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Ipswich Everyday Hero Inspires Nominations for QBANK Awards

The unwavering spirit and dedication of Queensland’s frontline workers and volunteers will be recognised for a 10th year with nominations for the 2024 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards now open, inspired by last year’s Ipswich winner.

Highlighting Ipswich’s Own Everyday Hero

Last year, Ipswich’s own Margaret Langdon was honoured as a finalist in the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards, making her community proud. Margaret, a dedicated volunteer, and sewing enthusiast, was celebrated for her outstanding work in helping community service participants learn new skills in a safe and engaging environment.

Margaret runs the Brisbane North Community Corrections Quest for Quilts group, which repurposes Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) uniforms into high-quality quilts for those in need. Her initiative, Quest for Quilts, allows participants to perform community service while learning valuable sewing skills.

Margaret Langdon Everyday Heroes QBank — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

“I worked with a group of people who mostly had never seen a sewing machine and it soon became obvious to me that making clothing was a hard place to start,” Margaret explained. “I then conceived the idea of Quest for Quilts, which was perfect as new workers could start on simpler tasks and as they gained more confidence and experience, I would teach them new sewing skills.”

Margaret’s Impact on the Community

Margaret’s program provides a welcoming space for individuals from all backgrounds to come together, learn new skills, and support each other. “Not only does it let people complete their community service hours, it provides a safe place for people to gather, learn new skills, and feel a sense of pride and confidence knowing they are doing something worthwhile to give back to the community,” she said.

Margaret expressed joy in seeing participants gain confidence and new skills each week. “It has really surprised me the number of males, some of whom have done time in prison, who are thriving in the group and demonstrate amazing determination, learning all the skills involved to create the quilts and provide lots of fun banter to keep the group alive.”

2024 Nominations Now Open

Nominations for the 2024 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards are now open and will be accepted until 31 August.

QBANK Chief Executive Officer Byron Fuller highlighted the importance of these awards, saying, “For the last 10 years, we have put more than 54 frontline workers, dedicated volunteers and young people in the spotlight for going above and beyond the call of duty to support and uplift their communities.”

The awards recognise individuals and teams across Queensland in six categories: Achievement, Ownership, Dedication, Working Together, Excellence, and the Young Everyday Hero Award. Winners will be selected by a panel of highly respected judges and will receive $2000 deposited into a QBANK account and a further $2000 donated to a charity of their choice.

Mr Fuller encouraged Queenslanders to nominate deserving individuals or teams.

“We are calling for more Queenslanders, from the top end to the south-east, to nominate individuals or teams across a range of sectors so we can say ‘thank you’ for their outstanding contributions,” he said.

Finalists will be announced in September, and winners will be recognised at the annual awards dinner at the W Hotel Brisbane on 11 October 2024.

Published 10-July-2024

Woman Sentenced for Serious Crash on Centenary Motorway

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A Springfield Lakes woman has been sentenced for causing a serious crash on Centenary Motorway in 2021 while attempting an illegal U-turn.

Lali Nagaraj, 53, appeared in Ipswich Magistrates Court on Tuesday, pleading guilty to dangerous operation of a vehicle. The crash on Centenary Motorway occurred on September 30, 2021, when Nagaraj, then 51, missed her usual exit due to roadworks.

The court heard that around 10:20 PM, Nagaraj stopped her car on the 100 km/h motorway and attempted a three-point turn across double white lines. Her vehicle ended up perpendicular to oncoming traffic.

An eastbound driver, travelling at approximately 90 km/h, collided with Nagaraj’s car despite attempting to brake. The victim suffered nine fractured ribs, a sternal fracture, and lacerations, resulting in a week-long hospitalisation and subsequent physiotherapy.

Magistrate Robert Walker acknowledged Nagaraj’s remorse, nearly clean driving record, and letter of apology. However, Nagaraj received a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and a six-month driving disqualification. Convictions were recorded.

Published 25-June-2024

New Report Reveals Queensland Schools with High Exclusion Rates

A recent annual report revealed that primary schools in South East Queensland issued 155 exclusions to students, with Springfield Central State School ranking among those with the highest exclusion rates.

