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Historic Brighton World War II Site Set for Transformation into Major Seniors Living Precinct

A historic World War II site in Brighton will be transformed into a major seniors living community featuring luxury amenities and high-care support under new planning documents.

LDK Seniors Living lodged the proposal recently for the 2.1-hectare block at 16 Twenty Fourth Avenue. The project, named The Baybrook, is designed to be a significant addition to the bayside suburb, located about a 35-minute drive from the Brisbane CBD. The developers aim to turn the former RAAF barracks location into a modern village for older residents.

A New Look for the Bayside

World War II — *Photo Credit:* *DA A006811510*

The design includes two main buildings that will change the local skyline. One building will stand at six storeys, while the other will reach seven storeys. Together, they will house 136 independent living units for active seniors. There will also be a dedicated care facility with 19 high-care studios for those needing extra support.

Future residents will have access to a variety of social spaces right on the property. The plans show a café, restaurants, and bars where neighbours can meet. For entertainment and self-care, the site will feature a theatre and a hair salon. A communal rooftop terrace on the taller building will offer views of the surrounding area. To handle traffic, the site will include 293 car parking spaces spread across the basement and ground levels.

Respecting Local Heritage

The land has a deep connection to Australia’s military history. It currently houses buildings constructed during the Second World War. The plans indicate that the two existing structures on the southern half of the site will be developed, but only after specific heritage matters are sorted out.

Although LDK Seniors Living secured the site last year, property records still list The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust as the owner. The site was sold without prior development approval, but early concept plans had suggested a mix of homes and apartments to boost growth in the area.

Building with Safety in Mind

The location sits in an area mapped for potential storm-tide flooding. To ensure the safety of the residents and the longevity of the buildings, the developers have planned for these environmental factors. The minimum habitable level for the units will be set at 3.6 metres. This elevation is intended to protect homes from water inundation during severe weather events.

Community Context

This proposal represents one of the largest developments for Brighton and the nearby bayside suburbs in recent years. The community has a history of engaging with aged care issues. Fourteen years ago, there were significant protests regarding the proposed closure of Eventide, a state-run facility nearby. Agents who managed the expressions-of-interest campaign noted that the site attracted nine formal offers, signalling strong interest in the future of this coastal neighbourhood.

Published Date 16-January-2026

Photo Credit: DA A006811510

Bad Blood Heads North: Tszyu–Zerafa Lights Up Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Sandgate fight fans won’t have far to travel when one of Australian boxing’s most talked-about rivalries finally reaches boiling point at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in neighbouring Boondall.

On Friday, January 16, a blockbuster showdown between unbeaten rising star Nikita Tszyu and battle-hardened contender Michael Zerafa will happen — a fight years in the making and heavy on local interest.

Staged by No Limit Boxing, the bout has been widely promoted as one of the most anticipated Australian clashes in recent memory, driven by a long-running feud, public exchanges and unresolved tension stretching back several years. For Brisbane and bayside locals, the event brings elite boxing to their doorstep.

When and Where

The event takes place on Friday, January 16, with the fight card beginning at 6pm AEST. With a full main card scheduled, the headline bout is expected later in the evening, likely around 9pm–10pm AEST, depending on how earlier fights progress.

The Brisbane Entertainment Centre, a familiar venue for major concerts and sporting events, is expected to draw a large crowd for a night that promises intensity well before the opening bell.

What’s at Stake

The main event is set for 10 rounds at a catchweight between super welterweight and middleweight, ensuring neither fighter enters with a clear size advantage.

For Tszyu, 27, the fight represents the most significant test of his unbeaten professional career. Known for his aggressive, high-pressure style and southpaw stance, he has built momentum quickly and carries a surname synonymous with Australian boxing. A victory would firmly establish him at the next level domestically.

For Zerafa, 33, the bout is another high-stakes opportunity to leverage experience. With more than 40 professional contests, he has faced former world champions and elite contenders across multiple weight divisions. While he has fallen short on the biggest stages, his depth of experience remains a central talking point heading into this matchup.

