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Goodna Star Eithen Leard Set to Shine at 2024 Paris Paralympics

Eithen Leard, an 18-year-old wheelchair basketball player from Westside Christian College in Goodna, is on track to represent Australia at the upcoming 2024 Paris Paralympics.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in Leard’s inspiring journey, which began when he was just three years old.

Born with a spinal cord deformity, Leard’s family moved from Mackay to Brisbane in search of better opportunities for their son. It was in Auchenflower, Brisbane, where a young Eithen first witnessed a wheelchair basketball match, igniting a passion that would shape his future.

Leard’s determination and skill quickly set him apart in the sport. At 12, he served as a Commonwealth Games baton bearer in Ipswich, a moment that reinforced his desire to change perceptions about people with disabilities. His rapid rise through the ranks caught national attention, leading to his debut with the Australian national team at just 17 years old.

Now, as a student and a 2.0 classification player for the Southern Districts Spartans in the National Wheelchair Basketball League, Leard is focused on his Paralympic dream. His journey from Westside Christian College in Goodna to the international stage is a testament to his perseverance and talent.

Leard’s philosophy reflects his broader aspirations for the sport: “I want to be someone that leads the normalisation of high-level disability sports,” he says. “You get opportunities to travel the world if you work hard, the same as if you play able-bodied basketball.”

His recent performances have been crucial in Australia’s Paralympic qualification. Leard was part of the Rollers team that secured gold at the 2024 IWBF Asia-Oceania Championships in Thailand, earning their spot at the Paris Games.

In the Paralympics, Leard and the Rollers will face tough opposition in Group B, with matches against the Netherlands on 30 August at 5:30 a.m., Spain on 30 August at 8:45 p.m., and the U.S. on 1 September at 6:30 p.m.

All eyes will be on this young athlete from Goodna, whose journey from local courts to the world stage serves as an inspiration to many in the community and beyond.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published 14-August-2024

Pool and Horseback to Paralympic Kayak: the Multisport Odyssey of Susan Seipel

Ipswich-born Susan Seipel has faced life with the rare condition Arthrogryposis Multiplex, characterised by joint fusion and absent muscle formation in her legs. Despite enduring countless surgeries since infancy, her indomitable spirit propelled her to excellence in three parasports.

A record-breaking swimmer, an international-level equestrian, and a bemedalled Paralympic kayaker, this unstoppable athlete has her sights set on Paralympic gold.

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

Aquatic beginnings

At four years old, Seipel began swimming as part of her physiotherapy program. Her natural affinity for the water quickly became evident as she first competed alongside able-bodied classmates. Between 1999 and 2001, Seipel set six Queensland State Games records and three Australian National Age records in freestyle and backstroke as a para-swimmer.

Equestrian excellence

Seipel’s sporting journey took a new direction at age seven when she discovered horseback riding at The McIntyre Pony Riding for the Disabled Centre. What started as a therapeutic activity evolved into a passion for equestrian dressage. Her exceptional skill in the sport was recognized with three Australian National Championship titles.

In 2006, she made her international debut at the Pacific Rim Para-Equestrian Dressage International Competition in Canada, winning a bronze medal. However, financial constraints led her to step back from equestrian competition in 2010, marking a significant shift in her athletic career.

Susan Seipel transitions to para-canoe

In 2012, Seipel discovered para-canoeing at a “come and try” day led by Olympian Amanda Rankin. This new sport reignited her competitive spirit, and she quickly excelled in both single kayak and single outrigger canoe disciplines. Her natural talent became apparent as she began competing at national and international levels.

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Seipel’s hard work culminated in her participation in Rio 2016, where para-canoe made its debut. She secured a bronze medal in the women’s KL2 200m, becoming the green and gold’s first Paralympic medallist in the sport.

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At Tokyo 2020, Seipel added a silver medal in the inaugural women’s VL2 200m event to her collection. Her consistent performances at World Championships and World Cups between Paralympic Games further demonstrate her ongoing commitment to excellence.