Read: Scott’s Farm in Ripley: A Century-Old Legacy Hangs in the Balance Amidst School Development Plans

The school reported 10 exclusions, a significant 244 short suspensions, and 10 long suspensions, based on the 2023 School Disciplinary Absence (SDA) data released by the Queensland Government.

Exclusion, the most serious disciplinary action, involves a student being required to leave a school or specific state schools in Queensland for a period of up to one year, or permanently.

It’s reserved for instances where other consequences fail to address persistent disobedience or behaviour that threatens the well-being of other students or staff. This measure, though severe, is sometimes necessary to maintain the integrity and safety of the school environment.

Suspensions, on the other hand, serve a dual purpose: they act as a consequence for inappropriate behaviour and provide a valuable period for school staff to devise strategies to help students re-engage positively with their education. A short suspension ranges from 1 to 10 days, while a long suspension spans 11 to 20 days, both aimed at addressing and mitigating the underlying issues contributing to disruptive behaviour.

The Queensland Association of State School Principals highlights that physical violence and bullying are primary reasons for suspensions in the State.

The professional association assures the public can be confident that principals will make decisions in the best interests of the entire student body and, in certain cases, to ensure their safety.

Proactive Measures at Springfield Central State School

Springfield Central State School is tackling these issues head-on with initiatives like the ANCHOR program. After play breaks, students participate in a 10-minute self-directed activity to refocus on learning and report any bullying to their teachers. This approach empowers students and helps address issues before they escalate.

Although the data on exclusions and suspensions might initially appear concerning, they reflect a broader commitment to safety and positive student engagement.

Read: Ipswich Incident: An Elderly Woman Killed in Random Car Park Attack by a Teenager

Springfield Central State School’s efforts to address and prevent bullying through programs like ANCHOR show a dedicated approach to fostering a nurturing and secure educational environment.

Published 23-June-2024

Wimbledon Welcomes Back Springfield Tennis Legend Ash Barty

Former world No. 1 and Springfield-raised Ash Barty is set to make a highly anticipated return to Wimbledon this July, nearly two years after her shock retirement from professional tennis. The 28-year-old Australian tennis legend will participate in the invitational doubles event, marking her first appearance on the hallowed grass courts since her triumphant singles victory in 2021.

Read: Springfield Lakes Mum Raises Over $4500 in Fundraising Concert for Cancer Research

Invitational Doubles comeback

Wimbledon officials recently announced Barty’s participation in the legends invitational doubles event, scheduled to begin on July 9.

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Barty will team up with her former doubles partner and close friend, Casey Dellacqua. The pair, affectionately known as “ABCD” (Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqua), have a history of success, including reaching three grand slam finals together.

The legends tournament will feature two groups of eight pairs competing in a round-robin format. The top pairs from each group will advance to the final, vying for a share of the ~$64,800 first-place prize. All participating pairs are guaranteed a minimum of ~$45,800 between them.

Ash Barty, legend of tennis

Ash Barty’s 2021 Wimbledon victory ended a 41-year drought for Australian women at the tournament, following in the footsteps of her mentor and idol, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, who won in 1980.

The Woodcrest State College alum also claimed grand slam titles at the 2019 French Open and the 2022 Australian Open before her surprise retirement announcement in March 2022.

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A post shared by Ash Barty (@ashbarty)

Since stepping away from professional tennis, Barty has embraced family life. She married her partner Garry Kissick and welcomed their son, Hayden. Despite occasional calls for her return to the professional circuit, Barty has consistently expressed contentment with her current priorities. “I absolutely love being a mum. There’s nothing else that I prefer to do,” she said.

Dual role at Wimbledon

In addition to her participation in the invitationals, Barty will also serve as a commentator during the Wimbledon tournament.

This dual role allows her to remain connected to the sport while maintaining her retirement from professional play.

Read: Scott’s Farm in Ripley: A Century-Old Legacy Hangs in the Balance Amidst School Development Plans

The Wimbledon tournament, including the legends invitational event, is set to begin on Monday, July 1, offering fans a chance to see their hometown hero back in action on one of tennis’s most prestigious stages.

