A coalition of veterinarians has made a groundbreaking move by launching the world’s first Climate Care Program in Springfield. The program empowers vet practices in Australia to care for pets while taking tangible action against climate change, reducing their carbon footprint and waste.
The program has demonstrated impressive results at 20 sites nationwide during its pilot phase.
Melbourne vet Dr Jeremy Watson saved over $6,000 annually by switching off gas and installing solar panels at his Brimbank clinic. He also upgraded to energy-efficient appliances and reduced water usage. Meanwhile, Greater Springfield Veterinary Practice reduced its waste by 37%.
“The Climate Care Program offers a comprehensive digital toolkit and educational course, structured in six modules to help practices become more sustainable,” Springfield’s Dr Jeannet Kessels said. “This self-paced program was developed by veterinary professionals, researchers, and educators to provide step-by-step support in reducing energy consumption, waste, and water usage. This ensures that even the busiest clinics can maintain their sustainability goals.”
Adopting environmentally friendly practices benefits the environment and recruits staff. Dr Watson has noticed a trend among young professionals, with recent hires citing the clinic’s environmental credentials as a key factor in their decision to join the team.
The program’s impact has extended beyond Australia, attracting international attention, as highlighted by Vets for Climate Action Chair Dr. Jeannet Kessels, who recently presented the initiative at the World Veterinary Association conference in South Africa.
About Vets for Climate Action
Vets for Climate Action represents a coalition of veterinary professionals and animal lovers advocating for urgent action on climate change. Their goal is to promote sustainability in veterinary care, foster awareness, and advocate for impactful policies that recognize the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
The expansion of Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial is significantly enhancing the daily commutes of more than 20,000 residents and visitors in Springfield Central, ensuring smoother traffic flow and safer travel.
This multi-stage initiative prioritises the needs of a rapidly growing population while navigating the challenges of preserving sensitive ecological areas and accommodating the area’s bustling activity.
Completed Stage 1
The $85-million Stage 1 of the project, completed in late 2023, has already delivered significant improvements to the local road network. This phase saw the widening of Springfield Parkway from Hymba Yumba Independent School to Centenary Highway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial from Springfield Parkway to Eden Station Drive, transforming them into four-lane thoroughfares.
Other key enhancements included:
Upgrading the Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial roundabout to a signalised intersection will facilitate pedestrian movements and provide a U-turn facility.
Constructing dedicated two-metre cycle lanes in both directions.
Installing a three-metre-wide shared pathway for pedestrians and cyclists.
Erecting a retaining wall near the Escarpment estate on Springfield Parkway.
Duplicating the bridge over Opossum Creek.
The new lanes on Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial are already managing over 20,000 vehicles per weekday, significantly improving traffic flow and safety for the growing Springfield community.
Stage 2: Design Phase
With Stage 1 complete, the focus shifts to Stage 2, which is currently in the design phase. This stage will encompass the following:
Widening Springfield Parkway from Topaz Road to just north of Hymba Yumba Independent School, duplicating it from two to four lanes.
Upgrading the roundabout at Springfield Parkway/Topaz Road/Woodcrest Way to a signalised intersection.
Widening and line-marking the Springfield College Drive and Bridgewater Road approaches to the roundabout on Springfield Parkway to allow for two lanes of traffic.
Constructing dedicated two-metre cycle lanes in both directions.
Installing a three-metre-wide shared pathway for pedestrians and cyclists.
Early works for Stage 2 commenced in December 2023 with a 3.6m trench extension beside Hymba Yumba Independent School. Constructing effective stormwater drainage networks whilst maintaining the current system during Queensland’s storm season has been a significant challenge.
The project team is committed to ensuring the highest-quality innovative network is constructed across the project and adjacent to the school whilst preserving sensitive ecological areas.
Once the culvert works are complete, Stage 2 will commence in 2024-2025, including the duplication of Springfield Parkway from Topaz Road, connecting to Stage 1 just past the Bridgewater Road roundabout.
