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Mater Celebrates Springfield Lakes Leadership Team’s Achievements

Mater Private Hospital Springfield has received significant recognition for their exceptional service as its leadership team is honoured with the prestigious Clinical Excellence (Team) Award.

More than 13,000 procedures are performed at this hospital in Springfield each year, across specialty areas ranging from oncology and orthopaedics to gastroenterology and maxillofacial surgery.

The recognition comes as Mater embarks on Stage 2 of the expansion of Mater Hospital Springfield.

Scheduled to open in 2026, the expansion will include 174 public beds and a much-needed Emergency Department, further enhancing healthcare accessibility in the area.

The new facility will integrate Mater Health and Mater Education, offering a range of specialist consultancy suites, allied health services, and healthcare education.

Mater Springfield Lakes — Photo Credit: Mater

The Clinical Excellence (Team) Award, presented at the Mater People Awards, acknowledges the team’s dedication to the 12,500 patients they have cared for over the past year.

Paul Darcy, the Executive Director, commended the team for their unwavering commitment to the rapidly growing Springfield community. Their approach, particularly in pressure injury and fall prevention, has been a highlight in the realm of patient care.

“Greater Springfield is a rapidly growing community, with evolving health care needs, and Mater’s Springfield leadership team has been unwavering in its efforts to ensure these needs are met,” Mr Darcy said.

“They’ve been innovative, resilient, and responsive in achieving excellent patient outcomes, particularly in pressure injury and fall prevention – that’s been a real highlight over the past 12 months.

“The award also recognises the team’s collaborative approach, irrespective of position or department, which has also gone a long way to ensuring our patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care.”

Published 17-Nov-2023

Goodna RSL Commemorates Fallen Service Members on Remembrance Day 2023

On Saturday, November 11, 2023, the Goodna RSL Sub Branch will be holding a Remembrance Day service to honour all those who have served and sacrificed for their nation. The service will be held at the Soldier’s Memorial in Goodna, between 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Remembrance Day 2023

The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the fighting in World War I. Remembrance Day commemorates all military personnel who have given their lives in the line of duty.

The service will include wreath-laying, playing of the Last Post and a minute’s silence at 11:00 a.m. All members of the community are welcome to pay their respects.

After the service, there will be a social gathering at Club Parkview, Woogaroo Road, Goodna.

Remembering the fallen

Brisbane in World War I — Troopship leaving the Pinkenba Wharf in Brisbane during World War I. Photo Credit: Goodstone/Wikimedia Commons

Remembrance Day originated as a memorial for those who served in World War I. Over time, it has expanded to honour all service personnel who have sacrificed their lives in various wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

For many, it is a day to remember deceased relatives or friends who served in the military. For others, it is a moment to reflect on the costs of war and the sacrifices that enabled our freedom.

Wherever you are on November 11, take a moment to remember all those who have given their lives in service to their nation. Together, we can ensure their invaluable contributions are never forgotten.

Other Ways to Remember

Attend a service, wear a poppy, or observe a minute’s silence at 11am, and help keep the legacy of our service people alive. Lest we forget.
RSL Queensland

Published 8 November 2023

Beloved Sculpture in River Heart Parklands to be Relocated

In the heart of Ipswich’s River Heart Parklands, an iconic piece of public art called “Looking Back to a Childhood” is set to be relocated due to its vulnerability to floods and potential vandalism.

This bronze sculpture, created by renowned Queensland sculptor Dr. Rhyl Hinwood AM, from Kenmore Hills, depicts young children playing on a riverbank with their pet dog. The decision to temporarily move the artwork comes after it was affected by the 2022 floods, prompting concerns about its preservation.

Dr Hinwood’s remarkable contributions to visual art have been recognised through various accolades, such as her appointment as Patron of Sculptures Queensland in 2015 and her induction as a Member, General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2006. Her dedication to her craft and the cultural enrichment of Ipswich are evident in this cherished sculpture.

Preservation of a Priceless Piece of Art

The careful removal of the artwork has already taken place, with council officers ensuring its secure storage while the community and council work together to find a new location for public display.

Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner expressed the importance of protecting this significant piece of public art.

Dr. Rhyl Hinwood AM — Photo Credit: Sculptors Queensland

“Dr. Hinwood is one of Australia’s most respected artists, and it is a privilege for Ipswich to have one of her artworks in our public art collection,” he said.

While River Heart Parklands is undergoing restoration efforts following the 2022 floods, the city council aims to safeguard this cherished artwork from further damage.

