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Bats and Biodiversity Take Centre Stage in Springfield Lakes

Springfield Lakes residents will soon be turning their eyes — and ears — to the skies as they participate in a unique evening event designed to spotlight the quiet lives of local bats and other nocturnal wildlife.

The Bat Detective Walk, organized by Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. (SLNC) and held on Wednesday, 17 April from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m., coincides with Bat Appreciation Day. The community event will take place around Regatta Lake and nearby conservation areas, offering participants a hands-on look at how bats are monitored and why they matter to the local ecosystem.

Shifting Public Perception about Bats

SLNC says bats are often misunderstood and commonly seen as pests or disease carriers. But in reality, bats are important in controlling insect populations and maintaining biodiversity. This event aims to educate the public while also collecting valuable data for ecological monitoring.

Before the walk begins, participants will get a brief introduction to bat species found in the Springfield Lakes area, along with the environmental threats they face. Organisers will also demonstrate how to use bat echodetectors, small handheld devices on loan from Titley Scientific, which are used to record high-frequency calls made by microbats that are usually beyond the range of human hearing.

*Photo Credit: Sharp Photography/Creative Commons 4.0*

A Walk with a Purpose

During the walk, small groups will move around the lake and through a nearby conservation reserve, using the detectors to identify bat calls. After sunset, a spotlight survey will be conducted to observe other nocturnal animals active in the area. All data collected, including bat call recordings, will be submitted to the iNaturalist platform, contributing to broader efforts to track and protect wildlife in the White Rock Spring Mountain Reserve.

At the end of the walk, the group will meet back at the BBQ shelter at Teenager Park, located at the corner of Waterside Drive and Lakeside Avenue, to review the audio recordings captured and discuss their findings. Light refreshments and cold drinks will be provided.

A Family-Friendly, Educational Outing

SLNC encourages families to attend and notes the event is suitable for all ages. Participants are asked to bring a smartphone, torch, and binoculars, and to wear closed-in shoes and clothing suitable for warding off mosquitoes. Parking is available off-street near the meeting point.

This event is part of SLNC’s ongoing efforts to engage the community in local conservation and biodiversity projects, offering everyday residents a chance to get involved in citizen science in a meaningful, hands-on way.

Published 15-April-2025

Ipswich Racetrack Under Fire After Greyhound Fatalities

Photo Credit: Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds

Two dogs have died and others have been injured at The Q in Ipswich during pre-opening trials, sparking concern from animal welfare groups over the new greyhound racing facility.

Fatal Incidents Overshadow Ipswich Greyhound Track Launch

The Q greyhound racing facility in Ipswich, developed to replace the previous track at the Ipswich Greyhound Racing Club, has drawn criticism after multiple greyhound injuries and deaths occurred before its official launch. The $86-million venue, which was promoted as a safer alternative with a focus on animal welfare, has seen two fatalities and one serious injury during pre-launch activity.

Background on The Q’s Development

The Q Ipswich — *Photo Credit: Racing Queensland*

The Q was built to take over operations from the Ipswich Greyhound Racing Club, a facility that recorded 41 greyhound deaths and over 2,500 injuries between 2020 and 2025. Of these, 453 were considered major injuries. The original track closed earlier this month, and The Q is scheduled to open officially in June during the Queensland Winter Greyhound Racing Carnival.

Pre-Opening Incidents and Response

In late March, two greyhounds sustained hock fractures during trial runs and were euthanised following veterinary consultations. A third greyhound, Fernando Dusty, was injured during the track’s soft launch on 4 April and received a 90-day stand-down order due to a similar injury.

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) confirmed the incidents and stated that trial events are not currently subject to the same reporting standards as formal races in other states. No additional measures have been announced in response to the safety concerns.

Community and Welfare Group Concerns in Ipswich

Animal welfare organisations, including AnimalKIND and the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds, have raised concerns regarding both the safety of the new facility and the broader greyhound racing industry. These groups criticised the continued public funding of greyhound racing, citing over $44 million in taxpayer money used in the construction of The Q.

