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Springfield E-scooter Crash Leaves Father Of Five In Coma

A 40-year-old Springfield father is fighting for his life in a coma after a devastating e-scooter crash in his local neighbourhood, prompting an outpouring of support from the community.

Father Of Five Faces Uncertain Recovery

The crash occurred on Sunday, 28 April, on Springfield Parkway in Brisbane’s south-west. Mikey Valdivia suffered a severe brain injury and remains in a coma at Princess Alexandra Hospital with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3.

Mikey Valdivia, a well-known Springfield local, is a devoted partner and father of five. He was the family’s sole provider and had been planning a Bali wedding with his fiancée Sophie-Leigh Barker-McMurray.

Since the crash, Mikey’s condition hasn’t improved. His fiancée Sophie has remained by his side in hospital, unable to work, leaving the family under heavy emotional and financial strain.

Community Rallies Around The Valdivias

The Springfield community has responded with generosity, launching a GoFundMe campaign to support the family with everyday expenses such as rent, food, and care for the kids. As of mid-May, the campaign has raised over $7,000, with nearly 90 donors contributing.

Organiser Emily Potter, speaking on behalf of Springfield E-scooter Crash Leaves Father Of Five In Comaphie, shared that any donation would ease the pressure on the family as they face an uncertain future. The family says they are overwhelmed by the kindness from friends, neighbours and even strangers who have reached out.

Police Seek Witnesses As Scooter Safety Debate Grows

Queensland Police are still investigating the crash and have called for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area around Springfield Parkway on the day of the incident to come forward.

The incident has drawn renewed attention to the safety of electric scooters in Brisbane. National conversations are underway, including a parliamentary inquiry into personal mobility devices, sparked by rising accidents and fatalities involving e-scooters. While these discussions continue, authorities have stressed the importance of safe riding practices, including helmet use and staying alert in traffic.

Life Changed In A Moment

For the Valdivia family, life has been upended in a matter of seconds. What was meant to be a joyful year, with a wedding on the horizon, has turned into a fight for survival. Sophie and her children now face long days at the hospital, not knowing what comes next.

The family’s message is clear: they’re grateful for every show of support, whether it’s financial, emotional or simply sharing Mikey’s story.

Published 20-May-2025

Local Volunteer Group And Young Leader Recognised During Volunteer Week

Photo Credit: Girl Guides Queensland/ Facebook

Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. was nominated for a top volunteering impact award in Queensland for its Platypus Watch program, as Volunteering Queensland team member Mehvish Mukaddam was also named New Volunteer of the Year.

Local Environmental Efforts Earn Statewide Recognition

Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc., an incorporated volunteer group protecting the Opossum Creek Catchment, was nominated for the Queensland Volunteering Impact Award – Community for its Platypus Watch program.

*Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook*

While the award went to the National Association of Women in Construction Queensland, the nomination highlighted Springfield Lakes Nature Care as one of the state’s leading community volunteer initiatives.

*Photo Credit: Mehvish Mukaddam/LinkedIn*

A registered charity, Springfield Lakes Nature Care is a member of both Volunteering Queensland and QWaLC. Its mission focuses on habitat restoration, environmental education, and hands-on community involvement. Volunteering Queensland supports groups like this across the state through resources and advocacy.

Mehvish Mukaddam Recognised For Emerging Leadership

Mehvish Mukaddam, a member of Volunteering Queensland, was awarded the 2025 New Volunteer of the Year for her outstanding contributions to volunteer engagement, campaign support, and sector coordination. Her role spans digital communications, event planning, data analysis, and public outreach, helping strengthen the systems that connect people to meaningful volunteering opportunities.

Mukaddam said she was honoured and grateful to be recognised at an inspiring event filled with stories of community impact. She described volunteering as a rewarding way to learn, grow, and give back. Her award reflects the growing diversity in Queensland’s volunteer sector and the value of creating inclusive opportunities for new Australians.

A Spotlight On National Volunteer Week

This recognition comes as part of National Volunteer Week, running from 19 to 25 May 2025. With the theme “Connecting Communities,” the campaign highlights how volunteers across the country strengthen ties in times of economic and social difficulty.

Volunteering Australia CEO Mark Pearce said volunteers have been essential this year, supporting communities during crises and fostering connection. National Volunteer Week is a chance to celebrate their role in building resilience, especially amid natural disasters and cost-of-living pressures.

