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Galvanized Festival Returns to Celebrate Ipswich’s Rich Heritage

Ipswich, a city steeped in history and culture, is gearing up for the much-anticipated return of Galvanized – A Festival of Heritage. With its third annual iteration, the event promises 11 days of immersive experiences that celebrate the city’s storied past and offer a range of activities for all ages.

Scheduled to commence on Thursday, 31 Aug 2023, the festival will kick off with a traditional welcome by Nunukul Yuggera, setting the tone for the upcoming heritage celebration.

One of the highlights of the opening day will be an interactive virtual reality tour organized by Virtual Songlines. This tour is poised to take attendees on a journey spanning tens of thousands of years of local history, providing a unique perspective on the region’s evolution.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding expressed her excitement about the festival, noting that over 50 activities are on the lineup, each dedicated to showcasing the city’s rich heritage. The festival aims to cater to a diverse audience, ensuring that both the young and old can find something to delight them.

The festival’s first weekend promises an array of captivating experiences. From the Prohibition Party at The Workshops Rail Museum, channelling the glitz and glamour of bygone eras, to the Sky Iron Festival of Blacksmithing, featuring impressive artisanal craftsmanship, attendees will be transported to different facets of Ipswich’s heritage. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn leathercraft, embark on haunted history tours, or explore the historic halls of the Woodlands of Marburg mansion.

Cooneana Homestead will offer a glimpse into days gone by, featuring live music, old-world skills demonstrations, and entertainment for families. Additionally, the Cooneana Heritage Centre will open its doors after dark, allowing visitors to experience the charm of torch-lit museum visits while being regaled with stories of the past.

Father’s Day will see the Nicholas Street Precinct hosting a Bikes, Beards, and BBQs event. Attendees can enjoy vintage bikes and trucks, live music, and demonstrations of mouth-watering food and barbecues. An interesting twist to the event includes the judging of Ipswich’s best beards, adding a touch of humour and camaraderie to the festivities.

Councillor Andrew Fechner, Chairperson of the Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee, underscored the growth of the Galvanized Festival since its inception in 2021. Collaborations between the local council and community groups have resulted in an expanded and enriched event that brings Ipswich’s history to life. This year, the festival extends its reach across various venues and spaces, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in the city’s yesteryears.

See the Program: Galvanized – A Festival of Heritage

For those eager to experience Ipswich’s heritage firsthand, the full festival program and ticketing information are available at Ipswichfestivals.com.au.

Published 22-Aug-2023

6-Month Closure of Exit 32 Set to Transform Springfield Greenbank Arterial

A significant six-month closure of Exit 32 off-ramp, which connects the Centenary Motorway southbound to the Springfield Greenbank Arterial (SGA), will soon be in effect as part of a transformative upgrade project.

Starting 8:00 p.m. on 21 Aug 2023, Exit 32 will not be accessible to all traffic for up to six months. During this period, motorists are advised to follow the designated detour route via the Centenary Motorway Exit 33 off-ramp and to factor in additional travel time when planning their journeys.

The existing two-lane off-ramp is being expanded into a four-lane configuration, accompanied by the conversion of the current roundabout into a major intersection. These changes are expected to streamline traffic flow and enhance connectivity for motorists.

Exit 32 Springfield Greenbank Arterial — Photo Credit: Department Of Transport & Main Roads

This decision, aimed at expediting construction, improving safety, and reducing disturbances during the process, marks a crucial phase in the ongoing development of the region’s transportation infrastructure. Whilst the closure may bring inconveniences, the long-term benefits of an upgraded off-ramp and intersection are anticipated to outweigh the temporary challenges.

Local residents and businesses in the vicinity of the construction zone are advised to expect increased noise and dust levels as a result of the ongoing works. Despite these effects, the Ipswich City Council remains committed to the project’s positive impact on the local transportation network and the overall community.