Styles Make Fights

Stylistically, the contest shapes as a genuine contrast. Tszyu applies constant pressure from the southpaw stance, often turning bouts into physical exchanges. That approach has delivered knockouts, but has also left him open to counters.

Zerafa, fighting orthodox, is generally more measured. He has shown an ability to absorb pressure, stay composed and strike when openings appear. Combined with the southpaw-orthodox matchup, the dynamic suggests a fight more likely to ignite than settle into a cautious rhythm.

A Stacked Undercard

Beyond the headline act, the card features several bouts of interest, including the professional boxing debut of former Melbourne Storm forward Nelson Asofa-Solomona, adding crossover appeal for league fans.

Heavyweight and domestic match-ups round out a program designed to keep the crowd engaged throughout the evening, rather than building solely toward the main event.

Local Excitement

For Sandgate and surrounding suburbs, major boxing events rarely land this close to home. With the Brisbane Entertainment Centre only a short drive away, locals have a rare opportunity to see a nationally significant bout live without interstate travel.

Whether it ends with a breakout performance from the younger Tszyu or a statement win from the seasoned Zerafa, Friday night promises atmosphere, tension and a genuine sense of occasion — the kind that lingers well beyond the final bell.

Fans unable to attend can watch live via Main Event on Kayo Sports, but for those heading to Boondall, it’s a chance to see Australian boxing’s next chapter unfold in person.

Published 13-Jan-2026

Featured Image Credit: BEC/Facebook

The Crown Jewel of Sandgate Sells for $5.25 Million

48 Flinders Parade was described as the “Crown Jewel of Sandgate” but when it was recently sold for over $5 million, smashing the price record for Sandgate by over $2 million, corks popped and eyes widened.

The $5-million price barrier is so rarely breached that this sale appears to have created more blue sky for many prestige properties north of Brisbane, perhaps especially on the coast.

The coastal aspect of 48 Flinders Parade most definitely contributes heavily to it’s value, with uninterrupted views across Moreton Bay, taking in Woody Point, Shorncliffe Pier and the Port of Brisbane.

The 5 Bedroom house itself has been renovated to extraordinary detail and sits a short stroll from the vibrant local cafe scene.

“From the moment we launched the campaign, it was clear this wasn’t just another prestige listing – it was a once-in-a-generation home. Marketed through a tailored premium-property campaign, the home attracted extraordinary attention from the outset and the level of interest was phenomenal, with more than 50 groups attending our VIP pre-market event and over 200 groups throughout the full campaign,” says Felicity Harden of Harden Property.

“While we had enquiry from interstate and overseas, the strongest buyer demand ultimately came from Brisbane-based prestige purchasers who immediately recognised the rarity, scale and architectural excellence of the property. The enquiry we received was highly qualified and engaged, with buyers demonstrating genuine intent throughout the process. And I’m incredibly proud that the final sale price of $5.25 million has now set a new Sandgate suburb record by $2.3 million above the previous high of $2.95 million, while also breaking the entire 4017 postcode record by $900,000.

Most importantly, the outcome delivered exceptional results for our clients on both sides of the transaction, with an outstanding result for the sellers and very happy purchasers excited to call this remarkable property, home. Properties like this don’t just set new price ceilings, they redefine what buyers believe is possible in Sandgate and across the 4017 marketplace. This campaign truly highlighted just how special this home is.” says Felicity.

Felicity Harden sold 504 Flinders Parade earlier this year, over the border in Brighton, for $3,350,000, so she is no stranger to representing the top end of the market in the area.

The sale of 48 Flinders will certainly cause many home valuations to be revisited in 2026.

You can reach Felicity to discuss this landmark sale or your own home’s valuation on 0444 544 608.

Harden Property is a proud supporter of Sandgate News

Published 31-Dec-2025
Featured Image Credit: Supplied

Exploring the Outdoor Gallery on Sandgate Streets

Sandgate residents continue to enjoy a vibrant outdoor gallery where everyday traffic signal boxes display the enduring creativity of locals through the long-running Artforce Brisbane program.

