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Industrial Action Threatens Waste Collection for Thousands in Ipswich

Residents in eight Ipswich suburbs are being urged to prepare for disruptions to waste collection following an industrial action by workers.

Read: Ipswich and other Suburbs Swelters as Thousands Lose Power in Weekend Heatwave

Rallies were held last week by the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and Australian Workers Union (AWU) outside the Riverview resource recovery centre and Ipswich City Council’s administration building in the Nicholas Street precinct.

Photo credit: Transport Workers Union – Queensland/Facebook

The strike saw 30,000 rubbish bins not collected in Springfield, Springfield Lakes, Springfield Central, Camira, Gailes, Spring Mountain, Brookwater, and White Rock last Friday, December 13.

Call for Fair Pay and Conditions

The unions are calling for a six per cent pay rise in the first year, followed by five per cent in the second year and four per cent in the third year, along with higher superannuation contributions.

“These workers carry out critical work for the community day in, day out. It’s time the Council offers a fair pay deal, so these garbos and Council staff can support their families and retire with dignity,” TWU Queensland explained.

The dispute isn’t limited to bin collection services; it is also expected to impact other council operations, including road maintenance, parks and gardens, cleaning, and mechanical services.

In response, Ipswich City Council said that the unions’ initial demand of a 15 per cent wage increase over three years, along with higher superannuation contributions, would place considerable strain on the council’s budget. The council stated that despite months of negotiations, the unions have not been willing to adjust their position.

Measures Introduced to Ease Disruptions

Photo credit: Ipswich City Council/Facebook

Council Acting Chief Executive Officer Matt Smith said the industrial action is likely to cause significant disruption to residents whose bins are scheduled for collection on Friday.

“This protected industrial action being taken by union members within council’s resource recovery division now means residents in eight suburbs may not have their rubbish bins collected on Friday,” Mr Smith said.

“For residents whose bins are normally collected on Friday morning, we ask they put their bins on the kerb as normal. If their bins are not collected today, we ask they bring their bins back in at the end of the day.”

To help residents manage their waste, council will waive disposal fees at the Riverview and Rosewood resource recovery centres. The free service will be available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for residents in the affected suburbs, with up to 80kg of general waste allowed. Proof of address, such as a driver’s licence, will be required.

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

Council will also prioritise collections for essential services. “Council is working to prioritise a limited collection service for medical facilities and residents with medical collections,” Mr Smith added.

While council negotiates with unions to resolve the dispute, residents are encouraged to stay informed through Council’s website or by contacting council’s customer service team at 07 3810 6666 for their waste collection concerns.

Published 17-December-2024

Springfield Lakes Drivers to Benefit from New Turning Lanes and Roadside Improvements

Springfield Lakes residents and other motorists will benefit from major safety improvements recently completed along a 14-kilometre stretch of the Brisbane Valley Highway.

The upgrades, which focus on the section between the Warrego Highway and Fernvale, are designed to reduce the risk of head-on and run-off-road crashes.

The Queensland Government fully funded the $14.4 million project through its Targeted Road Safety Program. This investment addressed the recent increase in serious accidents on this busy route.

Improving Safety for All Road Users

Springfield Lakes — *Photo Credit:* *QLD Government*

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) oversaw the project, which included a range of safety enhancements. One of the key changes is the introduction of a “wide centre-line treatment”. This means the space between lanes of oncoming traffic has been increased, giving drivers more room for error and reducing the chance of head-on collisions.

To improve safety further, dedicated right and left-turn lanes have been added at key intersections, including Ironbark Road, Borallon Station Road, and Glamorgan Vale Road. These lanes help control traffic flow and make it easier for drivers to turn safely without disrupting other vehicles.

Reducing Roadside Hazards

The project also focused on removing potential hazards along the roadside. This involved clearing vegetation and installing guardrails to protect vehicles from leaving the road. Minor improvements were also made to the bus stop at James Street, and a new police enforcement bay was constructed south of Glamorgan Vale Road to assist the Queensland Police Service in monitoring the highway.

