To Welcome Passengers Again

Shorncliffe station will welcome passengers back on Monday, 27 July 2026, after months of restoration work that has revived one of the bayside’s best-known heritage landmarks while making it more accessible for everyone.

Read: Inside the Shorncliffe Station Upgrade: Closure, Heritage Works and Reopening Plans

The station, the final stop on the Shorncliffe line, has been closed since November 2025 while crews carried out a major renewal project that combined heritage conservation with modern accessibility improvements. Originally built in 1897 as a resort station for holidaymakers travelling to the bayside, it remains an important part of Shorncliffe’s rail history.

Preserving A Piece Of Shorncliffe’s History

Preserving the station’s heritage was a central part of the project.

One of the project’s most delicate tasks involved temporarily relocating the original heritage station building onto temporary footings in the adjoining car park so restoration work could be completed. Once the upgrades were finished, the building was carefully returned to its original location, preserving the station’s historic appearance while allowing construction to take place beneath and around it.

Queensland Rail also shared a timelapse video documenting the transformation, showing the careful relocation of the heritage buildings before restoration work and accessibility upgrades were completed.

Modern Upgrades For Easier Travel

While preserving its heritage was a priority, the project was equally focused on improving access for all passengers. Around 90 metres of platform has been raised to create accessible boarding points, making it easier for customers using wheelchairs, mobility aids and prams to board trains. New hearing augmentation loops, tactile ground surface indicators, accessible ramps and an accessible toilet have also been added.

Passengers will also notice upgraded lighting, additional CCTV cameras, customer information screens, improved wayfinding signage and two new platform seats, helping create a safer and more comfortable station experience. The project combined station renewal works with accessibility upgrades to improve customer access and facilities.

Discoveries Beneath The Platform

Shorncliffe Station — Shorncliffe station was originally called Sandgate station when it was built in 1897 (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)

The project also revealed new insights into the station’s history.

Before construction began, archaeological investigations beneath the station’s ticket office uncovered hundreds of historical artefacts, including a steam-era slush lamp, metal tins, stamp handles and a sailor’s cap.

Several of those items will be permanently displayed in a purpose-built display cabinet at the station, giving passengers and visitors the opportunity to learn more about Shorncliffe’s railway history while waiting for their train.

Read: Shorncliffe Line Moves to 30-minute Services All Day

Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland Neil Backer said the project reflected the organisation’s commitment to preserving rail heritage while improving the experience for customers. He said the restoration had returned the station to its original charm and that the upgraded landmark would continue serving and being enjoyed by the community for generations to come.

Published 2-August-2026

Australia Faces Questions After Shock Bangladesh Test Loss

Australia faces immediate questions over its batting and preparation after Bangladesh completed a historic nine-wicket Test victory in Darwin — a result likely to resonate in a part of Brisbane with deep Premier Cricket roots.

Bangladesh secured its first Test victory on Australian soil on Sunday and only its second Test win over Australia anywhere.

The result leaves Pat Cummins’ side under pressure ahead of the second and final Test in Mackay, starting Saturday, 22 August.

Bangladesh Takes Control in Darwin

Australia was dismissed for 198 in the first innings before Bangladesh responded with 426, establishing a 228-run lead.

Cameron Green led Australia’s fightback with 104 in the second innings — his first Test century on home soil — but Australia was dismissed for 284.

Bangladesh needed just 57 to win and reached 1-57 in 14.2 overs.

Hasan Mahmud finished with nine wickets for the match, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz took 5-66 in Australia’s second innings.

The result was Bangladesh’s first Test victory in Australia. Its previous Test win over Australia came in Dhaka in 2017.

Preparation Comes Into Focus

The manner of the defeat has raised questions about Australia’s preparation.

The hosts entered the Test with limited recent red-ball match practice, while Bangladesh’s own preparation had produced few indications of what was coming.

The tourists were bowled out for just 54 by a Cricket Australia XI in a warm-up match in Darwin.

Once the Test began, however, Bangladesh took control. The visitors built a substantial first-innings lead and dismissed Australia twice before comfortably completing the chase on day four.

A Strong Cricket Connection Close to Sandgate

For Sandgate readers, high-level club cricket is close to home.

Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club is based nearby at Deagon and competes in Queensland Premier Cricket, the state’s leading club competition.

Sandgate-Redcliffe has competed as a full District Club since 1961, with its history in Brisbane’s northern bayside stretching back further. The club fields teams across men’s, women’s and junior cricket and has a long record in Brisbane’s grade competition.

Its Deagon home, at the corner of Board Street and Racecourse Road, sits immediately beside Sandgate.

That Premier Cricket presence gives Sandgate and Deagon a strong connection to Queensland’s cricket system and a natural local audience for developments at Test level.

Australia’s Batting Faces Questions

Australia’s top order will be closely watched heading into Mackay.

Marnus Labuschagne made 1 and 31 in Darwin, while opener Jake Weatherald scored 23 and 0.

Cummins acknowledged after the match that Australia had to consider whether its batting problems represented one poor Test or a trend requiring changes.

Matthew Renshaw is among the batting options available to selectors, while Josh Inglis was the spare batter in Australia’s 13-man squad for the series.

There could also be changes to the bowling combination, with Scott Boland available after missing the Darwin XI.

Mackay Suddenly Carries More Weight

Australia now heads to Mackay unable to win the two-Test series.

Another Bangladesh victory would deliver the visitors a historic series win in Australia, while a draw would also be enough for Bangladesh to take the series 1-0.

Australia must win to level the series.

For cricket followers around Sandgate and Deagon, attention now shifts north to Mackay to see how the national side responds.

The second Test begins at Great Barrier Reef Arena on Saturday, 22 August.