Off the water, Seipel has played a crucial role in establishing para-ice hockey in Australia, showcasing her immense versatility and dedication as an athlete.

Read: Play, Fitness, and Heritage: Inside the Reimagined RJ Richardson Park in Goodna

Seipel’s relentless pursuit of excellence continues unabated. Set to make her third Paralympic appearance at Paris 2024, she’s laser-focused on transforming her previous Paralympic podiums into a golden finish.

Published 12-August-2024

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

Springfield Lakes’ para-archer Taymon Kenton-Smith is not just competing; he’s redefining what it means to be a Paralympian. Born with a partial left hand, Kenton-Smith embraces the mantra, “half the hand, twice the effort.”

Read: Play, Fitness, and Heritage: Inside the Reimagined RJ Richardson Park in Goodna

A promise to keep

His journey in archery began at the tender age of six, setting the foundation for a career marked by determination and resilience.

At 14, Kenton-Smith made a pivotal promise to his grandmother that she would see him compete at a Paralympic Games. This promise became the driving force in his athletic journey, propelling him toward his ultimate goal.

Kenton-Smith’s Paralympic debut at Tokyo 2020 realised his long-held promise at age 27. Competing in the men’s individual recurve event, he secured 18th position and was eliminated in the 1/16 Elimination Round. Despite the early exit, Kenton-Smith expressed pride in fulfilling his promise and representing Australia on the world stage.

Teaming up with fellow debutant Imalia Oktrininda, Kenton-Smith also competed in the Open Mixed Team Recurve 1/8 Elimination. While the pair didn’t progress to the quarter-finals, the experience proved invaluable for the Paralympian.

Overcoming self-doubt and honouring his Nanna

However, Kenton-Smith’s journey wasn’t always smooth. Behind his achievements lies a battle with self-doubt.

“There were naysayers everywhere, and the biggest naysayer was the person looking at me in the mirror every day,” he admits. This self-awareness has shaped his approach to competition and training.

To honour his grandmother, Kenton-Smith has an Agitos–the Paralympic symbol–tattooed on his forearm. The tattoo includes a flaming arrow with the words “Thank you Nanna,” a tribute to the woman who drove him to greatness in more ways than one.

Taymon Kenton-Smith in Paris and beyond

Kenton-Smith’s Paris schedule is as follows:
Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round: 29 August, 9:00 p.m.
Elimination: 4 September, 5:00 p.m.
Quarterfinal to Final: 5 September, 1:30 a.m.

Afterwards, he’ll be joined by multi-sport athlete Amanda Jennings in the mixed team portion:
Mixed Team Recurve Open Elimination: 5 September, 6:00 p.m.
Medal Rounds: 6 September, 1:15 a.m.

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What drives him now is a vision beyond just winning medals. While Taymon is training hard for Paris 2024, his motivation extends beyond Paralympic glory; he routinely speaks on behalf of both the Paralympics and Archery Australia at various panels and public speeches, endorsing the great sport of para-archery.

As Brisbane 2032 approaches, Taymon is not just training for his events but is also actively shaping the future of the sport through his advocacy and mentorship.

Read: Man With Autism Fights for Life After Brutal Bashing in Springfield Lakes

In Paris 2024, Kenton-Smith stands as a strong contender in Australia’s six-member archery squad. With 160 athletes across 17 sports, the Paralympic team represents a blend of experience and fresh talent.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published 12-August-2024

Play, Fitness, and Heritage: Inside the Reimagined RJ Richardson Park in Goodna

Goodna’s RJ Richardson Park has undergone a stunning $1.5 million makeover, breathing new life into this popular riverside destination.

Read: Commune With Nature and Calm Your Spirit at Nerima Gardens

At the heart of the park’s transformation is an impressive paddle steamboat play structure, capturing the imagination of young visitors. This deconstructed steamboat serves as both a playground centrepiece and a tribute to the 19th-century era when goods were transported along the river between Brisbane and Ipswich.