Published 22-June-2024

Springfield Lakes Community Transforms Healthcare at Mater Private Hospital

Mater Private Hospital Springfield is set to receive nearly $1 million worth of state-of-the-art medical equipment, thanks to donations from Mater supporters across Queensland.

This substantial contribution is poised to revolutionise patient care at the hospital, enhancing treatment precision and efficacy across various medical disciplines.

The upcoming additions include a sophisticated robotic surgery system designed specifically for knee replacements, alongside advanced imaging technologies tailored to elevate the accuracy of breast cancer and orthopaedic surgeries. These innovations promise not only to streamline procedures but also to significantly improve recovery times and patient outcomes.

Scheduled for Wednesday, 26 June 2024, Mater Giving Day aims to rally further support from the community, leveraging matched donations to maximise impact. Mater Foundation underscores its commitment to funding essential healthcare advancements, with plans to recruit a specialist Breast Care Nurse as its next priority for Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

The General Manager of Mater Private Hospital Springfield highlighted the crucial impact of community-funded equipment in enhancing local healthcare. She pointed out that investing in cutting-edge medical technology is vital for delivering high-quality patient care. The new equipment will support life-saving interventions for breast cancer patients and provide transformative joint replacements, ultimately benefiting the overall health of the community.

Among the new additions is the Velys orthopaedic robot, renowned for its infrared optical tracking system facilitating precise surgical cuts during knee replacements. Additionally, the C-Arm scanner will provide orthopaedic surgeons with real-time, high-resolution images during procedures, while the Faxitron radiography system enhances breast cancer surgery outcomes by delivering detailed intraoperative x-rays.

Mater, Queensland’s largest not-for-profit healthcare provider, manages an extensive network of hospitals and is currently spearheading the construction of Mater Public Hospital Springfield in collaboration with the Queensland Government.

This initiative, slated to open in 2026, will bolster local healthcare infrastructure with 174 beds, an emergency department, an intensive care unit, and maternity services.

The CEO of Mater Foundation praised the community’s instrumental role in driving healthcare advancements. He noted that Mater Giving Day exemplifies the collective effort to support life-saving medical innovations. This year’s triple matching pledge highlights the profound impact of community donations, moving closer to the goal of providing dedicated support for cancer patients in Ipswich and Springfield.

Donations for Mater Giving Day can be made online at www.mater.org.au/givingday until 26 June, offering individuals an opportunity to contribute directly to vital healthcare initiatives that benefit the entire community.

Published Date 21-June-2024

Springfield Lakes Mum Raises Over $4500 in Fundraising Concert for Cancer Research

A Springfield Lakes mother has hosted a fundraising concert after her husband was diagnosed with cancer, raising over $4,500.

Rina Sandford, 60, organised her second fundraiser for Cancer Council after her husband Michael Sandford was diagnosed with cancer three years ago.

Michael had been going for regular blood tests every year on his birthday. His doctor noticed that his PSA number, an indicator of prostate cancer, was slightly elevated. After a series of referrals and tests, Michael’s cancer diagnosis was confirmed.

Rina’s “Kick Cancer to the Curb” concert occurred in Springfield Lakes on 1 June 2024. The event featured live band music, a photo booth, and a raffle.

Local band Brit Beat Mania performed for free. Founder and guitarist Gary Allen, a cancer survivor himself, said the band is committed to supporting such good causes. Gary expressed the band’s dedication to helping in any way possible, highlighting the challenges cancer poses and the importance of contributing to funding for cancer research.

Local businesses donated raffle prizes, which Rina purchased using her Flybuys points. She and her husband, both retired, aimed to support the community without incurring significant personal costs. The raffle was designed to engage the community and make the event more appealing, as everyone enjoys being appreciated.

Michael was fortunate to recover quickly after surgery, thanks to the early detection by his GP. Within two months of the diagnosis, he underwent a robotic surgery that successfully removed the cancer.

The concert showcased the community’s support and highlighted the importance of early detection and research in fighting cancer.

Published 21-June-2024

New Direct Bus Route to Connect Springfield and Ipswich

Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

Queensland has announced a new direct bus route linking Springfield to Ipswich CBD as part of a $70 million investment in bus network upgrades across the state.

