From animated family fun to new Australian stories and nostalgic throwbacks, Moreton Bay cinemas are screening a strong mix of fresh releases. Here’s what’s showing across the region this weekend.
March 27
A Working Man Venues: Bribie Cinema, Event Cinemas – North Lakes, Event Cinemas – Strathpine, Limelight Cinemas – Morayfield, HOYTS – Redcliffe A timely Australian drama exploring resilience, family, and the cost of hard work. Event Info
Looney Tunes: The Day the Earth Blew Up Venues: Event Cinemas – North Lakes, Event Cinemas – Strathpine, Limelight Cinemas – Morayfield, HOYTS – Redcliffe A brand-new, full-length Looney Tunes adventure with cosmic chaos and familiar faces. Event Info
Oh Canada Venues: Event Cinemas – North Lakes, Event Cinemas – Strathpine A poetic, introspective drama that journeys across memory, landscape, and identity. Rating: 5.7/10 IMDb | 64% Rotten Tomatoes Event Info
Love of an Icon: The Legend of Crocodile Dundee Venues: Event Cinemas – North Lakes, Event Cinemas – Strathpine, Limelight Cinemas – Morayfield, HOYTS – Redcliffe A documentary-style feature that revisits the legacy of a beloved Australian screen legend. Event Info
Pip and Posy’s Cinema Show Venue: HOYTS – Redcliffe An adorable cinema experience made for preschoolers, featuring games and gentle stories. Event Info
From feel-good Aussie flicks to animated mischief for the kids, this weekend’s film schedule across Moreton Bay has something for every mood. Grab a seat, pick your cinema, and enjoy a night (or day) out.
Moreton Bay is bursting with colour, sound and creative expression this weekend. From orchestral favourites and handmade markets to visual art and immersive theatre, here’s what’s on for art lovers across the region and surrounds.
Friday to Sunday (March 28–30)
Wildlife Sculptures and Paintings Exhibition Venue: Maleny Library, 5 Coral Street, Maleny An inspiring showcase of local talent focused on native wildlife through both sculpture and painting. Event Info
Saturday, 29 March
Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra – Feel Good Favourites Venue: Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, 20 Minchinton Street, Caloundra A light and uplifting evening of orchestral music from ABC Classic’s most-loved selections. Event Info
Revival Green Studio – Handmade & Artisans Market (with jazz by @dannyjazzmose) Venue: 24 Baynes Street, Margate Browse artisan goods and enjoy smooth rooftop jazz in this relaxed creative market. Event Info
Indian Open Mic Venue: 47 Cook Court #9, North Lakes Poetry, comedy, music and culture converge in this vibrant open mic night. Event Info
Sunday, 30 March
DrillDance Queensland Competition Venue: Morayfield Sport and Events Centre, 298 Morayfield Road, Morayfield Precision, performance and pageantry on full display with teams from across Queensland. Event Info
Live Music – Ensemble Trivium Venue: Elm House, Mount Glorious A chamber concert with flute, violin and viola set in a tranquil mountain venue. Event Info
Tawny Trails: A Celebration of Women Through Art Venues: Dayboro & 59 Fahey Road, Mount Glorious A self-guided art trail celebrating women artists with exhibitions, open studios and talks. Event Info
Ongoing Exhibitions
Dennis Golding: POWER – The Future is Here Venue: Pine Rivers Art Gallery, 130–134 Gympie Road, Strathpine A powerful exhibition exploring cultural identity and futurism through striking visual art. Event Info
Prepare to Meet Thy Tomb (Theatre) Venue: Gympie Road, Strathpine A darkly comedic theatre production running until early April at Act 1 Theatre. Event Info
Tamara Dean: Leave Only Footprints Venue: Caboolture Regional Art Gallery, 4 Hasking Street, Caboolture Evocative, large-scale photographic works examining nature, human presence and impact. Event Info
From orchestras and open mics to immersive trails and exhibitions, Moreton Bay is brimming with creative energy. Whether you’re planning a day trip or staying local, this weekend is full of opportunities to connect with art in all its forms.