Stories on the Corner

Walking through Sandgate, locals are likely familiar with the colourful artwork that wraps around the suburb’s utility boxes. These pieces serve as snapshots of the community, with Ariya McDonald’s piece “Expanding Horizons” and Kimberly Smith’s “Birds of Sandgate” reflecting the local environment. At other intersections, the artwork speaks to the seaside lifestyle, such as Mary Harm’s “Fish n Chips,” while Nyree Cooper shares a simple message with “Gratitude.”

These designs have transformed standard metal infrastructure into points of pride that have become part of the daily scenery for commuters and pedestrians.

Expanding Horizons

Artist: Ariya McDonald Location: Sandgate (B0108)

This piece is a true tribute to the local area, specifically drawing inspiration from Sandgate District State High School. The design features the Ibis—often playfully known as the “bin chicken” but here celebrated as a school mascot representing the motto “I Believe In Sandgate.” The artwork is washed in the warm colours of a sunrise and sunset, reflecting the suburb’s stunning waterfront views. It also incorporates native Australian flora and a stack of books, symbolising both the natural beauty of the area and the value of education.

Birds of Sandgate

Artist: Kimberly Smith Location: Sandgate (B8031)

Living by the bay, residents are used to sharing the footpaths and foreshore with plenty of feathered locals. Kimberly Smith’s artwork captures this daily reality, turning a standard utility box into a celebration of the wildlife that calls the 4017 postcode home. By highlighting the birds of the area, the piece serves as a reminder of the unique environment that exists right on the doorstep of the suburban streets.

Fish n Chips

Artist: Mary Harm Location: Sandgate (SC814398)

It wouldn’t be Sandgate without a nod to the classic seaside dinner. Mary Harm’s artwork, “Fish n Chips,” playfully immortalises the tradition of grabbing a meal by the water. Whether it’s a family outing or a quick bite after a swim, this artwork connects with anyone who has spent a weekend afternoon on the Sandgate foreshore battling the seagulls for a hot chip.

Gratitude

Artist: Nyree Cooper Location: Sandgate (SC3543)

While some boxes celebrate nature or food, Nyree Cooper’s “Gratitude” brings a gentle reminder of community spirit to the streetscape. In a busy world, this artwork encourages passersby to pause and reflect. It stands as a simple but effective prompt for mental well-being, fitting perfectly into the friendly and supportive atmosphere that Sandgate residents are known for.

A Long-Standing Tradition

This splash of colour is part of the established Artforce Brisbane initiative, which has been running since 1999. Managed by the Brisbane City Council, the program was designed to turn traffic signal boxes and pad-mount transformers into art to discourage graffiti.

Over the last two decades, more than 5,000 volunteers have painted over 1,200 boxes across the city. What began as a way to keep surfaces clean has evolved into a way for suburbs like Sandgate to showcase their unique identity through visual storytelling.

Community at Heart

The program remains open to nearly everyone in Brisbane, ensuring that the art seen on the streets comes from the people who live there. School students, families, and community groups are encouraged to apply, not just professional artists.

Once a design is approved, the Council provides the necessary equipment and safety gear, giving the artist a set time to complete their work. The initiative also honours these contributions through annual awards, recognising the efforts of those who help keep the neighbourhood looking bright and welcoming.

Published Date 31-December-2025

Sandgate Farewell For Outgoing Parish Priest Fr Joseph Kanatt

Sandgate–Brighton parishioners are farewelling outgoing parish priest Fr Joseph Kanatt, recognising his support for elderly and housebound members of the community.

Six And A Half Years Of Ministry

Fr Joseph Kanatt MCBS has served the Sandgate–Brighton Catholic parish for six and a half years. Parishioners say his approach focused on presence and availability, particularly for people who were elderly, unwell or approaching end of life. Long-time members of the parish described his ministry as one that prioritised pastoral care alongside day-to-day parish responsibilities.

