1963 Bellara Motel

 The following article describes the opening of the Bellara Motel on 2nd February 1963.

Opening of the Bellara Motel

Bribie Star 8.2.1963 p. 1, 8. 

At 11.30 a.m. on Saturday, February 2nd [1963], in brilliant sunshine, the Hon. D.E. Nicholson, State Speaker and Member for Murrumba, officially opened the Bellara Motel which is situated in the new Bribie Island approach street - Benabrow Street.

Picture shows the Hon. D.E. Nicholson unveiling the plaque
at the official opening of the Bellara Motel. 
Bribie Star 8.2.1963 p. 1

The official party included Mr and Mrs D.E. Nicholson, Mr Ross McCowan, Mr and Mrs A. Winston, Mr Athol Brentnall, Mr and Mrs W. Ewart and Mr and Mrs J. Proctor. Others noted in the large gathering were Mrs. Roggenkamp, Mr and Mrs R. Cheesman, Mr A. Thornley, Mr G.F. Gooch and Miss Gooch, of Woorim, Mrs W. Selke, of Woorim, Mr and Mrs G. Marr, Mr and Mrs F.E. Mullen, Mr and Mrs D. Mullen, Mr H. Davies, Mr R. Lewis, Mr R.J. Campbell, Mr Peter McCowan, Mr Neil McCowan, Mr Colin McCowan, Mr Frank Bayley and Mr Bob Canning. An apology was received from Mr Clayton, Chairman of the Caboolture Shire Council, whose indifferent health did not permit his attendance. 

Mr J. Proctor opening proceedings with some very interesting remarks and he subsequently introduced the various official speakers.

Warm Welcome

Mr Ross McCowan extended a warm welcome to the gathering, and in his opening remarks he cited a young couple who recently arrived from England to select a suitable island off the Queensland coast for community living, which he described as ideal island living. He said Bribie had all these ideal conditions and it should not be long before the Bribie Island bridge was completed.

Mr McCowan said that he had great faith in Bribie and in the near future the company would build an ultra-modernly designed shopping centre, comprising 10 shops, immediately opposite the motel in Benabrow Street, also a modern service station in the vicinity of the motel.

Mr McCowan paid high tribute to the architects, the builder and all sub-contractors who completed the 10-unit motel and restaurant in 12 weeks, for as late as October last year, the whole area was wilderness.

He also said that the prolific bird life on Bribie was no doubt due to the fact that one could not find a stone on Bribie, and that prompted him to have suitable porphyry brought down from Brisbane. These stones, including a very large one, were used to build the Cairn, to which a brass plate was fixed showing that the motel was officially opened by Hon. D.E. Nicholson on 2nd February, 1963.

Natural Surroundings

Mr Athol Brentnall, of Bligh, Jessup, Brentnall and Partners, Architects, sail all credit for the motel was due to Mr Ross McCowan for his foresight in having it built in such charming natural surroundings, and he hoped that the Island would never lose this charm. He said he would always remember his happy association with Bellara Motel principals.

Early Pioneers

Mr Arthur Winston, the Island's Councillor on the Caboolture Shire Council, said that it afforded him great pleasure on behalf of the Caboolture Shire Council, particularly in respect to Division 5, to extend congratulations to the proprietors, whom, he felt sure, would never regret their venture.

Mr Winston said that much credit was also due to the pioneers for their foresight in the ultimate development of the Island, and he particularly referred to the early transport services provided by the Brisbane Steamship Company, The Moreton Bay Shipping Company, Mr Gault, Mr Tesch, and finally Mr Snowy Drenan with his barge service. Mr Winston also paid tribute to the late John Goodwin for the many years he served the Island and the good work he had done as its Councillor on the Caboolture Shire Council. 

Whole Support

Mr D.E. Nicholson M.L.A., congratulated the proprietors on their venture, which he said was one of the best motels he had seen, and he made special reference to the accommodation provided for the family man, who could take his children with him and all be under the one roof.

He said thanks were due to the government, who were whole-heartedly behind land development, and to this end, despite adverse cricitisms from several sources, three or four years ago the Government still proceeded with the bridge project, which he hoped would be completed by June. Critics said that the bridge would be for only 300 or 400 people, but the Government reasoned differently ad he hoped and anticipated it would be used by 8.,000 to 10,000 people in the comparatively near future.

He congratulated Mr McCowan for his early foresight, as he knew that he had proceeded with Bribie land development even before the bridge was thought of. Mr Nicholson said that practically all the nearby North Coast beaches, and particularly Bribie Island, had a wonderful potential for the growing tourist trade, particularly when the bridge was completed. He said the motel business was here to stay and he believed Bellara was the first of others that would follow with the growth of the motoring tourist trade.

Mr Nicholson said that with the rapid development of Bribie, no doubt, applications would be made for future liquor licences and in respect to this, he said he was in favour of package licences for approved motels. He said the package licence was actually for a bottle store where one could obtain bottled liquor for consumption in their own unit in the motel.

Land Developers

He said that the surface of Bribie Island has been only scratched, and that much credit was due to land developers for the part they had played, and he also said that credit was due to K.D. Morris and sons for the progress they had made with the bridge despite the many hold-ups by sub-contractors and the adverse weather conditions which prevailed on occasions.

Mr Nicholson said that if he had his way there would not be any toll on the bridge.

