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Lions vs Swans: Brisbane’s Top-Two Hopes on the Line Against Sydney

Fresh off a shock defeat, the Brisbane Lions women’s team look to bounce back when they host the Sydney Swans this Sunday, 27 October. The crucial clash comes as the Lions aim to secure a top-two finish and the home qualifying final that comes with it. Lions vs Swans kick off 4:05 p.m. at the Brighton Homes Arena.

Read: Stephen K Amos Headlines Springlake Hotel Comedy Night

Geelong setback

The twelfth-placed Cats delivered an unexpected blow to Brisbane’s campaign last Sunday, outplaying the Lions in a defensive masterclass that resulted in a 7.5 (47) to 5.7 (37) victory at GMHBA Stadium. The loss marked Brisbane’s first defeat since the opening round, with the usually potent Lions’ forward line unable to break through Geelong’s defensive pressure.

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The Lions face a significant challenge with key forward Dakota Davidson ruled out due to concussion protocols following a heavy fall in the second quarter of the Geelong match. Davidson’s absence was notably felt in the second half, as Brisbane struggled to maintain their offensive efficiency.

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Despite this setback, there were positive signs for Brisbane. Teenage sensation Charlie Mullins continued her impressive form with 18 disposals and a goal, while Orla O’Dwyer made a successful return from injury, contributing 14 disposals and two goals.

Lions vs Swans implications

With just two rounds remaining in the home-and-away season, the race for a top-two finish intensifies. The Lions’ main competition includes second-placed Hawthorn, who face fifth-placed Richmond in the final round, and third-placed Kuwarna, set to battle the undefeated league-leaders Kangaroos this weekend.

Brisbane’s final home-and-away fixture will see them travel to RSEA Park in Melbourne to face tenth-placed Yoorook. The Lions cannot afford to underestimate their opponents after last weekend’s wake-up call.

Read: Mother and Baby Koala’s Death Sparks Urgent Plea from Ipswich Koala Protection Society

The clash against the fifteenth-placed Swans presents an ideal opportunity for the Lions to return to the dominant form that characterised their seven-game winning streak. With finals implications looming large, Brisbane’s response to this recent setback could define their premiership defence.

Published 24-October-2024

Mother and Baby Koala’s Death Sparks Urgent Plea from Ipswich Koala Protection Society

In the early hours of Tuesday, October 8, a heart-wrenching scene unfolded on Redbank Plains Road. The bodies of a mother koala and her baby were discovered, still clinging to each other—victims of a vehicle collision. This tragic incident has prompted the Ipswich Koala Protection Society (IKPS) to issue an urgent reminder to the community: slow down and be aware of wildlife all year round.

Read: Community Rallies to Protect Wildlife in Woogaroo Forest

A Wake-Up Call for the Community

The IKPS, a non-profit charity dedicated to the protection and preservation of koalas, received the report of the deceased koalas with heavy hearts. “This mum and bub were reported to IKPS this morning,” the organisation stated, emphasising that this sad event serves as a “timely reminder” of the ongoing dangers faced by our native wildlife.

“They are sharing their backyard with us, not the other way around,” IKPS pointed out, highlighting the need for humans to coexist responsibly with the local fauna. This sentiment underscores a crucial point: as urban areas expand, wildlife habitats are increasingly encroached upon, leading to more frequent interactions—and sadly, collisions—between animals and vehicles.

Koalas: Now Endangered and in Need of Protection

The incident takes on added significance given the recent change in koalas’ conservation status. “Ipswich has a healthy population of koalas that are now listed as ‘Endangered’,” IKPS noted.

This upgrade in status from “Vulnerable” to “Endangered” reflects the growing threats to koala populations across Queensland, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory.

The organisation’s message is clear and urgent: “They need our help and protection NOW before it’s too late.”

IKPS: A Multifaceted Approach to Koala Conservation

The Ipswich Koala Protection Society isn’t just sounding the alarm—they’re actively working on multiple fronts to protect and preserve koala populations. Their efforts include:

1. Providing a 24/7 wildlife ambulance service for sick, injured, and orphaned animals

2. Propagating and planting koala food trees to support habitat restoration

3. Hand-raising and rehabilitating orphaned koalas and other native wildlife for release back into the wild

4. Maintaining accurate records, statistics, and mapping of koalas and their habitats

5. Educating the community and all levels of government about koalas, their needs, and their future

Understanding Koala Behaviour

To better protect koalas, it’s crucial to understand their behaviour and habitat needs. Koalas are highly mobile creatures that can live in any area with access to food and suitable trees. In urban environments like Brisbane, koalas adapt by using both native and non-native trees for rest. They typically move across the ground from tree to tree, which makes them particularly vulnerable to vehicle collisions.