The Ipswich community is encouraged to stay updated on the project’s developments, adhere to traffic control measures, and observe guidance provided by signage and traffic controllers for a smooth and safe commute.

Managed by the Ipswich City Council in partnership with Transport and Main Roads Queensland, the project has received $6.5 million in funding from the Queensland Government.

Jordan MP Charis Mullen expressed her satisfaction with the advancement of the project. The transformed intersection is poised to provide more efficient access for drivers traveling in various directions along the SGA, and will facilitate safer crossings to Main Street and the Orion shopping center.

For further information and inquiries regarding the construction project, concerned individuals can contact the Ipswich City Council Project Team via email at capitalprojects@ipswich.qld.gov.au or by phone at 07 3810 6666, available from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Published 16-Aug-2023

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

Amidst plans to renovate the Gabba Stadium for the 2032 Olympics, utilising the existing Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield, instead of revamping the RNA showgrounds, could be the most practical option for the Brisbane Lions.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding offered this cost-effective alternative for the temporary relocation of the Brisbane Lions during the Gabba’s reconstruction phase.

In a passionate statement, Mayor Harding highlighted the benefits of utilising the $80-million Brighton Homes Arena, which is already the home ground for the Brisbane Lions AFLW team and was designed with expansion in mind.

Ms Harding pointed out that the cost of expanding the existing stadium would be approximately half of what it would take to renovate the RNA showgrounds, in response to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner’s plea to transform the RNA showgrounds into a temporary home for local teams, including the Brisbane Lions and the Brisbane Heat, during the Gabba’s redevelopment.

“Brighton Homes Arena is the natural choice to host the Brisbane Lions’ AFL team during the Gabba reconstruction for the Games,” the mayor said.

“Ipswich is already home to the best AFL venue in Queensland right now.

“With Brighton Homes Arena, Springfield Central, Ipswich already the home ground of the Brisbane Lions’ AFLW team, upgrading the purpose-built AFL stadium to accommodate the men’s team would be around half the cost of retrofitting the heritage RNA site.

“Hosting the Brisbane Lions needs more than just a field, it takes warm up and recovery facilities, state-of-the-art broadcast technology and a high quality, even playing surface. These are already available at Brighton Homes Arena.”

Photo Credit: Brighton Homes Arena/Facebook

Ms Harding also highlighted the importance of spreading the benefits of the 2032 Games beyond Brisbane and promoting investment in communities outside the city.

“Brisbane has 18 of the 37 venues on the 2032 Games masterplan, as well as the International Broadcast Centre, Media Press Centre and the Olympic and Paralympic Athletes Village. Ipswich has just one.

“This is a perfect opportunity to start spreading the 2032 Games’ benefits more broadly, and leaving a legacy that can be enjoyed by communities outside of Brisbane.”

In response to the ongoing discussions, have stated that they are in dialogue with the state government and other stakeholders regarding the Gabba redevelopment and the temporary displacement period. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has assured fans that updates will be provided when a decision is made.

Published 1-Aug-2023

Lawsuit Erupts Between Springfield City Group and Aveo Group

Photo Credit: CC 3D Animation Production Company from Pixabay

Springfield City Group has initiated legal proceedings against retirement living provider Aveo Group, alleging a significant failure to meet development targets for a major seniors project valued at $1 billion.

The dispute revolves around an interlocutory injunction sought by Springfield City Group to prevent Aveo from engaging in an expert decision process related to the disagreement until a final court ruling is reached.

The issue stems from an ongoing retirement living project, where Aveo was contracted by Springfield City Group to develop a minimum of 2,500 aged care or retirement village units, collectively referred to as “Seniors Products,” between 2015 and 2030.

The project and agreement

According to court documents, Aveo Group initially entered into a development deed that laid out their commitment to following a rolling business plan. This plan mandated Aveo to provide regular updates on the project’s progress, with specific milestones to be reached on each anniversary starting from October 1, 2015.

