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Mater Hospital Springfield Breaks Ground on Public Health Facility

Construction is well underway on a new public hospital in Springfield, under a public-private partnership that will provide world-class maternity and paediatric services to local families. Once complete, the new public facility will be integrated with the existing Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

Read: New Mater Public Hospital in Springfield: A Boost for Healthcare and Real Estate

The facility, scheduled to open its doors in 2026, represents a significant advancement in healthcare infrastructure for the rapidly growing Western Corridor community.

Aerial view of construction at Mater Hospital Springfield (Photo credit: Mater/Facebook)

The hospital is the result of a partnership between Mater and Queensland to expand healthcare services in the region. Once complete, the new public facility will be integrated with the existing Mater Private Hospital Springfield (MPHS), providing a combined total of 228 beds.

Key Features

The new hospital will feature an Emergency Department, an Intensive Care Unit, and a range of specialist services. Its maternity services will include six birthing suites, two birthing pools, 16 special care neonatal cots, and a Pregnancy Assessment Centre.

The new paediatrics unit, expected to open alongside the main hospital in 2026, is projected to handle approximately 2,500 inpatient admissions annually. It will offer acute care for various conditions including chest infections, pneumonia, asthma, epilepsy, croup, and jaundice.

“The new hospital will be part of the nation-leading Mater Mothers’ hospital network – Australia’s largest provider of maternity services, transforming healthcare services for families in the region,” said Suzanne Hawksley, General Manager of MPHS, highlighting the significance of the project.

This development represents a significant step forward in meeting the healthcare needs of the growing South East Queensland population. The 288 new beds are expected to play a crucial role in addressing the increasing demand for quality healthcare services in the area.

Read: Digging for Truth: How the Goodna Cemetery is Central to the Wolston Park Mental Hospital Inquiry

As construction progresses, local residents eagerly anticipate the enhanced medical care and services that will soon be available in their community. The new hospital is set to become a vital asset, ensuring that families in Greater Springfield have access to top-tier healthcare facilities right on their doorstep.

Published 1-October-2024

Swanbank Toasts Success as Giant Drinks Factory Commences Production

Photo Credit: MayorTeresaHarding/ Facebook

Swanbank is celebrating a major economic boost as Suntory’s new $400-million beverage manufacturing facility begins operations.

Ipswich — *Photo Credit:* *MayorTeresaHarding/ Facebook*

The factory is now producing well-known brands such as V Energy, marking a significant step in the Japanese drinks giant’s expansion plans.

This launch coincides with Suntory’s upcoming $3 billion partnership, Suntory Oceania, set to debut in mid-2025. The expansive 17-hectare site will act as the central manufacturing and distribution hub for the company’s diverse range of over 40 market-leading brands.

Equipped with a high-speed glass line and two canning lines capable of filling an impressive 180,000 cans per hour, the facility is a testament to Suntory’s commitment to innovation and efficiency. The site also boasts a massive storage capacity of over 50,000 pallets, ensuring a steady supply of products to meet consumer demand.

Australia’s top-selling energy drink, V Energy, was the first product to roll off the production line. By mid-2025, the facility will manufacture Suntory’s ready-to-drink alcohol brands, including -196, Canadian Club and Dry, and Jim Beam and Cola.

Darren Fullerton, Chief Executive of Suntory Beverage and Food Oceania, emphasised the significance of this investment, stating that it represents Australia’s largest FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) investment in the past decade. The facility has also generated 160 permanent jobs, contributing to the local economy.

Mark Hill, Managing Director of Suntory Global Spirits Oceania, highlighted the Queensland facility’s strategic importance within Suntory’s global production network.

He stated that it will enhance the company’s ability to deliver its products efficiently and effectively, complementing existing distilleries and bottling sites in North America, Europe, and Japan.

Published Date 26-September-2024

Odour Relief on the Horizon for Brookwater as Recycling Facility Ordered to Upgrade

Ipswich residents may soon experience relief from persistent odour issues that have affected the Brookwater area for the past two years.

Read: Ipswich Residents Near Swanbank Industrial Area Asked to Report Odour Issues

NuGrow, a local recycling company, has been ordered by the Planning and Environment Court to implement significant changes to its waste processing operations.

