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Community Rallies to Protect Wildlife in Woogaroo Forest

Wildlife advocates in Ipswich are making a last-ditch effort to block a major residential development in Woogaroo Forest, located between Springfield and Brookwater, in the hopes of preserving critical habitat for endangered koalas and other native species.

Read: Platypus Found Thriving in Unlikely Urban Oasis in Ipswich

A public protest is planned for June 16 against the approved plan for “Springview” to build over 1,800 homes with a commercial centre and childcare centre on 160 hectares of the forest area.

Woogaroo Forest is a 450-hectare natural woodland area situated between the suburbs of Brookwater, Bellbird Park, Camira, and Springfield in Ipswich. It represents the last major remnant of forest linking the Goodna and Camira wildlife corridors to the White Rock Conservation Park.

Photo credit: Save Woogaroo Forest – Ipswich QLD/Facebook

According to wildlife advocates, this forest provides vital habitat for significant native species like koalas, powerful owls, echidnas, brush-tailed rock wallabies, and brush-tailed phascogales – all of which have been spotted and photographically documented in and around the area within the past five years.

Despite objections from some locals, Ipswich City Council signed off on the precinct plan for the development this March as an initial step.

Facing a severe housing shortage and rapid population growth, the Council is promoting new residential developments like Springview as critical for accommodating the influx of new residents expected in the area.

With the population of Greater Ipswich currently around 250,000, projections indicate it could potentially double to 500,000 within the next ten years as more people move away from the city centre to the outer suburban regions in search of more open green spaces.

Keith McCosh of Bellbird Park is helping organise the protest, who noted that people see koalas quite regularly around the place. They have the fear that this will take the koalas to extinction in Ipswich.

A petition by protesters to save the remnant forest has gathered over 15,000 signatures so far.

However, the developer Stockland says the state environment department has no records of koala presence in the area. Their application included independent flora and fauna studies.

Mayor Teresa Harding has said the project did not require consultation with councillors, and environmental approval rests with the federal government due to claims of endangered species on site. It’s reportedly a code-assessable project, which means it did not require public consultation or allow appeals.

Read: Almost 700 New Homes Built in Ipswich to Support the Housing Market

With housing in high demand yet biodiversity at risk, the June 16 protest at Opossum Creek Dog Park aims to raise awareness and make one last push to save Woogaroo Forest before the development advances.

Published 29-May-2024

Massive Expansion Urged for Lions’ Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield

Nearly two years after opening its doors, calls are growing to expand the hugely popular Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield to meet overwhelming demand.

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

The $82 million venue has attracted over 316,000 visitors since its November 2022 launch by hosting a mix of sports events, community programs, and corporate functions.

That blockbuster debut has led to increasing calls for the Brisbane Lions to further their vision of creating a prime sporting and recreation hub for the booming western corridor.

Lions CEO Greg Swann said there have been calls to develop the sprawling site with a massive MCG-sized playing field that can be accessed by the community and nearby Hymba Yumba Independent School. Calls have also come in for additional facilities like hardcourts for the club’s wheelchair AFL team and a childcare centre.

Mr Swann said expansion would help address the lack of green space and sporting amenities in the rapidly-growing region. He explained that access to such facilities is a real challenge across Southeast Queensland, so there have been calls for the Lions to provide more community sporting areas and infrastructure in order to solidify their place in the local community.

The potential new playing field would significantly boost recreation opportunities, as families already flock to the arena’s existing oval daily for exercise and sports. They would see kids playing basketball onsite or people running laps.

The arena has also quickly become an events destination, hosting seven AFLW matches along with international sporting delegations from China, Japan, the US, UK, Switzerland and Papua New Guinea in the nearly two years since opening.

Mr Swann said the high attendance in that span, which exceeded their expectations, demonstrates there is pent-up demand for facilities like theirs in Springfield and Ipswich.

Read: Townhouses with Brookwater Golf Course Access Green-Lit in Springfield

With calls intensifying to build on the arena’s runaway success, the Brisbane Lions are facing pressure to ensure their new home’s impact continues growing within the western corridor community.

Published 27-May-2024

Goodna Units Demolished, Making Way for Green Space After Flood Buy-Back

Photo Credit: Queensland Government

In a significant step towards flood recovery and resilience, demolition has commenced on a unit complex in Goodna, marking the first community title scheme successfully acquired through the Voluntary Home Buy-Back programme.

Resilient Homes Fund Queensland — *Photo Credit: Queensland Government*

The Mill Street complex, severely affected by the February 2022 floods and deemed at high risk for future inundation, saw all 20 unit owners accept offers under the programme. Finalised in October 2023, this buy-back was part of the $741 million Resilient Homes Fund, a joint initiative by the Australian and Queensland governments established in the wake of the devastating 2021-2022 floods.