Environmental Action Driven By Local Commitment

Springfield Lakes Nature Care works to restore the environment, raise awareness, and engage locals in hands-on activities. Its programs protect natural areas and strengthen community ties, showing how small-scale efforts can drive broader environmental and social impact.

be a volunteer

Backed by Volunteering Queensland, groups like Springfield Lakes Nature Care show how locals are helping the environment and their communities through simple, meaningful projects. This National Volunteer Week, anyone inspired to get involved can visit GoVolunteer, contact their local Volunteering Peak Body, or reach out to nearby organisations.

Published 19-May-2025

Teaching Innovation Honoured at Springfield Central School

Photo Credit: MSA Springfield/Instagram

Two staff members from Mastery Schools Australia in Springfield Central have been named national awardees for their contributions to education.

Springfield Central Educators Earn National Recognition

Mastery Schools Australia (MSA) Springfield Central has produced two national awardees in the 2025 Australian Education Awards, with Principal Sharyn Angel named in the School Principal of the Year – Non-government category and teacher Zoe Anlezark recognised as an Education Rising Star of the Year. Both were acknowledged for their contributions to re-engaging students who had previously struggled in mainstream education.

The awards, announced by The Educator on 12 May 2025, will be formally presented at a ceremony in Sydney later this year.

Principal Recognised for Transformational Leadership

Principal Sharyn Angel has been named among the top non-government school principals in the country. With a teaching career that began in 2001, she has led several initiatives to support disadvantaged learners, including her earlier work at Shailer Park State High School and Springfield Central State High School.

Since founding the MSA Springfield campus in 2022, she has implemented evidence-based teaching models that focus on student placement, explicit instruction, and accelerated progress. Under her leadership, students have recorded strong academic gains in reading and maths. Her leadership previously earned her the inaugural Commonwealth Bank Teaching Award in 2015 and a place as a TeachX Awards finalist in 2021.

Rising Star Celebrated for Teaching Impact

Springfield Central educators — *Photo Credit: World’s Teacher Day QLD*

Zoe Anlezark, one of the original assistant teachers at MSA Springfield, was recognised in the Education Rising Star of the Year category. She began her journey as a teacher aide and entered the profession through Queensland’s Permission to Teach program.

Ms Anlezark teaches English, maths, and literacy intervention programs. Her approach is shaped by personal learning experiences and a commitment to making complex subjects more accessible for students. The National Institute for Direct Instruction recently awarded her the 2024 Siegfried Engelmann Excellence in Education Award, making her only the second Australian to receive this recognition.

Ms Anlezark’s work has focused on helping students who face significant barriers in learning, including low attendance and poor literacy. Her teaching has contributed to strong improvements in engagement and academic confidence among students.

Recognition Reflects Teaching Excellence

The recognition of both Principal Angel and Ms Anlezark highlights the influence of dedicated educators working within alternative schooling environments. Their inclusion among this year’s national awardees reflects growing awareness of the impact being made at Springfield Central through structured, evidence-based teaching.

The national award ceremony will be held at the Star Event Centre in Sydney on 8 August 2025.

Published 14-May-2025

Vehicles Striking Homes on Queen Street Prompt Safety Push in Goodna

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Residents in Goodna are demanding the installation of guard rails on Queen Street after repeated vehicle crashes have damaged homes and placed lives at risk.

Pattern of Collisions Raises Alarm in Goodna

A recurring series of traffic incidents on Queen Street in Goodna has prompted renewed community calls for protective infrastructure. Since 2022, residents report that vehicles have crashed into properties along the street at least once a year, with two separate crashes occurring just six weeks apart in early 2025.

Goodna street crashes — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

In the most recent event, a vehicle veered off the road on Sunday and crashed into a fence. Authorities have launched an investigation and are urging the driver involved to contact police.

A previous incident on 31 March saw a car leave Queen Street and collide with a brick fence. The driver was penalised for failing to maintain proper control of the vehicle.

Documented Cases of Property Damage

Multiple past crashes have resulted in both property damage and hospitalisations. In March 2023, two people were taken to hospital after a car struck a home. In 2022, a retaining wall was damaged when a vehicle left the road, reportedly due to a medical incident.

One case saw a car crash into a living room, narrowly missing a one-year-old child. Another incident involved a truck and trailer, where the driver also suffered a medical episode.

Residents Demand Guard Rails

The community has taken to social media and public forums to voice concern. One resident noted that three neighbouring houses were impacted by separate crashes in a single month. Others have called for urgent council intervention to investigate the cause and implement safeguards.

Suggestions include installing guard rails, lowering speed limits, or combining both measures to protect homes from further incidents.