A Call to Action

In light of this tragic incident and the broader challenges facing koala populations, the IKPS is calling on all community members to take action:

1. Drive with caution: Be especially vigilant during dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.

2. Report sightings: If you see koalas in your area, report them to local wildlife organisations.

3. Support conservation efforts: Consider volunteering with or donating to organisations like IKPS.

4. Plant koala-friendly trees: If you have space, plant native trees that provide food and shelter for koalas.

5. Educate others: Spread awareness about the importance of protecting our endangered koalas.

As we share our environment with these iconic Australian animals, it’s up to each of us to ensure their survival. The tragic loss of a mother koala and her baby serves as a poignant reminder of what’s at stake.

Read: Platypus Found Thriving in Unlikely Urban Oasis in Ipswich

By heeding the call of the Ipswich Koala Protection Society and taking concrete steps to protect our wildlife, we can hope to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future and secure a safer environment for koalas and all native species.

Published 18-October-2024

Stephen K Amos Headlines Springlake Hotel Comedy Night

Get ready for a belly-aching night of laughs, Springfield Lakes! The Springlake Hotel is rolling out the red carpet this November for the internationally acclaimed master of wit, Stephen K Amos, in a show that’s guaranteed to leave you in stitches.

Amos, a multitalented performer known for his BAFTA-nominated work, RTS award-winning writing, and recent appearance on “I’m A Celebrity Australia,” will showcase his new show, “Oxymoron,” at the Springlake Hotel on Wednesday, 6 November 2924.

Amos, a regular on the international comedy circuit, has charmed audiences worldwide with his natural delivery, honest material, and knack for audience interaction.

His unique comedic voice and impressive acting skills have garnered critical acclaim, solidifying his position as one of Britain’s most beloved comedians.

This comedy highlight is part of a broader trend of Queensland pubs becoming hotspots for top-tier comedy this spring. Alongside Amos’s Brisbane shows, Australian comedy favourites Dilruk Jayasinha and Lizzy Hoo will bring their split-bill act to two pubs in North Queensland.

The Springlake Hotel reopened late last year after a multi-million dollar renovation. It now features an inviting pub focusing on entertainment and casual dining, the ideal venue for Stephen to showcase his new show.

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Comedy fans across Queensland are spoilt for choice this spring, with a diverse range of comedic talent set to grace the stages of local pubs.

Whether it’s the internationally renowned humour of Stephen K Amos or the homegrown hilarity of Dilruk Jayasinha and Lizzy Hoo, there’s something to tickle everyone’s funny bone.

Published Date 14-October-2024

Springfield Lakes Mum’s Breast Cancer Battle Inspires Action

A Springfield Lakes police officer has bravely shared her story of confronting an aggressive form of breast cancer, urging other women in the Ipswich and Greater Springfield area to be vigilant about their breast health.

Just over a year ago, Melissa Dickson, a mother of two, received the jarring news that she had breast cancer after discovering a lump during a self-examination. The 49-year-old immediately sought medical advice, leading to a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy.

Days later, she was diagnosed with stage two triple-negative breast cancer and began treatment under the care of Dr Susan Bell at Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

Mrs Dickson underwent 12 weeks of intensive chemotherapy at Springfield’s Mater Cancer Care Centre, followed by a lumpectomy and the removal of 34 lymph nodes. Undeterred, she then faced 25 rounds of radiation treatment and is currently receiving immune therapy.

Despite the whirlwind of emotions and challenges, Mrs Dickson remains positive and focused on raising awareness. She emphasised self-checks’ importance and encouraged women to remind their friends and family to do the same. Genetic testing has thankfully revealed that she does not carry the breast cancer gene, easing concerns for her daughter, siblings, and sister.

Dr Bell, a renowned breast and endocrine surgeon at Mater Private Hospital Springfield, praised Mrs Dickson’s strength and highlighted the transformative power of overcoming breast cancer. She stressed the importance of early detection through regular self-examinations and screening.

Dr Bell ensures her surgical cancer patients have a minimal wait time of less than a week.

While acknowledging the strong awareness of breast cancer in Australia, Dr Bell believes more can be done to educate women about available screening and preventative measures.

She reinforced the crucial role of regular breast self-examination in early detection, potentially saving lives.

Published Date 07-October-2024

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

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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

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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