He said that some people figured values with heavy rates could likely occur, but, he said, the Island should profit from the lesson of the expensive Gold Coast. His experience and knowledge of councils led him to believe that in instances where values increased substantially, Councils gave thoughtful consideration to lower rates and that no comparable inflation would occur on Bribie Island. Mr Nicholson said he liked to see all enterprises repaid, and he again congratulated the company and wished them every success in this and their land development scheme.

Vote of Thanks

Mr Ross McCowan said how much he appreciated the kind remarks of Mr Nicholson, and moved a vote of thanks to Mr Nicholson for officially opening the motel.

This vote of thanks was carried by acclamation by all the visitors and Mr McCowan invited Mr Nicholson to officially unveil the plaque.

Mr Nicholson then officially unveiled the plaque.

At the conclusion of this opening ceremony and the unveiling of the plaque, Mr McCowan invited all those interested to inspect the units, etc., after which the official party and other invited guests sat down to an excellent luncheon prepared by Mr Jack Dracos, the lessee-proprietor of the Cafeteria.

REFERENCE

Opening of the Bellara Motel.
Bribie Star 8.2.1963 pages 1, 8. article and photo.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The origin of the name "Benabrow" is a combination of part of the surnames of two local men, Cyril Bendall and Norm Browning. [source: Don Mullen, 18.1.2010]

In 1966, the restaurant at the Bellara Motel was named Bellara French Restaurant.

In the late 1980s / early 1990s, the Bellara Motel ceased trading. The motel buildings were repurposed as shops and commercial trade.

If you have any photos of the Bellara Motel, its opening in 1963 or the opening ceremony plaque, please contact the Bribie Island Historical Society on bribiehistoricalsociety@gmail.com

1947 Koopa trips resume

 In 1947 the Koopa resumed carrying passengers on pleasure trips from Brisbane to Bribie Island much to the delight of many. The following are a sample of the happy holiday makers making the trip during this latter era of the Koopa which ended in 1953.

1947 - KOOPA CHEERED AT BRIBIE

BY A STAFF WRITER.

Residents of Bribie gathered on the jetty today and gave three cheers for the Koopa when she arrived on her first trip since her return from war service.

The entire population of the island — men, women, children and dogs — was there to turn on a welcome. For them it meant again a regular and comfortable connection with Brisbane.

As she moved down the river this morning on her first pleasure trip in five years office staffs and dock workers came out to wave a welcome.

The Koopa has had a complete "face lift" to prepare her for her peacetime activities. She has been refitted, freshly painted inside and out, seats, cabins and saloons have been done over, and her engines and boilers overhauled.

The Koopa, popular excursion steamer of pre-war days, leaving the city on the resumption of her regular schedule of trips to Bribie Island today.
The Telegraph 4.2.1947 p. 6

Many of the people who travelled on her today did so for purely sentimental reasons, because it was her first trip since the war. Some were old Bribie residents who used to travel backwards and' forwards to their home. One woman made the trip up from Bribie specially to travel back by the Koopa today.

Off to Bribie - 1947

Miss Mona Neven hurried up the gangplank of the Koopa this morning in the rain. 
She was off to Bribie Island to relieve as post mistress there.
The Telegraph 20.2.1947 p. 3

"Once we leave you can't come up here," said Captain J. Davis of the Koopa to
little Eunice Moyle when she boarded the Koopa for Bribie today. So he showed her all the gadgets before the ship left the wharf.
The Telegraph 28.6.1947 p. 7

Kay Chapman (left) and Shirley Clayton aboard the Koopa
as they left today for a week-end at Bribie.
The Telegraph 28.6.1947 p. 7

Off for a holiday at Bribie, Mrs J.F. Gilroy and her three children
Michael, Margaret and Peter, about to take their luggage aboard the Koopa.
The Telegraph 28.6.1947 p. 7

Holiday Smiles - 1948

It was an occasion for smiles today after the wretched week-end weather. The happy picnickers depicted here went down the bay on the Koopa.

Miss Pat Hambleton was ready for the day's sunshine with a shady straw hat.
Brisbane Telegraph 3.5.1948 p. 3

Misses Beth Dooley, Val Snow, Shirley Gorring, Beth Gentner and
Alisa Groth happily make their way to the ship.
Brisbane Telegraph 3.5.1948 p. 3

REFERENCES

Koopa cheered at Bribie. Telegraph 4.2.1947 p.3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article186699546

PHOTO - The Koopa resumes. Telegraph 4.2.1947 p. 6 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article186699548

PHOTO - Miss Mona Neve. Telegraph 20.2.1947 p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article186692756 

3 PHOTOS - Off to Bribie. Telegraph 28.6.1947 p. 7 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article186718941 

2 PHOTOS - Holiday smiles. Brisbane Telegraph 3.5.1948 p.3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article212178620 

1925 Seaside Resorts Guide

During the 1920s a popular way to visit Bribie Island was to travel there and back by the steamships Koopa or Doomba. A variation to this route, was to travel from Brisbane to Landsborough (51 miles) by a morning train, to be met by a seventeen-seater char-a-banc for conveyance to Caloundra. Next day a motor-boat trip from Caloundra to Bongaree through the Pumicestone Passage, would meet up with a steamship for the voyage back to Brisbane.

For several years, the launch 'Calbri' was operated by Andrew Tripcony (1864-1945) and conveyed excursionists through the Pumicestone Passage, as described in the following advertisements.