The fund prioritises properties most impacted and vulnerable to future flooding. After an assessment and homeowner agreement, Ipswich City Council purchased the Mill Street properties and land.

The site will now be cleared, with the land rezoned by the council for appropriate, non-residential purposes, likely to include green space. This transformation reflects a shift towards creating safer, more resilient communities in flood-prone areas.

The demolition is a milestone in the ongoing recovery efforts and demonstrates the commitment of both government levels to assisting residents in high-risk areas. The Resilient Homes Fund continues to provide crucial support to Queenslanders affected by the floods, offering a pathway to rebuild lives and communities in a safer environment.

Published Date 24-May-2024

Dedicated Volunteer Brings Comfort to Cancer Patients in Springfield Lakes

Maree Burns, a 67-year-old nurse, has devoted over 350 hours to volunteering as a ward assistant at the Mater Cancer Care Centre in Springfield Lakes, offering a level of care and comfort that transcends the bounds of medical treatment.

A resident of Springfield Lakes, Maree dedicates her weekly shifts to providing hand and foot massages to cancer patients undergoing treatment, ensuring their utmost comfort during this challenging period. Her role extends beyond physical care, as she takes the time to engage in conversation and lend a listening ear, acknowledging the emotional toll accompanying such a battle.

“I do a lot of things to help out the staff too,” Maree said. “I get warm blankets for patients, restock the cupboards and even help elderly patients order their meals. But talking and listening to patients is something I enjoy doing.”

A Rallying Cry for Volunteers

In honour of National Volunteers Week (20-26 May), Maree is sharing her story and encouraging others to join her in positively impacting the community. Her call to action resonates with the belief that every act of kindness can make a profound difference in someone’s life, no matter how small.

Maree’s commitment to caring for others is deeply rooted. She previously worked as a nurse for Queensland Health and, more recently, travelled across Australia during the pandemic to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to regional communities. Her dedication to her craft and her community is unwavering.

Springfield Lakes, National Volunteer Week, Mater Cancer Care Centre, Maree Burns — *Mater Private Springfield profiles. Hospital Volunteer Maree Burns*
Photo Credit: *Supplied/Renae Droop/RDW Photography*

The impact of Maree’s efforts is best exemplified by the heartfelt expressions of gratitude from those she has served. One patient, in a vulnerable palliative state, expressed his appreciation for the “beautiful treatment” he received, while another, in her nineties, finds solace in knowing that Burns will be there to support her through her “numbered days.”

“Some people don’t have family or a friend to be with them during their treatment, and if I can make someone’s time in hospital better, then I will do my best. Being a volunteer is about making people feel valued and special,” Maree said.

A Community of Compassion

Maree is not alone in her mission to comfort those in need. Judy Johnson, Mater Volunteer Senior Manager, emphasised the positive impact volunteers have on the community. The Springfield Lakes team covers about 20 shifts a week and offers services such as ward assistance, pet therapy, massage, and patient transport.

Joining Maree in this endeavour is 71-year-old Christine Gillespie. For the past five years, she has dedicated herself to providing companionship and support to hundreds of patients recovering from surgery and other medical conditions at Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

Springfield Lakes, National Volunteer Week, Mater Cancer Care Centre, Christine Gillespie — Mater Private Springfield profiles. Hospital Volunteer Christine Gillespie
Photo Credit: Supplied/Renae Droop/RDW Photography

“Sometimes people come in after a bad fall and have had an unexpected stay, so I just try and make their time in hospital more comfortable,” said Christine, who has clocked up almost 500 hours volunteering.

Published 24-May-2024

Springfield Launch: Veterinarians Lead World-First Program to Tackle Climate Change

A coalition of veterinarians has made a groundbreaking move by launching the world’s first Climate Care Program in Springfield. The program empowers vet practices in Australia to care for pets while taking tangible action against climate change, reducing their carbon footprint and waste.

The Climate Care Program, the world’s first sustainability initiative designed specifically for veterinary practices, officially launches on the 8th of May 2024 at the Greater Springfield Veterinary Practice on Commercial Drive.

Guiding Practices to Sustainability

The program has demonstrated impressive results at 20 sites nationwide during its pilot phase.

Melbourne vet Dr Jeremy Watson saved over $6,000 annually by switching off gas and installing solar panels at his Brimbank clinic. He also upgraded to energy-efficient appliances and reduced water usage. Meanwhile, Greater Springfield Veterinary Practice reduced its waste by 37%.