Linking Parish And School Communities

During his time in Sandgate, Fr Kanatt introduced the ‘One in Christ’ Mass several times each year. The Mass included contributions from the local school and was intended to strengthen links between students, families and parishioners. Parish members said the initiative helped foster a greater sense of shared identity across the parish community.

Improving Parish Communication

Fr Kanatt also supported improvements to parish communications. These included installing new speakers at the Sandgate church and new microphones at the Brighton church to improve audibility during services.

Parishioners said he encouraged regular updates through the parish social media page and supported the continuation of a parish magazine published three times a year. The magazine featured articles from parishioners and schools and was intended to keep the community informed about parish activities.

Fr Joseph Kanatt — *Photo Credit: Sandgate Brighton Catholic Parish/Facebook*

Focus On Elderly And Aged Care Residents

Parish posts show Fr Kanatt regularly celebrated Mass and visited residents at Regis in Sandgate, including those who were housebound. Residents, staff and families expressed appreciation for the Masses and visits provided over his time at the parish.

The parish also noted him celebrating Mass with residents at Regis Care, where long-time parishioner and former lead organist Dell Purtill was preparing to mark her 100th birthday.

Workload And Next Steps

Parishioners said Fr Kanatt maintained a demanding schedule, celebrating five weekend Masses as well as weekday services. Alongside pastoral duties, he also managed administrative work and oversaw renovations at the Brighton church.

The parish confirmed he is moving on to serve the parish community of Victoria Point, with Sandgate parishioners noting his departure will be felt, particularly among elderly members of the community.

Published 12-Dec-2025

Photo Credit: Sandgate Brighton Catholic Parish/Facebook

Sandgate Tradies Targeted in Spree of Forced Toolboxes Thefts

Local tradespeople in the Sandgate area are facing a disruption to their livelihood after thieves targeted work vehicles and forced open secured toolboxes to steal valuable equipment.

The string of incidents occurred between November 9 and November 10. During this overnight period, offenders struck multiple locations across the suburbs of Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Virginia.

A Crime of Opportunity

toolboxes — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police/ Facebook*

Police have indicated that parking work vehicles on the street significantly increases the risk of becoming a victim. While many thefts are opportunistic, these recent offenders have shown they are willing to use force to get what they want. Authorities noted that thieves are cutting through padlocks and chains or tampering with windows to gain access to the expensive power tools inside.

The primary advice from law enforcement is to avoid on-street parking whenever possible. Leaving a work vehicle exposed on the road overnight makes it an easy target for criminals looking for a quick payout. Residents are being asked to double-check their locks and remain aware of who is moving around their street after dark.

Marking Your Assets

To combat this trend, police are urging the community to take proactive steps in identifying their property. Officers stated that marking tools with an engraving or recording serial numbers is essential. This process not only deters theft but also provides the necessary proof of ownership if the items are recovered.

The recommended method is to place a mark or code on the top right-hand corner of the item or close to the manufacturer’s serial number. For items that cannot be easily engraved, authorities suggest taking a clear video or photograph. These records assist police significantly in identifying stolen goods and returning them to the correct owner.

Watching the Neighbourhood

Community cooperation is vital in stopping these offences. Police have requested that residents report any suspicious behaviour they observe around trailers or work vehicles. By staying vigilant and securing property, the community can reduce the risk of these opportunistic crimes and help protect the livelihoods of local workers.

Published Date 20-November-2025

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Sandgate Riders Face Fines For Non-Compliant E-Vehicles

Brisbane police have ramped up enforcement against riders using non-compliant e-bikes, e-scooters and e-motorbikes, with Sandgate’s foreshore among the key locations being targeted under Operation Xray Surety.

The operation, which began in early November, has already resulted in 150 traffic infringement notices being issued across the Brisbane region as of 9 November, according to Queensland Police Service media.