Project Delivered in Stages

The safety upgrades were completed in two stages. The first section, a 5.5-kilometre stretch between Bayley Road and Sandy Creek, is finished. Final sealing works on this section will be done in late 2023 when the warmer weather provides optimal conditions. The second package of work, covering the remaining distance between Sandy Creek and Fernvale, is currently underway and expected to be finished by late 2024.

Scott Whitaker, North Coast Regional Director for the Department of Transport and Main Roads, highlighted the importance of these upgrades. He explained that the wide centre-line treatment is a proven method for reducing head-on collisions, significantly improving safety for the more than 10,000 motorists who use this section of the Brisbane Valley Highway daily.

Published Date 16-December-2024

Ipswich and other Suburbs Swelters as Thousands Lose Power in Weekend Heatwave

A widespread power outage on Sunday evening plunged over 25,000 homes in Ipswich, Ripley, Raceview, and Camira into darkness, raising concerns about the resilience of southeast Queensland’s electricity grid as the region braces for a scorching summer.

The outage, which struck at the peak of a heatwave that saw temperatures climb to a sweltering 30°C, left residents without power for several hours. It disrupted Christmas gatherings and raised fears of a repeat of last year’s Christmas blackouts.

Energex confirmed that the surge in demand, driven by residents seeking relief from the heat with air conditioners and fans, overwhelmed parts of the network. While sufficient power was available in the system overall, the prolonged high temperatures and energy use caused localised strain, triggering protective mechanisms that shut down sections of the grid to prevent equipment damage.

Ipswich bore the brunt of the outages, with suburbs like Ripley, Camira, Collingwood Park, and Redbank Plains experiencing the most prolonged disruptions. Power was largely restored by 10:00 p.m., but some residents, particularly in Ripley, reported ongoing issues with their electricity supply and internet connectivity well into Monday morning.

The situation has sparked a debate about the capacity of the region’s electricity infrastructure to cope with the increasing demands of hot summers. Veteran Ipswich councillor Paul Tully criticised Energex’s handling of the situation, labelling the blackout “one of the worst in decades” and raising concerns about the lack of warning and information provided to residents. He also highlighted the potential for damage to household appliances caused by the power fluctuations.

Michelle Farquhar, Queensland head of the Australian Industry Group, stressed the need for a thorough investigation to prevent similar occurrences over Christmas. She emphasised the importance of understanding the grid’s readiness for future heat waves, especially in light of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

Residents took to social media to share their experiences, expressing frustration, resilience, and humour. While some lamented the inconvenience and disruption to their Christmas plans, others praised the efforts of Energex crews working in challenging conditions to restore power. Many residents also shared stories of community spirit, with offers of assistance and shared meals among neighbours.

This incident has reignited concerns about the adequacy of southeast Queensland’s ageing electricity infrastructure and its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Energy experts have warned of the potential risks associated with brownouts, including damage to household appliances and disruptions to essential services. With the peak of summer still to come, questions linger about the grid’s ability to meet the rising demand and whether necessary upgrades have been adequately addressed.

Published Date 12-December-2024

History in the Making: Gout Gout and Ipswich Grammar

A star rises from Ipswich Grammar—faster than anyone could have imagined. Sixteen-year-old sprinter Gout Gout has made waves once more, both nationally and internationally.

His record-breaking performances in the All-Schools Athletics Championships have electrified the school, the community, and sports enthusiasts across the country.

Read: Springfield Lakes Sees Baby Boom as Birth Rates Surge and Families Flock In

A star is born

Born to South Sudanese parents, Monica and Bona, who moved to Australia in 2006, Gout has quickly become a name synonymous with speed and determination. From training at local Brisbane tracks to capturing national headlines, his journey has been meteoric. At just 16, Gout is not only breaking records but also proving that Ipswich Grammar is home to Australia’s next great athletic talent.

Gout shatters records in the All-Schools Athletics Championships

SORRY WHAT?!👂 10.04? 👀

Teenage sensation Gout Gout gets the crowd roaring with a spectacular though windy 10.04 (+3.4) performance in his U18 100m Heat – the fourth fastest time in all conditions by an Australian in history.