“The Climate Care Program offers a comprehensive digital toolkit and educational course, structured in six modules to help practices become more sustainable,” Springfield’s Dr Jeannet Kessels said. “This self-paced program was developed by veterinary professionals, researchers, and educators to provide step-by-step support in reducing energy consumption, waste, and water usage. This ensures that even the busiest clinics can maintain their sustainability goals.”

*Photo Credit: Greater Springfield Veterinary Practice*

Adopting environmentally friendly practices benefits the environment and recruits staff. Dr Watson has noticed a trend among young professionals, with recent hires citing the clinic’s environmental credentials as a key factor in their decision to join the team.

The program’s impact has extended beyond Australia, attracting international attention, as highlighted by Vets for Climate Action Chair Dr. Jeannet Kessels, who recently presented the initiative at the World Veterinary Association conference in South Africa.

About Vets for Climate Action

Vets for Climate Action represents a coalition of veterinary professionals and animal lovers advocating for urgent action on climate change. Their goal is to promote sustainability in veterinary care, foster awareness, and advocate for impactful policies that recognize the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

Published 7-May-2024

Massive Road Project Enhances Connectivity in Springfield Central

The expansion of Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial is significantly enhancing the daily commutes of more than 20,000 residents and visitors in Springfield Central, ensuring smoother traffic flow and safer travel.

This multi-stage initiative prioritises the needs of a rapidly growing population while navigating the challenges of preserving sensitive ecological areas and accommodating the area’s bustling activity.

Completed Stage 1

The $85-million Stage 1 of the project, completed in late 2023, has already delivered significant improvements to the local road network. This phase saw the widening of Springfield Parkway from Hymba Yumba Independent School to Centenary Highway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial from Springfield Parkway to Eden Station Drive, transforming them into four-lane thoroughfares.

Other key enhancements included:

Upgrading the Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial roundabout to a signalised intersection will facilitate pedestrian movements and provide a U-turn facility.
Constructing dedicated two-metre cycle lanes in both directions.
Installing a three-metre-wide shared pathway for pedestrians and cyclists.
Erecting a retaining wall near the Escarpment estate on Springfield Parkway.
Duplicating the bridge over Opossum Creek.

The new lanes on Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial are already managing over 20,000 vehicles per weekday, significantly improving traffic flow and safety for the growing Springfield community.

Stage 2: Design Phase

With Stage 1 complete, the focus shifts to Stage 2, which is currently in the design phase. This stage will encompass the following:

Widening Springfield Parkway from Topaz Road to just north of Hymba Yumba Independent School, duplicating it from two to four lanes.
Upgrading the roundabout at Springfield Parkway/Topaz Road/Woodcrest Way to a signalised intersection.
Widening and line-marking the Springfield College Drive and Bridgewater Road approaches to the roundabout on Springfield Parkway to allow for two lanes of traffic.
Constructing dedicated two-metre cycle lanes in both directions.
Installing a three-metre-wide shared pathway for pedestrians and cyclists.

Early works for Stage 2 commenced in December 2023 with a 3.6m trench extension beside Hymba Yumba Independent School. Constructing effective stormwater drainage networks whilst maintaining the current system during Queensland’s storm season has been a significant challenge.

The project team is committed to ensuring the highest-quality innovative network is constructed across the project and adjacent to the school whilst preserving sensitive ecological areas.

Once the culvert works are complete, Stage 2 will commence in 2024-2025, including the duplication of Springfield Parkway from Topaz Road, connecting to Stage 1 just past the Bridgewater Road roundabout.

Stage 3: Under Construction

Stage 3 of the project is already underway, focusing on the following:

Widening Springfield Greenbank Arterial from Eden Station Drive to Sinnathamby Boulevard to include a total of four lanes.
Upgrading the roundabout at Springfield Greenbank Arterial/Main Street/Centenary Highway Exit 32 off-ramp to a signalised intersection.
Creating new entry and exit points at the existing Springfield Central train station carpark.
Constructing dedicated two-metre cycle lanes in both directions.
Installing shared pathways for pedestrians and cyclists.

Significant rainfall and storm activity over the past few months have impacted vegetation and landscaping along Stage 3, including the flooding of Mountain Creek. The team is working to restore damaged plants and maintain weeding and mowing within the construction corridor. Despite the weather challenges, crews have progressed with electrical work, stormwater drainage networks, and new Park’n’Ride entry pavements.

Sustainability has been a key focus for the team, utilising existing materials and implementing innovative environmental controls. Core logs were used in the bottom of the rock barrier to minimise silt washing onto the pavement and into drainage and waterways, a key environmental management feature across Stage 3.