Public submissions to the Queensland Racing Review 2025, which closed earlier this month, included calls for the closure of high-risk tracks, mandatory rehabilitation for injured dogs, and increased transparency in regulatory enforcement. The review will inform future decisions about the industry’s structure and animal welfare obligations.

Calls for Industry Reform

Welfare advocates have also pointed to issues such as overbreeding, lack of whole-of-life tracking, and continued euthanasia of dogs for behavioural reasons. Concerns were raised about QRIC’s handling of integrity matters, including inconsistent penalties and insufficient public reporting.

Greyhounds racing — *Photo Credit: Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds*

Figures cited in the Queensland Racing Review show that in 2024 alone, 1,865 greyhound injuries were recorded across the state, with Ipswich and Albion Park among the worst-affected tracks. Critics argue that these numbers reflect systemic issues that cannot be resolved through infrastructure upgrades alone.

Future of Greyhound Racing in Ipswich

While The Q prepares for its June opening, community scrutiny is likely to continue. Racing Queensland maintains that the introduction of the Race Meeting Injury Scheme has significantly reduced on-track euthanasia and that ongoing funding supports rehoming and welfare programs.

However, critics maintain that as other countries wind back greyhound racing, Queensland’s continued investment raises ethical and financial questions. The Queensland Racing Review is expected to provide further insight into the industry’s future later this year.

Published 12-Apr-2025

Brisbane Lions’ Springfield-led program connects AFLW players with schoolgirls

Photo Credit: Woodcrest State College/Facebook

In Springfield, a new digital program is linking professional women’s footballers with Queensland schoolgirls, giving thousands of teens the tools to build confidence, get active, and learn from AFLW role models, no matter where they live.

Springfield at the Heart of a Statewide Program

The Brisbane Lions’ AFLW team has launched “Inspire”, a digital program to boost teenage girls’ confidence and wellbeing through sport. Delivered via the new Lions Learning platform and backed by Playbk Sports and Queensland’s ActiveKIT, it’s being rolled out in schools statewide.

*Photo Credit: Woodcrest State College/Facebook*

Over 5,000 students are expected to use the platform this year, with content created at the Lions’ Springfield base, Brighton Homes Arena.

Local School Steps In as Program Pioneer

Woodcrest State College, located in Springfield, has officially partnered with the Brisbane Lions as a pilot school for the Inspire program. As an AFL School of Excellence, Woodcrest is among the first to integrate the curriculum into its learning environment.

Staff and students launched the program at Brighton Homes Arena with Sports Minister Tim Mander, Breeanna Brock, and Taylor Smith. The school hopes it will inspire and empower students in and beyond the classroom.

Making Role Models More Accessible

The Lions say Inspire aims to reach regional and remote communities, where girls have less access to role models and programs than in the city.

Bree Brock, Head of Women’s Football at the Lions, said the digital format helps close that gap. By combining online delivery with in-person sessions, the program ensures even the most remote schools can take part.

*Photo Credit: The Brisbane Bear/Facebook*

AFLW forward Taylor Smith, who also leads the Inspire initiative, says it’s important for young girls to hear from athletes who understand the challenges they face. She believes seeing real players talk about health and confidence helps make the message stick.

Building a Generation of Confident Young Women

Already, more than 135,000 girls across Queensland are involved in AFL through Auskick, school and club football. The Lions hope Inspire will support this growth by showing girls how sport can boost confidence—not just on the field but in everyday life.

Based in Springfield, the club blends elite football and education to help Queensland girls lead active, healthy, and confident lives.

Published 10-April-2025

Community Fun Run in Springfield Lakes Raises $27K Despite Cancellations

Photo Credit: Mater

A community-led fun run in Springfield Lakes raised $27,000 for breast cancer support services and research, despite repeated weather cancellations.

Weather Delays Cause Major Disruptions

The Springfield Community 5K Your Way International Women’s Day Fun Run, backed by Queensland X-Ray, was initially scheduled for early March at Brighton Homes Arena. The event was first postponed due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred and then cancelled after further rainfall rendered conditions unsafe by late March.