Stage 3: Under Construction
Stage 3 of the project is already underway, focusing on the following:
Widening Springfield Greenbank Arterial from Eden Station Drive to Sinnathamby Boulevard to include a total of four lanes.
Upgrading the roundabout at Springfield Greenbank Arterial/Main Street/Centenary Highway Exit 32 off-ramp to a signalised intersection.
Creating new entry and exit points at the existing Springfield Central train station carpark.
Constructing dedicated two-metre cycle lanes in both directions.
Installing shared pathways for pedestrians and cyclists.
Significant rainfall and storm activity over the past few months have impacted vegetation and landscaping along Stage 3, including the flooding of Mountain Creek. The team is working to restore damaged plants and maintain weeding and mowing within the construction corridor. Despite the weather challenges, crews have progressed with electrical work, stormwater drainage networks, and new Park’n’Ride entry pavements.
Sustainability has been a key focus for the team, utilising existing materials and implementing innovative environmental controls. Core logs were used in the bottom of the rock barrier to minimise silt washing onto the pavement and into drainage and waterways, a key environmental management feature across Stage 3.
Photos Credit: IpswichCityCouncil
Constructing in a busy activity centre with major shopping, business, education, and public transport facilities has presented numerous challenges, especially considering the high volume of people passing through Stage 3 daily.
In parallel with Stage 3, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has commenced works to reconfigure and reopen the Queensland Rail carpark east of Springfield Central station. The carpark, located at the southern end of the Brisbane Lions facility, will remain closed during construction activities. Weather and construction conditions permitting, work is expected to be complete by mid-2024.
The works required to reopen the carpark include installing new asphalt, concreting edging, new lighting, and line marking. TMR has engaged BMD Construction, the same contractor undertaking Stage 3, for this project. When reopened, the eastern carpark will complement the existing parking facilities within the Springfield Central train station precinct, including the multi-storey park ‘n’ ride facility opened in April 2022.
A new cannabis cafe that just opened at Queen Street in Goodna is already sparking heated debate among locals. The cafe, run by the company Professional Pot Smoker, bills itself as Australia’s first legal cannabis club and a safe space for medicinal marijuana users.
With 400 members already signed up, the exclusive Cannabis Club offers a membership-based program giving access to private locations across the country.
For a monthly fee of $4.20, club members can visit the inaugural Goodna location and other future sites to socialise, learn about cannabis from medical professionals, and attend cannabis-themed events.
Photo credit: Professional Pot Smoker/Facebook
However, the cafe’s proximity to shops and a primary school has some parents feeling concerned about exposing children to marijuana culture.
Photo credit: Professional Pot Smoker/Facebook
The founders stated on their website that they opened this club in response to a glaring lack of a safe, welcoming environment where medical marijuana patients can use their medication without discomfort, interact with medical cannabis experts to learn about their treatment, and connect with the larger community of medicinal users to which they belong.
Photo credit: Professional Pot Smoker/Facebook
“Our newly refined program aims to address this gap and provide a supportive environment for individuals seeking information, professional guidance, and a sense of community within the realm of medical cannabis,” they stated on the website.
Cannabis has been legally available by prescription in Australia since 2016 to treat conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and side effects from cancer treatment. However, social stigma and complicated access rules have meant relatively low patient numbers so far.
As the first of its kind, the Goodna cannabis cafe reflects evolving cultural attitudes toward marijuana’s therapeutic uses. But it also highlights the tensions that can arise as alternative treatments become more mainstream and visible in local communities.
The Forensic Crash Unit reports that around 5:45 pm on Saturday, May 4th, the man was driving a Mercedes-Benz hatchback that lost control at the intersection of Highlands Terrace and Summit Drive. The vehicle collided with a tree.
The driver was declared deceased at the scene by emergency responders.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances that led to the fatal crash. They are appealing for any witnesses or individuals who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward.