Council Response Pending

Ipswich City Council has been contacted regarding the incidents. No clear response or proposed solution has been announced. In the meantime, Queen Street residents continue to push for safety upgrades, citing ongoing risks to property and personal safety.

Published 13-May-2025

Greater Springfield Fire Station Project Moves to Next Phase

A new fire and rescue station for Greater Springfield is finally moving closer to construction, after years of delays caused by land complications. With the tender process now closed, the project is expected to enter its next phase soon.

Read: Lakeside Views and Top Service Define Moselle’s Café + Restaurant in Springfield Lakes

The new station, to be built on Gateway Drive in Augustine Heights, will join existing ambulance and police facilities in Springfield, creating a full emergency services precinct for one of Queensland’s fastest-growing urban areas.

At present, fire and rescue services for Greater Springfield are provided by the Camira and Ripley stations. While both have served the community well, the area’s rapid growth has highlighted the need for a dedicated facility within Greater Springfield itself.

The project was delayed after issues were discovered with the designated land, which required significant remediation work. That process was completed in late 2024, allowing planning to resume.

A tender for construction was released in March and officially closed on 14 April 2025. The Queensland Fire Department (QFD) has advised Member for Jordan Charis Mullen that an indicative completion date will be known once a contractor is appointed and provides a detailed build schedule. The official opening date will be confirmed once the station is fully operational.

Once completed, the station will be staffed by 18 firefighters and five station officers, with an annual operating budget of $3.7 million. This local staffing will enhance response times and ensure Greater Springfield is better equipped to handle emergencies in its rapidly expanding community.

Read: Salvinia Management in Springfield Lakes Faces New Challenges

The new facility is expected to significantly strengthen local fire and rescue capabilities, improving safety for residents across Greater Springfield and surrounding suburbs.

Published 8-May-2025

Ash Barty Playground Serves Up Fun in Brookwater and Surrounds

There’s a new reason for families to head outdoors in Brookwater, with the opening of a fun-filled, tennis-themed playground that celebrates one of Ipswich’s most beloved sporting heroes — Ash Barty.

Read: Ash Barty Honoured with First Aboriginal Barbie Doll in Celebration of International Women’s Day

Located at Opossum Creek Parklands on Scoparia Drive, the Ash Barty Playground is a vibrant tribute to the former world number one tennis player and cricket professional. True to Barty’s legacy, the playground is designed to inspire the next generation to get moving, try new things, and enjoy the outdoors.

The highlight of the new play space is a mini tennis court with a rebound wall — complete with a painted-on net — perfect for young players to practise their swing. The design goes one step further: when viewed from above, the curved, interconnecting paths that link the playground together resemble a giant tennis ball, a subtle nod to the sport that made Barty a household name.

What makes this project extra special is the story behind it. Rather than accepting a statue in her honour, Barty humbly requested something that would give back to the community — a playground that would get kids active and bring families together. It’s a gesture that speaks volumes about her character and her ongoing commitment to inspiring young people.

Photo credit: Queensland Sport and Recreation/Facebook

“Encouraging children to be active and play is a passion of mine, and I can’t wait for local families, including my own, to visit this beautiful space,” shared Barty on Instagram.

“Fun fact… from above, the looped, connecting pathways resemble a giant tennis ball,” she added.

Read: Ash Barty to Build ‘Forever’ Home at Brookwater Residential

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Ash Barty or simply looking for a new weekend adventure, the Ash Barty Playground is well worth a visit. Don’t forget to add it to your family’s to-do list and enjoy a day out in this fresh new space designed with both fun and inspiration in mind.

Published 7-May-2025

Education Providers Plan for Growth in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Springfield City Group

Education stakeholders met in Springfield to address rising school enrolment demand as the region braces for rapid population and demographic growth.

Background and Context

Education stakeholders met in Springfield Lakes to address rising school enrolment demand as the region braces for rapid population and demographic growth.

Growth Pressures and Forecasts

A recent event held in Springfield gathered key figures from Queensland’s education and tertiary sectors. The session focused on long-term demand for schooling in the city, drawing on data prepared by Econisis for Springfield City Group in March 2025.

The report forecasts that student enrolment will more than double from 14,392 in 2023 to over 28,771 by 2046, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 3.1 per cent. In 2025 alone, demand is expected to exceed 15,000.

This growth aligns with the broader population projection, which sees the Springfield catchment increasing from approximately 159,000 in 2023 to more than 400,000 by 2046—a rise of 253 per cent. Children aged 14 and under make up 26.1 per cent of the population, well above the Brisbane and Ipswich averages.

