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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.

get your tickets here!

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

Lions vs Magpies: Brisbane Look to Reclaim Dominance Against Collingwood in AFLW Clash

Reigning AFLW premiers, the Brisbane Lions, will take on the all-too-familiar Collingwood Magpies this Friday, 13 September. Both teams are eager to assert dominance early in the season, with the Lions aiming to maintain their strong record against the Magpies. Lions vs Magpies kick off 5:05 p.m. at the Brighton Homes Arena.

Read: Underdog Taymon Kenton-Smith Captures Hearts, Finishes in Fourth in Para Archery

Lions vs Magpies

Brisbane holds a 6-4 advantage in their head-to-head record against Collingwood, having won five of their last six encounters. The Lions’ recent dominance over the Magpies began with a narrow 3-point victory at Whitten Oval in 2021, a pivotal moment in their premiership-winning campaign.

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This match marks the tenth time Brisbane has hosted Collingwood, a league record for home games against a single opponent. Curiously, these ten matches have been played across eight different grounds in six cities, reflecting the Lions’ nomadic existence in recent seasons.

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Brighton Homes Arena is the only venue where Brisbane has yet to defeat Collingwood, adding extra motivation for the Lions to secure their first victory on this revamped home turf.

As Brisbane prepares to face Collingwood, their defensive pressure and ability to force turnovers will be key to securing a win. If the Lions can maintain their intensity in the forward half, they stand a strong chance of limiting Collingwood’s scoring opportunities.

Read: Augustine Heights to Welcome $60 Million Townhouse Development

The Lions look to capitalise on their home ground advantage and build on last week’s success in this clash against Collingwood, another exciting chapter in their growing rivalry.

Published 12-September-2024

Augustine Heights to Welcome $60 Million Townhouse Development

Photo Credit: DA A446008

Ipswich’s Augustine Heights suburb is set for a significant boost. Developer Azure has received the green light for a 74-home townhouse project valued at an estimated $60 million.

The Augusta Parkway project, located at 7001 Augusta Parkway, will span a 15,010-square-metre site. The development will offer a mix of three- and four-bedroom townhouses, complemented by communal amenities, including a wet-edge pool and a children’s pool.

Strategically positioned, Augusta Parkway is conveniently located in proximity to key amenities.

Augustine Heights — *Photo Credit:* *DA A446008*

It’s about 5km from the Springfield Central train station, 4km from Orion Springfield Central Shopping Centre, and 6.5km from Springfield Fair Shopping Centre.

Educational institutions such as St Augustine’s College and Augusta State School are also approximately 1.5km and 3km from the site.

This exciting project will commence in the first quarter of the upcoming year.

Published Date 10-September-2024

Underdog Taymon Kenton-Smith Captures Hearts, Finishes in Fourth in Para Archery

Although he finished fourth in the recurve open competition, Springfield Lakes para archer Taymon Kenton-Smith emerged as an unexpected star in Paris 2024. Kenton-Smith captured attention with his vibrant persona, colourful hairstyle, and impressive performances against top-ranked opponents, quickly becoming a crowd favourite.

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

Taymon Kenton-Smith, giant-killer

Ranked 21st in the world, Kenton-Smith showcased his remarkable skill by defeating several higher-ranked competitors. He eliminated world No. 1 Samuel Molina of Mexico and overcame world No. 4 and No. 7 ranked archers, advancing to the semi-finals before finishing fourth.

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“I didn’t just go up against the best in the world. I beat them,” Kenton-Smith proudly declared after running a tough gauntlet.

A colourful personality

While Kenton-Smith’s performances on the field were awe-inspiring, his presence off the field was equally striking. At the historic Esplanade des Invalides venue, he stood out with his green and gold hair, a bucket hat adorned with a wedge-tailed eagle feather, and a stuffed kangaroo by his side.

Between rounds, he energised the crowd, dancing to the venue’s music and encouraging audience participation, which quickly endeared him to spectators.

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Kenton-Smith’s journey has always been about more than just competition. At 14, he promised his grandmother she would one day see him compete in the Paralympics. Although she passed away before his debut in Tokyo, her memory continues to motivate him.

“That promise was what drove me [there],” Taymon reflected.

Read: L’Oréal Opens First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

After his individual event, Kenton-Smith participated in the mixed team event with teammate Amanda Jennings, where they secured a ninth-place finish.

Despite missing out on a medal, Kenton-Smith remains upbeat. “I came here to win and I won the crowd, so that’s definitely something. I will never be forgotten, I’m pretty sure about that.”

Published 08-September-2024

Paralympic Preview: Susan Seipel Rows in Paris Double Challenge

Ipswich-born Susan Seipel, 38, is set to compete in two semi-finals at the final weekend of the Paris Games. Seipel has established herself as a versatile and accomplished athlete across multiple disciplines, and is now aiming for Paralympic gold.