“Council has decided to temporarily remove the sculptures and store them safely until a new, permanent location can be identified. Ipswich Art Gallery Director Claire Sourgnes has advised our Assets and Infrastructure Services team on the removal of the statues,” Cr Fechner added.

A Journey from D’Arcy Doyle Place to River Heart Parklands

This iconic artwork was commissioned by Ipswich City Council in 1993 and was initially situated in D’Arcy Doyle Place. In the early 2000s, it found its new home in the scenic River Heart Parklands.

Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle revealed that during this process, it was identified that two of the five bronze children from the sculpture were missing. To preserve and present the artwork more widely for the community’s enjoyment, the decision to relocate it to a more prominent and suitable location has been made.

“’‘Looking Back to a Childhood’ is an artwork with a story we can all recognise – the light-hearted joy of exploring a riverbank and the hidden delights of native animals and plants,” said Cr. Doyle.

She went on to explain that four of the bronze children were relocated to River Heart Parklands in the early 2000s, but the fifth was not. The loss of another bronze child was noted during the flood cleanup, prompting the need for the relocation and discussions with the community regarding its future display.

Published 3-Nov-2023

Iconic Ipswich Cafe, Rafter & Rose, Bids Farewell After Almost a Decade

The Rafter & Rose cafe, a cherished establishment in Ipswich, located at the heart of the historic Top of Town on Ellensborough Street, has announced its impending closure, leaving its loyal patrons heartbroken.

Having enchanted locals and visitors for nearly nine years with its exceptional coffee, pastries, and dietary-friendly offerings, the café has left an indelible mark on the community.

Owners Elle Morar and Candy Gazdagh expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the patrons who contributed to their business’s success. In a social media announcement, they shared their journey and deep appreciation for their customers.

“When we opened back in January 2015, someone said to us they hoped we’d last. To be honest, we had no idea if we would, but we were determined to give it our all,” the owners stated.

“We found a community; you guys invited us into your lives, your families, and you certainly became part of ours. We all managed to get through the challenge of a worldwide pandemic, we watched your kids grow, and ours have never known anything other than hospitality life. To say we’ve loved it would be an understatement.”

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A post shared by Rafter & Rose (@rafterandrose)

On 23 Oct 2023, after having served for 8 years, 9 months, and 10 days, Rafter & Rose will pass the reins to someone deeply connected to Ipswich. The cafe’s last day of operation will be on the 20th, and the owners have assured customers that they will provide their usual array of delectable treats to celebrate the end of an era.

Published 18-Oct-2023

Goodna’s Westside Christian College Acquires Neighbouring Development Site for $2.5 Million

In a strategic move aimed at expansion, Westside Christian College, a multi-denominational Christian school in Goodna, east of Ipswich, has purchased a neighbouring development site for $2.5 million.

Founded in 1977, Westside Christian College has been providing education from kindergarten to Year 12. The acquisition of the 1.96-hectare site at 124-128 Alice St will facilitate the college’s growth and development plans, enhancing its educational offerings.

The development site comprises two properties, each featuring homes with historical significance. One of the homes dates back to the 1920s, while the other was constructed in the 1970s. Initially, Westside Christian College intends to retain these properties.

The school’s secondary campus and Kindergarten are situated nearby, reflecting the strategic significance of this acquisition.

Westside Christian College Goodna — Photo Credit: Google Maps

The two-lot site was secured through the efforts of Ray White Special Projects’ Christopher Czernik-Wojcicki and James Hanley. Notably, this transaction marked the first time these properties changed hands on the open market, attracting significant interest from various stakeholders.

According to Mr Czernik-Wojcicki, the campaign generated 83 direct inquiries from a diverse group of potential purchasers, including local investors, private developers, development syndicates, childcare developers, and the neighbouring school, Westside Christian College itself.

Seven formal written offers were submitted, with the final purchaser ultimately presenting an attractive cash unconditional offer with appealing terms for the vendor. The acquisition comes after the school outbid six other buyers and paid $2.5 million.

Mr Hanley emphasized that this acquisition was a wise move for Westside Christian College. Infill development sites like these are scarcely available in the broader South East Queensland region. He noted that the scarcity of developable land in South East Queensland was driving strong competition for sites with a clear town planning pathway for development in the short term.

Mr Hanley also expressed confidence that the community would welcome the expansion of the school, which would bring benefits to the greater Ipswich region.

Published 11-Oct-2023

State-of-the-Art Brighton Homes Arena Propels Brisbane Lions Into the AFL Grand Final

The Brisbane Lions reached their first AFL Grand Final in 19 years less than 12 months after moving their training base to the state-of-the-art Springfield facility at Brighton Homes Arena. The timely move appears to have been the catalyst for the club’s long-awaited return to premiership contention.