Looking for family-friendly things to do this weekend? Whether you’re diving into digital history, enjoying a library movie, or spending story time in the park, Moreton Bay has something relaxed and enriching for all ages.
Friday, 28 March
Unlocking the Past: Learning AI-Powered Family History – Redcliffe Venue: Redcliffe Library, 476 Oxley Avenue, Redcliffe Discover how artificial intelligence is changing the way we explore family history in this free community session. Event Info
Monthly Movie – Redcliffe Library: Everybody’s Oma Venue: Redcliffe Library, 476 Oxley Avenue, Redcliffe A heartfelt and family-focused documentary based on the viral journey of one Australian family’s connection with dementia. Event Info
Playtime Venue: Albany Creek Library, 16 Ferguson Street, Albany Creek Let the little ones explore, learn and connect with other kids in this interactive play session for families. Event Info
Sunday, 30 March
Park Tales – Central Lakes Park Meeting Point: Caboolture Library, 4 Hasking Street, Caboolture Join library staff for a morning of stories, movement and outdoor fun at Central Lakes Park. Event Info
Whether you’re taking the kids to the park, heading to a library movie, or learning something new together, this weekend’s family-friendly events in Moreton Bay are a great way to slow down and connect. Simple, local, and totally free.
From coastal grooves to community sport and rooftop sessions, Moreton Bay and its surrounds are alive with weekend energy. Here’s what’s happening from Friday through Sunday across the region.
Friday, 28 March
Keggin – Cheap Shots EP Tour Venue: Tibe Clubhouse, 457 Oxley Ave, Redcliffe Punk vibes hit the peninsula as Keggin bring their latest EP to Redcliffe. Event Info
J-Funk Venue: Redcliffe Leagues Club, Cnr Klingner Rd & Ashmole Rd, Redcliffe Get into the groove with the smooth, soulful sounds of J-Funk for your Friday night. Event Info
Saturday, 29 March
Queensland Wheelchair Rugby League – City vs Country 2025 Venue: North Street, Caloundra One of the state’s most inclusive and exciting competitions returns. Event Info
Brockenchack Museum Release Wine Lunch Venue: The Tamarind, 88 Obi Lane South, Maleny A relaxed gourmet afternoon celebrating the Brockenchack Museum wine release. Event Info
WSW Legacy Venue: Eatons Hill Hotel – Grand Ballroom, Eatons Hill Pro wrestling returns to Eatons Hill with a stacked legacy card. Event Info
Sunny’s Rooftop Bar Does Ska Venue: Sunny’s Margate Beach, 1 McCulloch Ave, Margate Skank into the sunset with ska beats and beachside views at this rooftop session. Event Info
Sunday, 30 March
Music in the Park – Deception Bay Venue: Apex Park, Deception Bay A free, family-friendly day of music, food trucks, and community vibes by the bay. Event Info
Whether you’re dancing at a rooftop gig in Margate, soaking in the sounds of a seaside park, or catching a unique local event, Moreton Bay has something to keep your weekend buzzing. Explore what’s close to home and enjoy everything the region has to offer from Friday through Sunday.
The city of Moreton Bay has secured $13.6 million in funding, including $3.7 million for projects in Albany Creek and Lawnton, through the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program. This funding promises significant upgrades to local parks, libraries, and community facilities.
Mayor Peter Flannery announced the funding boost, which will support 13 projects across the region. $4.3 million was secured through a competitive process, and $9.3 million was allocated directly to the council. He stated that this substantial investment shows the Council’s dedication to improving the region for residents and visitors.
The projects range from park upgrades and library improvements to crucial infrastructure enhancements. Queensland Minister for Local Government and Water, Ann Leahy, emphasised the importance of these projects for local communities, noting that they will improve services and liveability. She confirmed that the Queensland Government has already released half of the funding and will closely monitor the progress of these projects.