1925 SEASIDE RESORTS

Bribie Island 

TRAVELLING FROM BONGAREE TO CALOUNDRA THROUGH PUMICE STONE CHANNEL

Through the pioneer enterprising efforts of a Caloundra company, the launch Calibri was built and a regular motor boat service from Bribie to Caloundra through the scenic Pumice Stone Channel inaugurated. This motor boat is built on the tunnel stern principle, has a length of 36ft, beam 9ft, and only draws 8 inches of water. By this means Caloundra can be reached by a through smooth trip from Brisbane. 

The glimpses of scenery obtained during the passage through the winding channel are such that must be seen to be appreciated. 

Leaving Bribie, Toorbul Point, on the mainland, is passed; thence the old fısh-canning works. Presently an old iron hulk is viewed; then are seen what appear like fenced selections on the sea, which are really licensed oyster banks protected by this means against the enemies of the shellfısh.

Looking further northward one perceives the green-carpeted sward of the banks on which hundreds of aquatic birds, from the large pelican to small snipe, are peacefully feeding, whilst further away great flocks of black swans are gracefully swimming.

Ever and always about us are the towering peaks of the Glass House Mountains, their grey trachyte sides viewed fırst from the south-east, thence due east, and again from the north-east. By proceeding from the metropolis to Caloundra via Bribie and returning via Landsborough by rail to Brisbane, or vice versa, a splendid round trip is afforded tourists.

Scene on the
Landsborough-Caloundra Road

Good accommodation is obtainable at the hotel and boarding establishments and during the summer months it is advisable to address the proprietors some time in advance regarding the arrangements for quarters.

Means of Access

(1) Caloundra can be reached by rail to Landsborough; thence motor-car (15 miles), which connects with the North Coast morning train from Brisbane on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. At other times it is necessary to arrange with the hotel proprietor or boarding-house keepers to meet you at Landsborough. For such trips special rates are charged.

(2) Caloundra may also be reached by taking the motor launch Calibri from Bribie after the arrival of the steamship Koopa on Thursdays, and Sundays and at other special occasions during the summer months. Arrangements for this trip may also be made with Mr A.B. Tripcony, of Caloundra.

Fares.

Railway - Ordinary single: First, 9s 1d; second, 6s.

Friday till Monday excursion: First, 13s 11d; second 9s 3d.

Saturday-Sunday excursion: First, 10s 6d; second, 7s.

Motor-car from Landsborough: Single, 7s 6d; return, 15s. Special trips at special rates.

Motor launch from Bribie. Fares: Brisbane to Caloundra and Return, 30s: single. Brisbane to or from Caloundra, 12s 6d; Bribie to or from Caloundra and Return, 16s; single, Bribie to or from Caloundra, 10s. Children half fare.

Bribie Island, or Bribie, as it is more conveniently called, is reached by continuing the steamer trip in the Koopa or Doomba past Redcliffe to its furthest limits. It is 38 miles from Brisbane, and is reached after a three hours run from the city, the steamers berthing at a short, well-constructed jetty. 

Bribie Island and Moreton Island, which lies opposite at a considerable distance, form the most northern outposts of Moreton Bay. 

Bribie Island is about 20 miles long, from 2 to 3 miles broad, and is well timbered.

REFERENCES

Andrew Buchanan Tripcony (13.4.1864-12.4.1945)
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/154371052/andrew-buchanan-tripcony

See Queensland First. Glories of the North Coast. ... Landsborough. Caloundra.
Daily Standard (Brisbane) 1.4.1920 . p.8 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article180956245

Mountain And Seaside Resorts From Noosa To Tweed by Queensland Government Intelligence and Tourist Bureau, 1925, pages 67-70; 97-99. https://archive.org/details/MountainAndSeasideResortsFromNoosaToTweed/page/n95/mode/2up?q=bribie

Christmas holidays at Bribie 1920 - 1929

Many people have had camping holidays on Bribie Island in recent times. Below gives a glimpse of holidays that were taken in the 1920s, with visitors spending a "delightful time, fishing, surfing and picnicing" on the one of the finest beaches in Queensland. 

1920

A Bribie Request - "Camper" writes from Bribie Island stating that some 2000 campers will visit that resort for the Christmas holidays.  The writer expresses satisfaction at the fact that the Ambulance Brigade has rendered valuable service during the past two or three years, but urges that another great need would be filled if a police constable could be stationed on the island for at least two weeks, as commodities are often missed from tents during the absence of the occupants. 
The Brisbane Courier, 17 Dec 1920, p.8  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20483493

For a Perfect Day's Outing at a Moderate Cost take
S.S. Koopa to Bribie Island and spend a delightful time
- fishing, surfing, picnicing - on Queensland's finest beach.
Humpybong Weekly and Advertiser 3.5.1928 p.2

Christmas at Bribie. Bribie Island seems to have become even more popular than it has been in the past (writes a correspondent) as the number of campers this year exceeds that of any previous year.  Every available space is occupied by tents, and the available houses are taxed to their utmost limit.  Fishing enthusiasts are having good hauls, and other sporting pastimes are also indulged in.  Dancing, music, and moving pictures are the means of recreation at night.  On Boxing Day the visitors were well catered for by Mr. J.R. McSweeney, of the Education Department, who was elected president and secretary of the sports committee.  An excellent programme of athletic and other sporting and interesting events was provided, and as a result the secretary will be able to divide £17/10/ between the St. John and the Queensland Ambulance Brigades.  A dance was held at night, Mr. R. Davis supervising the arrangements.