The court’s decision comes after prolonged discussions between NuGrow, environmental regulators, and community representatives. The ruling outlines a comprehensive four-year plan aimed at addressing odour concerns while maintaining the facility’s important role in waste management.

Under the court order, NuGrow must complete several stages of improvements. Within the first month, the company is required to implement immediate odour reduction measures, including the use of chemicals to neutralise smells from liquid waste tanks and improved monitoring of composting conditions. They must also apply for necessary approvals to construct an engineered membrane system for containing odorous materials.

Over the next two years, NuGrow is tasked with installing a state-of-the-art enclosed composting system designed to minimise odour emissions. The entire upgrade process must be completed within four years to ensure compliance with strict regulations for processing waste near residential areas.

The Environment Department has stated that these measures are designed to provide the quickest possible relief for affected residents while allowing for the development of long-term solutions.

Brad Wirth, executive director for industry development and South East compliance at the Environment Department, commented on the decision. He acknowledged that while the process had been lengthy, the department views the court ruling as a positive step.

“The stronger composting regulations that were introduced last month gave us the extra ammunition we needed to be able to secure this outcome, putting an end to months of litigation which had no guarantee of delivering this same level of benefit to community, or within these same timeframes, had it gone to a full hearing in the Court,” Mr Wirth stated.

“This is good progress but we aren’t done yet, and we will continue to pursue opportunities to improve the Ipswich community’s experience with local waste operators.”

Read: New Regulations Target Odour Issues at Swanbank and New Chum

Local residents are encouraged to stay informed about the progress of these upgrades. The Brookwater community will likely see gradual improvements in air quality as NuGrow implements the required changes over the coming months and years.

Published 26-September-2024

Comedy Star Stephen K Amos to Perform at Newly Renovated Springlake Hotel

Internationally acclaimed comedian Stephen K Amos is bringing his hilarious new show “Oxymoron” to the recently renovated Springlake Hotel, scheduled for Wednesday, November 6th at 7:30 PM.

The BAFTA-nominated and RTS award-winning comedian, fresh from his stint on “I’m A Celebrity Australia,” will be gracing the stage of the Springlake Hotel, which reopened late last year after undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. The venue, now boasting a focus on entertainment and casual dining, provides an ideal setting for Amos’s comedic talents.

This event is part of a larger comedy initiative bringing top-tier talent to Queensland pubs. While Amos will be performing at two other Brisbane venues, the Springlake Hotel show offers a unique opportunity for Springfield Lakes locals to enjoy world-class comedy in their own backyard.

Tickets for the show are priced at $44.90, and given Amos’s popularity, early booking is strongly advised. The intimate setting of the pub promises an up-close and personal experience with one of the UK’s most celebrated comedians.

get your tickets here!

As the comedy scene in Queensland pubs heats up this spring, the Springlake Hotel’s hosting of Stephen K Amos stands out as a must-see event for comedy enthusiasts in Springfield Lakes.

Published 25-September-2024

New Traineeship Program Offers Ipswich Youth Pathway to Construction Careers

Photo Credit: Ministerial Media Statements

A new traineeship program aims to provide 15 young Ipswich locals with an opportunity to start careers in the construction industry while contributing to state housing projects.

The Housing Construction Traineeship Fund, part of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, will offer full-time paid traineeships. Participants will work towards obtaining a Certificate I in Construction and a White Card, essential qualifications for entering the construction workforce.

Min for Employment and Small Business, Lance McCallum, stated, “These traineeships are more than just a job on our Big Build, they’re a lifeline for Queenslanders who need it most.”

He added, “Everyone deserves a fair go, and these sponsored traineeships open the door for vulnerable Ipswich locals to get their first start on the tools and take charge of their futures.”

The trainees will be employed by Challenge Employment & Training, a local community organisation, in partnership with QBuild. Their work will involve maintaining community facilities and social housing buildings in Ipswich and surrounding areas.

Richard Lindner, CEO of Challenge Employment & Training, said, “This initiative not only equips our trainees with valuable new skills and opportunities, but also strengthens the local workforce by addressing critical construction needs.”

The program aligns with the Miles Government’s Homes for Queenslanders plan, which aims to deliver one million more homes, including 53,500 social homes. Currently, over $1 billion in social housing projects are either under construction or contracted as part of this initiative.