This development was unveiled in the state Budget released on Tuesday, aimed at improving public transportation options and reducing travel times for residents.

Currently, Springfield residents face a lengthy journey of about an hour to reach Ipswich Central via public transport, requiring a transfer and often taking longer than travelling to Brisbane City. The new route will run from Springfield through Redbank Plains to Ipswich, significantly cutting travel time and improving connectivity between the two areas.

This initiative is part of a broader Bus Services Investment Program, which seeks to enhance community travel options through funding for new bus services and infrastructure. The program will be implemented over three years and includes several other improvements:

New services to growth areas including Redbank Plains, Collingwood Park, Augustine Heights, Bellbird Park, Springfield, Deebing Heights, and Karalee.
Improved service connectivity to the Ripley Valley Priority Development Area.
Extension of existing routes in areas north and south of Ipswich, Springfield Lakes, Camira, and Spring Mountain.
Enhanced connectivity to rail services and Ipswich Hospital.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said, “We are doing what matters for the Logan and Ipswich communities by making bus links to their communities stronger with more services and more affordable with our 50c fares”.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential impact. “These initiatives will hopefully attract more and more people to public transport so they can experience the benefits, which in turn eases congestion on our roads,” Mellish said.

Published 14-June-2024

Scott’s Farm in Ripley: A Century-Old Legacy Hangs in the Balance Amidst School Development Plans

Photo Credit: Save Scott’s Farm

A proposed new primary school development may save the beloved 130-year-old Scott’s Farm in the Ipswich area that has served as a rural haven for generations of community organisations.

As the clock ticks down on a government petition to safeguard the farm from development, family spokeswoman Belinda Lowe has rallied locals to lend their support.

The petition, due to close on June 9, is seen as a crucial tool in maintaining pressure on Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) following the dismissal of a previous change.org petition as officially unrecognised.

Scott’s Farm, which serves as a vital wildlife corridor and acts as a buffer between new housing and industrial areas in Swanbank and New Chum, became a focal point in the recent March local government elections. The property, which has housed ten generations of the Scott family, stands as one of the last remaining working farms in the region.

Scott's Farm in Ipswich — *Photo Credit:* *Save Scott’s Farm*

While there are currently two schools operating in the Ripley Valley, projections indicate that this number could surge to 16 by 2041.

In a recent positive development, the family received communication from State Development Minister Grace Grace, affirming that EDQ and Education Queensland would explore alternative, suitable sites for the school. However, the family has yet to receive correspondence from Education Minister Di Farmer’s office.

Ms Lowe expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We are hopeful that the review will recommend relocating the school from our farm to another location within the Ripley Valley Priority Development Area, but there are no guarantees.”

She emphasised the abundance of available land in the Ripley Valley, underscoring the feasibility of relocating the school to a more suitable site.

Local state MP Jennifer Howard has reportedly communicated to Ms Lowe that she has engaged in discussions with both Ms Farmer and former Education Minister Grace Grace regarding the matter.

Furthermore, the family recently convened with local federal MP Shayne Neumann, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, Ipswich City Council planners, and state officials, among others.

Ms Lowe highlighted the widespread support for preserving the farm, stating, “Shayne Neumann, Council, and the state politicians are all fully supportive of saving the farm.”

She further emphasised the community’s sentiment, stating, “We have gathered over 8,600 signatures on a Change.org petition to save our farm, but unfortunately, the Minister of Education did not consider this when making their decision about the school.”

In response, a Department of Education spokesman confirmed that officials had visited the farm and engaged with the family in recent weeks. He reiterated that the department considers various factors when planning for new schools, including population growth and capacity within the existing school network.

The spokesperson also noted that a 2022 review identified a shortage of schools across the Ripley Valley, prompting the identification of additional sites for three state primary and two state high schools.

While guidelines suggest one new state primary school per 3,000 new dwellings, and growth in the Priority Development Area is projected to necessitate a total of 16 primary and seven secondary school sites, the fate of Scott’s Farm hangs in the balance as the community rallies to protect its legacy.

Published Date 05-June-2024

From Online to Mainstream: Local Retailer Credits Ipswich Show for Rapid Growth

Luxery N Co, an Ipswich-based retailer, has experienced exponential growth since joining the Ipswich Show, expanding its size threefold within a single year.