Richardson Park — Photo credit: Ipswich City Council/Facebook

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding describes it as an “unmissable feature,” inviting children to climb and engage in imaginative play.

The park’s design thoughtfully incorporates elements that honour both recent history and the enduring connection of Traditional Owners to the river. A meticulously carved timber Indigenous canoe sits moored among a recreated rocky riverbank, offering a striking visual reminder of the area’s cultural heritage.

Sandstone rocks, etched with traditional markings and symbols, not only represent the riverbank but also provide opportunities for nature-based play—a feature specifically requested by the community.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the upgraded outdoor exercise area, now equipped with state-of-the-art callisthenics equipment suitable for all levels. Ample green spaces have been preserved, perfect for picnics, group exercise, or simply relaxing by the river.

The park’s facilities have been comprehensively enhanced to accommodate more visitors. Existing shelters, seating areas, and BBQ facilities have been refurbished, with additional amenities added to cater to the increasing number of families enjoying this riverside gem. Improved lighting and landscaping further enhance the park’s appeal and functionality.

Cr Andrew Antoniolli, Chair of the Infrastructure, Planning and Assets Committee, emphasised that the new playground features reflect the community’s historical and ongoing connection to the river. This thoughtful redesign ensures that RJ Richardson Park not only serves as a recreational space but also as a living monument to Goodna’s rich riverside heritage.

Read: Goodna Units Demolished, Making Way for Green Space After Flood Buy-Back

Funded through a partnership between the Queensland Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program and Ipswich City Council, the revitalised RJ Richardson Park stands as a shining example of how public spaces can be reimagined to honour the past while serving the needs of the present community.

Published 12-August-2024

Man With Autism Fights for Life After Brutal Bashing in Springfield Lakes

A 37-year-old autistic man is relearning basic skills and trying to thrive in life after being viciously attacked by youths during an evening walk near the Ashleigh Barty Tennis Court in Springfield Lakes.

The Incident

On 26 March, Benjamin Cant was found by a security guard in a pool of blood near the Ashleigh Barty Tennis Court. The attack left him with severe injuries, including a caved-in head, shattered face, brain damage, punctured lung, and broken ribs.

Mr Cant remained in a coma for several months following the assault. His recovery has been marked by multiple surgeries, including eight neurosurgeries, as well as brain infections and seizures. Doctors had to remove pieces of his skull and install a permanent brain shunt to prevent further damage.

Mr Cant has begun the challenging process of relearning to walk and talk. He recently spoke his first words using a voice box and ate his first meal of mashed vegetables on 26 July, though he still relies on a feeding tube.

Benjamin Cant Springfield Lakes — *Photo Credit: Ella Wilesmith/Facebook*

Police Investigation

Following a public appeal for information, police have charged a 14-year-old local boy with acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, personal violence, and deprivation of liberty. The teen is being held in custody pending a September court appearance. Police are continuing their investigations into the attack.

Ella Wilesmith, Mr Cant’s mother, has criticised the government’s approach to youth crime. She believes that current youth crime laws are too weak and that children need better deterrence and consequences. Ms Wilesmith emphasised the immense emotional and financial toll on victims and their families. She is scheduled to meet with Premier Steven Miles to discuss her concerns.

The incident has sparked debate about community safety and the effectiveness of current youth crime policies in Queensland.

New Regulations Target Odour Issues at Swanbank and New Chum

In response to ongoing concerns about odours, new regulations have been announced to ensure that composting facilities near residential areas, particularly around Swanbank and New Chum, implement stricter measures to lessen their impact on the environment.

Required New Methods

As of August 2024, changes have been implemented to address the ongoing odour issues in Swanbank and New Chum, significantly affecting the quality of life for many Ipswich residents.

Following widespread community and local government support, regulations have been introduced requiring that all new and expanding compost facilities within four kilometres of residential areas, which handle odorous waste, adopt in-vessel or enclosed processing methods. These methods are recognised for effectively reducing nuisance odours.

