Testing shows Suttons Beach Pavilion’s sad deterioration

VIDEO: Redcliffe beach foreshore is “completely dead” according to residents campaigning for Suttons Beach Pavilion to be rebuilt, however damning new reports may spell the end for the iconic site.

The latest tests on the 85-year-old Suttons Beach Pavilion have revealed significant deterioration of the icon’s structural elements, sustainability and safety.

Independent expert reports commissioned by Moreton Bay Regional Council will help determine one of three options for the building’s future: demolition, partial restoration or complete restoration.

The local landmark’s fate will come down to the results of invasive testing, community survey findings and detailed cost analyses to ensure the chosen option represents good value for use of public funds.

Mayor Peter Flannery said current engineering investigations were the most comprehensive of the many works already undertaken by the council and would inform the decision for the site.

“The consultants have drilled into the concrete and footings to determine the extent of the damage that’s been done over the years,” he said.

“The consultants are halfway through their investigations and the information to date is that there is significant deterioration of the building’s structural elements, sustainability and safety.

“The erosion of the cliff-face behind the building and water getting into the foundations is also being examined to understand the building’s ongoing structural integrity and safety impacts.

“This further investigation is an expensive exercise for ratepayers and council is working hard to understand and explore all the options for this iconic building and the wider public space.

“Once the final investigations are complete, we expect to provide the detail to the community in early 2023.”

The older pavilion has been altered significantly since it was first built in 1937, and the second pavilion next door was constructed in 2002.

The older site’s closure earlier this year meant the end of the popular restaurant, function space and fish and chippery, which had drawn crowds from across the city.

In February, the council backflipped on its plan to demolish the pavilion following an outpouring of anger from the community, furious council had maintained the beachfront pavilion so poorly it was earmarked for demolition.

Leading the charge to save the site was the Suttons Beach Pavilions Preservation Group (SBPPG).

Karen Whittam from the SBPPG said there has been something for everyone to enjoy at the pavilion.

“You’d go to the beach, get your coffee, ice cream, fish and chips, a drink and a meal on a Sunday afternoon and the location is just spectacular,” Ms Whittam said.

“It’s the best place in Redcliffe location wise and there was a real community feel about the place.

“The beach area is completely dead now.”

Suttons Beach Pavilions Preservation Group members Karen Whittam, Rodney Hutchison and Bobbi McGrath, outside the fenced off and dilapidated Suttons Beach Pavilion. Picture: Aaron Goodwin

Rodney Hutchison from the SBPPG said 30,000 signatures and thousands of conversations within the community sent a clear message that the community wanted to see the pavilion restored.

“It’s one of the very last places left north of Brisbane that you can come to and enjoy yourself not only with your family but your grandkids and visitors from overseas,” Mr Hutchison said.

“What we’re hoping is we get some clarity around whether it’s appropriate to rebuild it or restore it.

“We are the voice of the community, the community has been very clear on what they want and we have very strong views on what should and shouldn’t be here.”

Suttons Beach Pavilion was built in 1937 and was a popular wedding and hospitality venue. Picture: Supplied

SBPPG President Jodie Starr thanked the council for honouring its commitment to commission the investigative testing and said their members looked forward to seeing all the details.

“The council is doing its due diligence, they are taking the sentiments of our members on board, and they have responded to our concerns,” she said.

“Importantly, council approved an initial $2.2 million in June’s 2022-23 budget to repair or rebuild this important piece of our history and it’s reassuring that they’ve literally put their money where their mouth is here.

“The SBPPG looks forward to working with council to ensure that their members’ interests in this matter are represented and looks forward to an outcome that will either return the Pavilion to its former glory or rebuild a similar iconic building.”