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Ipswich Police Seize Seven Knives from Man in CBD Crackdown

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

A recent police operation in Ipswich CBD has resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of several weapons, including seven knives from one individual, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat knife crime in the area.

On October 2, Ipswich police conducted a coordinated surge operation across three key locations: the Safe Night Precinct, the train station, and a local shopping centre. The operation, which included high-visibility patrols and wanding under Jack’s Law, led to the scanning of 71 individuals and resulted in 10 people being charged with 14 offences.

The most significant arrest came at an Ipswich train station, where a 20-year-old man was found in possession of seven knives and drug paraphernalia during a wanding check. Despite claiming the knives were related to a former career as a chef, police determined that the items did not match this description. The man has been charged with possessing a knife in a public place and is scheduled to appear before Ipswich Magistrates Court on October 30.

Acting Inspector Lee Fortune of the Ipswich Police praised the operation’s success, noting that it marked the first wanding operation in a shopping centre. “The feedback we received from locals was overwhelmingly positive,” Fortune stated. He emphasised the impact of these proactive efforts in seizing weapons and preventing potential violent offences.

Since the statewide implementation of Jack’s Law in April 2023, Ipswich has seen 135 wanding operations resulting in the seizure of 57 weapons. This recent operation underscores the police’s commitment to utilising the expanded powers granted under Jack’s Law to enhance community safety.

The Ipswich police expressed gratitude for the support from the community and local businesses, pledging to continue their efforts in creating safer public spaces throughout the city.

Published 5-October-2024

Stockland-Supalai Set to Take Over Springfield Rise in Major Property Deal

Springfield Rise, one of Ipswich’s largest master planned communities, is set to change hands after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) approved a $1.3 billion acquisition by property giants Stockland and Supalai.

ACCC Greenlights Deal

The acquisition, which is expected to be finalised by the second quarter of 2025, will see 12 Lendlease master planned communities across Australia, including Springfield Rise, transferred to the joint venture between Stockland and Thai-listed developer Supalai. This deal follows a five-month investigation by the ACCC, initially raising concerns about competition in areas like Ipswich.

Stockland is already the dominant developer in Ipswich, controlling communities such as Kalina, Providence, and Botanica.

Despite initial concerns, the ACCC concluded that the acquisition would not significantly reduce competition in Ipswich, with sufficient alternative developers in the area to keep the market balanced. However, as a condition of the approval, Stockland will be required to divest its Forest Reach project in New South Wales to address competition issues in the Illawarra region.

Impact on Ipswich and Springfield Rise

Springfield Rise, currently owned by Lendlease, is one of Ipswich’s most established master planned communities. The deal will likely shift Stockland’s market power further in Ipswich, where it already owns significant developments.

The ACCC had initially feared that removing Lendlease as a competitor might give Stockland more control over housing prices and supply in the region. However, the commission ultimately found that competition would remain sufficient to safeguard consumers.

Stockland’s expanded portfolio will include Springfield Rise, Kalina, Providence, and Botanica in Ipswich and other major estates in Moreton, Logan, and Redland. Once fully developed, these estates will collectively house over 200,000 residents.

Broader Queensland Housing Market

This acquisition comes amid a broader housing crisis in Queensland, where property developers are grappling with constrained land supply and increasing demand. The Property Council of Australia recently released a report highlighting that Queensland has missed out on 33,000 new homes over the past eight years due to unfavourable tax policies for developers.

The Property Council has called for a review of state taxes on property developers, arguing that current taxes have deterred international investment and slowed the pace of housing construction. According to the report, developer taxes introduced in 2016 have caused an 83.9 per cent drop in overseas investment, costing the state $17.8 billion in housing investment.

Future Developments

Stockland’s acquisition is part of a broader strategy to increase its focus on residential development. The company is shifting a larger portion of its portfolio towards housing projects, particularly in Queensland, where demand continues to outpace supply.

Stockland’s CEO has stated that the company plans to move away from single-dwelling homes and towards high-rise developments to meet the needs of Baby Boomers who are downsizing. With Springfield Rise now part of Stockland’s expanding portfolio, the company is positioned to significantly address the region’s housing needs.

Published 1-Oct-2024

On the Prowl: Brisbane Lions Women Hold Second Place at Mid-Season

Photo Credit: Brisbane Lions AFLW/Instagram

The Brisbane Lions Women have bounced back impressively after a season-opening loss to North Melbourne. With five victories on the trot, including a nail-biting win against the previously undefeated Adelaide Crows, the defending champions have firmly established themselves as AFLW contenders once more.

Read: Mater Hospital Springfield Breaks Ground on Public Health Facility

Lions vs Crows

In a thrilling match at Brighton Homes Arena, star forward Taylor Smith secured a crucial win for Brisbane with a last-minute goal. The Lions’ tight 5.5 (35) to 5.3 (33) triumph over Adelaide showcased the defending premiers’ ability to perform under pressure.

Smith’s accurate 25m set shot with just 100 seconds left secured the win, cementing her status as the AFLW’s most lethal goal-kicker this season.

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The victory against Adelaide propels Brisbane to second place on the ladder, boasting a 5-1 record. Only the unbeaten North Melbourne (5-0-1) stands above them. With the season halfway through, the Lions are primed for another finals run.

The recent win came at a cost, with Orla O’Dwyer suffering a dislocated left shoulder. O’Dwyer is expected to be out for two to three weeks, and Brisbane’s depth will be tested as they navigate this injury setback.

What’s next for the Lions Women?

Fortunately, the Lions face a favourable schedule ahead with five games remaining in the season. Four of their upcoming opponents currently sit outside the finals series spots, presenting an opportunity to solidify their position.

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In a short season, every match counts—one loss could mean a tumble down the ladder. The team must remain sharp, especially for their upcoming away clash against 13th-placed Carlton this Saturday, 5 October at 7:15 p.m.

Read: Swanbank Toasts Success as Giant Drinks Factory Commences Production

The Lions’ dominance mirrors the club’s overall positive trajectory, following the men’s team’s premiership victory. This dual success has energised the Lions faithful, fostering a palpable sense of optimism around the club.

As the AFLW season enters its second half, the Brisbane Lions women’s team appears poised for a strong finish. Their combination of skilled goal-kicking, midfield dominance, and clutch performances positions them strongly for another shot at glory.

Published 03-October-2024

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.

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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