Swanbank Odour Issues — *Photo Credit: DESI*

Community and Environmental Impact

These changes come after numerous reports from residents about the adverse effects of odour from the composting sites at Swanbank and New Chum.

“The new regulations will ensure that only those facilities that meet stringent environmental standards receive odorous waste, thus protecting our communities,” stated Charis Mullen (M for Jordan). More than 93% of community feedback supported these stronger regulations during the recent consultation phase.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) has been actively investigating these complaints, noting that odour issues are especially prevalent during warmer months when rainfall and temperatures rise.

“The legislative changes also give the environmental regulator more authority to update the conditions for existing composting facilities on a case-by-case basis and ensure that transporters are compliant with these new standards,” added Mullen.

The DESI expressed gratitude to the community for their ongoing efforts in reporting odour issues and participating in the consultation process, highlighting how critical public input has been to shaping these regulatory changes. With the implementation of these regulations, there is a concerted effort to significantly reduce the impact of these facilities on nearby residents.

Community Skepticism Amid Regulatory Changes

Despite the introduction of new regulations to tackle odour issues, some Ipswich residents remain skeptical. Having dealt with unpleasant smells for years, they question the timing and sincerity of these changes, noting they often coincide with upcoming elections. Jim Dodrill, spokesperson for the Ipswich Residents Against Toxic Environments (IRATE), expressed concerns about the consistency in following through on its promises.

The relationship between the residents and local authorities has been strained, particularly after plans were revealed in 2019 to approve a new waste dump in Swanbank despite numerous complaints. The dissatisfaction contributed to significant shifts in the area, with changes in local and state seats influenced by public unrest over waste management practices.

With inspections up by 40 percent since last year and tripling enforcement notices, there is a clear intent to enforce these regulations strictly. However, residents like Dodrill remain cautious, labeling the compliance officers as overly business-friendly.

Published 8-Aug-2024

Mollie O’Callaghan – The World’s Best Leg Kick Born in Springfield

Photo Credit: Mollie_Ocal/Instagram

When Mollie O’Callaghan delivered a devastating burst on the final 50m of the 200m Free in Paris, to launch from 3rd place behind Siobhan Haughey of Hong Kong and Mollie’s training partner at St Peters Western, Ariarne Titmus, the outboard motor that she engaged to produce a final lap of 27.98 was built in Springfield.

Mollie’s 27.98 final 50m took 0.66 seconds out of Arnie in the 200m Free. Arnie was the defending champion and she was not someone you’d ever want to take on but against Mollie’s gold medal-winning performance, Arnie had to accept silver. Canadian 17-year-old superstar Summer McIntosh made a very sensible decision to ditch the 200m Free because, frankly, she would have been battling for bronze when her extraordinary talent was acquiring gold in the 400 IM.

So Mollie can reflect that she has climbed the highest mountain in Paris, beating arguably the greatest freestyle swimmer at the Paris Olympics.

Yet the story of Mollie’s mind-blowing engine “Made in Springfield” needs telling.

The story’s venue was the Waterworx Swim Club, an operation so humble that their Facebook page has very little “Mollie” cheering, rather a list of updates on Aqua aerobics classes.

The sort of unheralded operation that lives and breathes what it does, and relies on people whose passion for teaching and coaching is far greater than their desire to be paid accordingly.

It’s a long way from the glamour of Paris, but Waterworx Swim Club was where Mollie built her outboard engine, her leg kick.

Nicholas Smith of the Queensland Academy of Sport pointed out that Mollie’s underwater turns and her underwater kick are where she gets her edge.

He explains that in the context of Mollie’s World Record 200m Free in the 2023 Fukuoka World Championships in this video:

Paul Sansby

Paul “Cowboy” Sansby’s passion for coaching young swimmers would be tough to beat. His coaching journey started in the 1970s when he emigrated from the UK to Bundaberg as a competitive swimmer, based at the Fairymead Swimming Club. His move to Brisbane a few years later, to be coached by Bill Sweetenham and Ken Wood, considered legends of the swim coaching world.