Stay tuned for the final at 3:40pm AEST. Tune in… pic.twitter.com/UbXfzH5mj6
— Athletics Australia (@AthsAust) December 6, 2024

Gout’s rise reached new heights at the national All-Schools Athletics Championships in Queensland. Representing Ipswich Grammar, he ran an astonishing 10.04 seconds in the 100m heat. Though an illegal tailwind rendered the time unofficial, it signalled his raw potential. Gout didn’t disappoint in the final, clocking a legal 10.17 seconds—securing his place as one of the fastest under-18 sprinters in history.

The highlight of the championship, however, came in the 200m event. The teenage sensation smashed Peter Norman’s 56-year-old national record with a blistering time of 20.04 seconds. Norman’s record, set at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, had stood as an untouchable benchmark for generations. Gout’s historic run cemented his status as Australia’s most exciting young sprinter.

GOUT OF THIS WORLD 🌏🌏

In 20.04-seconds, 16-year-old Gout Gout has sprinted into athletics history as Australia's fastest ever man over 200m, taking down Peter Norman’s Australian record of 20.06 from the 1968 Olympic Games.

20.04 (+1.5). The oldest record in the books is… pic.twitter.com/wVpPSebbAp
— Athletics Australia (@AthsAust) December 7, 2024

For the Queenslander, the records are just the beginning. With ambitions to train with world-class sprinters like Noah Lyles under the guidance of coach Lance Brauman, he has his sights set on the global stage.

Gout credits much of his success to his coach, Diane Sheppard, who has been his mentor since he was discovered at Ipswich Grammar in Year 7. “She basically told me I could be great, and that was the first time anyone ever told me something like that,” he explained. “It’s been a fantastic relationship with Di since.”

About to turn 17 this December, his achievements aren’t just remarkable for his age—they’re globally competitive. His time of 20.04 seconds in the 200m makes him the second-fastest under-18 sprinter in history, trailing only U.S. star Erriyon Knighton. Beyond his lightning speed, his humility and dedication make him a role model for young athletes at Ipswich Grammar and beyond.

Read: Who is Gout Gout? Ipswich Grammar Teen Sprinter Takes Internet by Storm

“I’ve been chasing this national record for a while now,” Gout shared after his historic run. “In the heat, I thought I got it, but it was a crazy tailwind, so I just did the same thing and got the job done.”

“These are adult times and me, just a kid—I’m running them,” he said. “It’s going to be a great future for sure.”

Published 12-December-2024

Springfield Lakes Sees Baby Boom as Birth Rates Surge and Families Flock In

Springfield Lakes has emerged as one of Queensland’s top “Nappy Valleys,” with its high birth rate and significant proportion of young children and an overall population that is estimated to expand by 49,000 between 2021 and 2046.

Read: The Best Places To Go To in Springfield Lakes With Your Kids

According to an analysis by KPMG using 2023 Australian Bureau of Statistics data on births and deaths, the birth rate in Springfield Lakes increased by an impressive 4.5 percent in the last year, solidifying its position as a hub for young families.

The suburb’s population, as of 30 June 2023, was estimated at 27,149—a year-on-year growth of 4.5 percent, outpacing the 3.51 percent growth rate of the broader City of Ipswich.

A Growing Community

Grande Park, Springfield (Photo credit: Sara Cartwright/Google Maps)

Substantial future growth has been projected for Springfield Lakes, with a population that has been estimated to expand by 49,000 between 2021 and 2046. This makes the suburb one of the region’s most dynamic growth areas, with a burgeoning demand for infrastructure, schools, and family-oriented services.

Springfield Lakes offers a blend of modern living and community spirit. Its master-planned design, green spaces, and proximity to schools and transport hubs make it an ideal location for young families. As these families continue to settle in the area, local businesses and services are thriving, further enhancing the suburb’s appeal.

Queensland’s “Nappy Valleys”

Springfield Lakes is not alone in its baby boom. Other areas topping the list of Queensland’s “nappy valleys” or those with the highest birth rates include Redbank Plains, Ripley, Murrumba Downs–Griffin, and Boronia Heights–Park Ridge.

