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Kickin’ Inn Brings Unique Seafood Experience to Ipswich

Ipswich locals can now experience a unique, hands-on seafood dining adventure at the newly opened Kickin’ Inn restaurant in the Nicholas Street Precinct.

A Taste of Louisiana in Queensland

It offers a distinctive Cajun-inspired menu, with its signature dish being the “Kickin’ Mixed Bag.” This generous serving of fresh seafood, including Queensland prawns, Moreton Bay bugs, and blue swimmer crabs, is cooked in one of five house-made sauces. According to the restaurant, the secret to these sauces lies in a blend of 55 herbs and spices.

Diners are provided with gloves and an apron, encouraging them to ditch the cutlery and enjoy the meal with their hands. Another popular choice is the shrimp martini, featuring crispy crumbed prawns served in a martini glass. The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, sides, and kids’ meals.

From Concept to Reality

Kickin’ Inn is the brainchild of business partners Sami and Ravi. Both brought their own expertise to the venture, with Sami having experience in fast-food franchising and Ravi in management consultancy. Sami originated the idea for the restaurant, and Ravi joined him to bring the concept to life. The pair developed their business plan in Dubai in December 2017, aiming to launch the brand in January 2018.

Before opening their first restaurant, they refined their recipes and service style by hosting test meals for family and friends. Their vision was to create a dining experience that offered high-quality seafood at affordable prices.

Focus on Community

The restaurant is committed to supporting the local community. It aims to source its produce from Australian suppliers and employ local staff. Sami and Ravi wanted to create a place where all Australians could enjoy a memorable meal.

The first restaurant opened in September 2018, marking the beginning of its expansion. The Ipswich location is the latest addition to the Kickin’ Inn family, bringing their distinctive style of seafood dining to the area.

Published Date 19-Feb-2025

Springfield Anglican College Celebrates Opening of $18 Million Ironbark Sports Centre

Photo Credit: MPCharisMullen/ Facebook

Springfield Anglican College has officially opened its new $18 million Ironbark Indoor Sports Centre, a state-of-the-art facility to benefit students and the wider community.

Springfield Anglican College Celebrates Opening of $18 Million Ironbark Sports Centre — *Photo Credit:* *MPCharisMullen/ Facebook*

The centre, the largest project in the college’s 27-year history, was officially opened by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, on 6 February 2025.

The Ironbark Indoor Sports Centre provides Springfield students with access to professional-standard sporting facilities, including two international-sized sports courts. These courts will support various sporting activities and provide opportunities for students to train and compete at a high level.

Beyond sports, the centre also houses three new general learning classrooms, offering modern learning spaces for academic enrichment. A dedicated presentation stage will host school events, assemblies, and awards ceremonies, further enriching the college’s cultural and artistic life. The centre is expected to become the Springfield community’s central hub.

Completing the Ironbark Sports Centre marks a significant milestone for The Springfield Anglican College. The project, which commenced construction in August 2023, represents a substantial investment in the future of the college and its students. The $18 million project was partly funded by a $1.19 million grant from the State Capital Assistance Scheme.

The college believes the facility will play a vital role in fostering holistic education, promoting student well-being, and providing valuable opportunities for the community.

“Ironbark” was chosen to represent the strength and resilience the school aims to cultivate in its students. Both primary and secondary students will use the centre.

The Springfield Anglican College community expressed excitement about the opportunities the new centre will provide. The college believes it will play an important role in the growth and development of its students for many years to come.

Published Date 10-Feb-2025

Community Fury Over Closure of Exit 33 on Centenary Highway

Photo Credit: MPCharisMullen/ Facebook

Springfield Lakes commuters are facing significant disruptions due to the ongoing closure of Exit 33 on the Centenary Highway. No firm reopening date is in sight, and community frustration is mounting over handling the situation.

Landslide Causes Major Disruption

Community Fury Over Exit 33 on Centenary Highway Closure — Photo Credit: Google Map

A significant landslide, which occurred on 16 January 2025, has severely impacted the on-ramp to Yamanto and created a safety hazard for the off-ramp from Brisbane at Exit 33. The slip has blocked access and raised concerns about further instability, especially with more rain predicted.