The traineeship program is expected to play a role in bolstering the residential construction workforce, supporting the targets set under the Homes for Queenslanders Plan.

As Ipswich continues to grow, this initiative may help develop a skilled local workforce capable of meeting the region’s construction demands.

Published 20-September-2024

New Mater Public Hospital in Springfield: A Boost for Healthcare and Real Estate

Photo Credit: Mater

Construction on the highly anticipated Springfield Mater Public Hospital is progressing steadily, bringing the Greater Springfield region closer to enhanced healthcare services and potential real estate growth.

*Photo Credit:* *MPCharisMullen/ Facebook*

The nine-level, 38,000 square-metre facility, set to open in phases starting in early 2026, is poised to be a landmark in sustainable architecture, aiming for a Green Star Rating with its energy-efficient design and state-of-the-art central energy plant.

The hospital’s 174 additional beds will significantly expand healthcare capacity in the area, and its inclusion of Australia’s largest maternity service with a Pregnancy Assessment Centre and six modern birthing suites underscores its commitment to comprehensive care.

This state-of-the-art facility, including two birthing suites with mood lighting and Bluetooth-enabled birthing baths, will offer Springfield residents top-tier maternity care close to home.

For landlords and investors, the Mater Public Hospital represents a significant milestone in Springfield’s growth. Enhanced healthcare infrastructure attracts new residents, bolstering property values and rental demand. With the hospital’s focus on family-centric services like the maternity ward, Springfield’s appeal to families and professionals is set to increase further.

Springfield’s rapid development, which is evident in initiatives like the Mater Public Hospital, is reshaping its real estate market and providing investors with exciting opportunities. The influx of new residents seeking proximity to modern medical services is expected to drive long-term growth and stability in the area.

Springfield is poised to become an even more desirable destination as the hospital’s opening approaches, enhancing its community appeal and real estate potential. Industry experts advise prospective investors and current property owners to stay informed about the hospital’s progress and other developments in the Greater Springfield area.

With its expanding healthcare infrastructure and focus on sustainable growth, Springfield is set to be a key player in the region’s future.

Published Date 18-September-2024

Lions vs Bulldogs: Brisbane Host Footscray in Mid-Week Clash

The Brisbane Lions are gearing up for a crucial mid-week match against the Western Bulldogs this Wednesday, 18 September. Lions vs Bulldogs kick off 7:15 p.m. at the Brighton Homes Arena.

Coming off a dominant 52-point victory over Collingwood, the Lions are looking to maintain their momentum and secure their third consecutive win.

Read: Underdog Taymon Kenton-Smith Captures Hearts, Finishes in Fourth in Para Archery

Building on recent success

The Lions’ recent form has been impressive, with last week’s comprehensive 52-point victory over Collingwood showcasing the team’s highest capabilities.

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Standout performances from Sophie Conway, Belle Dawes, and Taylor Smith contributed to the weekend trouncing and will be crucial in the mid-week match against the Bulldogs.

Lions vs Bulldogs

In an exciting development, the Lions have confirmed that Evie Long will make her AFLW debut against Footscray. Long, a product of the Lions Academy, becomes the second draftee to debut for the club this season, following Sophie Peters.

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As the Lions enter a demanding period of three games in ten days, including a trip to Perth to face the West Coast Eagles, the coaching staff has made the decision to manage Shannon Campbell’s workload.

This strategic move highlights the team’s focus on long-term performance during this condensed fixture, reflecting their faith in the squad’s depth to compensate for any short-term setbacks.

Head coach Craig Starcevich and his team will be aiming to replicate the flair and joy that characterised their 2023 premiership-winning season. With a current record of two wins and one loss, the Lions have an opportunity to solidify their position in the league with another strong performance.

Read: Augustine Heights to Welcome $60 Million Townhouse Development

As Brisbane prepares to face the Western Bulldogs, fans can expect an exciting contest that will test the defending premier’s ability to maintain their winning ways in the face of a challenging schedule.

Published 17-September-2024

Lions vs Magpies: Brisbane Look to Reclaim Dominance Against Collingwood in AFLW Clash

Reigning AFLW premiers, the Brisbane Lions, will take on the all-too-familiar Collingwood Magpies this Friday, 13 September. Both teams are eager to assert dominance early in the season, with the Lions aiming to maintain their strong record against the Magpies. Lions vs Magpies kick off 5:05 p.m. at the Brighton Homes Arena.