Published 17-August-2026

Sandgate Welcomes Australia’s First Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. on Rainbow Street

After weeks of curiosity along Rainbow Street, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. has opened its first Australian restaurant in Sandgate.

The American seafood chain, inspired by the film Forrest Gump, welcomed diners on Saturday, 25 July, at 94 Rainbow Street, giving the bayside suburb a new talking point and a very different addition to its local dining scene.

For Sandgate locals, the opening brings a mix of novelty and nostalgia. The venue leans into its film roots, with themed décor, references to the famous “Jenny” boat and the sort of playful touches fans of the movie will recognise.

A Big Name in a Local Street

The arrival of an international restaurant brand on Rainbow Street is not something Sandgate sees every day.

As previously reported here, the Sandgate restaurant marks Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.’s first Australian site. The brand began in California in 1996 and has since opened in a number of locations around the world.

Its Sandgate home places it among local shops, cafés and everyday foot traffic, rather than in a city centre or major shopping complex. That choice alone has made the opening a point of interest for residents and visitors alike.

Seafood, Comfort Food and Movie Touches

The menu centres on Bubba Gump’s well-known shrimp dishes and American-style comfort food, including scampi, coconut shrimp, fried seafood options, ribs, burgers and colourful cocktails.

There are also interactive, movie-themed touches, including table trivia, giving the venue a different feel from a standard seafood lunch or dinner.

While the brand brings plenty of American flavour, its arrival in Sandgate will now be shaped by local diners — families looking for an easy meal out, film fans keen for the novelty, and curious residents wanting to see what has landed on Rainbow Street.

Sandgate Gets Its Moment

For a suburb that has long had its own seaside character, Bubba Gump’s opening is a notable addition.

Whether it becomes a regular favourite or more of a special-occasion stop will depend on how locals take to it in the weeks and months ahead. But for now, Sandgate has something new to talk about — and Australia’s first Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is right here by the bay.

Published 27-July-2026

Gluten-free Sandgate Bakery Café The Witchin Kitchen is the Real Deal

Photo Credit: Google Maps

If you’ve ever been told that gluten-free food means settling for less, The Witchin Kitchen in Sandgate is here to change your mind. This family-owned gluten-free bakery café has quietly become one of the bayside suburb’s most-loved spots — and once you’ve seen the cabinet stacked with cakes, slices and baked goods, it’s easy to understand why.

Tucked into the heart of Sandgate’s village precinct, the café draws you in with its warm, art deco-inspired fit-out — think bold colours and a feel-good energy that sets the tone from the moment you walk through the door. It’s the kind of place that works whether you’re settling in for a proper sit-down meal or just ducking in to grab something sweet on the way past.

The breakfast menu covers a solid range of options. Those after something filling can go for a Big Breakfast or chilli scrambled eggs, while the apple crumble pancakes — served with poached cinnamon apples, crumble and caramel — are a standout for anyone with a sweeter start in mind. A house-made granola bowl rounds out the lighter end of the morning offerings.

Come lunch, the focus shifts to burgers. The menu leans into old-school combinations — classic beef and bacon, veggie options, and a few loaded varieties that don’t shy away from the likes of fried egg and pineapple. It’s comfort food done with care.

The drinks list is equally considered, covering fresh juices, smoothies, milkshakes and thick shakes — the kind of lineup that pairs well with the food and suits a warm Brisbane afternoon down by the bay.

What sets The Witchin Kitchen apart, though, is that all of it — the burgers, the baked goods, the pancakes — is entirely gluten free. For locals managing dietary requirements, or those who simply haven’t found a gluten-free option that lives up to the hype, this café offers something genuinely different.

The Witchin Kitchen is located in Sandgate and is open for breakfast and lunch.

Published 18-April-2026

North Brisbane Area Sports Results 10-12 July 2026

Toyota AFL Premiership

Sun, July 12, 2026 (Gabba, Brisbane • Yuggera – Turrbal) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 18
• Brisbane Lions 149 | Essendon 59

TPIL Lawyers QAFL

Sat, July 11, 2026 (Powenyenna Oval / Powenyenna Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 14
• Sherwood QAFL Seniors 83 | Aspley QAFL Seniors 102

Sat, July 11, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 14
• Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 179 | Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 80

Bond University QAFLW

Sat, July 11, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 12
• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 74 | Broadbeach QAFLW Seniors 7

Sat, July 11, 2026 (Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex / Red Rooster Park 1) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 12
• Moreton Bay QAFLW Seniors 2 | Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 143

FQPL1

Fri, July 10, 2026 (Whites Hill Reserve (Holland Park Hawks FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 18
• Holland Park Hawks 0 | North Star 0

Sat, July 11, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 18
• Redlands United 1 | Capalaba FC 1

Sun, July 12, 2026 (Teralba Park (Mitchelton FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 13
• Mitchelton FC 2 | Palm Beach 0

Sun, July 12, 2026 (Albert Bishop Park (Virginia United FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 13
• Virginia United 0 | Grange Thistle 5

NPL

Fri, July 10, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 18
• Brisbane Roar B 4 | Rochedale Rovers 1

Sun, July 12, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre (Gold Coast Knights)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 18
• Gold Coast Knights 0 | Brisbane City 0

NBL1

Sun, July 12, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 13
• Northside Wizards 88 | Brisbane Capitals 100

Sun, July 12, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 13
• Northside Wizards 88 | Brisbane Capitals 60

QRL

Sat, July 11, 2026 (Harry Kirby Park, Aspley) – QRL – Women – Round 6
• Norths Devils 30 | Sunshine Coast Falcons 8

Sun, July 12, 2026 (Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby) – QRL – Men – Round 17
• Papua New Guinea Hunters 24 | Norths Devils 30