Focus on Community Spaces in Albany Creek and Lawnton
Lawnton Aquatic Centre Building Photo Credit: Google Map
Albany Creek residents can look forward to a $600,000 upgrade to the library courtyard, creating a more modern and inviting outdoor space. Lawnton will benefit significantly, with $3.1 million allocated for the construction of Akers Road Park, $415,000 for building remediation at the Lawnton Aquatic Centre, and $550,000 for new amenities at Leis Park.
These projects will provide improved recreational facilities for families and individuals in the area. Councillor Brooke Savige commented on the importance of the Bribie Island Library courtyard upgrade, explaining it will create a vibrant community hub.
Improving Connectivity and Accessibility
Leis Park, Lawnton Photo Credit: Google Map
Other key projects include $3 million for the Alma Road Bend Upgrade in Dakabin and $1.3 million for Stage 2a of the Hornibrook Esplanade Cycleway in Clontarf. These projects focus on improving road safety and active transport options for residents. Deputy Mayor Jodie Shipway highlighted the importance of the $1.685 million Capestone Lake Pedestrian Ramp in Mango Hill for enhancing safety and accessibility.
Councillor Karl Winchester spoke about the Hornibrook Esplanade Cycleway upgrade, explaining that it supports active transport and healthier lifestyles. He also mentioned improvements to Langdon Park lighting, Margate Beach Park amenities, and new Redcliffe wayfinding signage as enhancing liveability and supporting recreation and tourism.
The council highlighted the Bongaree Caravan Park Water Reticulation Upgrade, ensuring the park remains a high-quality destination for tourists.
The City of Moreton Bay is working closely with the Queensland Government to deliver these projects efficiently. The funding will not only improve infrastructure but also contribute to building a stronger, safer, and more connected community for all residents.
Mayor Peter Flannery stressed the importance of swimming as a recreational activity, a vital life skill, and a fantastic form of exercise. He emphasised the council’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable aquatic facilities for the entire community.
A Look at the Region’s Premier Aquatic Centres
Photo Credit: Google Map
Albany Creek Leisure Centre: This comprehensive facility offers a 24-hour health club, a large-scale learn-to-swim program, and a variety of water sports, including water polo and synchronised swimming. It caters to the whole family with three heated pools and an on-site café.
Lawnton Aquatic Centre: This multi-activity hub boasts a 50-meter outdoor pool, a 25-meter indoor pool, and a toddler splash pool. Its 1,000-seat grandstand and expansive grounds make it popular for school carnivals and community events. The centre also offers many programs, from learn-to-swim lessons to aqua aerobics.
Photo Credit: Google Map
Murrumba Downs Swimming Pool: This family-friendly centre features a heated, partially covered 25m pool and a spacious lawn. It offers swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, and birthday party packages.
With summer in full swing, Moreton Bay Regional Council is reminding residents to stay cool, have fun, and prioritise water safety by exploring the many benefits of swimming at their local aquatic centre.
Construction has begun in Griffin on critical upgrades to Brays Road and the new Arcadia Drive, a project designed to improve traffic flow and safety for the rapidly growing community.
Wattle Run Developments Pty Ltd, the project developer, has confirmed that Hall Contracting Pty Ltd is spearheading the construction, which began in late December 2024. The upgrades include expanding a section of Brays Road to four lanes, adding a signalised intersection near the Freshwater Hub, and building Arcadia Drive to connect Brays Road with Wesley Road. These enhancements aim to streamline access to the Freshwater Village shopping centre and improve traffic near Griffin State School.
The project will also feature safety improvements for pedestrians and cyclists, including wider pathways, dedicated cycle lanes where feasible, and safer crossings. Two new bus stops, one in each direction, will also be installed to provide convenient access to local amenities.
Timeline and Community Impact
Construction is expected to take 12 to 18 months, with ongoing traffic management in place to minimise disruptions. Wattle Run Developments has urged residents to stay informed through the Freshwater Hub newsletter and social media channels, helping locals plan their commutes around changing traffic conditions.