Police are conducting patrols across the city, from the riverside of the inner CBD to the foreshores at Wynnum and Sandgate, as well as suburbs including Inala and Indooroopilly. Officers are focusing on devices that don’t meet safety standards or are being ridden illegally.

South Brisbane District Inspector Mat Kelly said police are seeing too many instances of non-compliant devices creating safety risks for riders, road users and pedestrians.

“We urge riders or parents who have already bought their child a device to check whether it is compliant. Don’t just assume,” Inspector Kelly said in the police statement.

The crackdown builds on existing police efforts, including community engagement with riders and parents, safety education sessions at local schools, and enforcement action when devices are found to be non-compliant or ridden dangerously.

Among recent cases, a 59-year-old Capalaba man was allegedly caught running two red lights while riding an unregistered electric motorcycle without a licence on 5 November. He received five traffic infringement notices totalling more than $2,400 in fines (QP2501999250).

The following morning, a 19-year-old Indooroopilly man was intercepted riding a non-compliant e-bike along the bikeway near the Eastern Busway in Dutton Park. He received five fines totalling $1,756 for offences including riding unregistered, driving without appropriate authorisation, and failing to wear a helmet (QP2502005840).

Around the same time, a 57-year-old man was stopped near Main Street in Kangaroo Point for allegedly riding an unregistered electric motorbike without proper licensing, receiving three fines worth $1,156 (QP2502005847).

Inspector Kelly warned that many devices may only be permitted on private property, not in public spaces such as council parks, footpaths or roads.

“It is the responsibility of riders and parents to know the rules surrounding these devices. Ignorance is not an excuse when public safety is put at risk,” he said.

Police have warned that continued non-compliant use will result in fines, charges and in some cases seizure of the devices.

Riders and parents can check compliance requirements on the Queensland Government’s StreetSmarts website at police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

Published 12-November-2025

Sandgate-Redcliffe Cricketers Selected for Queensland Under-19 Training Squad

Three players from the Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club have been included in Queensland’s Under-19 training squad. The squad is currently midway into an eight-week training program before final selections are made for the line-up to compete in the Under-19 National Championships to be held in Perth in December.

Sandgate-Redcliffe Talent in State Squad

Among those named are Steven Hogan, Angus McLean, and Lakshdeep Singh from Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club. Their inclusion strengthens the club’s reputation for developing players capable of performing at the highest levels of junior cricket.

Hogan, already recognised as one of Queensland’s Australian Under-19 representatives, recently impressed during matches against India’s youth team, scoring a steady 92 runs in a four-day game at Ian Healy Oval in Brisbane. The innings showcased his composure under pressure and highlighted his readiness for national competition.

Queensland Under-19 squad — *Photo Credit: Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club*

Queensland Cricket announced its 20-man Under-19 training squad on 4 October 2025, signalling the start of an eight-week program before final selections are confirmed for the Under-19 National Championships to be held in Perth from December 1 to 8, 2025.

The Under-19 squad also includes several players from leading Queensland Premier Cricket clubs, reflecting the depth of youth talent progressing through the state’s development pathways.

The National Under-19 Male Championships will be a 10-team tournament, with players divided into two pools, to be played across 12 different venues. The Finals will be played at the historic WACA Ground.

Longstanding Player Development in Sandgate

Known as the Gators, the Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club has operated on Brisbane’s northside for decades and is located about 30 minutes from the CBD. The club has built a strong foundation for players of all ages, from junior teams to men’s over-40s, and introduced its first women’s side in the 1995–1996 season.

The Gators also run school holiday cricket clinics for juniors aged 8 to 13, led by accredited Level 1 to Level 3 coaches, including a High Performance Coach overseeing player development. The club maintains detailed player statistics, batting records, and representative histories as part of its emphasis on performance tracking and community recognition.

Strengthening Queensland’s Future Line-Up

The selection of Hogan, McLean, and Singh reinforces Sandgate-Redcliffe’s continued contribution to Queensland’s cricket development system. As the Under-19 training squad begins preparations for the National Championships, the northside club’s success underscores the effectiveness of its coaching programs and commitment to nurturing emerging cricketers.

