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Creative Hearts Co to Launch New Art Gallery and Creative Hub in Greater Springfield

Creative Hearts Co, a new art gallery and creativity hub, is now open on Melaleuca Drive in Greater Springfield, ushering in a vibrant new chapter for local arts, community connection, and creative exploration

Read: Ash Barty Playground Serves Up Fun in Brookwater and Surrounds

Located at 7006 Melaleuca Drive in Brookwater, the gallery is more than just a showcase of visual art. It’s a welcoming, purpose-built space designed to bring people together, spark imagination, and support creative journeys for all ages and backgrounds.

The launch follows the overwhelming response to Creative Hearts Co’s six-week pop-up gallery at Orion Springfield Central in December 2024. That trial run drew enthusiastic crowds—from emerging artists and families to schools and community organisations—highlighting the need for a lasting creative hub in the region.

“This isn’t just an art gallery—it’s a place where people can feel seen, heard and valued,” said co-founder Hue Kedge. “Art is the starting point, but what we’re really creating is a space for community, connection, growth and belonging.”

Transformed from a former sales office into a light-filled, boutique gallery, the new venue offers wheelchair access, private parking, a curated feature wall, and calming, thoughtfully designed interiors. Future plans will also see the outdoor space come to life with gardens, seating areas, and creative installations.

Co-founder Sean Ferguson said the space has been designed with intention. “It’s light-filled, inviting, and instantly calming. We’ve shaped it into a place people simply enjoy being in, and we’re only just getting started.”

Beyond exhibitions, the gallery will host workshops, artist talks, creative business events, and accessible programs for schools, grassroots groups and emerging artists. The vision is to build a space that’s as much about participation as it is about presentation.

“We understand how powerful shared experiences can be in bringing people together.” said co-founder Marie Ferguson. “This space is about creating access—giving the community a chance to engage with something new, to connect through hands-on experiences, and to explore creativity in ways they may not have thought possible.”

The project has been made possible with the generous support of Springfield City Group, whose commitment to grassroots initiatives continues to nurture community and culture in the region.

“We’re proud to support Creative Hearts Co as they bring people together through creativity at a local level,” said Dr Richard Eden, Executive General Manager at Springfield City Group.

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

“Spaces like this play a vital role in nurturing culture, connection and well-being across our region.”

With its official opening set for 4 June, Creative Hearts Co invites the community to experience a new destination for creativity, connection and culture—one that celebrates both the individual and the collective spark.

Published 4-June-2025

Koala Habitat Under Threat from Development in Ipswich

Photo Credit: Save Woogaroo Forest/Facebook

Koalas in Ipswich are facing mounting threats due to habitat loss, disease, and urban development, with experts warning of potential local extinction.

Background and Habitat Pressure

South East Queensland, including Ipswich, is home to fewer than 16,000 koalas in the wild. A significant portion of their habitat is located in areas such as Woogaroo Forest, which spans over 450 hectares and is officially classified as prime koala habitat by the State. However, nearly one-third of this bushland is now subject to proposed urban development.

These developments include residential housing, a commercial centre, a childcare facility, and a sports park. The land falls under the Springfield Structure Plan, established in the 1990s by the state to accommodate residential growth. Ipswich City officials have already approved the proposals, with federal authorities now responsible for conducting environmental assessments under national legislation.

Health Challenges and Veterinary Care

Koalas in the Ipswich region are also struggling with disease, particularly chlamydia, which can cause blindness and infertility. RSPCA Queensland reports that around 10 per cent of koalas in the region require hospital care each year, with only half surviving treatment. Wildlife hospital data indicates that koalas such as Maximus and William, both treated and released back into Woogaroo Forest, faced severe health challenges linked to chlamydia, dehydration, and malnutrition.

Vaccines for chlamydia do exist but are not readily available. As a result, koalas that recover and are released remain vulnerable to reinfection. According to Dr Tim Portas, RSPCA Queensland’s wildlife veterinary director, limited access to chlamydia vaccines continues to hinder long-term rehabilitation efforts.

Ipswich koala — *Photo Credit: IpswichCityCouncil*

Development Impact and Fragmentation Concerns

Researchers and conservationists warn that fragmenting native bushland will isolate koala populations, increasing their exposure to vehicle strikes, dog attacks, and stress-related illness. Environmental assessments are being conducted on a case-by-case basis, with some experts arguing this piecemeal approach fails to account for the broader ecological impact.