Read: New School Campus to Serve Thousands of Students in Booming Walloon Region in Ipswich

Challenges and Opportunities

Photo credit: Google Street View

While the rapid growth of Springfield Lakes is a testament to its desirability, it also presents challenges. Adequate infrastructure, healthcare, and education facilities will be critical to sustaining the area’s growth. Authorities are expected to prioritise these needs to ensure Springfield Lakes continues to thrive as a family-friendly community.

Published 9-December-2024

Springfield Lakes Woman’s ‘Amazing’ $100 Skip Bin Find Highlights Rise of Desperate Aussie Trend

Photo Credit: Heidi Lou/ Tiktok

A local woman has highlighted the growing trend of Australians turning to recycling schemes to supplement their income. Heidi Lou, a 32-year-old resident, recently made a significant discovery while on a routine walk.

While emptying a skip bin at a nearby sporting oval, Lou found it filled with recyclable containers. In just 30 minutes, she collected a remarkable $100 worth of cans and bottles, adding to her year-long total of nearly $700.

Lou’s initiative, inspired by her parents, has become a part of her daily routine. She combines her dog walks with some recycling, cleaning up the neighbourhood while earning extra cash. Her recent windfall has surprised her and sparked interest and support from her local community.

The rising cost of living has driven many Australians to seek additional income sources, and recycling schemes offer an accessible and environmentally friendly option. However, the trend has also raised concerns about the increasing number of people rummaging through bins and public spaces.

As the cost of living rises, more Australians will likely turn to recycling schemes to make ends meet.

@heidilou Wow what a collection. My gym is attached to the @Brisbane Lions 🦁 home ground so they must have been from a game on the weekend! #ipswich #brisbane #springfield #containersforchange #cancollecting #moneytips #sidehustle #extraincome #recycling #dailywalk ♬ original sound – Heidi Lou

Murder Charges in Redbank Plains Apartment Complex

Photo Credit: Google Maps

One man has been formally identified and charged in connection with the murder of Daniel Finley, a 43-year-old disabled man, at an apartment complex in Redbank Plains on Thursday evening, 28 November 2024.

Key Details

Anton Quay Haynes, 33, appeared briefly at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Saturday morning. He and a 48-year-old co-accused have been charged with murdering Mr. Finley, who was found dead at a Lillian Street address around 8:40 PM.

Crime Scene Insights

Detective Superintendent George Marchesini revealed that the victim suffered “significant stabbing injuries”. Police have seized multiple bladed weapons for forensic examination.

Crucially, Supt. Marchesini emphasised this was not a random attack, stating the individuals were known to each other. Local witnesses reported seeing an agitated man walking around the apartment complex and banging on doors prior to the incident.

Community Context

The murder occurred at the same location where shots were fired just a week earlier. Police confirmed they believe the two incidents are linked.

Mr. Finley was reportedly known in the local community for hosting parties and playing loud music at all hours.

Legal Proceedings

Both Haynes and his co-accused are scheduled to return to Ipswich Magistrates Court on December 20 for a further mention.

Police Appeal

Detective Superintendent Marchesini has appealed to anyone with potential information to contact local authorities.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Published 30-November-2024

Stunned Driver Pulls Over for Majestic Encounter with a Black-necked Stork in Ipswich

Photo Credit: Australian Museum

A local photographer, Danny Lloyd, experienced an extraordinary encounter with nature while driving through Ripley. The unexpected visitor? A magnificent Black-necked Stork.

Black-necked Stork — *Photo Credit:* *Australian Museum*

Lloyd was cruising along at a leisurely pace when he noticed the large bird soaring overhead. Intrigued, he pulled over to get a better look.

Lloyd was amazed by the stork’s size and grace. He described the encounter as unforgettable.

Armed with his camera and a powerful lens, Lloyd captured stunning images of the stork. The bird’s distinctive green neck and striking yellow eyes were particularly eye-catching.

Black-necked Storks are common in northern and northeastern Australia. They often venture into open areas, such as grasslands and paddocks, to search for food. While they are typically found in wetland habitats, this particular stork has taken a detour into the suburban landscape.

Lloyd’s encounter has sparked interest and admiration among nature enthusiasts. Many have praised the photographer’s skill in capturing such a breathtaking moment.

The incident serves as a reminder of the incredible wildlife that can be found, even in the most unexpected places.