The intersection of Highlands Terrace and Summit Drive was closed for several hours while the Forensic Crash Unit documented and investigated the scene.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Policelink by submitting information online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or calling 131 444, quoting the reference number QP2400763272. Tips can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
At just 20 years old, Jonah Blackburn has accomplished a feat that many of his peers can only dream of – he’s a homeowner. Blackburn recently purchased a block at the new Covella Greenbank housing development, a remarkable achievement for someone so young.
The path to homeownership wasn’t an easy one for Blackburn. He was initially turned down when trying to purchase an existing home, a common roadblock for first-time buyers. But Blackburn was undeterred, and he set his sights high by breaking into the property market at a young age.
A key factor in Blackburn’s success was taking advantage of the First Home Buyers Grant. Blackburn explained that when you purchase a house outright, as soon as you do the deal and deposit, the government injects $30,000 into your loan. He noted that this money is not deducted from the buying power, but rather paid at the slab stage.
Blackburn is now looking forward to building and moving into his new home with his partner. But the journey hasn’t been without sacrifice. Blackburn explained that he hasn’t done anything overly smart or majorly different, he’s just worked a lot more than most of his peers, even having three jobs at one stage.
Photo credit: Covella Greenbank/Google Maps
Blackburn shared most people only need around $30,000. However, he saved a bit more than that, recognising that there are often additional expenses beyond just the deposit.
He noted that there are usually extra costs involved, such as stamp duty on the land and various registration fees, so it’s prudent to have a slightly larger savings cushion to cover those additional outlays.
Photo credit: Covella Greenbank/Google Maps
A spokesperson for AVID Property Group, which is behind Covella, stated that buyer inquiry remains strong at the development, with first-time home buyers making up 50 percent of the inquiries.
It’s revealed first-time home buyers at Covella Greenbank are not only seeking affordability, but also a community with access to transportation, green open spaces, and lifestyle amenities such as shopping and dining options.
The first home owner grant provides eligible first-time home buyers in Queensland with either $15,000 or $30,000 to put towards the purchase or construction of a new home.
Blackburn’s story serves as an inspiration to other young people who may be daunted by the prospect of homeownership. By being disciplined with his spending, working tirelessly, and taking advantage of government programs, Blackburn has proven that it is possible to break into the property market at a young age.
Detectives from the Ipswich Criminal Investigation Branch are appealing to the public for assistance in tracking down a serial robbery suspect believed to be responsible for two violent crimes in the Springfield area.
The first incident took place around 11:50 p.m. last January 31, when an unidentified man reportedly entered a business on Woodcrest Way.
Authorities say the suspect threatened a staff member with a knife and demanded money. The employee complied, and the robber fled the scene heading towards Woodcrest Way and Commercial Drive.
Photo credit: mypolice.qld.gov.au
Just over a month later, on 2 February 2024, what appears to be the same man allegedly struck again – this time targeting a business on Springfield Parkway around 8:30 p.m. Police claim the suspect threatened workers with a large wrench, assaulted one of the attendants, and made off with an undisclosed sum of cash.
Photo credit: mypolice.qld.gov.au
Authorities have released descriptions and images of the suspect, who is described as a tanned man around 6 feet tall with a stocky build, short dark hair, and a patchy black moustache.
During the robberies, he was reportedly wearing a grey or navy blue “Blues” football jumper, black pants, and black athletic shoes.
Members of the public with relevant details are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. You can provide information using the Queensland Police’s online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Alternatively, you can call Policelink on 131 444.
Robbery cases in Springfield
Photo credit: Queensland Police Service
Whilst the recent robbery incidents in Springfield are concerning, data from Queensland Police Service indicates these have been isolated events, with the broader Springfield area experiencing relatively low levels of crime over the past year.
According to the Online Crime Map, there were only two cases of robbery in the suburb in the 12-month period leading up to 9 April 2024.
Nevertheless, apprehending this suspected repeat offender remains a top priority for Ipswich detectives, who are hopeful the public can provide the crucial information needed to track down the perpetrator and prevent any further violent crimes from occurring.