Transport and Main Roads Queensland (TMR) cannot provide a definitive timeline for reopening, stating it could be approximately two months, though this remains unconfirmed. They have indicated that the off-ramp from Brisbane might be reopened sooner, contingent on a safety assessment and site stabilisation.

Community Concerns and Lack of Communication

The extended closure has placed significant pressure on other exits and arterial roads, causing considerable delays for residents. Community members have expressed anger and frustration, with many claiming the landslide has been a known issue for years, with visible signs of deterioration in Google Images from early March 2024.

They criticise the perceived lack of action until the situation escalates to a full closure, suggesting that earlier intervention could have prevented the current crisis. Residents have also raised concerns about removing a right turn at a nearby exit, which they believe has worsened the traffic flow in the area. During the closure, there are calls for better signage to direct traffic to alternative routes.

Information Scarcity and Political Fallout

The difficulty obtaining clear information from TMR adds to the community’s frustration. The local State Member has reported being unable to receive updates on the situation, despite repeated attempts to contact the department.

They claim that this lack of communication stems from a new government directive restricting the flow of information to local representatives. This alleged political interference has drawn criticism, with the Member emphasising the practical, non-political nature of the information being sought.

The lack of clear, timely communication has further fueled community anger and uncertainty. The Member has stated they are continuing to pursue the issue with TMR. The status of the additional left turn lane at nearby Exit 32, originally slated for completion at the end of January, also remains unclear.

Published Date 06-Feb-2025

Former AFL Player Troy Selwood Remembered by Springfield Lakes Community

Photo Credit: Australian Football League

The Springfield Lakes community is mourning the loss of Troy Selwood, former Brisbane Lions and Geelong Cats player and brother of AFL great Joel Selwood, who passed away this week at 40.

A Football Family’s Loss

Selwood’s death has deeply saddened his family, including parents Bryce and Maree and brothers Joel, Scott, and Adam. The Selwood family, originally from Bendigo, is well-known in the AFL world, with all four brothers playing at the highest level.

They shared their heartbreak in a statement, remembering Troy’s bravery, humour, deep thinking, love, and compassion. They noted how he brought joy and light to those around him. They acknowledged his influence on so many, from his school days to his AFL career and work with young Geelong Grammar players.

A Career on and off the Field

Drafted by the Brisbane Lions in 2002, Troy Selwood played 75 games for the club between 2005 and 2010. He then transitioned to a successful off-field career, including a decade at the Geelong Cats.

He captained Geelong’s VFL premiership team in 2012 before moving into various roles within the club, including football operations, academy manager, and talent identification manager. He also briefly worked at Collingwood before taking on the role of head of football and sports performance at Geelong Grammar.

Tributes from the AFL Community

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon expressed the league’s condolences to the Selwood family and the wider football community. He noted Selwood’s dedication to AFL talent pathways programs as a club recruiter and at Geelong Grammar, highlighting his focus on young players’ needs. Dillon added that Selwood brought positivity, humour, and care to his work and would be greatly missed.

Geelong CEO Steve Hocking also expressed his sadness at the news, acknowledging Selwood’s impact on many players and staff and remembering his passion for working with young people. Brisbane Lions CEO Greg Swann also offered condolences, remembering Selwood’s popularity with teammates and his respect across the industry.

Former Lions coach Michael Voss recalled Selwood’s courageous playing style, highlighting a particular incident that exemplified his commitment to the team.

A Day of Sad News for the AFL

Selwood’s passing comes on the same day as the death of Essendon VFL coach Dale Tapping, adding to a difficult time for the Australian football community.

Published Date 04-Feb-2025

Lifeline Expands Support with New Springfield Lakes Location

Photo Credit: Lifeline Shops Queensland/ Facebook

A new Lifeline mega store will open in Augustine Heights, Greater Springfield, bringing shopping opportunities and support for vital crisis services to the local community.