The dispute between the two parties arose from two updated business plans that Aveo Group submitted in March and November 2022, both of which were not approved by Springfield City Group.

Clashing business plans

Springfield City Group argues that Aveo’s updated plans deviated significantly from the agreed requirements, making it highly unlikely that Aveo would be able to fulfil the minimum target of 2,500 seniors products within the stipulated time frame.

Aveo’s revised plan indicated the completion of only 562 Seniors Products by 2027, leaving a substantial 87.2 per cent of the project’s products to be completed within the final five years of the anticipated 15-year term.

Springfield City Group also highlighted clause 47 in the Aveo Termination Period that allowed Aveo to terminate the Development Deed if the number of completed products fell below 720 by 1 October 2025.

Springfield City Group alleged that Aveo’s updated business plan was an indication of their intention to exercise this termination clause. They also pointed out that Aveo failed to include a proposed subdivision of a critical development site into staged lots, as stipulated in the agreement.

Legal proceedings and injunction

In response to the non-approval notices from Springfield City Group, Aveo notified them that they would be referring the matter to the Resolution Institute for dispute resolution. An expert was appointed to determine the outcome, in accordance with Aveo’s original agreement.

However, Springfield City Group questioned whether Aveo’s updated business plan submissions qualified as legitimate business plans under the agreed development deed.

During the injunction hearing, Justice Thomas Bradley, presiding over the case, expressed concerns about potential inconsistencies in Aveo’s documents that might disqualify them as valid business plans. However, his ruling solely pertained to the injunction request and not the underlying claim.

Impacts and future outlook

The solicitor for the SCG estimated that the expert process would cost them between $570,000 and $1 million, whilst Aveo countered with claims of incurring about $2.8 million in annual interest costs for the 96 completed but unsold Seniors Products.

Aveo’s acting head of development, George Petersen, reassured residents and stakeholders that the legal proceedings would not impact the operations or residents of the Springfield retirement community. Petersen emphasised Aveo’s commitment to the existing retirement community and its amenities, including a mix of serviced and independent living apartments.

Justice Bradley ultimately granted the interlocutory injunction, effectively halting Aveo’s progress in the export process until the resolution of Springfield City Group’s claim.

As the court proceedings continue, both Springfield City Group and Aveo Group are eagerly awaiting a final resolution to this dispute that could have significant implications for the future of the $1 billion seniors project.

Published 11-July-2023

Springfield Gears Up for Six-Month E-Scooter Trial

Did you know that a six-month e-scooter trial will be conducted in Springfield Central, Spring Mountain, and Springfield Lakes through leading e-scooter hire company Beam, in collaboration with Ipswich City Council?

Starting 8 July 2023, residents and locals in those areas will have access to Beam’s latest fleet of top-of-the-range, safety-focused e-scooters, riding them around as a convenient and safe transportation alternative, reducing reliance on private cars and public transport and providing data that would be useful in deciding on a longer term use case for them.

Read: Bottle Alley Reopens To Pedestrians With Striking Tribute To Ipswich History

To ensure safe usage, e-scooters and personal mobility devices will be permitted on footpaths, shared paths, separated paths, bike paths, and local streets with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less and no dividing line.

E-Scooter Trial — Photo credit: Beam AU/Facebook

The introduction of e-scooters aligns with Ipswich City Council’s iGO Intelligent Transport Systems Strategy, which was adopted in 2019. This strategy outlines a roadmap for integrating new technologies, such as e-scooters, into the city’s transport networks.

Speed limits for e-scooters are set at 12km/h on footpaths, shared paths, and crossings, and 25km/h on permitted local roads, bike paths, and bike lanes, unless otherwise indicated by signage.

Beam was selected for the trial due to its strong safety record and commitment to prioritising pedestrian safety. The company employs geo-locking technology to restrict e-scooters from entering high pedestrian zones and enforces maximum speed limits.