Read: Underdog Taymon Kenton-Smith Captures Hearts, Finishes in Fourth in Para Archery

Lions vs Magpies

Brisbane holds a 6-4 advantage in their head-to-head record against Collingwood, having won five of their last six encounters. The Lions’ recent dominance over the Magpies began with a narrow 3-point victory at Whitten Oval in 2021, a pivotal moment in their premiership-winning campaign.

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This match marks the tenth time Brisbane has hosted Collingwood, a league record for home games against a single opponent. Curiously, these ten matches have been played across eight different grounds in six cities, reflecting the Lions’ nomadic existence in recent seasons.

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Brighton Homes Arena is the only venue where Brisbane has yet to defeat Collingwood, adding extra motivation for the Lions to secure their first victory on this revamped home turf.

As Brisbane prepares to face Collingwood, their defensive pressure and ability to force turnovers will be key to securing a win. If the Lions can maintain their intensity in the forward half, they stand a strong chance of limiting Collingwood’s scoring opportunities.

Read: Augustine Heights to Welcome $60 Million Townhouse Development

The Lions look to capitalise on their home ground advantage and build on last week’s success in this clash against Collingwood, another exciting chapter in their growing rivalry.

Published 12-September-2024

Augustine Heights to Welcome $60 Million Townhouse Development

Photo Credit: DA A446008

Ipswich’s Augustine Heights suburb is set for a significant boost. Developer Azure has received the green light for a 74-home townhouse project valued at an estimated $60 million.

The Augusta Parkway project, located at 7001 Augusta Parkway, will span a 15,010-square-metre site. The development will offer a mix of three- and four-bedroom townhouses, complemented by communal amenities, including a wet-edge pool and a children’s pool.

Strategically positioned, Augusta Parkway is conveniently located in proximity to key amenities.

Augustine Heights — *Photo Credit:* *DA A446008*

It’s about 5km from the Springfield Central train station, 4km from Orion Springfield Central Shopping Centre, and 6.5km from Springfield Fair Shopping Centre.

Educational institutions such as St Augustine’s College and Augusta State School are also approximately 1.5km and 3km from the site.

This exciting project will commence in the first quarter of the upcoming year.

Published Date 10-September-2024

Underdog Taymon Kenton-Smith Captures Hearts, Finishes in Fourth in Para Archery

Although he finished fourth in the recurve open competition, Springfield Lakes para archer Taymon Kenton-Smith emerged as an unexpected star in Paris 2024. Kenton-Smith captured attention with his vibrant persona, colourful hairstyle, and impressive performances against top-ranked opponents, quickly becoming a crowd favourite.

Read: From Promise to Paralympics: Taymon Kenton-Smith Aims for Glory Beyond Paris

Taymon Kenton-Smith, giant-killer

Ranked 21st in the world, Kenton-Smith showcased his remarkable skill by defeating several higher-ranked competitors. He eliminated world No. 1 Samuel Molina of Mexico and overcame world No. 4 and No. 7 ranked archers, advancing to the semi-finals before finishing fourth.

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“I didn’t just go up against the best in the world. I beat them,” Kenton-Smith proudly declared after running a tough gauntlet.

A colourful personality

While Kenton-Smith’s performances on the field were awe-inspiring, his presence off the field was equally striking. At the historic Esplanade des Invalides venue, he stood out with his green and gold hair, a bucket hat adorned with a wedge-tailed eagle feather, and a stuffed kangaroo by his side.

Between rounds, he energised the crowd, dancing to the venue’s music and encouraging audience participation, which quickly endeared him to spectators.

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Kenton-Smith’s journey has always been about more than just competition. At 14, he promised his grandmother she would one day see him compete in the Paralympics. Although she passed away before his debut in Tokyo, her memory continues to motivate him.

“That promise was what drove me [there],” Taymon reflected.

Read: L’Oréal Opens First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

After his individual event, Kenton-Smith participated in the mixed team event with teammate Amanda Jennings, where they secured a ninth-place finish.

Despite missing out on a medal, Kenton-Smith remains upbeat. “I came here to win and I won the crowd, so that’s definitely something. I will never be forgotten, I’m pretty sure about that.”

Published 08-September-2024