Under Sweetenham and Wood, Paul improved his PBs but also developed and sharpened his coaching skills. His first coaching gigs were at Lawnton and Jindalee swimming clubs until he was made head coach at St Peters Western in the late 1980s, the club that Mollie now swims for under Dean Boxall.

After a decade at St Peters Western, he and his business partner, Greg Fasala, established Waterworx Swimming Club.

They have produced a long line of great swimmers but it was when Sansby teamed up with another coaching legend, that things went to a new level.

Pete Cherry

When Pete Cherry arrived to help Sansby at Waterworx in 2007, he came with a great reputation.

Gina Rinehart’s profile on Mollie, which you can read here, lays out the respect that Sansby had for Cherry.

“We had been together ever since (until Pete passed in 2021). We were like brothers, and he has developed the skills of so many great champions, including kids like Mollie,” said Sansby.

Cherry’s particular focus was the underwater kick.

Sansby said Cherry would really accentuate the kicking part of training and would break it down in great detail, in a way that was ahead of his peers.

Mollie O’Callaghan started at Waterworx in 2012 when she was eight. She started to swim at four and competed from the age of seven. When she moved on in 2019 at the age of 15, the outboard engine that powered Mollie past Arnie in Paris was fully in place. Her ankle flexion had developed and State Championships and a National Championship were the results.

Dean Boxall has taken Mollie to the next level and bringing 11 Olympians through the St Peters Western program is an enormous feat in itself (surely, the world’s #1 swim club) but Sansby and Cherry and the team at Waterworx Swim Club delivered a massive contribution towards Mollie’s devastating finish.

In 2021, Pete Cherry passed away but his legacy was that 0.66 of a second that Mollie took out of Arnie in the final 50m of the 2024 Olympics 200m Freestyle.

Published 30-July-2024

Cracks Force Speed Limit Drop on Major Ipswich Highway Bridge

Motorists using the westbound Bremer River Bridge on the Warrego Highway in Ipswich now face a reduced 60km/h speed limit and new travel conditions after serious cracking was discovered in the structure.

Following a structural inspection, the Department of Transportation and Main Roads (TMR) confirmed that “fatigue cracks exist in the steel girders.” Engineers suspect that the damage is probably a result of the bridge enduring heavy loads over the years, especially since many present-day trucks are significantly heavier than those for which the bridge was originally constructed to accommodate. The Bremer River Bridge started operating in 1958

Bridge Safety and Restrictions

While TMR has determined that the bridge remains safe for public use, several precautions have been implemented:

– Speed limit reduced to 60km/h for all vehicles
– Specific travel conditions for heavy and oversized vehicles
– Load restrictions for trucks

These measures aim to reduce the risk of crack growth and manage loads while further inspections are carried out.

Current Usage and Future Plans

The westbound bridge currently supports about 30,000 vehicles daily, including 4,000 heavy vehicles. To address the structural issues, TMR is undertaking the following actions:

– Immediate welding works to ensure ongoing safety
– Installation of crossovers in the centre median for oversize overmass (OSOM) vehicle movements
– Traffic signals for night-time OSOM vehicle crossings

Bremer River Bridge Ipswich — *Photo Credit: TMR*

Rehabilitation Project

A major rehabilitation project is planned to extend the life of the existing bridge structure:

– $85 million in total funding, jointly provided by the State and Federal Governments
– Re-decking of main bridge spans
– Propping works to restore original capacity
– Further strengthening works scheduled to begin in 2025

The speed and load restrictions are expected to remain in place for an extended period, affecting both local commuters and freight transport. TMR has stated that these precautions are necessary to ensure the safety of all road users while the rehabilitation works are carried out.

Published 26-July-2024

Camryn Newton-Smith from Greenbank to Make History at Paris Olympics

Did you know that Camryn Newton-Smith from Greenbank is set to make history at the Paris Olympics as one of Australia’s first heptathlon representatives in 16 years?