New Store for Greater Springfield

According to community announcements, Lifeline Shops Queensland is establishing a large store in Augustine Heights, next to Total Tools. The new shop promises to offer a wide range of donated goods, with all proceeds directly supporting Lifeline Queensland’s crisis support services. While an official opening date has not been released, details will be shared with the community once confirmed.

Community members have expressed excitement about the new store, with some eager to donate and shop. One resident, Trudy Grace, shared her positive experience donating to them, noting the rewarding feeling of supporting a worthy cause.

Lifeline’s Commitment to Queenslanders

It is dedicated to ensuring that no one in the state faces their darkest moments alone. The organisation provides various crucial services, including the 24/7 Crisis Support Line (13 11 14), online chat, and a crisis text service.

Beyond immediate crisis support, it also offers community recovery programs to assist those affected by natural disasters and training programs like “Accidental Counsellor.” It operates a network of over 130 Lifeline Shops. Like the upcoming one in Augustine Heights, these shops play a vital role in raising funds for Lifeline’s operations.

Supporting Lifeline’s Mission

Lifeline Queensland’s work is centred on suicide prevention, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, and empowering individuals and communities to be suicide-safe. They rely heavily on community support to continue their life-saving work.

Public members can contribute by donating money, volunteering their time at shops or events, shopping at Lifeline shops, and organising their own fundraising activities.

Every purchase made at a Lifeline shop directly supports the organisation’s mission. Lifeline Queensland encourages anyone in crisis to seek help, emphasising that their services are confidential and available to all Queenslanders.

Published Date 31-Jan-2025

Ipswich State HS Talent Baxter Best Lands Big Break with Brisbane Broncos

Ipswich State High School student Baxter Best has signed a four-year deal with the Brisbane Broncos, setting the stage for a promising NRL career—following in the footsteps of his older brother and NSW Origin star, Bradman Best.

Read: Westside Community Care: A Helping Hand for Springfield Lakes Families

The sixteen-year-old outside back, who has been making waves in Queensland’s junior ranks, chose the Broncos despite interest from several NRL clubs. His decision marks a major win for Brisbane’s development programme.

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Baxter Best, a Future Origin Star?

Despite his brother’s NSW allegiance, Baxter qualifies for Queensland due to his family’s relocation. The talented teenager has already impressed at the representative level, starring in Queensland’s under-15s schoolboys team and excelling in the Cyril Connell Cup.

With Baxter now in Maroon territory, the prospect of a Best versus Best Origin clash looms. While Bradman remains a proud Blue, he acknowledges the unique family dynamic.

Path to Professional Rugby

Baxter will continue his development with the Souths Logan Magpies under-17s this season, competing against players a year his senior.

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Ipswich State HS continues its legacy of developing NRL talent, adding Baxter to a list of alumni that includes several professional players. His rise through the school’s system, coupled with interest from NRL talent scouts, reinforces the institution’s reputation as a breeding ground for Queensland’s next generation of rugby league stars.

Read: Tivoli Drive-In Beats the Odds in a Changing Entertainment Landscape

With his brother’s rapid rise to Origin football serving as inspiration, Baxter Best’s journey from Ipswich to the Broncos’ system is just beginning. If his trajectory mirrors Bradman’s, the Broncos may have secured their next big star.

Published 30-January-2025

Westside Community Care: A Helping Hand for Springfield Lakes Families

Photo Credit: Westside Community Care/ Facebook

Westside Community Care has assisted needy families in Springfield Lakes and the surrounding areas since 1997.

The organisation, a not-for-profit charity, provides various services to help those struggling in the community. These services include food parcels, back-to-school support, domestic violence assistance, and free legal advice.

Community Support Programs

*Photo Credit:* *Westside Community Care/ Facebook*

It offers several programs to support individuals and families in need. They regularly provide free food items and parcels at the Camira Springfield Community Centre.

They also organise a back-to-school initiative each year, raising funds and gathering supplies for children. Through a partnership with Christians Against Poverty, they offer free debt help and budgeting assistance to those facing financial difficulties.

