Iconic beach pavilion to close - and be demolished

The iconic Suttons Beach Pavilion, which has stood on Redcliffe’s foreshore for more than 80 years, is to close and be demolished.

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Moreton Daily has obtained a copy of an email sent from Moreton Bay Regional Council to Suttons Beach Pavilion lessees. Read the letter below:

Moreton Bay Regional Council said it has made the "difficult decision" for safety reasons after "extensive building defects" were discovered.

Council CEO Greg Chemello said the plan would be to "reinvigorate the area, returning to the community a space that can be used for a variety of purposes".

"The decision to proceed with demolition has not been taken lightly," he said. "Council commissioned independent consultants to undertake inspections.

"These found extensive building defects, design and construction legacies, deteriorating buildings with concrete elements to the Suttons Beach Pavilion nearing the end of their life leading to major safety concerns of the buildings.

Future plans

"Plans to make the site safe and return it to the community as a public space are underway, with a development application for demolition to be lodged in February 2022."

Council said notification the lease was not being renewed was given to the lessees in February last year.

At their request, council said it was extended from November 27, 2021 to February 28, 2022 to enable pavilion staff to be retained over Christmas.

"We simply cannot grant any further extensions due to the deteriorating conditions of the buildings," Mr Chemello said.

He thanked the operators for their "efforts running the Suttons Beach Pavilion over the past few years".

In a statement today on the venue's Facebook page, Sandra, Oli and the team, said: “It is with great regret that we have to announce the closure of Suttons Beach Pavilion at the end of February 2022.

Deeply saddened

“This month will see us entering our sixth year of trading throughout the toughest of times, but Moreton Bay Regional Council, as our landlord, has taken the decision to demolish the pavilion.

“We have loved creating this varied and popular destination for our local community and tourists alike and are deeply saddened that the pavilion which holds so many fond memories for the community has to close.

“We cannot express our grief deeply enough over the loss of jobs to our dedicated staff and our loyal and supportive customers including many who have celebrated their special life events with us.

“We will be in contact with all of our customers who have bookings over the coming days. We cannot thank you enough for all the fantastic support and great times we have shared since we first opened the doors.

“We have been welcomed into this amazing community with open arms so it’s with much sadness that we are sharing the news.

“We hope to see you at the pavilion in the coming weeks to share the end of what have been a fantastic era.”

There are still plans for a 'fine dining dinner' planned and a Valentine's Night disco next month.

'So sad to hear'

Sutton Beach Pavilion was built in 1937 as change rooms and a kiosk for beach goers. The second pavilion was built in 2002.

There has been huge reaction to the statement on the Suttons Beach Pavilion post.

Among those who have commented was Kerryn Watt who said: “So sad to hear”.

Janine Bond added: “OMG – that is terrible news – such a beautiful building and top venue. So very sorry for you all.”

Christine Wilson was shocked. “What the heck!! I love this facility. I was actually looking at this venue for our Feb networking event. What is going on?”

Lyn Williams was concerned for the staff. “This is the saddest news. You have given so much to our community. Be strong and courageous during this sad season.