A tragic event shocked the Ipswich community when a 70-year-old woman was brutally killed during an alleged carjacking. The victim, identified as Vyleen White, was fatally stabbed in front of her granddaughter and witnesses at a car park in Town Square Redbank Plains Shopping Centre.
The assailant is a 16-year-old boy who attacked Ms White in a senseless act of violence by stabbing her in the chest. According to witnesses, the attack occurred suddenly and without provocation.
Days after the incident, the community’s immediate legal action and manhunt for the justice of Ms White’s bereaved family whilst Commissioner Katarina Caroll took to a conference. The authorities urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with their inquiries.
“If anyone thinks that they are going to escape this – they will not escape this – we will not escape this – we will hunt these people down until we bring them to justice to be held accountable for what they have done,” Ms Caroll said.
Following this, the locals of the community extended their condolences to the late grandmother by placing flowers inside the shopping centre where her life was brutally taken. A family friend, Katherine Lameree, also organized a GoFundMe to support Ms White’s family.
As the investigations progressed, Queensland Police called for public assistance in the hunt for the suspect. The community responded with valuable information, leading to a breakthrough in the case.
The police revealed footage of the teenagers who allegedly left Ms White’s car after stabbing her to death that was found in Springfield Lakes.
Police arrested the teenager in his home at Bellbird Park. He was charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle, stealing, and the murder of Ms White.
Four of his companions, ages 15 and 16, were also charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle.
The arrests brought closure to the grieving family and provided a sense of justice for the Ipswich community. The Ipswich police department commended the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the community in resolving the case.
A new $72 million townhouse development has been approved within an exclusive enclave at Springfield, promising luxury living with direct access to the Brookwater golf course.
The Oakmont development by Azure will comprise 61 luxury townhouses situated along the edge of the 8th hole of the Brookwater golf course designed by Greg Norman. The residences will offer views over the fairways and greens stretching out to the surrounding mountains.
With the aim of cultivating a sense of community living, Oakmont will boast expansive landscaped garden areas, shared amenities and facilities for residents, and a centralised pedestrian pathway linking the different townhomes together.
Photo credit: Azure
Those who will live at Oakmont will have the luxury of utilising an upscale wellness centre featuring a steam room, sauna, magnesium mineral plunge pools, and a fully-equipped fitness centre. Further adding to the resort-like amenities on the 2.36-hectare property is a 20-metre lap pool surrounded by lounge areas and recreational green spaces.
According to Azure Director Trent Keirnan, Oakmont epitomises their philosophy of creating distinguished residences primarily aimed at owner-occupiers and investors seeking a premium residential offering.
Photo credit: Azure
Mr Keirnan stated that at a minimum, each residence at Oakmont would be a high-quality terrace home offering three bedrooms plus a multipurpose room, further enhanced by the desirable open setting provided by being situated adjacent to a championship golf course.
Construction is scheduled to commence in early 2025, with completion expected by the third quarter of 2026. The development has already generated significant buyer interest from the market.
The approval for Oakmont promises a new benchmark in luxury townhouse living nestled alongside one of the region’s most prestigious golf courses at Brookwater.
Meet the women chosen you chose to honour for International Women’s Day! Orion Springfield Central called upon the Greater Springfield community to nominate local women who are making a positive impact, and the response has been incredible!
These remarkable women embody the spirit of resilience, compassion, and dedication, each contributing uniquely to the betterment of our community and beyond.