The Brisbane Courier, Fri 31 Dec 1920, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20465536

1924

Ambulance Christmas Seaside Camps. The secretary of the Queensland Transport Brigade has received the following amounts from the Christmas seaside camps, representing collections, donations, and results of benefits, viz - . . . Bribie Island, £32/18/0 . . . The sincere thanks of the committee of the brigade have been extended to those who donated towards these efforts. . . . Messrs Davis, Freeman, Lacey and Thornton, of Bribie Island, the Brisbane Tug and Steamship Co. Ltd.

The Brisbane Courier Wed 9 Jan 1924 p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20671058 

Lunch on the beach at Bribie
The Brisbane Courier Tue 8 Jan 1924 p. 8
Barry and Whalley photo.

Bribie Island Holiday Campers.  Bribie Island had its usual share of holiday makers during the Christmas and New Year season.  On the reserve set apart for campers, 170 tents were erected, the occupants numbering about - 1000.  The rowdy element was kept well in check by the constable who was stationed on the island during the holidays.  Ambulance bearers had a busy time attending to cases of sunburn and minor injuries.

The Brisbane Courier, Fri 18 Jan 1924, p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20696437 

Social . . . The New Year was heralded in at Bribie by a plain and fancy dress ball, which proved to be one of the most successful events ever held there.  The prizes for the best fancy dress were won by Mr. L. Hall and Miss Bestman, of the firm of Bestman and Hall, newsagents, &c.  The following also secured prizes: - Mr. Flynn, Miss N. Andrews, and Miss Enid Clenand.  During the evening the committee presented Messrs. Reg. and Cecil Campbell with a pair of gold sleeve links as an appreciation of their efforts to make the function a success.

The Brisbane Courier, Sat 19 Jan 1924, p. 23 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page1621018

1927

Holiday season at Ocean Beach, Bribie.  The attractiveness of this marvelously beautiful seaside resort was very much in evidence during a Christmas holidays (writes a correspondent). Many hundreds of visitors availed themselves of the opportunity to enjoy bathing in the open Pacific Ocean, others enjoyed long walks in the forest, gathering flowers and ferns, whilst piscatorial artists reveled in delight at the sport to be obtained at almost any point on a 20-mile beach. Picnic parties were in evidence everywhere. The holiday festivities culminated in a plain and fancy dress ball on New Year's night. It was held in the spacious ballroom at the kiosk, which was prettily decorated for the occasion. The music was supplied by the Gaiety Orchestra under the leadership of Mrs. Stalwood. Mesdames C. Buckley and C. Atkinson were appointed judges. Miss M. Charters was awarded the prize for the best dressed lady, whilst Mr J. Delhunty annexed the award for best dress gentleman. The consolation prize was won by Miss E. Balchane, Messrs. A. Macklin and A. Dewar divided honours as the most humorously dressed dancers.

Among those present were:- Mesdames W. Shirley, T. Macklan, Collins, Morley, Newton, Brookes, Stone, Nobler, Misses M. Campbell, Cowell, Webber, Nixon, McMullen, Claxton, Watson, Lynche (3), Johnston, Rasmussem, R. Campbell, L and J Foxwell, Messrs. Newton, Shirley, Macklan, D. Kerr, A. Kerr, Brown, Norby, Morley, Shaw, Robertson, P. Pickett, W. Lenehan, L. Magee, E. Hill, L. Derghafer, S. Burschill, Edmonstone, Shortz, Handrin, Charters, Mewett, Payne, Thompson, Jackson, McDowel, W. Macklan, Hiddiston, Kerr, Malyon, Taylor, P. Quinlan.

The Brisbane Courier, Sat 15 Jan 1927, p. 22 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21117378

1928

Bribie Island.

Visitors - On Monday the Koopa arrived with 950 surfers, and a good day was spent on Ocean Beach.

Exodus - Camps were struck early, and a large number of Christmas holiday makers returned to their respective callings. The Ambulance and Metropolitan Lifesavers also returned after rendering efficient and cheerful service, and their efforts were greatly appreciated.

Dance - A social and dance held on Bribieside on January 2 in aid of the Ambulance realised £8.

Personal - Dean de Witt Batty and his wife are holidaying at the Ocean Beach also Mr. Sampson.

The Brisbane Courier, Tue 10 Jan 1928, p. 15 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21212360

Bribie Island.

Eleven Months' Rainfall.  The rainfall for the 11 months ended November 31 totaled 47.34 inches, of which 44.19 inches fell in the first four months of the year.  Since the end of April there were only 12 days on which rain fell, yielding 6.15 inches.  In July, August and September, and also in November, no rain was recorded.  A storm on Tuesday night [4 Dec] yielded 1.20 inches and afforded considerable relief to householders.

Some Good Fishing.  Fishing has been particularly good lately, and some fine hauls of bream and tailor have been taken at the jetty.  During the past few days some heavy jew have been caught.  To-morrow is the anniversary of the opening of the Amaetur Fishermen’s Association’s hut.  A party of Bulimba fishing enthusiasts are camping in No. 3 hut and are having good sport.  They comprise Messrs. B. Freeman, R. Fletcher, J. Watson, J. Saunderson, and W. Mitcheson.