University of Queensland researcher Dr Sean FitzGibbon has highlighted the cumulative effect of multiple developments in the same region, describing the scenario as a compounding threat to already stressed koala populations.

Local Conservation Efforts

Despite the challenges, targeted conservation programs in other parts of south-west Brisbane have shown signs of success. At the Pooh Corner Bushland Reserve in Wacol, young, displaced koalas have been used to re-establish a locally extinct population. The program, supported by BCC and research institutions, has already seen new generations of koalas born in the area.

koala habitat Ipswich — *Photo Credit: IpswichCityCouncil*

These initiatives demonstrate that with the right habitat conditions—namely access to food trees and environmental connectivity—koalas can recover and adapt. However, experts maintain that this success cannot offset the loss of larger, contiguous habitats like Woogaroo Forest.

Community Concerns and Next Steps

Local organisations such as the Ipswich Koala Protection Society have expressed concern that developments may isolate koalas and limit their long-term survival. There is growing sentiment that existing planning frameworks do not fully account for the ecological significance of the region.

Federal environmental authorities have confirmed that none of the four proposed developments have yet met the required documentation standards for full assessment. Until those assessments are complete, the future of Woogaroo Forest and its wildlife remains uncertain.

Published 31-May-2025

500 Nurses Sought for New Mater Hospital in Springfield Central

Photo Credit: Mater

Springfield Central is set to become a significant healthcare hub for the wider region with the upcoming opening of Mater Hospital Springfield. As the hospital prepares to open its doors, it is urgently seeking 500 nurses to help staff the brand-new public facility, which aims to treat over 200,000 patients yearly from Greater Springfield, Ipswich, Logan, and Greater Brisbane.

This nine-storey hospital, Mater’s first public hospital in 65 years since the opening of Mater Mothers’ Hospital in South Brisbane. The new Mater Hospital Springfield, funded by Queensland with Mater contributing the land, will be next to the existing Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

This development signifies a major boost to healthcare services in the rapidly growing Greater Springfield area, which includes the suburbs of Springfield Central, Springfield Lakes, Brookwater, Augustine Heights, Spring Mountain, and Springfield itself. Thirty per cent of the region is dedicated to green spaces.

Employment Opportunities in Healthcare

The establishment of Mater Hospital Springfield is expected to generate significant employment opportunities for the community. When fully operational, the facility will employ over 1,000 clinical and support staff. A statewide recruitment drive is underway to find 500 nurses to staff the new hospital. Ricki Dinh, a recent graduate of the Mater Private Hospital Springfield nursing program, hopes to work in the new hospital’s operating theatres.

She expressed her enjoyment of nursing, highlighting the friendly colleagues and the rewarding experience of helping patients recover. Kalimna Usher, another nursing colleague, believes that while nursing is rewarding, it requires important qualities such as compassion and empathy.

Enhanced Healthcare Services

Mater Hospital Springfield will offer the community a comprehensive range of medical services. The new facility will include an Emergency Department, an Intensive Care Unit, access to 10 operating theatres, and a full maternity service. Tilana Van Deventer, Director of Clinical Services at Mater Private Hospital Springfield, stated they have already received over 1000 expressions of interest from potential nursing recruits.

She emphasised the search for dedicated individuals to become Mater nurses and highlighted Springfield as a fantastic community to live and work in, making nursing a wonderful career choice.

Community Impact

The opening of Mater Hospital Springfield in Springfield Central is anticipated to impact the surrounding communities profoundly. Greater Springfield, Ipswich, Logan, and Greater Brisbane residents will benefit from reduced travel times and enhanced medical care by providing increased access to essential public healthcare services in a central location.

The significant investment in this facility underscores the region’s commitment to supporting the health and well-being of its growing population.

Updated 29-May-2025

Fatality Free Friday Comes to Orion Springfield Central for Safer Roads

Photo Credit: Australian Road Safety Foundation/Facebook

Every year, hundreds of Australians are killed in road crashes, and Orion Springfield Central is joining a national push to bring that number down to zero, if only for one day. The centre will host Fatality Free Friday on 30 May, a community safety event encouraging locals to commit to better choices behind the wheel.

A National Call for Safer Driving

Fatality Free Friday is led by the Australian Road Safety Foundation and is now in its 18th year. The campaign challenges drivers to think differently about how they act on the road. While the goal is to avoid any road deaths on a single day, organisers say the deeper aim is to create lasting change across every day of the year.