Deputy Chairperson of the Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee and Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully emphasised the importance of the e-scooter trial, stating that it will allow residents to try out shared e-scooters and provide their thoughts and input on how council might integrate e-scooters into the city’s transport network for the long term.

The six-month trial period, running until December 2023, will provide ample time for residents to experience the benefits of shared e-scooters and offer valuable feedback to the council.

Read: First Traffic Switch For Springfield Greenbank Arterial Widening Project

Beam, in preparation for the launch, will also host the Beam Safe Academy event, aimed at educating the community about e-scooter safety and gathering their input. This event will take place at the Robelle Domain car park next to the Orion Lagoon on Saturday, 8 July 2023 starting at 9 a.m, providing curious residents with the opportunity to test ride the scooters.

Published 6-July-2023

Door Locking Feature Saves Woman from Carjacking in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Pixabay / aitoff

A woman almost fell victim to a carjacking incident in Springfield Lakes one Sunday evening, but she escaped unscathed, thanks to an automatic door locking feature in her car.

On Sunday, 25 June, the woman was about to drive into her driveway when a man approached her with a knife. He tried to open the door, but she was able to speed off. The woman then pretended to call the police, which scared the man away.

The woman was shaken by the experience, but she’s grateful that she’s okay. She’s also grateful for the automatic door locking feature on her car, which she believes saved her life from the attempted carjacking incident.

This incident is a reminder that carjackings can happen anywhere, even in seemingly safe neighbourhoods like Springfield Lakes. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions to protect yourself, such as locking your car doors and keeping your valuables out of sight.

If you’re ever confronted by a carjacker, don’t resist. Try to stay calm and cooperate with the attacker. Once the attacker has left, call the police straight away.

The Queensland Police are investigating this incident and are asking anyone with information to come forward.

Springfield Lakes residents, please take precautions to protect yourselves from carjacking. Lock your car doors, keep your valuables out of sight, and be aware of your surroundings. And if you ever see something suspicious, don’t be afraid to call the police.

Published 30-June-2023

Platypus Found Thriving in Unlikely Urban Oasis in Ipswich

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

A recent survey conducted by the Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland has detected a significant platypus population in an unexpected location within the Brisbane River catchment near Ipswich.

The survey, conducted after the 2022 February flooding, identified Sandy Creek, along the western edge of Brisbane and Ipswich, as the unexpected habitat for Australia’s elusive mammal, with no other sites in the catchment recording a positive eDNA test for the animal.

The researchers examined 22 sites in the catchment and Sandy Creek emerged as the sole location where platypuses were found. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting the land surrounding waterways, particularly as the region transitions into a period of anticipated drought after several wet seasons in southeast Queensland.

Tamielle Brunt, an ecologist involved in the survey, emphasized the significance of preserving the platypus’s habitat in order to ensure their survival during dry spells. Female platypuses have the ability to burrow up to 30 meters, sometimes emerging within 30 centimetres of the surface, even in open parklands or residential backyards. Many people are unaware of the proximity of platypus colonies to their own homes.

Maintaining healthy water quality and preserving the habitat where platypuses reside are crucial factors in their well-being. The availability and quality of water directly influence their food sources, which primarily consist of aquatic water bugs such as dragonfly larvae and caddisfly larvae.

However, sedimentation and poor water quality can impact refuge pools, causing them to become shallower and reducing the diversity and abundance of these species that platypuses rely on for sustenance.

The presence of platypuses is not limited to Sandy Creek alone. Locals in Bellbird Park, a suburb of Ipswich, regularly report sightings along Woogaroo Creek. Keith McCosh, whose property backs onto the creek, expressed concern over the potential effects of a proposed development in his neighbourhood on one of Australia’s most remarkable mammals. While not opposed to urban development, McCosh believes it should be carried out sensitively, taking into account the needs of wildlife.

The responsibility of protecting the platypus population falls on local councils, as the species is considered relatively stable in Queensland.