New Church of England. The contractor for the new Church of England has made rapid progress and is now at work on the interior fittings.  He has advanced sufficiently to permit the building committee to make arrangements for the official opening of the church and hall, which will be performed by Archbishop Sharp on Thursday, December 27.  On the following day a fete in aid of the building fund will be held in the hall and this will be followed by a concert and dance.  A fishing competition has also been arranged by the Amateur Fishermen’s Association.  It is understood that a clergyman from St. John’s Cathedral will hold divine service once a month in the church.  A dance will be held in the hall on December 22 to assist the building fund.

Archbishop Sharp and a number of dignitaries of the Church of England are expected to visit the island on Thursday, December 27 for the official opening of the new Church Hall.  The building committee comprises Mrs. Coungeau, Messrs. R.J. Davies, R. Davies, T.J. Mitchell and W. Shirley (secretary).

Christmas Holiday Traffic.  It anticipation of a heavy holiday traffic, boarding-houses are being enlarged, preparations are being made for the accommodation of a large number of campers, and booths and stalls are being erected in many placed.

School Picnic.  Mr. C.F. Diplock, headmaster of the Bribie State School, presided over a meeting of ladies which was called for the purpose of arranging a school picnic to be held on Friday, December 16, at the breaking-up of the school.  Organisers were appointed.  Arrangements were made for the holding of a school fete on Wednesday, December 26, in aid of the school funds.

Telegraph Sat 8 Dec 1928, p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article178464751 

1929

Metropolitan Life Saving Club.  The fifth annual meeting . . . Mr. W. Soden (sen.) occupying the chair.  The secretary's report showed that the club's membership stood at 25.  . . . The Bribie hut, erected on the main beach, has proved of great benefit to members, and the cooking stove donated by F. Panek was a great asset.  . . . Patrol work was efficiently carried out during Christmas and Easter holidays at Bribie surfing beach.  The club's equipment at the present time consists of a reel, three pennants, staff, and ambulance kit. . . . The club wishes to thank . . .

The Brisbane Courier, Thu 1 Aug 1929, p. 5 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21433252

REFERENCES

Advertisement : For a Perfect Day's Outing at a Moderate Cost take S.S. Koopa to Bribie Island and spend a delightful time - fishing, surfing, picnicing - on Queensland's finest beach. Humpybong Weekly and Advertiser 3.5.1928 p.2 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article163728159

A Bribie Request. The Brisbane Courier, 17 Dec 1920, p.8 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20483493

Christmas at Bribie. The Brisbane Courier, Fri 31 Dec 1920, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20465536 

Lunch on the beach at Bribie. A Barry and Whalley photo of six men sitting in front of the bathing sheds. The Brisbane Courier, Tues 8 Jan 1924, p.8  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20699119

Ambulance Christmas Seaside Camps. The Brisbane Courier, Wed 9 Jan 1924 p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20671058 

Bribie Island Holiday Campers. The Brisbane Courier, Fri 18 Jan 1924, p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20696437 

Social. The Brisbane Courier, Sat 19 Jan 1924, p. 23 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page1621018 

Holiday Season. Ocean Beach, Bribie. The Brisbane Courier, Sat 15 Jan 1927, p. 22 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21117378

Bribie Island. The Brisbane Courier, Tue 10 Jan 1928, p. 15 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21212360 

Bribie Island. Telegraph, Sat 8 Dec 1928, p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article178464751 

Metropolitan Life Saving Club. The Brisbane Courier, Thu 1 Aug 1929, p. 5 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21433252 

With thanks to the National Library of Australia for their wonderful newspaper database Trove, which is still freely available for all to search.

Excursions to Bribie 1901-1902

In 1901 the steamer Greyhound could carry 255 passengers in Moreton Bay and many excursion and camping trips were made to Bribie Island. The following descriptions of trips made to Bribie Island during 1901 and 1902 give a glimpse of those excursions.

The Steamer Greyhound's Trip. 
The trip by the steamer Greyhound yesterday was again well patronised.  It was a perfect day, and all on board were delighted with the outing.  The Kenilworth hulk had been taken down to Bribie Island, and will form a landing stage, so that passengers can get ashore without any delay, thus affording a longer time on shore.  As advertised, the Greyhound will proceed to Bribie Island to-morrow morning (Separation Day, Dec 10th), and no doubt will be well patronised by those requiring a quick trip and a good run on shore. 
The Brisbane Courier, Mon 9 Dec 1901, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19133447 

Trip to Bribie Island. 
Considering yesterday (Dec 10th) was not closely observed as a holiday, the steamer Greyhound left for Bribie Island with a fair complement of passengers. There was a good stiff breeze blowing in the Bay, and the crispness of the temperature, combined with the moderate “knocking about” indulged in by the staunch little boat, added to the enjoyment of the trip.

A good supply of fruit, with an abundance of oysters, were ready for the passengers on arrival, and after an enjoyable time ashore they left again for town, well pleased with the day’s outing.

The Brisbane Courier, Wed 11 Dec 1901 p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19158557 

Greyhound (ship)
source: State Library of Queensland

The Bribie Island Trip. 

The Greyhound left town yesterday morning for Bribie Island with a full complement of pleasure-seekers, the run being made in three hours, thus allowing passengers a long run on shore. As arranged, abundance of oysters were procurable, and were quickly disposed of at Bribie prices.