Smaller Gathering Maintains Momentum

Despite two formal cancellations, a group of 25 participants gathered at Brighton Homes Arena for an unofficial walk to mark the occasion and acknowledge the fundraising effort. The group included local officials Milton Dick and Shayne Neumann.

The event still achieved its target, raising $27,000 for Mater Chicks in Pink, supporting local services such as the Mater Cancer Care Centre in Springfield.

Women’s Day Fun Run — *Photo Credit: Bebold Properties/Facebook*

Fundraising Goals Exceeded Despite Setbacks

The original fundraising goal of $15,000 was surpassed by nearly $12,000. Contributions funded practical services, including mastectomy bras and counselling, and contributed to life-saving research. Organisers encouraged participants to complete the 5km walk individually, in their own communities.

Community Adapts with Flexibility

Locals engaged with the “5K Your Way” initiative after the event’s cancellation. Families such as breast cancer survivor Corinne’s walked together independently, highlighting how the community adapted to continue their involvement despite the disruption.

Springfield Lakes fun run — *Photo Credit: Bebold Properties/Facebook*

Support Remains Strong in Springfield Lakes

Support from residents, volunteers, and sponsors was acknowledged by the organising committee. In addition to those who attended in person, other city officials and community figures expressed their support remotely.

Future Planning Already Underway

Event organisers confirmed the Springfield fun run will return on 8 March 2026. Planning has already begun, with hopes to double this year’s fundraising result. A push for stronger weather contingency measures was also noted.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield Central Confirmed as 2032 Olympic Games Venue

Photo Credit: Brighton Homes Arena/ Facebook

Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield Central has been officially confirmed as a venue for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Although the allocation of specific sports to venues won’t happen until 2026, it is strongly considered a prime choice to host the modern pentathlon event.

Venue Role Reaffirmed

The confirmation came through the 100 Day Review Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Infrastructure report. This report solidified the arena’s existing place in the Games masterplan. The Brighton Homes Arena serves as the headquarters for the Brisbane Lions and is the home ground for the club’s women’s AFL team.

Brisbane’s role as a Games-ready venue has been consistently recognised since it secured the Games in July 2021. It formed part of the original bid and was supported through subsequent reviews.

Local Reaction and Funding Context

The city government also pointed out that Ipswich had missed out on receiving additional funding commitments as part of the substantial $7.1 billion funding allocated by the Australian and Queensland governments for the 2032 Games.

This was despite multiple submissions to the review and undertaking its advocacy work. Other growing council areas, such as Logan and Moreton Bay, had secured funding for indoor sporting facilities last year due to strong representation from their state and federal MPs.

Out of 77 councils in Queensland, only about a dozen were confirmed in this review to host a Games venue. Despite most councils missing out, it is generally viewed that Ipswich would have a “front row seat” to the major sporting and cultural event.

Stadium Details and Future Planning

The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) report identified Brighton Homes Arena in the 2021 Future Host Questionnaire submission as the planned venue for the modern pentathlon event, with a capacity for 10,000 spectators. GIICA assessed the stadium’s overall connectivity via rail, bus, active transport, and private vehicles as good.

However, the report indicated that bus shuttle services connecting to park ‘n’ ride facilities and transit hubs elsewhere in Brisbane would be needed to manage Games demand beyond Springfield Central Station’s capacity. Improvements to “last mile” connectivity—the final leg of the journey to the venue—were also identified as necessary.

GIICA mentioned receiving a few submissions specifically about Ipswich Stadium. One submission suggested developing a second field at the site. While potentially useful, allowing for extra power and water services installation that could benefit Games operations, GIICA concluded the second field is not required to run the Games competition at the venue.

The report also clarified that the Brisbane 2032 organisation is responsible for allocating specific sports to venues. This process will occur once the final sport programme is confirmed with the International Olympic Committee in 2026.