Jenny Fisher, Director of Wattle Run Developments, stated that the project represents years of planning and collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay Council. She expressed optimism about the benefits the infrastructure will bring to Griffin residents and emphasised the importance of community engagement throughout the project.
Economic Benefits and Local Jobs
The upgrades, fully funded by Wattle Run Developments, are expected to create approximately 30 local jobs over the course of construction. Hall Contracting Pty Ltd, recognised for its expertise in civil works, is preparing to expand its presence in Griffin, marking the company’s first collaboration with Wattle Run.
Cameron Hall, CEO of Hall Contracting, highlighted the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that support local growth and meet the needs of residents. Hall added that the upgrades to Brays Road and Arcadia Drive will provide safer, more efficient transport options for Griffin’s growing population.
Staying Connected
Community members are encouraged to stay updated on the project’s progress and traffic changes. Wattle Run Developments has committed to regular communication to ensure the construction process remains as seamless as possible for residents and road users.
Further details about the project and updates are available on the Freshwater Hub website.
Moreton Bay’s ‘The Hills Festival’ returns for its seventh spectacular year, shaping up to be the biggest and most diverse yet, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are the free activities to look forward to each week at the 2024 Hills Festival:
Week 1
3 May 2024
Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au
The Hills Festival will kick off on May 3 with a “Movie in the Park” event at Eatons Hill, where attendees can enjoy an outdoor screening of the 2023 animated film Trolls Band Together.
In the movie, Poppy discovers that her friend Branch was once part of a popular boy band called “BroZone” with his brothers Floyd, John Dory, Spruce, and Clay. When Floyd is kidnapped, Branch and Poppy embark on a journey to reunite the band and rescue him.
Please note that closed captions will be provided during the film to ensure accessibility for all attendees.
Week 2
12 May 2024
Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au
The following weekend, on Mother’s Day, the Ferny Hills community will host a “Jazz & Shiraz” celebration, pairing smooth sounds with delicious local wines.
Spread out a picnic blanket and sample delectable bites from food trucks as you soak up the musical atmosphere. The Jazz & Shiraz event will feature a licensed bar offering an excellent selection of regional wines, local craft beers, and gourmet cheese platters.
Week 3
18 May 2024
Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au
Mark your calendars for May 18, from 1pm-5pm as Music in the Valley Samford promises an unforgettable experience at the Samford Showgrounds. Featuring a delightful lineup of local artists, food trucks, and festive face painting activities, this captivating event ensures an afternoon filled with joy, harmony, and a strong sense of community spirit.
What to Bring:
Picnic rug
Chairs
Hat
Sunscreen
Refillable water bottle
Week 4
25 May 2024
Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au
The Hills Festival culminates in the annual Hills Carnivale, a free, family-friendly event on May 25 at George Willmore Park. This one-day celebration features an action-packed program across two stages, with one area dedicated solely to activities for kids.
Little ones will delight in amusement rides, workshops, games, and roving entertainers in the designated Kids Zone. Meanwhile, parents can explore the numerous lifestyle markets and multicultural food stalls while enjoying live music from local artists.
For a full schedule of events and ticket information, be sure to visit the festival’s website at www.hillsfestival.com.au. With so much on offer, this year’s Hills Festival is shaping up to be the best one yet.
Three schools in the Moreton Bay region have set up pop-up back-to-school vaccination clinics before the start of the new school term as part of the program to improve the vaccination rates of school-aged kids in Queensland.
Albany Creek State School, Eatons Hill State School, and Norris Road State School in Bracken Ridge (Brisbane) will open the clinics on campus from Saturday, 29 January until Sunday, 6 February.
“With the start of the school year locked in for Monday 7 February to avoid the peak of the Omicron wave, parents can take advantage of the opportunity to get their kids vaccinated,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said in announcing the Back-to-School vaccination blitz.