Published Date 26-November-2024

Lions vs Kangaroos: Brisbane’s Premiership Hopes Dashed by Dominant North Melbourne

On a high-stakes night at Princes Park, the Brisbane Lions’ hopes for consecutive AFLW premierships were shattered by a commanding North Melbourne side. The Lions vs Kangaroos clash ended in a decisive victory, with the final score of 5.9 (39) to 1.3 (9) showcasing the Kangaroos’ dominance.

Read: Springfield Resident Advocates for Minorities in 2025 Miss Galaxy Australia Pageants

North’s midfield dominance

Despite the Lions’ renowned defensive pressure, they were overwhelmed by North Melbourne’s midfield brilliance, spearheaded by the unstoppable Jasmine Garner. Brisbane’s coaching team tried every trick in the book, with Jade Ellenger and captain Breanna Koenen taking turns to curb Garner’s influence. Yet the North Melbourne star couldn’t be contained, amassing 35 disposals, 22 contested possessions, and 13 tackles in a match-winning display.

The opening quarter set the stage for North’s victory. They surged ahead with the first three goals, building a 17-point lead that Brisbane couldn’t overcome. Ellie Hampson offered a glimmer of hope, converting after a downfield free kick, but it was to be Brisbane’s only major score of the night.

Craig Starcevich praises the Kangaroos

Lions’ coach Craig Starcevich, while disappointed with the result, showed admirable sportsmanship in his post-match reflections. “What I saw in the first half today was the best footy I’ve ever seen in the AFLW,” Starcevich acknowledged, praising North Melbourne’s pressure and quick ball movement.

Despite the disappointment, Brisbane’s sustained excellence continues to define their program. Starcevich also emphasized the increasing competitiveness of the AFLW: “It’s going to be harder and harder to win, so we just have to keep getting better.”

Read: Stunned Driver Pulls Over for Majestic Encounter with a Black-necked Stork in Ipswich

Though the night belonged to North Melbourne, Brisbane’s remarkable consistency in reaching the grand final deserves recognition. As the AFLW continues to evolve, the Lion’s unwavering excellence will keep them firmly in the premiership conversation.

Published 01-December-2024

Match preview published on 26-November-2024.

Lions vs Kangaroos: An AFLW Grand Final Rematch for the Ages

The Brisbane Lions are primed for another defining moment in their AFLW journey as they prepare to face the North Melbourne Kangaroos this Saturday, 30 November in the 2024 AFLW grand final. Lions vs Kangaroos kick off 6:45 p.m. at IKON Park.

Read: Cyber Scam Hits Queenslander, Experts at University of Southern Queensland Warn of Rising Threats

Stars align at IKON Park

The reigning premiers face an undefeated North Melbourne side eager to claim their first premiership, while Brisbane aims for back-to-back flags in familiar territory.

The clash at Melbourne’s IKON Park will once again showcase both teams’ premiership credentials: with the Lions looking to avenge their season-opening defeat and the Kangaroos seeking redemption after their 2023 grand final loss to Brisbane.

Brisbane’s elite status solidified with four players earning All-Australian honours in 2024. Midfield dynamo Ally Anderson, averaging 26.2 disposals and 13.8 contested possessions, secured back-to-back selections. Dynamic winger Sophie Conway, also claiming her second consecutive jacket, averaged 17.4 disposals and 5.1 tackles in a standout season.

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A post shared by Brisbane Lions AFLW (@lionsaflw)

First-time selections Belle Dawes (18.8 disposals, 4.3 clearances) and Taylor Smith (22 goals) have proven themselves as stars, with Smith forming a lethal forward partnership alongside Dakota Davidson.

Lions vs Kangaroos

North Melbourne, last season’s runners-up and this season’s undefeated minor premiers (10-1-0), will challenge a battle-hardened Brisbane side. The Lions’ campaign for a third premiership will rely on their All-Australian quartet and the experience gained from five straight preliminary final appearances and three consecutive grand final appearances.

In Round 1 at Brighton Homes Arena, North Melbourne broke their Brisbane hoodoo with a commanding 44-point victory, their first win over the Lions in six attempts. Brisbane, however, showed resilience, going 11-1 since that early season setback to secure another grand final berth.