Springfield Lakes education — *Photo Credit: Springfield City Group*

Private and Specialist School Opportunities

The strongest pressure will fall on non-government schools. Private enrolments rose 18.5 per cent over five years, with future projections indicating a shortfall of more than 1,700 places by 2036 and over 3,900 by 2046.

There is currently no single-sex private school in Springfield. However, demand for up to 2,000 such places is anticipated by 2046.

Specialist education is also emerging as a priority. An estimated 5.5 per cent of local children are neurodivergent, with projected enrolment needs exceeding 1,400 by 2046. There is additional interest in schools aligned with faith, language, or culture—driven by the area’s high levels of linguistic and religious diversity.

STEM-focused schooling is another emerging opportunity, with technical roles in engineering, science, and ICT expected to nearly quadruple by 2036.

Springfield Lakes school planning — *Photo Credit: Springfield City Group*

Supporting Factors and Economic Conditions

The growth is backed by solid economic indicators. Household incomes in the region are above national averages, unemployment remains relatively low, and local business registrations have increased by 50 per cent since 2019. The catchment also shows high rates of post-school qualifications, suggesting a workforce geared for advanced education pathways.

Next Steps and Planning Outlook

With enrolment demand set to surpass infrastructure capacity, education providers are expected to plan new school sites and expansions over the next decade. The Springfield City Learning Coalition will continue to coordinate efforts around data sharing, employment readiness, and sustained delivery of quality education.

The region’s development as a learning city remains central to its future, with Springfield Lakes positioned as a key growth node requiring early intervention in school planning.

Published 2-May-2025

Salvinia Management in Springfield Lakes Faces New Challenges

Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook

Efforts to control the salvinia outbreak in Springfield Lakes have made significant progress, but recent reports show that regrowth remains an ongoing challenge in certain areas.

Initial Progress on Salvinia Removal

In early April 2025, Stockland Springfield Rise confirmed major progress in the management of Salvinia molesta across Springfield Lakes. Following weeks of mechanical harvesting, approximately 99 percent of the weed had been cleared from the main lakes. Local official Charis Mullen reported a notable improvement, with clear waters returning at Spring Lake and plans underway to reinstate regular spraying schedules.

Salvinia, a highly invasive aquatic fern, can double in size within days under ideal conditions. Its presence in Springfield Lakes had prompted concern from residents about water quality, mosquito breeding, and environmental health.

Salvinia Management — *Photo Credit: CharisMullenMP/Facebook*

Recent Developments: Regrowth Observed at Regatta Lake

Despite the clearance efforts, new observations from Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. on 17 April 2025 confirmed that salvinia remains active at Regatta Lake. Photographs taken from the observation deck showed the weed spreading from the bridge at Lakeside Avenue up past the bend, nearing 55 Promenade.

Coverage at Regatta Lake had increased to approximately 25 percent compared to previous reports on 22 March. The group noted that the weed continues to grow despite cooler temperatures, moving with windy conditions and forming thicker mats on the water surface.

Reports, supported by photographic evidence, have been submitted to Biosecurity Queensland, Ipswich City Council, Stockland Springfield Rise, and city official Charis Mullen.

Understanding the Ongoing Challenge

Salvinia molesta thrives in nutrient-rich, slow-moving waters and remains resilient even after major removal efforts. It spreads rapidly, blocks sunlight, reduces oxygen levels in the water, and disrupts aquatic ecosystems.

While mechanical removal provides immediate visual improvements, residual fragments or reintroduction through rain events can quickly spark regrowth. Regular spraying, biological controls, and upstream management are key to containing outbreaks over the long term.

*Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook*

Community Observations and Next Steps

Local community groups and residents continue to monitor salvinia growth across the Springfield Lakes network. The recent report from Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. highlights the need for sustained action, particularly at Regatta Lake.

Stockland Springfield Rise has indicated that reinstated spraying programs will begin as soon as possible to control regrowth. Ongoing collaboration between local authorities, residents, and environmental organisations remains critical.

Ongoing Monitoring Essential for Springfield Lakes

While Springfield Lakes has achieved significant salvinia removal, continued vigilance and management are required. New growth at Regatta Lake illustrates the persistent nature of the weed and the importance of long-term control measures to protect the local waterways.

Biosecurity Queensland encourages all residents to report sightings of invasive pests such as Salvinia molesta. Community members who suspect salvinia infestations are advised to report directly to Biosecurity Queensland by calling 13 25 23, or through their online reporting system.

If further investigation is required, a biosecurity officer may follow up. The Department of Primary Industries stresses that managing the spread of invasive species is a shared responsibility, and reporting plays a key role in early intervention.