Read: Flowers and Coffee Abound at Greenbank’s Adored O’NO Cafe

Founder Bianca Loose returned to this year’s show with exclusive drinkware and accessories adorned with trendy cartoons and patterns, captivating the attention of show attendees.

Ms Loose reflected on her humble beginnings in 2022, primarily operating her business online. However, her decision to participate in the Ipswich Show last year proved to be a pivotal moment, propelling her business into rapid expansion.

She stated that her business has undergone a remarkable transformation, from having around only 3000 followers on social media last year, to over 15,000, recently.

Despite the demanding nature of managing an online business, Ms Loose emphasised the importance of local events like the Ipswich Show in furthering her brand’s reach. She said that whilst it can be hectic managing the online aspect, being a part of the show has undoubtedly contributed to their success.

The recently concluded Ipswich Show, which ran from 17-19 May 2024, showcased a diverse array of businesses and community groups, with 55 percent of the 149 sites occupied by local entities. With a three-day duration, the show presents an excellent opportunity for local businesses like Luxery N Co to connect with their community and expand their customer base.

Read: Goodna Street Life: Sustaining Community Support in Challenging Times

Luxery N Co’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of community engagement and the impact of local events in fostering business growth. As the Ipswich Show continues to evolve and attract both vendors and attendees alike, it remains a cornerstone of economic vitality and community spirit in the region.

Published 3-June-2024

Springfield Nurse Lisa Warburton Celebrates 15 Years of Compassionate Care

Springfield nurse Lisa Warburton, the Medical Rehabilitation Nurse Unit Manager at Mater Private Hospital Springfield, has been honoured for 15 years of exceptional service, embodying the compassionate values that define the Mater’s mission.

Ms Warburton’s journey with Mater began at the Brisbane facility, where she forged a reputation for her steadfast commitment to her patients and esteemed nursing team. Her recent transition to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, which opened in 2015, has allowed her to continue her hands-on approach while managing a large and supportive team.

Unwavering Commitment to Patient Care

“The work culture at Mater has really kept me here,” the Springfield nurse expressed. “I have an amazing nursing team, and we are all supportive of each other. Mater’s values and missions really resonate with me – compassionate care is vital for our patients.”

Mater Private Hospital Springfield plays a pivotal role in the region’s healthcare ecosystem, welcoming patients from various local facilities who require rehabilitation or specialized care before returning home. Ms Warburton’s expertise extends to treating infections, administering intravenous antibiotics, and guiding patients through rehabilitation, ensuring their comfort and well-being remain the top priority.

Mater Private Hospital Springfield Medical Rehabilitation Nurse Unit Manager Lisa Warburton with her adored team. Photo Josh Woning — *Photo Credit: Josh Woning/Supplied*

Recognizing a Decade of Community Service

Alongside Ms Warburton’s milestone, Camira resident Jocelyn Ball, the Mater Hospital Springfield Stage 2 Project Coordinator, was also honoured for her decade-long contribution to the growth of local healthcare services in Springfield.

“Greater Springfield is a wonderful community – it’s where I live, where I work, where my kids go to school and play for local sporting clubs,” Ms Ball shared. “It’s really special knowing that as this community grows, I’m part of a team that is working hard to grow the future healthcare services and ensure the needs of the community will be met.”

Mater Hospital Springfield Stage 2 Project Coordinator Jocelyn Ball. Josh Woning — *Photo Credit: Josh Woning/Supplied*

Ms Warburton and Ms Ball were among eight Mater Private Hospital Springfield staff members celebrated at the Long Service Award event held at The Princess Theatre in Woolloongabba on Tuesday, May 28th, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the health and well-being of the Springfield Lakes community.

Landmark Partnership

The Mater Hospital Springfield Stage 2 project, a landmark partnership between Mater and the State Government, represents a significant expansion of the existing private hospital, poised to deliver an additional 174 overnight beds for the Greater Springfield region. For the first time, local families will soon have access to an Emergency Department, an Intensive Care Unit, and maternity and birthing services, ensuring comprehensive healthcare within their community.

Published 29-May-2024