Birkdale conservation area to be named Jack Rosa Urban Habitat

Redland City Council is to name a Birkdale conservation area in memory of local identity Jack Rosa.

Mayor Karen Williams said the parkland at 44-56 Randall Road, Birkdale, would be named the Jack Rosa Urban Habitat after the late farmer from Italy who had a long history of giving back to the community that he maintained had given so much to him.

“Ciriaco Rosa, known as Jack Rosa, left behind many significant contributions to Redlands Coast that are greatly acknowledged and appreciated,” Cr Williams said.

“Born in Taurasi in southern Italy, Mr Rosa was the eldest of eight children. During his years in Italy he became a policeman and fought in World War II, earning the Italian War Merit Cross on the Adriatic frontline.

“He immigrated to Australia in 1952, and was married by proxy two years later with his brother Pippino standing in for him back in Italy. His wife Virginia, known as Gina, soon moved to Australia so they could be together. They had grown up in neighbouring villages in Italy.

“The Rosas ran a seven-hectare farm on Bailey Road, Birkdale, where they grew and sold various mixed crops, including grapes, tomatoes and cucumbers. Mr Rosa maintained that he would give back to his new country that had given him so much, and duly dedicated himself to charity work.”

Mr Rosa was heavily involved with the Capalaba Lions Club, serving as President at one stage. He also joined Meals on Wheels and was the instigator for building one large kitchen in Capalaba to improve conditions.

“He was a strong advocate and was one of the first to highlight the need for an ambulance, police and fire service in Capalaba; and advocated for the building of a Girl Guide hut in the area; as well as the Capalaba Bowls Club,” Cr Williams said.

“He was also involved in the Redlands District Committee of the Ageing (RDCOTA), serving as Treasurer for 14 years; the Handicapped Association; the Community Assistance for Italians (Coasit); the St Anthony’s Catholic Parish at Alexandra Hills; and he was one of the first members of the Redland Sporting Club.”

The 16,644-square-metre conservation area that will be named Jack Rosa Urban Habitat was established as part of Redland Investment Corporation’s reconfiguration of 521 Old Cleveland Road East, Birkdale, for a multiple-dwelling development.

Division 8 Councillor Tracey Huges, who met with members of the local community and Mr Rosa’s family, said she quickly identified that he was a prominent resident who offered years of significant contribution to Redlands Coast.

“The naming of the area after him would be an appropriate way to honour his legacy,” Cr Huges said.

“Mr Rosa and his wife remained living on an urban block on Randall Road after selling their farm in 1972.

“His wonderful and tireless work for the community was recognised many times by Redland City Council. He was also the recipient of a Centenary Medal from the prime minister in 1988, while in August 2018, he received his 50-year medallion for his services to Capalaba Lions Club.”

Mr Rosa’s beloved wife Gina died in April 2018 at the age of 85. He died eight months later, on December 24, 2018. He was 94.

Council has resolved to install signage at the Randall Road site to reflect the approved name of Jack Rosa Urban Habitat.