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

Susan Seipel in two events

The three-time Paralympian’s participation in two separate events showcases her versatility and endurance as an athlete. Seipel is scheduled to participate in two semi-final events:

Va’a single 200m semifinal: 7 September, 6:28 p.m.
Final: 7 September, 7:52 p.m.

Kayak single 200m semifinal: 8 September, 6:14 p.m.
Final: 8 September 2024, 7:41 p.m.

Read: Ipswich Jets Secure Backing as Queensland Aims for NRL Expansion

Seipel has already demonstrated her competitive edge in the qualifying rounds. She secured the fourth fastest time in the va’a single heats with a time of 1:04.03. In the kayak single event, she qualified with the seventh fastest time, clocking in at 1:01.29.

About Susan Seipei

Susan Seipel was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex, a condition that affects her joints and muscles. Despite undergoing several surgeries as a child, she excelled in para-sports, becoming an elite para-swimmer and paracanoeist.

She represented Australia at the Rio Paralympics in 2016, where she won a bronze medal in paracanoe. She became the first Australian to win a medal in para-canoe at the Paralympic Games.

Seipel’s resilience and passion for sport have made her an inspiring figure in the Paralympic community.

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

Published 07-September-2024

Ipswich Jets Secure Backing as Queensland Aims for NRL Expansion

Plans for a fifth National Rugby League (NRL) team in the state have been endorsed, with the Ipswich Jets’ bid potentially bringing professional rugby closer to Springfield Lakes residents.

Read: Who is Gout Gout? Ipswich Grammar Teen Sprinter Takes Internet by Storm

Potential locations and government support

Miles has suggested the Ipswich Jets or the Brisbane Tigers—both clubs that currently play in the Hostplus Cup under the Queensland Rugby League banner—as possible contenders for the new team.

The Queensland government is backing the NRL’s plans to establish an 18th team by 2028, citing the success of the Redcliffe-based Dolphins, who joined the league last year, as evidence to support this campaign.

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The government believes that an additional Queensland team would further strengthen the state’s status as a “rugby league heartland.”

“If the NRL are going to add teams to the competition, they absolutely have to seriously consider a Queensland bid,” Miles said.

Ipswich Jets secure funding

The Ipswich Jets have recently secured $40 million in funding for their NRL bid, with the aim of joining the expanded competition by 2028. This funding, sourced from local government and private investors, is allocated for infrastructure, facilities, and community development.

If successful, the team would be based in Ipswich, with Wayne Bennett as head coach. Bennett has led the NRL’s newest team, the Dolphins, to one win away from reaching the finals in just their second season.

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Third team at Suncorp?

Despite his enthusiasm for a new team, Miles has ruled out the construction of a new stadium. He suggests that any additional team would play at Suncorp Stadium in Milton, noting that there are still weekends when the venue is not used for rugby league.

Read: L’Oréal Opens First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

At present, Sydney hosts nine teams in the NRL, while Brisbane has only two. For residents of Springfield Lakes, a new team could bring top-tier rugby league action closer to home, along with increased community engagement and opportunities for local involvement in the sport.

Published 05-September-2024

Ipswich Fights ‘Lunchtime Brothel Specials’ in Corner Stores

Locals in Ipswich are calling for action to address loopholes in recently passed laws that permit brothels to operate and advertise in residential areas, corner stores, and shopping centres.

They voiced concerns over the possibility that numerous former corner stores could begin displaying explicit advertisements on outdoor billboards following the legalisation of home-based prostitution earlier this month.

The new legislation, which took effect on 2nd August, allows brothels to open in any commercially zoned area. In residential zones, a single-sex worker and one non-resident can operate from a house.

Last week, the council received complaints from Silkstone residents about topless women outside a former corner store now legally operating as a brothel.

Cr Paul Tully highlighted that the state legislation allows brothels to open near churches and schools and advertise on outdoor billboards. He emphasised that under the new rules, brothels could also apply to the council for extended trading hours, and while residents could lodge complaints, officers lack the power to regulate.

Mayor Teresa Harding expressed concerns about women’s safety after being informed that police would no longer be required to patrol legal brothels.

The council plans to write to Planning Minister Meaghan Scanlon and other local politicians to express its concerns about the loopholes. This is a developing situation in Ipswich as the city grapples with the implications of the new legislation.

Council is seeking to close loopholes that could enable legal brothels to use suggestive signage, such as “lunchtime specials,” “Two-for-One Tuesdays,” or “Happy Hour Discounts.”

However, council officers noted in a recent meeting that any changes to the laws to restrict legal prostitution would need to apply to all home-based businesses. They clarified that while the council could control the size of billboards, it couldn’t regulate their content.

Published Date 27-August-2024