*Photo Credit: Australian Road Safety Foundation/Facebook*

In 2023, 1,273 people lost their lives on Australian roads. The campaign points to risky driving behaviours, known as the “Fatal Five”, as the most common cause of these crashes. These include speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, distraction, not wearing seatbelts, and fatigue.

Local Action at Orion Springfield Central

To support this message, Queensland Police and local emergency services will run a public event at Orion Springfield Central from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is designed for families, young drivers and community members to learn more about road safety.

Police and emergency services will be at the event with displays, safety tips, and real-world insights into crash risks. Attendees can take a pledge to drive responsibly, while the Crime Prevention Unit will offer advice on managing distractions, fatigue, and safer choices in a relaxed, community-focused setting.

Community Commitment

Organisers say the strength of Fatality Free Friday lies in community involvement. The event at Orion Springfield is one of many happening across the country, but local participation gives it meaning. Every pledge taken is a small step toward preventing future harm.

While road safety campaigns often target offenders, this one is different. It asks everyone, not just drivers, to think about the choices they make around traffic, whether they’re crossing the street, cycling, or even riding as a passenger. The aim is to build habits early and reinforce them often.

A Reminder That One Day Can Make a Difference

Fatality Free Friday may focus on a single day each year, but it sends a clear message: road safety is a shared responsibility. By encouraging people to reflect on their driving habits, events like this one hope to change attitudes and ultimately save lives.

The team at Orion Springfield Central hopes the community turns out, gets involved, and leaves with knowledge that could protect them or someone they love.

Published 23-May-2025

Brothers Charged in Springfield Lakes Domestic Violence Murder

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Two brothers have been charged with the domestic violence murder of a 23-year-old woman in Springfield Lakes, a tragic event that has deeply saddened the local community.

Khalilullah and Masihullah Habibi were arrested on Friday night, May 17, and subsequently charged in connection with the woman’s death. Emergency services were called to a home in the Ipswich area, south-west of Brisbane, around 8:00 p.m. on Friday following reports that a woman had collapsed. Police and paramedics found her unresponsive and were unable to revive her.

Court Proceedings Begin

domestic violence — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police*

The case was mentioned for the first time in Ipswich Magistrates Court on Monday morning, 20 May. During the brief hearing, a full brief of evidence was ordered, and the matter has been adjourned until next month. Both brothers remain in custody and will not be required to appear at the next court mention.

Community Impact and Background

The Queensland Police Service confirmed that the victim and the two men charged are all from Afghanistan and had only been living at the Springfield Lakes home for a short time.

Authorities are working with the Afghanistan consulate to locate the woman’s next of kin, who has since been identified and lives overseas. Investigators have contacted the next of kin and are liaising with federal agencies to make the necessary notifications.

Rita Anwari, a prominent community member who lives near where the incident occurred, stated that her heart was breaking, highlighting the victim’s young age.

Detective Inspector Michael Manago spoke on Saturday, 18 May, saying it was a “terribly tragic event” and extended thoughts to the woman’s family and friends. He also acknowledged the first responders who attended the scene and performed CPR in an attempt to revive her.

Published Date 22-May-2025

Commemorative Sign to Celebrate Jubilee Tree Planting at Opossum Creek Parklands

A new commemorative sign will soon be installed at Opossum Creek Parklands in Brookwater, marking the planting of 2,000 trees in honour of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. The sign will serve as a lasting reminder of the special occasion and the community effort behind the vibrant green space.

Read: Ash Barty Playground Serves Up Fun in Brookwater and Surrounds

The planting project was led by Springfield Lakes Nature Care, a local environmental group that was invited to apply for funding through an Expression of Interest process and successfully secured support. The trees have since flourished, transforming the parklands with increased greenery and habitat.

The sign, to be placed near the planting site, recognises both the Jubilee celebration and the dedication of the volunteers who helped bring the project to life. Springfield Lakes Nature Care regularly hosts monthly Bushcare days, encouraging residents to get involved with planting, weeding, and caring for the environment.

Local community leaders have praised the group’s ongoing commitment and the positive impact of the tree planting. The sign not only commemorates an important milestone but also invites visitors to appreciate the connection between the community and the natural world.