On the return a stiff south-easter was met, which added greatly to the enjoyment of the quick passage to town. After a good outing for all on board, the steamer reached the Adelaide wharf at 6 o’clock in the evening.

The Brisbane Courier Fri 27 Dec 1901 p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19153767 

Free trip to Bribie.

On account of unavoidable delay, the steamer Greyhound did not leave town at the usual time yesterday. There was a full complement of passengers waiting, and some, fearing the delay might be prolonged, departed to some other resort.

Those who remained were rewarded, for the steamer went to Bribie : but Mr Campbell decided to make no charge, and all enjoyed a good run on shore. As two of the Ambulance men came on board for the trip a collection was made amongst the passengers for the institution, the contributions amounting to £2 2s.  The excursion gave much pleasure, and the liberality of Messrs. Campbell and Sons was fully appreciated.

The Brisbane Courier 13.1.1902 p4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19133847 

Ship Greyhound to Bribie on Sat. returning Mon. for excursions and camping offered by James Campbell & Sons (tickets 3s, 6d each)

Excursions - Camping at Bribie Island.

Special facilities are offered to Camping and Fishing Parties to spend a delightful holiday at Bribie Island. Greyhound leaves Adelaide Wharf, 2 p.m., on Saturday, 15th March, returning to town on Monday (St. Patrick's Day, Mar 17th). Splendid fishing and shooting, surf bathing. Plentiful supply of oysters arranged for. Tickets on application to James Campbell and Sons Limited, Creek-street, on or before Friday Afternoon, at 3s. 6d each, return.

The Greyhound will also run to Bribie on St. Patrick's Day, 17th instant, leaving Adelaide Wharf, 9.30, landing passengers. Fares : Adults, 2s. 6d., children 1s.

Camping at Bribie Island. An advertisement appears in this issue notifying that the steamer Greyhound leaves the Adelaide Company's Wharf at 2 p.m. on Saturday, conveying camping parties to Bribie Island and returning to town on St. Patrick's Day.

The Brisbane Courier, Thu 13 Mar 1902, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19130269  

Bribie Camping Parties.

As advertised, camping parties can proceed to Bribie at 2 o’clock to-day by the Greyhound, and can return on Sunday or Monday.

The fare is reasonable, and many will gladly avail themselves of the opportunity of a change from city life. The passage is noted for good fishing, and an excellent beach for bathing in the clear ocean waters. Tickets can be obtained at Campbell and Sons, Creek-street.

The Brisbane Courier 15.3.1902 p5 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19161433

Sailing Notes. . . . The boats will then either, that night or next day, cruise over to Toorbul Point, where a cricket match is being arranged.  On the Monday, 17th instant, the boats will race home from Toorbul Point to the Pile Light.
The Brisbane Courier, Wed 12 Mar 1902, p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19131496 

Trip to Bribie.

Among the pleasure trips by steamer yesterday, one which must have been very enjoyable was made by the steamer Greyhound, which left the Adelaide Company's wharf about half-past 9 a.m. for Bribie Island, whither she had taken a number of campers-out on Saturday.  She had a fair complement on board.  She left Bribie on her return trip about 3 p.m.

The Brisbane Courier, Tue 18 Mar 1902, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article19153105  

Miscellaneous. . . . Some mischievous person set fire to the hulk Kenilworth, which is high and dry on Bribie Island, at Easter.  Of course the hulk was burned right out, and the boating men got the blame, but some score of tents from the Greyhound were in the vicinity.

Queensland Figaro, Thu 3 Apr 1902, p. 17 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article84123669  

Editor note:  The hulk Kenilworth is mentioned in December 1901 as being used as a landing stage for passengers from the Greyhound to get ashore at Bribie.

A Night Out. Bushed at Bribie. Search Party Organised.
The large number of persons who camped at Bribie Island during the Christmas holidays were treated to a little excitement they had not calculated on.  The Greyhound during her trips to the island took a large number of excursionists over, and there must have been in all about 150 persons camped on the island. Of these there were at least three adventurous spirits – three young men – who decided to walk across the island. They started lightly clad, but found the journey more arduous than they anticipated, and proceeded to return home. At a certain point two decided on resting, but the third pushed on and reached the camp all right. The other two, on resuming their journey, concluded that their comrade had taken the wrong track and consequently did not follow on his footsteps but took another route, with the result that they lost their way.

As they did not return that night there was some anxiety among their friends in camp, and on the following morning a search party of 30 was organised, and set out to find the missing men. A sailing boat proceeded to Woody Point and gave information to the police there of the incident, with the result that the police authorities in Brisbane were communicated with, and two constables and two trackers were sent down to Bribie by the Greyhound on one of her further trips. There was fortunately, however, no occasion for their services, as before the original search party on the island returned to camp the missing men put in an appearance. Needless to say they were much fatigued, having been without food or water for some time, and having suffered extremely from colonies of mosquitoes and sandflies, who, finding scantily clad humans in their midst, made a special Christmas feast at their expense. On return to camp they were attended to and revived with the best of fare available, for which they expressed their grateful thanks.

The Telegraph (Brisbane) Tue 30 Dec 1902, p. 2 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article172580620 

Lost on Bribie. 
Experiences of Two Young Men. Further particulars of the incident mentioned in last week’s “Week” concerning the two men who were temporarily lost on Bribie Island, has now been supplied by Mr. Leslie Hoey, one of those concerned.