Kate Lutkins announces retirement

The grand final week announcement of Kate Lutkins’ retirement adds extra motivation for the pride. The three-time All-Australian and 2021 grand final best-on-ground performer leaves an indelible mark on the club, with coach Craig Starcevich praising her transition to mentoring the current squad during this finals campaign.

“It’s been such an awesome career, I’m really thankful to have been part of this program, especially the last two years,” Lutkins said, having been with the Lions since their inaugural season.

Read: Lions vs Crows: Brisbane’s Masterful Second-Half Display Books AFLW Grand Final Spot

The stage is set for an epic encounter between two AFLW powerhouses, with the Lions determined to add another chapter to their proud history. For Brisbane faithful, Saturday’s battle for supremacy can’t come soon enough.

Cyber Scam Hits Queenslander, Experts at University of Southern Queensland Warn of Rising Threats

A Queensland woman lost access to 20 years of memories after a scammer tricked her into revealing her phone number, an issue cybersecurity experts at the University of Southern Queensland, with campuses in Springfield and Ipswich, say is becoming increasingly common.

The incident occurred earlier this month when Louise Manning, a Queensland resident, fell victim to a Facebook scam. Someone posing as a friend messaged her, asking for her phone number.

Moments after sharing it, Manning’s Facebook account was hijacked. The scammer locked her out and used the account to send similar messages to her friends, two of whom were also hacked before the account was taken down. Manning described the loss of nearly two decades of memories, including cherished photos of her late sister, as deeply upsetting.

How the Scam Worked

Cybersecurity experts explained that the scam likely involved the misuse of personal details and mobile service manipulation. Manning initially believed she was conversing with an old friend and provided her phone number in good faith. Experts from the University of Southern Queensland noted that scammers often combine such details with other publicly available information, such as dates of birth or addresses, to impersonate victims.

Once they have the victim’s phone number, scammers intercept two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, granting them full access to online accounts. Like many others, Manning used SMS-based 2FA, a method experts warn is vulnerable to SIM-swapping tactics. This technique allows fraudsters to convince mobile providers to transfer control of a phone number to their device, enabling them to intercept messages.

Professor Neil Curtis from the University of Southern Queensland emphasised that these scams thrive because of social engineering, where scammers exploit trust and familiarity. He urged individuals to use authentication apps with biometric security rather than SMS-based codes to secure their accounts.

Community Impact and Rising Cases

Manning’s story is not an isolated incident. The Australian Signals Directorate reports over 21,000 identity-related scams nationwide this year, with financial losses for individuals averaging $30,700. Curtis noted that while losing sentimental items like family photos is devastating, the reputational damage caused by hacked accounts used for nefarious purposes—such as promoting fraudulent schemes—is equally concerning.

Meta, Facebook’s parent company, stated it had removed 1.2 billion fake accounts and hundreds of millions of spam posts this year. While Manning’s account was ultimately taken down after friends reported it, Meta’s lack of direct customer support has drawn criticism from affected users. Commenters online highlighted that platform policies must offer faster and more accessible solutions to help victims reclaim their accounts.

Protecting Yourself From Scams

Curtis encouraged families to adopt safety measures, such as using unique passphrases to verify the identity of loved ones during emergencies. He also advised against oversharing personal details online, including birth dates and other information often used to answer “secret questions” for account recovery. During high-risk periods like the lead-up to Christmas, he urged users to double-check suspicious messages, even if they appear to be from known contacts.

For Manning, the experience served as a harsh reminder of how quickly trust can be exploited. Although she was fortunate not to lose money in the scam, the emotional toll of losing treasured memories and having friends targeted through her account left a lasting impact.

Cybersecurity Experts Call for Awareness

Experts warn that these scams are evolving, aided by technological advancements like artificial intelligence. While social media platforms and mobile providers are crucial in preventing fraud, Curtis emphasised that individual vigilance is equally essential. Scammers rely on exploiting moments of carelessness, and being cautious about sharing information is critical to staying safe online.

Manning hopes her story will alert others to the risks of such scams. “It might seem small—just losing access to a Facebook account—but it can have much bigger consequences,” she said.

Published 26-Nov-2024