Experience the charm of yesteryear as you stroll along Redcliffe Esplanade, uncovering the fascinating stories behind this seaside destination. While you may have enjoyed the walk many times, this ten-stop Redcliffe Esplanade Heritage Walk brings its rich history to life through a digital guide and audio stories that reveal Redcliffe as you’ve never seen it before.
Redcliffe Esplanade Heritage Walk: The Journey
The 1.78km walk begins at the striking Redcliffe Town Council building, a classic example of Art Deco architecture built in 1942. Stepping across to the waterfront, you’ll find the former site of the Rollerdome, a popular gathering spot that opened in 1938 and quickly became the heart of Redcliffe’s youth culture.
An oral history recording of Betty Scurrah, a local who frequented the Rollerdome, paints a vivid picture.
“It was a wonderful time skating there…the parents had an area at the side of the skating rink where mothers could bring their daughters and sit up there and watch until the skating was over, and they had a great old time chattering away themselves,” Betty said. “After we’d finished for the night we would all in a group go to the Rainbow Café on the main parade and have coffee and toasted sandwiches, so that was our Saturday night outing.”
Next, make your way to the iconic Redcliffe Jetty. Between 1911 and 1942, the SS Koopa serviced the two-hour commute between Bribie Island, Redcliffe and Brisbane. Looking out across the ocean, you can almost picture the steamship docking, bringing flocks of passengers to Redcliffe’s seafront.
Continuing, you’ll encounter plaques and signs detailing Redcliffe’s cultural history, such as Comino’s Arcade and Pier Theatre, before arriving at a tribute to Ted Smout. Ted, a beloved Redcliffe local, was known for his community spirit and service. He received an Order of Australia Medal in 1978. The nearby Ted Smout Memorial Bridge honours his legacy.
Another stop brings you to Luna Park, once the site of thrilling rides and seaside amusements until the late 1960s. Now the lagoon, this area continues to be abuzz with laughter and fun.
Set aside an hour to soak in Redcliffe’s past through this captivating heritage walk. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just enjoying a scenic stroll, the Redcliffe Esplanade Walk offers a fascinating journey through time.
Find out more about the Redcliffe Esplanade Walk Heritage Trail here.
Read more stories from our Redcliffe Guide print magazine here:
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- Local Organisation a Safe Haven for Animals
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- Family Fun at Redcliffe: Budget-Friendly Ways to Enjoy the School Holidays
- Christmas Under Canvas
- Community Hub Gets Crafty
- Staying Grounded Amid Holiday Pressures
- Candles Capture Local Scenti-ments
- Making Waves With Waterbikes – The Latest In Beachside Family Fun
- A Word From Our Reps
- Reddy Roundup: Updates from the Community