Lauren Bickley: A Story of Love and Resilience
Lauren, a devoted mother of two and a pillar of support in the local community, shares a profound bond with her husband Shaun. Their lives took an unexpected turn in 2020 when Shaun endured strokes, leaving him visually impaired and grappling with aphasia, a condition affecting his speech. Despite their immense challenges, Lauren and Shaun remained steadfast in their commitment to each other, bravely navigating this new chapter together.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Sarah Knopke: A Beacon of Generosity and Unity
Sarah, a longtime resident of Springfield Lakes, has woven herself into the fabric of our community for over a decade. As a devoted wife, nurturing mother, and cherished Gigi, her impact resonates deeply with all who cross her path. Recognised for her unwavering commitment to good causes, Sarah is a beacon of generosity and compassion.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Kristy and Sarah: Fostering Wellness and Empowerment
Kristy and Sarah, the dynamic duo behind Revive Yoga and Wellness Centre, epitomize dedication to both women’s empowerment and the flourishing of the community. As owners, they’ve meticulously crafted an inclusive haven that transcends the boundaries of traditional yoga studios.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Shelleigh Lole: Empowering Youth and Fostering Community
Shelleigh, a beloved resident of Springfield Lakes, radiates warmth and dedication, particularly in her tireless support of the community’s youth. Together with her husband Fana, they have operated Lole’s Barber Shop in the area for ten years. Shelleigh’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and community enrichment is a shining example of compassionate leadership.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Emma Atherton: Championing Women’s Health and Well-being
Emma is a driving force within the community, spearheading initiatives to enhance women’s health and well-being. As a Co-Founder of iCare4U, Emma is pivotal in orchestrating events, managing social media, and advocating for health and wellness. Her forthcoming Women’s Clinic, staffed by a team of allied health professionals, will serve as a beacon of empowerment and healing for women in need.
These unsung heroes exemplify the values of strength, compassion, and resilience. Their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts inspire us all to strive for greatness and positive change.
Honouring Contributions with a Special Exhibit
To further honour the contributions of these remarkable women, Orion Springfield Central has curated a special in-centre display showcasing their stories and achievements. This exhibit pays tribute to their indomitable spirit and aims to inspire the community to strive for greatness and positive change.
Photo Credit: Supplied
A Vibrant Community Space
“Orion Springfield Central is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a vibrant community space that thrives on inclusivity and celebration,” said Melanie Hodge, Senior Asset Manager at Orion Springfield Central. “We are immensely proud to showcase the stories of these phenomenal women who embody the values of strength, compassion, and resilience. Their contributions serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for us all.”
Orion Springfield Central remains committed to fostering an environment where every voice is heard and everyone is celebrated. Please visit Orion Springfield Central’s website for more information about the showcased women and other community initiatives.
A recent asbestos contamination issue from NuGrow’s compromised compost in Ipswich, one of Queensland’s major disposal and recycling entities, has unsettled locals who frequent the Everleigh Dog Park in Greenbank and the Spring Mountain State School community in Springfield.
The discovery has prompted immediate responses from local authorities, leading to the closure of Everleigh Dog Park and the isolation of a recently completed construction site at Spring Mountain State School.
Although the affected area at the school, lying beneath a layer of mulch, is inaccessible to the public or students, the situation has raised significant concerns.
Proactive Measures and Community Safety
In light of these findings, Queensland’s environmental authority and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland have embarked on a mission to ensure public safety through rigorous testing and containment strategies. Asbestos detection, even in small amounts, has necessitated a “very precautionary approach,” intending to maintain transparency and protect community health.
The impact on Greenbank and Springfield underscores a broader crisis, as Queensland grapples with the fallout of contaminated compost that has also affected areas in New South Wales.
With 16 businesses and public spaces potentially exposed to the hazardous material, authorities have halted the movement of NuGrow’s soil products and initiated comprehensive testing across the southeast and beyond.
Reflection: A Call for Vigilance
The situation in Greenbank and Springfield is a wake-up call, urging a reevaluation of environmental safety and waste management standards. As investigations continue, the emphasis remains on minimising risk, reinforcing safety protocols, and ensuring such incidents do not recur, protecting Queensland’s communities and their cherished environments.
“A proactive audit program of Queensland companies that manufacture and supply landscaping products has detected a small amount of asbestos in a stockpile of soil at a business, NuGrow in Ipswich,” Workplace Health and Safety Queensland issued in a statement.
“Given the low level of contamination found in the test sample, Queensland Health has advised that there is minimal risk to public health and safety at this time.
“The fact that this product is for use outdoors also reduces the risk to public health and safety.”
Phone 1300 130 372 for concerns and further information.