Published 30-Apr-2025

Plans for House of India Take Shape in Springfield

In the heart of Springfield, a long-awaited dream is moving closer to reality for Queensland’s Indian community with a $5.5 million commitment to build their first cultural centre.

The announcement, made in April 2025, promise to fund the long-anticipated “House of India” project led by the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ). The initiative aims to create a permanent community space in the region that reflects the contribution and growing population of Indian Australians.

A Shared Space for Culture and Community

The House of India is proposed to be built in Springfield, an area that has seen rapid development and an increasing number of families of Indian heritage. According to recent census data, Queensland’s Indian-born population grew by nearly 60 per cent between 2016 and 2021, with suburbs like Springfield and Ipswich becoming strong community centres.

The facility is expected to serve not only as a cultural venue for events and performances but also as a meeting space for Indian associations and multicultural groups. Proposed features include areas for language classes, sporting and youth activities, food relief operations like Meals on Wheels, and education programs. Community leaders describe it as a practical investment to support heritage and provide resources for daily needs.

FICQ, which has campaigned for the House of India for more than a decade, has welcomed the funding pledges and emphasised that the centre will benefit all members of the local community, not just those of Indian heritage. President Dr Preethi Suraj said the vision includes a space that brings generations together and provides a platform for storytelling, cultural exchange and connection.

Support for the project has come from multiple levels and across party lines. Local stakeholders, including the Springfield City Group, have also offered strong backing for the centre, aligning it with broader goals to build inclusive infrastructure in the area.

A Step Forward for Multicultural Queensland

While some residents have raised questions about long-term maintenance and operational funding, FICQ has said future planning will focus on sustainability and partnerships. The next phase will involve community consultation, design planning and collaboration with local groups to ensure the space meets broad and inclusive needs.

For the Indian-Australian community, the project marks a meaningful step in their journey to create spaces that reflect both their identity and their ongoing role in shaping modern Australia.

Published 24-April-2025

Lakeside Views and Top Service Define Moselle’s Café + Restaurant in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Moselles Café + Restaurant/ Facebook

Moselle’s Café + Restaurant in Springfield Lakes has become a highly regarded community favourite. It draws locals and visitors with its scenic lakeside setting, pet-friendly atmosphere, and consistently praised food and service.

Lakeside Charm and Atmosphere

The café and restaurant prides itself on its serene lakeside view, which reviewers often describe as lovely and amazing. This scenic backdrop provides a relaxing setting for diners enjoying a meal or coffee. The establishment promotes a pet-friendly environment, welcoming furry companions to join their owners.

It is also noted as accommodating families, including those with babies. Since new owners took over in early 2019, the outdoor seating options have been increased, allowing more patrons to enjoy the surroundings. Diners might also catch the unique sight of model sailing boats being raced on the lake nearby.

Popular Menu for Brunch and Beyond

*Poached Chicken Salad*
*Photo Credit:* *Moselles Café + Restaurant/ Facebook*

Moselle’s is particularly noted for its brunch offerings, with a menu described as tasty and colourful. A standout item frequently mentioned is the Smashed Avo on sourdough, often served elevated with additions like golden halloumi, poached eggs, roasted tomatoes, balsamic glaze, and dukkah.

Other popular breakfast and brunch choices include decadent Pancakes, Brekkie Burgers, American Breakfasts, Veggie Omelettes, and Acai Bowls. The menu extends beyond breakfast, featuring lunch options such as generous Beef Burgers, Chicken Pasta, and classic Fish and Chips with salad. A specific kids’ menu caters to children aged 12 and under with choices like Kids Big Brekkie, Pancakes, Toasties, and Mini Burgers.

*Photo Credit:* *Moselles Café + Restaurant/ Facebook*

To accompany meals, the café serves excellent coffee, a range of smoothies, and displays cake options in a cabinet. Reviewers have also highlighted the availability of excellent gluten-free choices, such as burger buns.

High Marks for Service and Quality

Visitors consistently praise the quality of both food and service at Moselle’s Café + Restaurant. The food is often called tasty, sensational, and of a high standard. Complementing the meals, the staff are frequently described in reviews as great, friendly, fast, attentive, efficient, and welcoming. Reports suggest staff try to engage positively with customers, including children.

This combination of quality food, attentive service, and the pleasant atmosphere contributes to its reputation as a family favourite and a place visitors couldn’t fault, often recommending it for brunch or simply a meal with a beautiful view. One review site awarded it a strong 4 out of 5 coffee cup rating, reflecting the positive customer experiences.

Published Date 18-April-2025