Community Icon's Fairwell
- fatbrewcup
- May 25, 2024
- 2 min read
Story by Darren Brewer
Goodbye Old Friend…
Today the heavy machinery rolled in bringing a sad end to a magnificent old lady.
Suttons Beach Pavilion, at 50 Marine Pde, Redcliffe, was originally built in 1937 as a bathing pavilion, it has been a rich part of Moreton Bays culture and lifestyle being the backdrop to many memorable events in the lives of many residents.
The wet, cloudy day only added to the sombre mood among locals who had made the trip down to witness the iconic buildings demise.
In 2022 Moreton Bay City Council commissioned a structural integrity assessment finding that the building had structural issues and no longer complied with modern building standards.
The options of rebuilding or renovation were debated at length among council and community members with the final decision being made to rebuild due to issues of practicality and cost.
What this once magnificently iconic building will be replaced with is yet to be seen with Moreton Bay council calling for design submissions from around Australia.
Many residents are unclear about what is planned for the area with some still questioning the procedure and actions of council that resulted in the decision to demolish and rebuild being made.
Newly re-elected Councilor Karl Winchester, when asked about the future of the pavilion site said 'Concept designs for the new pavilion building are being developed through the architectural design competition, which is underway.
A detailed design and development application will be completed following this. Plans for the future of the site will also consider:
-Feedback from the community on the site and how it could be used in the future (stakeholder engagement and consultation completed in 2022).
-Feedback from the community on preferred building style (consultation completed in 2023).
-Current and predicted park usage patterns.
-Master planning for the park.
-Potential foreshore activations.
While many are expecting a modern building that will serve the needs of the community, attract tourists and house local business, one must admit that the loss of such a historic local landmark such as this is one that can never be overcome.
Rest in peace, dear lady.
Comments