Activities and Events

The organisation also runs a variety of community activities and events. These include tap dancing classes, art and craft groups, fitness classes, and a men’s shed. It also hosts an annual Christmas appeal, where it collects and distributes gifts, food hampers, and other support to those in need.

Domestic Violence Support

It is committed to supporting domestic violence victims. They offer a range of free services, including a GEMS Confidential program, which provides wrap-around support such as legal advice, counselling, and retreats.

Partnerships and Volunteers

Westside Community Care works closely with government agencies, businesses, churches, and other community organisations to support those in need. They also rely on a network of volunteers to help deliver their services. The organisation encourages anyone interested in getting involved to reach out and join their network.

Published Date 29-Jan-2025

Tivoli Drive-In Beats the Odds in a Changing Entertainment Landscape

In an era of soaring living costs and evolving consumer habits, the iconic Tivoli Drive-In Theatre is a testament to resilience and adaptation.

While many traditional entertainment venues struggle to stay afloat, the Tivoli has managed to carve a unique niche, offering affordable family fun and a nostalgic experience that resonates with audiences.

This enduring success story is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by drive-in theatres across Australia. A recent Queensland University of Technology (QUT) study revealed that only 12 drive-ins remain consistently operational nationwide. The Tivoli, which opened its gates in 1976, has survived and thrived under the leadership of Pastor Fred Muys, who acquired the venue with a vision of community service.

Tivoli Drive-In — *Photo Credit: Google Map*

The Tivoli now operates a registered charity, providing food assistance to those in need and vocational training for the unemployed. However, maintaining the drive-in has become increasingly challenging due to rising operational costs and changing entertainment preferences.

Pastor Muys acknowledged the financial pressures, stating that the drive-in would be unsustainable without the support of local functions and events. He attributed the Tivoli’s success to its ability to adapt and reinvent itself, offering a “retro, family experience” that appeals to a broad audience.

This sentiment was echoed by experts, who emphasised the importance of nostalgia and affordability in today’s entertainment market. Professor Martie-Louise Verreynne from the University of Queensland (UQ) noted a growing trend of consumers seeking to relive past experiences. At the same time, Dr Nicolas Pontes, also from UQ, highlighted the impact of inflation on entertainment spending.

Dr Pontes explained that what was once a regular treat has become more of a luxury, adding that rising costs are forcing many people to reserve restaurant dining and other forms of entertainment for special occasions.

Despite these challenges, the Tivoli draws large crowds, particularly during the summer and school holidays. Pastor Muys attributed this to the drive-in’s commitment to affordable pricing, with tickets as low as $15 per car for two new release movies.

He emphasised that they have deliberately kept the cost down to ensure working-class families can still enjoy a night out at the movies.

However, the future of drive-in theatres like the Tivoli remains uncertain. QUT urban environment expert Mimi Tsai pointed out the increasing scarcity of suitable land, particularly in inner-city suburbs, where development pressures are mounting.

She explained that a drive-in cinema in inner-city suburbs is almost impossible due to the soaring cost of land.

Nevertheless, Dr Heck from QUT believes that these classic venues hold a special place in the hearts of many Australians. She recalled fond memories of visiting drive-ins in the 80s and 90s and emphasised the unique “novelty and social experience” they offer.

She affirmed her belief that drive-in theatres will always be important in Australian culture.

For Pastor Muys, the reward lies in seeing families create new memories at the Tivoli. He shared anecdotes of patrons expressing their delight at finding the drive-in still operational after many years.

He emphasised the importance of supporting the Tivoli, as it is one of only two drive-in cinemas in south-east Queensland.

The Tivoli Drive-In’s story reminds us that there is still a place for tradition and nostalgia even in a rapidly changing world. The Tivoli has survived and flourished by adapting to new realities and staying true to its community-focused values, offering hope for other classic entertainment venues struggling to stay afloat.

Published Date 27-Jan-2025

Springfield Lakes Residents Invited to Experience Refreshed Merlo Café

Photo Credit: Merlo Coffee/ Facebook

Springfield Lakes residents can now enjoy a brighter, more open café experience at the Merlo Torrefazione in Orion Springfield Central.

