70 years young! Old Fire Station celebrates birthday and sparks joy in creative arts community

Published by: Kathryn Coller | 10-Sep-2019
The Old Fire Station in Redcliffe was built in 1949 and is turning 70! The Heritage listed building was once the centre of fire protection for the Redcliffe Peninsula, and more recently it has become home to the arts. Moreton Bay Regional Council is supporting the celebration of this wonderful symbol of local history, and preparations are in place for a birthday party on Friday November 1
Venue: Redcliffe Art Society Old Fire Station Gallery and Community Hub
Address: 395 Oxley Ave Redcliffe 4020
Date: Official event on Friday 1 November
Time: 3 - 8 pm
Ticket: Free
Web: www.redcliffeartsociety.com.au
: www.facebook.com/redcliffe art society
Prior to the 1930's, the Redcliffe Peninsula was seen more as a place to visit, but not stay, due to the difficulty in getting there. This all changed when the Hornibrook Bridge was built connecting the mainland to the Peninsula in 1931. Post WWII, greater settlement took place and houses were built. These were early days for the area, and there were issues with water supply. Redcliffe's Waterworks opened officially in 1941. The Redcliffe Fire Brigade Board was formed that same year. but then WWII restrictions slowed further progress. Land was purchased in 1948, for the construction of this architecturally modern red brick building, completed in 1949 [at a cost of 11,000 pounds].

Redcliffe Art Society [RAS] moved into the Old Fire Station Art Hub in February 2015 and its members have worked hard to re-establish themselves in a new venue and expand their membership. Besides providing all things "arty" for its members, RAS manages the Old Fire Station Art Gallery and Gallery Shop in the refurbished Redcliffe Fire Station. On the same site, the Redcliffe Pottery Group also has pottery studios, kiln, and display space.

The Redcliffe Art Society [established in 1961] is happily thriving in this fantastic location. With so many artistic members, creative ideas are constantly flowing from within the solid walls of this landmark building.

With support of the Redcliffe Pottery Group and the Moreton Bay Regional Council, Redcliffe Art Society is holding an Open event during the afternoon and evening [3-8pm] inviting the local community to attend and explore the present and past use of the Redcliffe Fire Station. Members of both the art and pottery groups will provide demonstrations during the event. The Gallery and Gallery Shop will be open. There will also be promotion of local community organisations and emergency services. A fire engine and firemen from Kippa Ring Fire Station will visit during the afternoon and evening. The SES and volunteer Marine Rescue will attend. Fire Station Memorabilia and historic photos will be placed on display. History Redcliffe will also be there. Some historic costumes will be available to wear for photography opportunities. There will be live music also.

A guaranteed celebration of this local icon is supported by "Fire Station themed art" from local primary school children. These works from future artists will also be on display.

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