“Springfield Lakes Nature Care have made a notable difference to the Opossum Creek Parklands, not only by planting trees but by holding Bushcare Come and Try Days every month,” Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic said.

“I highly encourage residents to head down there and help out with weeding and planting and learn more about the environment that surrounds us.

Read: Community Rallies to Protect Wildlife in Woogaroo Forest

Residents are being invited to visit Opossum Creek Parklands, take in the thriving trees, and consider joining the group’s conservation efforts. The new sign stands as a symbol of growth—both of the landscape and the community spirit that nurtures it.

Published 20-May-2025

Farewell Held for Ipswich Inspector Jay Notaro Who Vanished in Surf

Photo Credit: Queensland Police/ Facebook

Hundreds of people gathered in Brisbane to honour Queensland Police Inspector Jay Notaro, a respected officer who served the Ipswich area and was last seen near Byron Bay.

The memorial service was held weeks after Inspector Notaro, who had just turned 45, disappeared in March, with his surfboard later found at Broken Head, just south of Byron.

An extensive air, sea, and land search was carried out by both New South Wales and Queensland police, alongside surf lifesavers, SES personnel, and volunteers, but he was not found. His disappearance was noted after he did not report for duty at the Ipswich police station.

A Family’s Heartbreak

Jay Notaro — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police Service Rugby League/ Facebook*

Inspector Notaro’s younger sister, Hayley Tunny, shared with those at the memorial that saying goodbye to her brother felt unreal and heartbreaking. She spoke about the strong bond she shared with Jay and their brother Troy, noting they were not just siblings but best friends who supported each other through life’s challenges and celebrated successes. Ms Tunny described their upbringing in a low-income household, mainly with their mother in housing commission.

She recalled Jay’s early love for rugby league, which often led to injuries, including a broken leg he unknowingly played on for weeks. This toughness stayed with him as he continued to play footy for many years, including police footy, and closely followed the NRL.

Ms Tunny expressed sadness that Jay, who was wonderful with children, never became a father. She also shared that her newborn son, Mars Jay Phoenix, was named after his uncle and that she would ensure her son learns about his “incredible uncle.”

Cherished Memories from Friends

Claire Campbell, a friend of Inspector Notaro, said he was “truly one in a trillion” and that her favourite memories involved laughter within her family. She mentioned that they knew him before he joined the police and that he never changed.

Ms Campbell shared a poignant story about their last conversation with Jay on his 45th birthday, which included laughing about a stolen car trailer and Jay’s positive response to videos of her sons playing touch football.

Wade Osborne, a friend since grade five, noted that Jay preferred not to have a fuss made but would have been proud of the many lives he touched. Mr Osborne described his friend as steady, loyal, and humble, someone you could always count on.

He fondly remembered their numerous surf trips to places like Fiji, WA, Moreton, DI, Yamba, and even a Sydney wave pool, and spoke of the banter and stories that made these trips special. Mr. Osborne stated that Jay leaves a void but also many years of laughter, stories, lessons, and love.

A Dedicated Police Career

Detective Sergeant Jason Orman, who met Inspector Notaro in the police academy, described him as the hardest worker among junior investigators. He noted that Jay would tease you directly but fiercely defend you when you weren’t present.

Sergeant Orman said Jay, who joined the service at 21, grew into his role, with his policing style and leadership skills evolving over 23 years of service to Queensland. He humorously recalled Jay’s promotion to detective sergeant in Moranbah in 2012, saying he was the only applicant. Sergeant Orman emphasised that Jay earned his stripes, including helping to solve a complex domestic violence homicide, and lived by the values of honesty, loyalty, and respect.

Acting Commissioner Shane Chelepy stated that Inspector Notaro served with integrity, professionalism, and pride. He detailed Jay’s career path, which saw him promoted to senior sergeant of the Gold Coast Water Police in 2018, then officer-in-charge of Coomera Police Station in 2022, and finally to inspector in 2024, working in the southern patrol group in the Ipswich District, which includes Springfield Lakes.

Inspector Notaro received numerous citations and medals throughout his career. Acting Commissioner Chelepy presented Jay’s parents, Deborah and Blair, with the Queensland Police Meritorious Service Medal, which recognises significant contributions over an extended period. He said Jay strived to be the ultimate professional, a man of humility and integrity.

Published Date 20-May-2025

Springfield E-scooter Crash Leaves Father Of Five In Coma

Photo Credit: Emily Potter/gofundme

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