News from your local councillor Cr Tracey Huges
Division 8: Birkdale/Alexandra Hills/Capalaba/Wellington Point
Hi everyone,
The impact and speed of 2025 both literally and metaphorically is not lost on any of us as we prepare for end-of-year functions, family events and all things Christmas, then we are going straight into our holidays, where we have opportunity to catch up with family and friends or simply stop and drop at home, looking at all the chores that we promised will get done – self included! I really hope that you are happy and healthy, have had a fruitful year, and are looking forward to summer – my favourite season.
All our families are another year older and our Max (main picture) is now a thriving three-year-old who is adventurous and loud, bringing us endless pride and so much joy. It’s that special time in life when everything we do and say is absorbed instantly. Sharing our hardest conversation with him – that there was no footy on telly on his Friday night sleep over got quite a reaction – he was not happy.
As a community we strengthen each other through our daily walks, group activities, church, sports and a cuppa at our local shops.
A journey of Faith
Last year I spoke about the joy of watching our young ones on their school journey and this year I wanted to spotlight Alexandra Hills State High School student Faith's artwork (pictured) with you. So many of us have suffered loss this year and when I stood before an old skateboard that has been transformed into an emotional depiction of grief and remembrance, I was moved to tears. Thanks so much Faith for sharing with us your art – our loved ones will, as Alex Warren sings, Never Be Far.
With Mum (pictured) still on her dementia journey, her Baby Doll has proved to be invaluable, and to our Cancer Council ladies who dressed her, top job! The support for our families in aged care is strong, but the reality is simply that it is tough going and tough love. I share your journey every day and I am always happy to talk if you need a listening ear.
It is so important to me to reach out to you, offering support and friendship in any way I can. Please give me a call. I am truly always available to you, especially if you need a JP!
Merry Christmas, praying for blessings in abundance to you all.
Cr Tracey Huges – Division 8
'Tis the season for donating
Redland Community Centre is once again running its annual Christmas donation drives to support local families doing it tough this festive season.
The Christmas Toy Project provides an opportunity for families to walk through the Christmas venue and personally select gifts for their children, using the wonderful donations received from the community.
The centre is seeking brand new toys and gifts for children aged 0–13 years. Donations can be dropped off at the TAFE Queensland Alexandra Hills Campus (BA Block,
Concept image only
Events diary
Bells in the Bayside
Windemere Road) on 9, 10 and 11 December between 10am and 1pm. Donations can also be delivered to the Redland Community Centre at 29 Loraine Street, Capalaba, during opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9am to 3pm, and Wednesday from 9am to 12pm.
The centre also runs a Christmas Food Drive to collect food items for festive hampers that bring cheer to families over the holidays. Items can be dropped off at the centre during opening hours. Please note the centre will be closed from 3pm on Friday 19 December until 9am on Monday 6 January.
“Muddies are really excited for their club's future. Having three new playing fields will place Redlands at the heart of Qld Rugby.”
Michael King – President, Redlands Rugby Union Club
Onwards and upwards for Muddies Rugby
With the expansion of the scope of the Judy Holt Park remediation works, Council has committed to building Redlands Rugby Union Club (Muddies) a new clubhouse.
The existing clubhouse, change and storage sheds will have to be demolished. It will be a shame to see the old clubhouse go, as club members and volunteers have worked extensively over the years on its upkeep. But as an asset it is reaching its end of life, so onwards and upwards – two storeys in fact!
This photo is only indicative but this is the type of facility that Council will work with the club on designing, to suit the three international-standard fields and a juniors' training field to be created on the site.
Birkdale Baptist Church and Capalaba Bulldogs Football Club will present a community Christmas carols event on Sunday 13 December. The event kicks off at 4pm at John Fredericks Park, Old Cleveland Rd, Capalaba. It will feature entertainment, food trucks, fireworks, Christmas stalls, and promises to be a night of family-friendly fun and community spirit. Bells in the Bayside has been partly funded by a $12,000 Village Events and Activation Grant from Council.
Christmas on the Field
Alexandra Hills Australian Football Club will combine with local churches to hold a free Christmas concert for the local community. It will be held on Saturday 6 December from 5pm at the Bombers’ home field at Keith Surridge Park, Windemere Road, Alexandra Hills. There will be food trucks, fireworks, a Christmas concert on the big stage and much more. The event has been partly funded by a $12,000 Community Grants Program project support grant from Council.
Lunch on Christmas Day
Bayside Salvos will hold their Christmas Day Lunch on 25 December from 12pm to 2.30pm at 1-9 MacArthur Street, Alexandra Hills. Registrations are required before 22 December. Ph (07) 3824 5222.
Loads of activities
Redlands Church of Christ has several Christmas activities and events for December. Kids craft activities will be held at the Bush Oasis on 16 December ($5 per child); a free Christmas Family Fun Day on 18 December; free Carols on the Hill at the church at 5pm on 21 December; and a 9.30am Christmas Day service. On 3 January, the church will hold a free community brunch.