“There is widespread community transmission of the virus reaching all corners of this state. Adding a vaccination to the back-to-school list for your child is the best defence.”
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said that the first dose would add a layer of protection for the children against the virus that could land them in hospitals if they were unvaccinated.
Photo Credit: 14995841/Pixabay
“We have already seen an excellent uptake of the vaccination for our kids aged 5 and over, but with school going back in February we want to see every child have the opportunity to get vaccinated,” Ms D’Ath said.
“Whether you are heading to a pop-up vaccination clinic at your local school, a Queensland Health hub, your GP or local pharmacy – please come forward and get yourself and your kids vaccinated if you haven’t already.
Albany Creek State School, Eatons Hill State School, and Norris Road State School join 47 other schools across the Queensland region participating in the program. To check for more Queensland Health vaccination locations visit the official site.
Young interstate families are finding their dream homes in Albany Creek, charging up another property boom in this south Moreton Bay area. Due to its affordability and space, the former “retirement” suburb has been attracting professionals who were once tied to work in the inner-cities but now see the benefits of acreage properties.
Property growth in Albany Creek between July 2020 to June 2021 continued its stable upward trend by 10.35 per cent, putting the house median price at $685,000, per data from Property Market Updates.
Buyer activity was definitely competitive and energetic in the 12-month period with 258 houses sold within an astonishing 24 days on the market. Most of the houses sold were four-bedroom homes but the fastest sales to close in less than 10 to 18 days of negotiations, have been three-bedroom properties.
A six-bedroom private haven on Havenwood Court, which has its own secured oasis surrounded by bushlands, sold at the highest price for the period. With a breezy indoor to outdoor layout, this house has a large family lounge that offers ample space for entertaining and relaxation.
Unit Price Growth
While house price growth has been strong, Apartment property sales in Albany Creek had minimal growth at 2.94 per cent in the period ending June 2021.
Sales remained stable, with 59 units sold during this time period, with inventory staying on market for 45 days. Most four-bedroom units remained listed for 261 days, indicating an oversupply.
About Albany Creek
Established on a hilly section near the South Pine River, Albany Creek is a quiet, family-friendly northern suburb some 17 kilometres off Brisbane CBD. Home to many professionals who work in the city, nearly half of the residents fully own their three to four-bedroom homes to raise a family. Most houses have their own pools and are situated in a cul-de-sac block.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
A former rural area, Albany Creek’s development as a suburban town began in the 1960s primarily featuring brick homes, when the metropolis expanded to open more schools in the north, such as the Albany Hills State School, the Albany Creek State High School, and the All Saints Primary School. Though the closes train to the city is a few kilometres drive to the neighbouring suburb of Strathpine, there are plenty of buses servicing commuters regularly that takes residents to shopping centres in Chermside or Aspley.
For leisure and recreation, this town has the Albany Creek Leisure Centre hosting various sports clubs and community activities. Families enjoy plenty of green spaces at the Tom Simpson Park and the Jaracanda Park. Tight-knit community engagements are high in this peaceful suburban locale and there are limited high-rise developments.
“We’ve lived here for 15 years now and absolutely love it, It’s superb for kids of all ages, great state school and 3 excellent primary schools. Virtually no crime at all, we thoroughly enjoy life here.”
Markj13
“Having lived in the Albany Creek area for 16 years and had our children grow up in the area we would find it hard to move to anywhere else. There are all the local type shops that are necessary but not the impersonal hype of the city or other central locales. Being anywhere in 10 minutes is a great bonus, as you can go to larger shopping centers and then leave the hustle and bustle behind. Our street is filled with caring neighbors in a wide range of ages, which is great for family living. We have a total of 5 primary schools within 2 minutes of us, both private and public and the High school is 1 minute away.”
HappyinAC
“Quiet, clean suburb with leafy streets and lovely locals. We hunted around the whole of Brisbane looking for a place to settle and came across Albany Creek on the off chance. The suburb gives you that Quiet, Safe and Clean feel for your family to live happily.”