Boost for Local Sports Clubs

Separate from the venue confirmation, the recent announcement included good news for local grassroots sports. Four Ipswich sporting clubs were confirmed beneficiaries of the first Games On! grant funding round, sharing close to $2 million.

The funding includes $800,000 for the Ipswich District Junior Tennis Association for court surface improvements, $800,000 for the Rosewood showgrounds to upgrade floodlights, $150,000 for the Ipswich Musketeers Baseball Club for spectator seating, and $150,000 for the Norths Tigers Ipswich Senior Rugby League Football Club, also for spectator seating.

Mayor Teresa Harding highlighted sport’s critical role in building communities and promoting inclusion within the city. She remarked that as Ipswich’s population grows, so does the demand for local sports facilities. The Mayor described the nearly $2 million commitment as a massive boost for the clubs and the city. She concluded that while stadiums are important, the true “golden opportunity” from the 2032 Games is encouraging a generation of young people to become interested in health, activity, and sports participation.

Published Date 09-April-2025

Ten Ipswich Residents Share $2.5M Win

Ten lucky Ipswich shoppers are part-owners of a $2.5 million windfall after their syndicate entry, bought at Ipswich City Mall Newsagent, won division one.

The local syndicate, “Saturday Dreaming,” held one of just eight division one winning entries across Australia in Saturday Gold game number 4559. This win occurred on Saturday, 29 March 2025. Each ten-member group in the Ipswich syndicate received a share worth $250,000.84.

The winning numbers that secured the multi-million dollar sum were 36, 3, 17, 1, 21, and 41, while the supplementary numbers were 24 and 30.

Shares in the winning syndicate were all purchased from Ipswich City Mall Newsagent in the Ipswich City Mall shopping centre. Pauline Williamson, the owner of the newsagency, expressed her delight at the outlet selling its first division one winning entry. She noted that this significant win was a long time coming after owning the business for ten years.

Williamson shared that she came to work on her day off to celebrate the news with her staff. She described selling the winning syndicate shares to ten deserving local customers as a great honour and wished them all the best with their life-changing win, expressing hope that such wins might happen more often.

Officials are urging anyone who bought a syndicate share for the game to check if they are one of the winners. While syndicate members whose entries were registered to The Lott Members Club have likely been contacted, others may still be unaware of their win. The Lott spokesperson Matt Hart confirmed that several syndicate members held unregistered entries and might not know they are part of the winning group.

He strongly encouraged anyone who purchased a share in a store syndicate for that specific Saturday Gold game to check their ticket promptly. This can be done at a licensed outlet, through The Lott website, or via The Lott app. Anyone holding a winning share is advised to call The Lott directly on 131 868 to claim their winnings.

The Ipswich win was one of eight division one wins awarded nationally in game number 4559. Two winning entries were sold in Queensland, New South Wales, and Western Australia, with one each in Victoria and the ACT.

According to The Lott, this contributes to the organisation’s total of 354 division one wins across its jurisdictions in the current financial year (FY25). Golden Casket customers in Queensland account for 89 of these wins. Looking back at 2024, the Saturday Gold game created 149 millionaires throughout Australia, with 316 division one winning entries sharing more than $400.2 million in winnings.

Published Date 07-April-2025

Springfield Central Lions Base Secures Academy Graduates Brain and Gallop

Photo Credit: Lions

Brisbane Lions Academy graduates Shadeau Brain and Ty Gallop have secured their futures at the Club’s Springfield Central base, Brighton Homes Arena, by signing new contract extensions.

Contract Extensions Confirmed

The Brisbane Lions announced that Shadeau Brain and Ty Gallop agreed to one-year contract extensions. These updated deals ensure both players, who developed through the Youi Brisbane Lions Academy and the AFL Queensland talent pathway as Sunshine Coast locals, will remain based at the club’s Springfield Central facility until at least the end of 2027.

Lions General Manager Danny Daly indicated that securing the commitment of these two young players is a positive development for the club’s future. He conveyed the club’s eagerness to observe the continued progress of both players, highlighting the satisfaction derived from re-signing players, particularly local Queenslanders emerging from their academy system.