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Ipswich City Council faces the challenge of striking a balance between the demand for housing and the preservation of the natural environment. Ms Brunt highlighted the significance of maintaining platypus populations in specific areas, as once they are lost, the chances of natural migration or recolonization are rare.

Deputy Mayor Russell Milligan, who chairs the environment and sustainability committee, assured that the Council collaborates closely with developers to mitigate the impact on wildlife. Within the 2023/24 budget, Ipswich City Council has identified conservation projects aimed at improving platypus habitats in urban areas. They acknowledge the concerns expressed by residents regarding land clearing and wildlife impacts and aim to establish a balanced approach in the assessment of development applications.

Published 26-June-2023

Springfield’s Mater Hospital to Feature Cutting-Edge Robotic Pharmacy System

Springfield residents will soon benefit from the latest advancements in medical technology as the Mater Foundation, a charitable organization supporting Mater hospitals across Queensland, invests $450,000 in a state-of-the-art robotic pharmacy system for the new Mater Private Hospital in Springfield.

This innovative system is set to revolutionize prescription delivery, aiming to provide around 100,000 prescriptions annually to patients and medical staff within minutes. The investment made by the Mater Foundation demonstrates the importance of community fundraising in supporting the vital work of Mater, Queensland’s largest not-for-profit health provider.

Mater Private Hospital Springfield’s General Manager, Suzanne Hawksley, expressed gratitude for the generosity of Mater’s donors and highlighted the significant impact the investment will have on the hospital’s pharmacy team and patients.

With the completion of the Stage 2 expansion, Mater Pharmacy anticipates dispensing approximately 100,000 prescriptions per year. The cutting-edge technology of the BD ROWA Vmax-160 pharmacy robotic and inventory dispensing system will ensure accurate and efficient medication delivery, significantly reducing waiting times for patients. The system automates the process of picking and dispensing medicines, directing them to each pharmacist’s workstation via chutes and conveyor belts. This eliminates the need for pharmacists to manually locate and collect medications from shelves, streamlining operations and enhancing patient care.

In addition to improving efficiency, the robotic pharmacy system will optimize stock control, leading to more effective inventory management within the pharmacy. This will ultimately reduce the amount of storage space required and enhance overall pharmacy operations.

Mater Foundation’s Chief Executive, Andrew Thomas, emphasized that the acquisition of the pharmacy robot exemplifies how community fundraising efforts directly contribute to enhanced patient care at Mater. He encouraged Springfield residents to participate in Mater Giving Day, which falls on 28 June 2023. On this day, all donations to the Mater Foundation will be tripled by matching donors, amplifying the impact of each contribution.

To contribute to Mater Giving Day and support the Mater Foundation’s initiatives, donations can be made online.

Mater Giving Day serves as an opportunity for the community to support the provision of life-saving medical equipment, research, education, and healthcare throughout Queensland. Mr. Thomas expressed his gratitude to Mater’s staff, patients, loved ones, and supporters, emphasizing the profound difference their collective contributions can make in the lives of Mater’s patients.

Meanwhile, the ongoing Stage 2 expansion of Mater Private Hospital Springfield, located on Health Care Drive, is a crucial development aimed at meeting the community’s healthcare needs for years to come. The expansion will provide 174 public beds and offer both private and public services, including an emergency department, an intensive care unit, and Mater’s renowned maternity services. This comprehensive approach ensures that local women have the opportunity to give birth within their own community, fostering a sense of comfort and convenience during the crucial time of childbirth.

Construction work on the Stage 2 expansion began in early 2023, and it is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The new Mater Private Hospital Springfield represents a significant advancement in healthcare infrastructure and demonstrates Mater’s commitment to delivering exceptional care to the Springfield community.