For Sandgate-Redcliffe, the upcoming tournament offers another chance to see its homegrown players showcase their progress on the national stage, further strengthening the club’s standing as a reliable pathway for young Queensland talent.

Published 10-Oct-2025

Photo Credit: Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club

Sandgate Residents Urged to Secure Homes Following Property Crimes

Sandgate residents are being reminded to secure their homes following a series of alleged property crimes that occurred across the bayside suburb on 30 October.

A 40-year-old Brisbane City man has been charged with 11 offences after police responded to multiple incidents throughout the day, beginning with a single-vehicle crash on Brighton Road around 4am.

According to Queensland Police, the driver fled the scene after crashing a grey Mini Cooper, which had been reported stolen from Hamilton the previous day.

Later that morning, police allege a mountain bike was taken from a Griffith Street property, while a neighbouring unit was broken into with cash and other items stolen.

Around 1pm, a Flinders Parade residence was allegedly broken into, with keys to a white Toyota Hilux taken and the vehicle stolen from the back yard. The mountain bike allegedly taken earlier was left at the scene.

The Toyota Hilux was later spotted at an alleged break-and-enter in Paddington around 4.40pm, before being involved in a collision on Annerley Road at Annerley shortly before 7pm.

A 40-year-old man was located nearby with a leg injury and transported to hospital by Queensland Ambulance Service.

The man has been charged with two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, three counts of driving without a licence, two counts of enter dwelling and commit, enter dwelling with intent at night, attempted enter dwelling with intent at night, and stealing.

He was remanded in custody and appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court today, 4 November.

Following the incidents, officers from the Gateway District Crime Prevention Unit have been engaging with Sandgate residents, speaking to locals about home security measures.

Queensland Police are reminding residents to ensure doors and windows are secure and valuable items are locked away and kept out of sight.

Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Policelink on 131 444 or submit information online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 30-October-2025

Brisbane Golfer Breaks World Record for Charity

Brisbane golfer Mick McLoughlin has broken a Guinness World Record after hitting more than 10,392 golf balls in 24 hours at Golf Central near Brisbane Airport to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Smashing the Record in Brisbane

Mick McLoughlin, a 62-year-old golf enthusiast, business director, and long-time supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities, set the record during a 24-hour chipping marathon held from October 17 to 18 at Golf Central.

He exceeded the long-standing record, which had stood since 2002, by surpassing 10,392 balls in just 19 hours, with five hours still left in his attempt. The challenge formed part of his Chipping for Charity campaign, raising money to support families with seriously ill or injured children.

Brisbane golfer record — *Photo Credit: Chipping for Charity/Instagram*

Training and Determination

McLoughlin trained for 11 months leading up to the event, hitting up to 1,500 balls daily. Despite suffering from tendinitis, tennis elbow, and wrist and knee issues, he persisted in preparation for the demanding 24-hour effort.

A Second World Record for a Cause

This was McLoughlin’s second Guinness World Record. In 2021, he completed 2,001 golf holes in seven days, raising more than $340,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland. His latest goal aimed to raise around $250,000 for the organisation, which provides accommodation and support for families near hospitals.

Community Support

The record attempt drew support from notable Brisbane sports figures, including Broncos coach Michael Maguire and players Ezra Mam, Josh Maguire, Wally Lewis, and Matt Gillett, who attended a Sportsman’s Lunch linked to the campaign.

Celebrities such as Sam Thaiday, Corey Oates, Robbie Dolan, and Romy Teitzel also joined the fundraising effort by donating golf balls in the lead-up to the event.

*Photo Credit: Chipping for Charity/Instagram*

Continuing the Mission

Every ball McLoughlin chipped represented another step toward supporting Ronald McDonald Houses across Australia. The campaign encouraged public donations through the Chipping for Charity website, with all proceeds directed to benefit families staying near hospitals.

Published 25-Oct-2025

Photo Credit: Chipping for Charity/Instagram