Shadeau Brain’s Progress

Brain, 21, joined the Lions’ list as a Category B Rookie selection from the Queensland Zone near the end of 2022. He gained senior experience last season, making his AFL debut in Round 9 and participating in nine matches. Initially identified as a 183-centimetre forward, Brain has adapted his game, moving to a half-back flank position in the VFL competition where his speed and ball use are notable strengths.

Daly commented on Brain’s consistent year-on-year improvement, which led to his AFL debut last season. He suggested that further rewards are likely if Brain maintains his work ethic. Brain said he believes he made considerable strides last year in AFL and VFL football. He affirmed his commitment to continued personal and professional growth, aiming for success with the Lions over the coming years.

Ty Gallop’s Potential

Gallop, a 19-year-old key forward standing 194 centimetres tall, was drafted by the Lions with Pick 42 in the 2024 AFL Draft. Although relatively new to the club, he positively impacted during his inaugural AFL pre-season with strong showings in practice games.

Daly identified Gallop as an exciting prospect for the Lions, noting his effective first pre-season with the senior squad. Gallop expressed his enthusiasm about extending his contract for another year. He voiced his appreciation for the opportunity provided by the club and his ambition to achieve significant milestones over the next three years while striving for selection in the senior AFL team.

Published Date 03-April-2025

Raising Awareness for Dysphonia in Augustine Heights

Photo Credit: Pexels

Augustine Heights resident Nichola MacNeil is using her voice—a voice she once lost—to raise awareness of a little-known yet life-changing condition: dysphonia, ahead of World Voice Day.

Local Advocate Shares Personal Struggle

Nichola MacNeil, a long-time resident of Augustine Heights, is drawing attention to World Voice Day, observed on 16 April. Ms MacNeil has been living with Spasmodic Dysphonia for five years.

While she was initially left unable to speak, Nichola has since regained a functional voice—though it still fluctuates and presents ongoing challenges. Despite this, she continues to be an active part of her community.

“There was a time I couldn’t even pronounce my own name,” Nichola shared. “I was unable to communicate with my three beautiful children, husband or friends. My business was falling apart as I was no longer able to speak.”

At her lowest point, Ms Macneil felt devastated and isolated due to the lack of available support. Since then, she has become an ambassador for the Australian Dysphonia Network (ADN). Ms Macneil advocates for greater recognition and support for those affected by voice disorders.

“At this present time I’m able to speak and have a functional voice (this fluctuates),” she said. “In the beginning I was left devastated, unable to speak. My mental health reached very low points—a place I never want to experience again.”

“I’ve been teaching free yoga for cancer for the last 12 years,” she said, “with an 18-month break when I couldn’t even pronounce my name. I also delivered Encore, a free eight-week program for women who have had breast cancer.”

The Impact of Chronic Voice Disorders

Dysphonia, including Spasmodic Dysphonia, can result from various causes such as laryngeal damage, underlying health conditions and neurological factors. The disorder affects approximately one in every 100,000 people in Australia and New Zealand. Dysphonia disrupts personal communication. It can lead to severe social and professional consequences. Individuals in voice-dependent occupations like teaching, sales, or performing are particularly affected.

Currently, there is no formal recognition of voice disorders as a disability in Australia. This gap means those unable to work or requiring time off to rest their voices receive little financial support. Advocates, including Ms MacNeil, argue that this needs to change. They highlight that the ability to communicate should be valued as highly as other fundamental senses.

World Voice Day Initiatives

Along with World Voice Day, the Australian Dysphonia Network promotes the “World Voice Day Walk.” The walk is part of its awareness campaign. The event encourages people to walk while discussing the importance of vocal health. There are no registration fees or distance requirements. Participants can join at their own pace throughout April.

Dysphonia awareness walk — *Photo Credit: ADN/Facebook*

JOIN THE WVD WALK

The ADN also plans to illuminate notable landmarks in its “Light Up” campaign. This initiative will bring attention to the challenges those with chronic voice disorders face. Individuals can also contribute by setting up fundraising pages and direct donations to support ongoing advocacy efforts.