Published 18-June-2023

Springfield-Based Medcan Leads the Way in Medicinal Hemp Farming with Advanced Technology

Photo Credit: MedCan/Facebook

Use of medical hemp in Australia has witnessed a steady increase since its legalisation, and one company in Queensland is at the forefront of revolutionizing the industry. Medcan, with its headquarters in Springfield, has pioneered a cutting-edge tech setup that is considered one of the most advanced in the southern hemisphere.

Under the leadership of CEO Craig Cochran, Medcan is dedicated to producing the highest quality hemp available in the market. Cochran emphasised the importance of creating an environment that can be accurately controlled and consistently replicated to achieve this goal.

Thanks to its advanced technology setup, Medcan has the capacity to produce up to 6,000 kilograms of dried cannabis flower per year. This production volume places the company at the forefront of medicinal cannabis cultivation in Australia.

Medcan operates a 3,000-square-meter vertical cannabis farm equipped with the PRIVA software system and a state-of-the-art HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. The combination of these technologies allows for precise environmental control and optimal cultivation conditions.

Nate Jones, Head of Cultivation at Medcan, highlighted the challenge of managing the dehumidification load required for indoor plant growth. However, Medcan designed an innovative HVAC system that effectively maintains the temperature at an ideal 25 degrees Celsius, with an optimal humidity level of 55 per cent.

The PRIVA system employed by Medcan is a comprehensive software solution that utilizes algorithmic logic to calculate and manage the plant’s environment. It collects data from hundreds of probes and various measuring equipment throughout the facility, ensuring optimal conditions for growth.

In addition to cultivation, Medcan operates as a full-service company, covering the entire value chain of medicinal cannabis. They engage in manufacturing, importation, exportation, wholesale distribution, and local supply of medical cannabis across Australia.

The innovative approach and dedication to quality exhibited by Medcan are propelling Queensland to the forefront of the medicinal cannabis industry in Australia. With the company’s advanced technology and comprehensive services, it is poised to meet the growing demand for medicinal cannabis and contribute significantly to the healthcare sector.

Published 16-June-2023

Stage 2 of $710-M Ipswich Hospital Expansion Awarded

Construction on the $710-million Ipswich Hospital is now one step closer to completion as Stage 2 of the project, expected to add 200 beds and 1,700 construction jobs to the region, is awarded to BESIX Watpac.

Read: New Building With Childcare Centre, Commercial Spaces Proposed For Brisbane Street Ipswich

Ipswich Hospital Stage 2 — Photo credit: Sybille Goss/Google Maps

Local officials highlighted the comprehensive nature of the expansion, which includes not only the 200 new beds but also a new Emergency Department, purpose-built acute clinical service building, six extra operating theatres, a satellite medical imaging service, and a new Central Sterilisation Service Department.

The project is particularly signigicant for the expansion of healthcare services in the region. It is expected to be fully operational by 2027. Local authorities emphasised the short-term benefits for local businesses and suppliers who eagerly anticipate the opportunity to be part of such a significant project.

“It is critical that Queensland Health and BESIX Watpac Qld ensure that our local businesses and suppliers receive orders and that they are informed and given the opportunity to bid for subcontracts, rather than the jobs and work leaving the Ipswich region,” Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said.

The State is currently overseeing the $146.3 million Ipswich Hospital Stage 1 upgrade project, which is set to be completed in late 2023. This project includes the establishment of an Acute Mental Health Unit, an MRI suite, a 26-bed medical and surgical ward, and a transit lounge for the local community. Additionally, a new Satellite Hospital in Ripley is scheduled to open later in 2023.

Councillor Nicole Jonic, Chair of the Economic and Industry Development Committee, highlighted the direct benefits that the hospital expansion program will bring to the Ipswich industry.

“Health care and social assistance is one of Ipswich’s core industries, with 17 percent of our region’s workers employed in the sector,” Cr Jonic said.

Read: Opening Soon in Springfield: Innovative Mater Health Hub for the Whole Family

Construction of the Ipswich Hospital Stage 2 expansion would commence by 2024 and is anticipated to be complete by 2027.

Published 8-June-2023