Mr. Hoey states that he, Mr. H.E. Shaw, and another, set out from the camp on Bribie Island at 8 o’clock on Saturday morning last (that is about an hour after breakfast) with the object of collecting ferns and crossing the island. Evidently they miscalculated the nature of the task they had set themselves and were ill-equipped for the journey. They calculated being away from camp for but a few hours, and took with them neither food nor water. After tramping a couple of hours they decided to return, and a halt was made at 10 a.m. for a rest. The third man soon made his way back, but the other two lingered at the resting place for some time.

When they resumed their journey they were tired, hungry and thirsty, and a difference of opinion arose as to the right track to take. They eventually lost their way, and were all Saturday seeking their camp without success. It was a weary sojourn in the scrub that night – a bed of grass, no water and no food. That was, however, what awaited them, and they made the best of it, sleeping on the grass and dreaming of pellucid streams, &c. As a compensation, however, there were mosquitoes, and it was with little satisfaction that the belated travelers found the representatives of the species Cuiicidae enjoying themselves. A hole had been dug in the sand to a distance of 3 feet, but no water was obtained.

On the Sunday morning the two young men travelled south, and then west over very rough country. They could not see or hear the sea and were beginning to be anxious when a red bullock was espied, and this indication of the nearness of civilisation gave them renewed hope.

The sea coast was at length reached, near Bribie Passage, and the two young fellows waded along near the beach for a couple of hours when, at 10 o’clock, they met the sailing vessel Dawn, in charge of Mr Murray, and which was anchored near the shore. They were treated very kindly after their 15 hours’ thirst and fast, and some of the crew accompanied them back to their camp.

Messrs. Hoey and Shaw express their gratitude not only to the crew of the Dawn and the Yarracoo, the latter being sailed over to Redcliffe to inform the police; but also to the Police Department for dispatching Constables Freestone and McLeod and the trackers James Murray and Sam Johnson to join in the search organised by the people in camp at Bribie by Mr. Markwell.

The Week (Brisbane) Fri 9 Jan 1903 p. 16 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article181799420 

Editor note: Edwin Leslie Hoey b. 28 Oct 1879, d. 5 Oct 1911 (Queensland) F: Thomas William Hoey M: Louisa Cornish Lavers. On 1903 roll, Edwin Leslie Noey, clerk, of Melrose, Jane street, West End.

References
Greyhound (ship) (not dated) image https://onesearch.slq.qld.gov.au/permalink/61SLQ_INST/1dejkfd/alma99183513562302061 

Steamer Greyhound (1906) image
The Week 28.9.1906 p21 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article181467640

Articles from Trove (newspaper archive) provided by the National Library of Australia.

1919 Bribie Island The Rising Resort

1919 Bribie Island ... The Rising Resort

Bribie Island, or Bribie as it is more conveniently called, is reached by continuing the steamer trip in the steamer Koopa past Redcliffe to its furthest limits.  It is some 38 miles from Brisbane, and is reached after a three hours’ run from the city, the steamer berthing at a short, well-constructed jetty.  It and Moreton Island, which lies opposite at a considerable distance, form the most northern outposts of Moreton Bay.  Bribie Island about 20 miles long, from 2 to 3 miles broad, and is well timbered.  ....

The landing place is at Bongaree, on the calm inner beach of the island.  The Brisbane Tug Company have formed a road of about three miles to the main ocean beach, where surf bathing can be enjoyed.  Later on it is intended to construct a tramway thereto.

Near the jetty there is a commodious refreshment-room, where fish and oyster dinners are obtainable, and also two stores at which campers can purchase necessities.  A large pavilion, bathing sheds, and other conveniences for the use of visitors have been erected.  Accommodation is provided for by three boarding-houses, and as a further inducement, the steamship company has erected some twelve or more huts of a standard design and size (about 14 feet by 12 feet) along the inner beach.  On application to the caretaker, Bribie, these may be let at the following rates:- Ordinary weekly tariff, 6s; Christmas, New Year, and Easter, 10s per week; week-ends 3s 5d.  There are also several furnished cottages, which may be rented periodically.  

Campers and picnickers are assured of an ample supply of fresh water, large tanks having been erected by the company for that purpose.  As a proof of the increasing popularity of this resort it may be mentioned that during the recent holidays fully 1000 campers, apart from other visitors, were located here, and had further accommodation been available it goes without saying that this number would nearly have doubled itself.

For the excellence of its fish and oysters, Bribie is known far and wide, and during the summer months it is the intention of the company to run their steamer to Bribie every alternate Saturday at 2 p.m., thus affording city folk and anglers an opportunity of a week-end at this resort.

Advertisement from Telegraph 3 Jan 1919 p.5

Whole day trips are now made to Bribie (calling at Redcliffe both ways) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, leaving Kennedy Wharf at 9.30 a.m. and returning at 6 p.m.  Passengers are allowed 2 hours ashore on these trips.

Splendid motor boat trips may be taken northward through the picturesque Pumice Stone Channel, on the inner side of the Island, to Caloundra, a distance approximately, of about 28 miles.  Arrangements for this trip can be made by first communication with Mr A. Bestman, of Bribie, who also keeps a motor car for hire.  By this latter means tourists are enabled to enjoy a trip along the hard sand of the outer beach, and, when the ferrying arrangements at the northern end are completed, the journey to Caloundra may be completed almost wholly by motor car.