Community Involvement and Support

Ms MacNeil has remained active in her community despite her struggles. She has taught cancer survivors free yoga classes for over a decade. She has also been involved in the “Encore” program. Through the program, Ms Macneil offers support to women recovering from breast cancer.

Ms MacNeil urges the Augustine Heights community to support World Voice Day. Locals can help amplify the message that voice disorders deserve greater recognition and support by sharing stories and joining the walk.

Published 3-Apr-2025

High-Ranking Ipswich Detective Missing After Byron Bay Surf Trip

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

The search for the missing Detective Inspector Jay Notaro, who currently serves at Ipswich Police Station, has intensified following his disappearance on March 25 near Byron Bay. Inspector Notaro failed to report for duty at the Ipswich station, triggering immediate concern from colleagues and family.

Inspector Notaro was recently transferred to Ipswich after being promoted to Inspector. Prior to his Ipswich posting, he served in various roles, including officer in charge of the Gold Coast water police and Coomera police station.

Queensland Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy described Inspector Notaro as a “highly valued colleague and friend to many in the service,” highlighting the officer’s importance to the Ipswich police community. The Queensland Police Service has expressed extreme concern for the welfare of their Ipswich-based member.

Inspector Notaro’s disappearance is particularly perplexing given his extensive experience. Before his assignment to Ipswich, he headed the Gold Coast Water Police, making him exceptionally qualified in water safety and rescue operations.

The respected Ipswich detective had built an impressive career since joining Queensland Police in Townsville in 2003. He quickly rose through the ranks as a homicide investigator and was instrumental in solving major cases, including the bikie-linked slaying of Gold Coast victim Greg Dufty, for which he received a ‘compassion in policing’ award.

Cross-Border Commissioner Ian Leavers emphasised Inspector Notaro’s value to the Ipswich station and broader police community, stating: “Jay is one of the most competent and capable coppers I know, who has a great future in the police.”

Despite the official multi-agency search being suspended on Friday due to rough weather conditions, local Byron Bay police and Polair renewed search efforts on Monday, March 31, focusing on North Seven Mile Beach area with drone assistance.

Inspector Notaro’s family and the Ipswich police community continue to hold out hope for his safe return as the search enters its second week.

Published 1-April-2025

Facebook Marketplace Thief Arrested After Ipswich Police Chase

An alleged serial Facebook Marketplace thief has been arrested in Springfield Central after leading Ipswich police on a dramatic foot chase.

Nicholas Joseph Davis, 37, was intercepted by police officers outside a Bunnings in Springfield Central about 11:40am on Monday, ending what authorities claim was a pattern of vehicle thefts across the region.

Officers from the Ipswich district discovered an allegedly stolen white Toyota Hiace van in a Springfield Central carpark and waited for the suspect to return. When Davis noticed police, he allegedly attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended following a chase across busy roads.

The arrest follows two separate incidents where Davis allegedly stole vehicles from Facebook Marketplace sellers. In the most recent case, police allege Davis stole a 2019 Toyota Hiace valued at $28,000 from Slacks Creek on March 30 after arranging to test drive the vehicle.

Two weeks prior, Davis allegedly used the same tactic to steal a 2012 Piaggio Zip 50 scooter valued at $3,000 from an Ipswich resident, Kaz Miyazaki. After taking the scooter for a “test ride,” Davis never returned, later texting the seller with claims of an injury and promises of payment that never materialised.

During Monday’s arrest in Springfield Central, police allegedly discovered stolen number plates, war medals, power tools, and a machete inside the van. The vehicle has been taken for forensic examination by Ipswich district police.

Davis faces five counts of enter premises and commit, and two counts each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing. He is scheduled to appear before Ipswich Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

The case has prompted local police to urge Ipswich residents to take precautions when selling items through online marketplaces, including meeting in public places and verifying buyers’ identities.

Published 1-April-2025