Lions’ den at Brighton Homes Arena

Prior to the move, the Gabba’s cricket commitments meant that the Brisbane Lions were unable to use the facilities at their home ground on a consistent basis. As a result, the club was forced to train at various suburban ovals in Coorparoo, Yeronga and Morningside.

The new Springfield base has provided the Lions with a permanent and modern training hub. Players and staff now have continuity in access to equipment, medical and fitness facilities.

Climbing the ladder under Fagan

Former Lions skipper Dayne Zorko will play his 250th game in the grand final against Collingwood, the team he debuted against in 2012. His long wait for a grand final ranks 10th in AFL history. Photo Credit: Instagram/Brisbane Lions

Under the guidance of coach Chris Fagan, Brisbane have gone from basement dwellers in 2017 to a powerhouse over the past five seasons. While Fagan has moulded a tight-knit group, the club has supplemented the core squad with recruits like Lachie Neale, Joe Daniher and Josh Dunkley.

The culmination of this resurgence is Saturday’s Grand Final clash with the Collingwood Magpies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Springfield reaps rewards

Off the field, the club’s move to Springfield is paying dividends. Lions membership has reached a record of over 52,000, with Springfield residents signing up in droves as the club’s second-largest membership base after Coorparoo.

Former club chairman Bob Sharpless says the move has been a financial game changer. The club is now profitable, with a strong membership wave.

For the Lions faithful, Springfield has proved to be something of a good-luck charm. Regardless of Saturday’s result, the club looks set to remain a roaring success for years to come.

Published 29 September 2023

How Two Sisters, Founders of Injex Springfield Lakes, Built a Thriving Cosmetic Empire in Brisbane

In the competitive world of cosmetic injectables and non-surgical treatments, two sisters are making a name for themselves and their business in Brisbane. Emma and Kate Taylor are the founders of Injex Clinics, one of Brisbane’s top destinations for cosmetic treatments.

Read: Australian Made Week Celebrates Local Legends to Promote Aussie-Made Products

Opening their first clinic in 2015, the Taylor sisters have grown their business to three thriving locations across the city in just eight years. Their clinics in Springfield Lakes, Capalaba, and Aspley employ over 15 staff members and offer clients a wide array of non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

With over a decade of experience, Emma is one of the most skilled and knowledgeable cosmetic nurses in Brisbane. Her exceptional technique and artistry with cosmetic injectables makes her a highly sought-after practitioner in the industry.

Complementing her sister’s clinical expertise, Kate serves as the Chief Operations Officer of Injex Clinics, overseeing the business’ day-to-day operations.

The road to success has not always been easy. Just after opening their first clinic, disaster struck when a fire gutted the space. But with resilience and their strong community behind them, Emma and Kate rebuilt in new premises bigger and better than before.

Beyond growing their business, the sisters are dedicated to giving back to the Brisbane community. They continuously support local sports teams, events and fundraisers through Injex’s charitable initiatives.

Their inspirational entrepreneurial drive has earned Emma and Kate accolades including Redlands Business & Retail Awards for Best Beauty Business and Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Injex also won Retailer of the Year in 2019 from the same organisation.

Now with three successful clinics under their belt, Emma and Kate Taylor are leading voices in Brisbane’s cosmetic industry. Their commitment to their business, staff and community make them exemplary role models and local leaders. The Taylor sisters prove with passion and perseverance, women can thrive as successful entrepreneurs.

Read: How a 13-Year-Old Raised Over $1500 to Save Endangered Bilbies

Emma and Kate Taylor have also been named contenders for a local newspaper’s ‘Most Inspiring Woman of 2023’ title across the Southeast Queensland region. Their nomination spotlights their achievements in growing a thriving business whilst giving back to local causes.

Published 26-September-2023

Deven Robertson Auctions Ripped Guernsey for Jarrod Berry’s Breast Cancer Campaign

Brisbane Lions midfielder Deven Robertson is auctioning off the guernsey that was ripped off his back during a match, with proceeds going to support teammate Jarrod Berry’s breast cancer awareness campaign.

Read: Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield More Practical for Brisbane Lions Amidst Gabba Renovation Plans

During the Lions’ match against Collingwood last month, Robertson’s jersey was torn clean off, leaving the 22-year-old midfielder to play topless for several minutes before receiving a replacement guernsey.

The incident caused his Instagram following to skyrocket from 11,000 to over 89,000, making him Brisbane’s most followed player to date.

