Redcliffe Jetty is one of the Moreton Bay Region's most identifiable landmarks, becoming an iconic part of Redcliffe peninsula's landscape since its construction in 1885! Over the years it has been used as the backdrop for many a 'Redcliffe' selfie, by both tourists and locals alike.
The original Redcliffe Jetty was the second pier to be built along the peninsula with the construction of Woody Point Jetty over Bramble Bay preceding it in 1881.
Redcliffe Jetty has been a work in progress since 1885. The first wharf was extended to a full 700 feet in length in 1889, but by 1919 the whole structure had fallen into such disrepair it proved more economical to build a new pier instead of repairing the existing one.
Plans were drawn up and a second Redcliffe Jetty was completed in 1922, just north of the first. Both wharves existed in parallel (with jetty #1 closed to the public from 1921) until the original was demolished in December of 1923.
The new second jetty housed a halfway house which was transformed into an entertainment parlour – Penny Arcade in 1938 which, coincidentally, was oft frequented by another blast from Redcliffe’s past, the young Bee Gees brothers who spent their youth growing up in Redcliffe, kick-starting their music career at the old Redcliffe Speedway.
The second wharf was not to be the end of the Redcliffe’s love affair with jetty construction. By 1961 this second jetty had also deteriorated and was eventually ripped down and replaced with the third and current Redcliffe Jetty which entered construction in 1995, jutting out over Moreton Bay from what was once the 1930’s bathing pavilion. It opened to the public in 1999, retaining its predecessor's heritage features – the lighting, drinking fountains and seating.
Discover more on the Redcliffe Convict Trail
The Redcliffe Jetty is home to the very popular Redcliffe Jetty Markets held every Sunday from 8am until midday. During this period, Redcliffe Parade is closed to vehicles and the street is awash with fresh produce, handmade goodies, exotic imports, delicious food stalls and one-of-a-kind finds that make for wonderful gifts.
Make the markets part of your Sunday and be sure to drop into one of the local cafes to enjoy a coffee while browsing. Markets are closed Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
There's no doubt that Redcliffe Jetty is a great spot to throw in a fishing line. It's the perfect place for families to enjoy a day of relaxed fishing, with a rich supply of whiting waiting for the dinner plate. Bait is available for purchase along Redcliffe Parade.
Redcliffe Jetty is also home to Moreton Bay Region's very own whale watching vessel 'Eye Spy'. You'll often see this magnificent cruiser docked at the far end of the jetty, but when the annual whale season commences (from June until October), she is out on the Moreton Bay waters with skipper Captain Kerry Lopez and the team from Brisbane Whale Watching.
Be sure to put whale watching on your Redcliffe bucket list - Book a cruise now!
There are historical panels installed along Redcliffe Jetty so visitors can learn more about it and Redcliffe's fascinating history, stretching right back to Penal Settlement and John Oxley's exploration of the Queensland coast. The local Redcliffe Museum and Visitor Information Centre are also worth dropping into for more information on the local area.
The Redcliffe Cultural Centre is a performing and creative art space that caters for the cultural needs of local and regional audiences. BOOK TODAY!
The Redcliffe Museum and its Collections offer an intriguing insight into a unique region; its European history since 1799; its heritage as Queensland’s first European Settlement in 1824-25. Head to Moreton Bay Region for Museum near Brisbane.
The Redcliffe Art Gallery runs a comprehensive exhibition program of work by local, emerging and nationally significant artists as well as touring and collection-based exhibitions. Art Gallery near Brisbane DISCOVER TODAY!