Visitors at Caloundra can also make arrangements through Mr A. Tripcony for their conveyance by motor boat through the Pumice Stone Channel to Bribie, connecting with the steamship Koopa for Brisbane. ...

REFERENCES   

Bribie Island -- The Rising Resort. 
Daily Standard (Brisbane) Sat 4 Jan 1919, p. 5 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article179818787 

Redcliffe, Bribie and Dunwich Bay Excursions from Kennedy Wharf [advertisement]
Telegraph (Brisbane) Fri 3 Jan 1919 p.5 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article176300901

1969 Bribie Island Festival

Bribie Island Festival Week

1969

2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the inaugural Bribie Island Festival Week which was held August 30 - September 7, 1969.

Poster for the 1969 Bribie Island Festival Week.
Image cropped from a Len Drummond photo

The idea for the festival week was put to a public meeting held at the Bongaree Bowls Club on May 27, 1969. The public meeting was convened by the Bribie Island Publicity Committee and the idea was received enthusiastically to showcase the many tourist attractions at the best time of the year for the flora and fauna - Spring time on Bribie!

FESTIVAL PRINCE AND PRINCESS - Saturday 30 August - The first event held was the crowning of "The Prince and Princess" of Bribie Island - Mr and Mrs Arthur Winston - with full festival regalia and the voices of The Happy Wanderers choir accompanied by an orchestra from the local Municipal Band members in full dress uniform.

Following the ceremony, the "Royal Party" and their entourage moved off to attend the FIRST ANNUAL AMBULANCE FALL which was held at The Blue Pacific Hotel at Woorim.

Crowning the "Ambulance Queen" Miss Shirley Schrag
by Hon. D. Nicholson M.L.A. with
flower girl Sharon Jensen and page boy Wayne Balmer.
Source: Bribie Star 5 Sep 1969

A special feature of the evening was the crowning of the Bribie Island Ambulance Queen. 

OFFICIAL OPENING - Sunday 31 August - The official opening of the Bribie Island Festival Week took place at 4pm [Bribie Time!] at which the Minister for Labour and Tourism officiated.

An AQUATIC CARNIVAL comprising of sailing events was conducted by the Humpybong Yacht Club in conjunction with the Bribie Island Boat and Yacht Club.

A FESTIVAL FISHING COMPETITION was a huge success with nearly 400 participating in the competition.

During the week there were daily amusement activities including Jack and Doreen's puppet show.

Festival Week on Bribie Island
Source: Bribie Star 5 Sep 1969

The Bribie Island Festival Committee had conducted a Festival Princess Quest to raise funds for local community services. On Saturday 6 September the judging of the Festival Princess Quest Entrants took place at the Koolamara Motel. The entrants were Miss Glenda Renton, Miss Shirley Schrag, Miss Judy Day, Miss Elizabeth Johnson, Miss Lyn Crouch and Miss DeGroot and the winner of the Festival Princess Quest for 1969 was Miss Judy Day. Miss Charity Princess of the Festival was Miss Shirley Schrag.

A FESTIVAL PARADE of over 20 floats and turnouts were accompanied by twelve teams of Marching Girls and led by the Royal Naval Reserve Band and the Air Training Corps No. 13 Flight R.A.A.F. Newspaper reports of the event declared the parade "a grand show".

There was a SURF BOAT RACE from the Bribie Jetty over an eight mile course in which three teams competed - Maroochydore, Caloundra and Bribie Island surf life saving clubs.

One of the final events was a FOUNDATION STONE LAID for "The House of Happiness" on land owned by the Brisbane Tram and Bus Employees Crippled Children and Orphans Committee at Woorim.

If you have photos or memories of the 1969 festival that you would like to share please contact BIHS at bribiehistoricalsociety@gmail.com

REFERENCES
"Festival Week" for Bribie Island. Bribie Star v7(24) 13 Jun 1969, p. 1.

Festival Events. Bribie Star v7(4) 5 Sep 1969, p. 1, 9, 10.

The above poster was cropped from a picture by Len Drummond entitled “Say hello to the 70s! Pant suit fashions promoting the Bribie Island Festival” Excerpted from the internet: Acknowledgement: @couriermail  http://www.imgrum.net/media/999633314576904139_519770042

1938 Holiday scenes from Bribie

Holiday Scenes from Bribie

January 1938

The following seven photos show people enjoying the sandy foreshore of Bribie Island more than eighty years ago!  

Swimming, fishing, boating or just sitting on the beach watching the waves roll in were activities then and are activities now.

Caption: Misses Dorothy and Helena Shirley with their dogs, Toby and Teddy,
all ready for a game on the sands of the ocean beach at Bribie.

Caption: Misses Jean Thurling and Joan Davidson cross the while sand-hills of
Bribie beach as they make their way down to the surf.

Caption: Hoisting the sails on the launch Mimosa as she returned
to Scarborough from Bribie Island.

Caption: Homeward bound. Mr R. Rankin and his dog Patch make their way
up the wet beach at Bribie after a morning's fishing in the surf.

Caption: Miss Nita Robertson was full of holiday fun as she gathered
shells on the beach at Bribie.

Caption: Bronzed holiday-makers use the pier as a diving tower.

Caption: Guiding back to Scarborough the launch that took
them to a happy holiday picnic at Bribie Island.

REFERENCES:

Holiday scenes from Bribie [pictorial]  The Telegraph, Sat 1 Jan 1938 page 26.