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A post shared by Deven Robertson (@devrob11_)

Now Robertson is using his wardrobe malfunction for good, generously donating the tattered jersey during an auction at Brisbane’s Hall of Fame dinner last month. All funds will back Berry’s upcoming marathon to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), an organisation close to his heart.

Berry tragically lost his mother to breast cancer 10 years ago and to honour her memory, he will run 42.2 miles through his hometown on November 11 with his brothers and friends.

Speaking to the media last month, Berry stated that this year’s marathon is less about fundraising and more about honouring his late mother’s legacy. He explained that he, his brothers, and their two closest friends are running the marathon to exemplify virtues like resilience, diligence, and determination that his mother instilled in them.

Berry’s mother battled breast cancer for nearly a decade before passing away. During her chemotherapy and fight against the disease, BCNA provided critical support. In 2018, Berry shaved his head and raised $60,000 for BCNA in tribute to his mother’s ongoing battle. Though she has since passed, Berry and his team aim to celebrate her life and spirit through this year’s marathon.

Read: ‘Go for Gold’ Fund Benefits Springfield Lakes and Springfield Central Schools

Though Robertson’s shirtless stint brought amusement, he flipped his accidental fame into an opportunity to support Berry’s heartfelt effort against the disease that claimed his mom. Robertson’s selfless gesture epitomises the Lions’ spirit of mateship and resilience.

Visit Brisbane Lions’ official auction page to learn more about this cause.

Published 22-September-2023

‘The Zones’ in Thriving Greater Springfield Commercial District Attracts Businesses

In the heart of the Greater Springfield commercial district, a new development called ‘The Zones’ is capturing the attention of businesses looking to secure their own premises.

With over 50,000 residents, 15 schools, 25 kindergartens, and key institutions like Health City and the University of Southern Queensland, Greater Springfield continues to flourish around the pillars of health, education, and IT in its 31st year as a master-planned community.

The project, which offers a mix of commercial spaces for purchase, is gaining significant traction with only five units remaining as construction progresses steadily towards its scheduled completion at the end of this year.

Developed by Springfield City Group, The Zones has already formed a diverse community of tenants, ranging from a café to a gym, creating an atmosphere that reflects the project’s mixed-use concept.

Mr. Sean Ranchigoda, a representative of Springfield City Group, emphasised the increasing demand for units that can be owned by small and medium-sized businesses.

“We developed Hub 23 in the same precinct with 10 units that were quickly snapped up. That was a warehouse-based complex, whereas The Zones provides a mix of options now being demanded by the market,” Mr Ranchigoda said.

Prices for The Zones’ units vary based on the type of space, with warehouses priced at $4,600 per square meter, showroom tenancies at $5,700 per square meter, and ground-floor office space at $6,500 per square meter. The units themselves range in size from 55 square meters to 296 square meters, catering to a broad spectrum of business needs.

“These projects are being developed every few years in this area to meet the demand,” Mr Ranchigoda explained. “And the demand is mostly coming from local buyers who understand the benefits of purchasing units compared with leasing.”

The Zones occupies a strategic location bounded by Technology Drive, Gateway Drive, and Success Circuit, offering three-street frontage that further enhances its appeal to businesses.

ICM Construction, the construction firm responsible for the development, has set a completion date for The Zones in November 2023. Springfield City Group, in partnership with Raine & Horne Commercial, is actively marketing the project to potential buyers.

Published 11-Sept-2023

Springfield Central SHS Launches School Breakfast Club in Partnership with YMCA

Photo Credit: CharisMullenMP/Facebook

Springfield Central State High School, in collaboration with the YMCA Queensland Schools’ Breakfast Program and with the support of Club Parkview, recently launched the Springfield Central Breakfast Club.

The Breakfast Club is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8:15 to 8:45 a.m. at the Community Centre, offering students and their families access to a healthy and convenient breakfast. The Breakfast Club aims to address the importance of a nutritious morning meal and to ensure that no student starts their day hungry.

The YMCA Schools’ Breakfast Program, which serves over 14,000 children each day across 165+ schools in South East Queensland, has been successful in optimising behavioural outcomes in the classroom, boosting student engagement, and elevating academic performance. This approach recognises that a balanced breakfast can have a lasting impact on a student’s overall well-being and future habits.

In support of this initiative, an additional $2.7 million has been allocated by the government for School Breakfast Programs across the state. The program aims to serve more than just a meal; it strives to foster healthy eating habits, enhance student engagement, and improve academic performance.

As the program commences its operations, all are encouraged to participate and experience the positive impact of a nutritious start to the day.

The Breakfast Club welcomes students, families, and community members to participate in this initiative to foster better nutrition and stronger community connections.

Published 28-Aug-2023