The café, known for its in-house coffee roasting, was recently renovated to enhance the customer experience and highlight its commitment to high-quality coffee.

A Brighter Space for a Premium Experience

Merlo Café — *Photo Credit:* *Merlo Coffee/ Facebook*

The refurbishment included replacing the café’s dark steel tables with white marble tabletops, creating a more modern and inviting atmosphere. Gaby Lazorka, the café’s second-in-charge, explained that the change was intended to create a brighter space and reflect the high quality of the coffee.

Customers can watch the roasting process firsthand as the Merlo team roasts green coffee beans in their hot air roaster, transforming them into the aromatic brews Merlo is known for.

More Than Just a Coffee Break

The café offers a wide selection of food to complement its coffee, including Italian biscuits, pastries, gluten-free treats, toasted sandwiches, wraps and salads. For those wanting something other than coffee, the café also offers a variety of hot and cold beverages such as chai, matcha, hot chocolate, milkshakes and smoothies.

Whether grabbing a quick coffee during a lunch break or relaxing after a shopping trip, Merlo Springfield Lakes provides a welcoming environment.

A Family Tradition of Coffee

Their story began in Italy with Luigi Merlo’s Trattoria and continued with his son Gino, who introduced espresso to Queensland in the 1960s. Gino’s son, Dean, founded Merlo Coffee in 1992, driven by his passion for hospitality and inspired by European and American espresso bars.

Today, Merlo is a leading Australian coffee roaster, supplying their freshly roasted coffee to the public, stores, and over 1,500 cafes and restaurants across Australia.

Published Date 23-Jan-2025

Greater Springfield to Turn Pink for Mater Chicks in Pink Fun Run

Greater Springfield’s breast cancer survivors and their supporters are invited to paint the town pink on 9 March by joining the community’s second Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run.

Read: Springfield Lakes Ready for Community Fun Run

Presented by Queensland X-Ray, this inspiring event aims to raise critical resources to assist women battling breast cancer.

Uniting for a Cause

Photo credit: International Women’s Day Fun Run/Facebook

Breast cancer remains a pressing health challenge in Australia. In 2022 alone, Cancer Australia reported a staggering 20,428 new cases of breast cancer diagnosis, making it the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country.

The Mater Chicks in Pink initiative empowers women affected by breast cancer to focus on what truly matters—their health and cherished moments with loved ones—by alleviating the emotional and financial burdens of the disease.

Your Impact Matters

By participating in the 5K Your Way event or donating, you can help fund essential services that make a tangible difference in the lives of breast cancer patients. Contributions will support:

Personalised Support Services: Free, practical support such as mastectomy bras, wigs, and scarves to help women feel more like themselves.
Advanced Medical Technology: Investment in cutting-edge equipment to provide faster and potentially life-saving breast cancer diagnostics.
Programmes for Wellness: Initiatives like Mum, Memories and Me and Return to Wellness that help women navigate their journey to survivorship.
Breast Cancer Research: Groundbreaking studies conducted at Mater to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.

Making a Difference Locally

Funds raised will directly benefit breast cancer patients at Mater hospitals across Queensland, including Brisbane, Springfield, Redlands, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, and Bundaberg.

Mater Private Hospital Springfield’s Breast Care Nurse, Shiralee Bremner, highlights the vital role of community support. Shiralee Bremner explained that breast care nurses assist patients in navigating specialist appointments, managing treatment side effects, and preparing for success in survivorship.

Shiralee’s position was made possible by community donations to the Mater Foundation, underscoring the importance of fundraising initiatives like the Fun Run.

Join the Movement

Read: Little Lifesavers Returns to Orion Lagoon: A Fun Way to Learn Lifesaving Skills!

Signing up for the Fun Run is simple—visit Mater Foundation’s website to register for the 5K Your Way event. Whether you choose to run, walk, or jog, every step you take helps create a brighter future for women facing breast cancer.

Published 21-January-2025