Newton-Smith’s qualification marks a significant milestone for Australian athletics, breathing new life into the nation’s multi-event presence. Her journey to this point has been marked by both triumphs and challenges, reflecting the dedication required to compete at the highest level.

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Early Beginnings

Newton-Smith’s athletics career began at the Jimboomba Little Athletics Centre, where her older siblings inspired her. Her brother Lindsay, a national-level decathlete, played a crucial role in sparking her interest in combined events.

As a teenager, Newton-Smith dominated the domestic heptathlon scene, claiming national titles across various age groups. Her talent earned her a spot on the World U20 team, competing in Tampere, Finland in 2018.

Overseas Development

Following her success at home, Newton-Smith pursued her athletic and academic goals at Arkansas State University in the United States. During her five-year stint, she faced numerous challenges, including the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and a major Achilles injury in 2021.

Despite these setbacks, Newton-Smith’s determination shone through. She returned to form in her final year of college, finishing eighth in the heptathlon at the 2023 NCAA Championships with a personal best of 5887 points.

Upon returning to Australia, Newton-Smith’s performances have been nothing short of exceptional. She claimed her first senior National title in April 2024, scoring an impressive 6180 points – the highest score by an Australian in 16 years. This achievement was followed by victory at the Oceania Championships in Fiji, where she overcame challenging conditions to secure the title.

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Olympic Implications

Newton-Smith’s qualification for the Paris Olympics marks a significant moment for Australian athletics. The last Australian to compete in the Olympic heptathlon was Kylie Wheeler in 2008, making Newton-Smith’s appearance a long-awaited return to the event on the global stage.

Her upcoming Olympic debut is a personal achievement and a source of pride for her hometown of Greenbank and the broader Australian athletics community. As she prepares to compete on the world’s biggest sporting stage, Newton-Smith carries with her the hopes and support of a nation eager to see the return of Australian excellence in multi-event athletics.

Published 15-July-2024

Sight-Saving Surgery in Springfield Transforms Lives of First Nations People

Over 1000 First Nations Queenslanders have successfully had their eyesight restored through cataract surgeries, as part of a groundbreaking partnership between the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health and Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

The program began in 2016 and now facilitates about 150 publicly-funded operations annually at Mater Private Hospital Springfield. It aims to address the higher rate of severe sight deterioration among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who often experience vision loss earlier than non-Indigenous Australians.

Holistic Approach to Eye Care

IUIH CEO Adrian Carson highlighted the program’s comprehensive support system: “By working collaboratively across the region and health system to ensure our people are diagnosed and well supported before, through and after treatment, we have reduced demand on the system since patients can be treated earlier, supporting better long-term health and community outcomes.”

The program offers:

– Pre and post-operative care
– Transport
– Personal support on surgery day
– No additional cost to patients or the healthcare system

Mater Private Hospital Springfield — *Photo Credit: Peter Wallis/Supplied*

Improving Access and Outcomes

Dr Sunil Warrier, Director of Ophthalmology at Mater Hospital Brisbane, explained the program’s significance.

“We know a lot of First Nations people lose their vision around the age of 50 to 60 years, a lot earlier than Caucasian people, who tend to be around the age of 60 to 70.”

“Our patients already know and feel comfortable with our team because they’ve been engaged with their local clinic and optometrist, and the opportunity to be together and connected with each other and us throughout the day makes it a positive shared experience,” Celia McCarthy, IUIH Eye Health Services Manager, added.

“Watching television and doing simple household chores including cleaning have become frustrating due to my deteriorating vision. I’m looking forward to seeing normally again,” Gordon Cowburn, 75, a Wakka Wakka Elder, said prior to the cataract procedure.

“I had a check-up the other day and things are great. My life has improved and I’m much happier now,” Ian Delaney, 70, a Quandamooka man, said.

The program continues to significantly impact the lives of First Nations Queenslanders, restoring not only their sight but also their independence and quality of life.

Published 13-July-2024