Springfield Central — *Photos Credit: IpswichCityCouncil*

Constructing in a busy activity centre with major shopping, business, education, and public transport facilities has presented numerous challenges, especially considering the high volume of people passing through Stage 3 daily.

In parallel with Stage 3, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has commenced works to reconfigure and reopen the Queensland Rail carpark east of Springfield Central station. The carpark, located at the southern end of the Brisbane Lions facility, will remain closed during construction activities. Weather and construction conditions permitting, work is expected to be complete by mid-2024.

The works required to reopen the carpark include installing new asphalt, concreting edging, new lighting, and line marking. TMR has engaged BMD Construction, the same contractor undertaking Stage 3, for this project. When reopened, the eastern carpark will complement the existing parking facilities within the Springfield Central train station precinct, including the multi-storey park ‘n’ ride facility opened in April 2022.

Published 7-May-2024

First Legal Cannabis Cafe in Goodna Stirs Mixed Reactions

A new cannabis cafe that just opened at Queen Street in Goodna is already sparking heated debate among locals. The cafe, run by the company Professional Pot Smoker, bills itself as Australia’s first legal cannabis club and a safe space for medicinal marijuana users.

Read: Ipswich Hospital Launches SCOUT, a Revolutionary Breast Cancer Saviour

With 400 members already signed up, the exclusive Cannabis Club offers a membership-based program giving access to private locations across the country.

For a monthly fee of $4.20, club members can visit the inaugural Goodna location and other future sites to socialise, learn about cannabis from medical professionals, and attend cannabis-themed events.

Photo credit: Professional Pot Smoker/Facebook

However, the cafe’s proximity to shops and a primary school has some parents feeling concerned about exposing children to marijuana culture.

The founders stated on their website that they opened this club in response to a glaring lack of a safe, welcoming environment where medical marijuana patients can use their medication without discomfort, interact with medical cannabis experts to learn about their treatment, and connect with the larger community of medicinal users to which they belong.

“Our newly refined program aims to address this gap and provide a supportive environment for individuals seeking information, professional guidance, and a sense of community within the realm of medical cannabis,” they stated on the website.

Read: Mater Health Hub Helps Students Graduate Career-Ready in Healthcare

Cannabis has been legally available by prescription in Australia since 2016 to treat conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and side effects from cancer treatment. However, social stigma and complicated access rules have meant relatively low patient numbers so far.

As the first of its kind, the Goodna cannabis cafe reflects evolving cultural attitudes toward marijuana’s therapeutic uses. But it also highlights the tensions that can arise as alternative treatments become more mainstream and visible in local communities.

Published 6-May-2024

Springfield Lakes Man Dead Following Vehicle Crash

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A 42-year-old Springfield Lakes man has tragically died following a vehicle crash this afternoon, May 4.

The Forensic Crash Unit reports that around 5:45 pm on Saturday, May 4th, the man was driving a Mercedes-Benz hatchback that lost control at the intersection of Highlands Terrace and Summit Drive. The vehicle collided with a tree.

The driver was declared deceased at the scene by emergency responders.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances that led to the fatal crash. They are appealing for any witnesses or individuals who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward.

The intersection of Highlands Terrace and Summit Drive was closed for several hours while the Forensic Crash Unit documented and investigated the scene.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Policelink by submitting information online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or calling 131 444, quoting the reference number QP2400763272. Tips can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 4-May-2024

Defying Expectations: How A 20-Year-Old Purchased His Own Home at Covella Greenbank

At just 20 years old, Jonah Blackburn has accomplished a feat that many of his peers can only dream of – he’s a homeowner. Blackburn recently purchased a block at the new Covella Greenbank housing development, a remarkable achievement for someone so young.

Read: Townhouses with Brookwater Golf Course Access Green-Lit in Springfield

The path to homeownership wasn’t an easy one for Blackburn. He was initially turned down when trying to purchase an existing home, a common roadblock for first-time buyers. But Blackburn was undeterred, and he set his sights high by breaking into the property market at a young age.

A key factor in Blackburn’s success was taking advantage of the First Home Buyers Grant. Blackburn explained that when you purchase a house outright, as soon as you do the deal and deposit, the government injects $30,000 into your loan. He noted that this money is not deducted from the buying power, but rather paid at the slab stage.

Greenbank — Jonah Blackburn and his partner (Photo credit: covella.avid.com.au)

Blackburn is now looking forward to building and moving into his new home with his partner. But the journey hasn’t been without sacrifice. Blackburn explained that he hasn’t done anything overly smart or majorly different, he’s just worked a lot more than most of his peers, even having three jobs at one stage.

covella Greenbank — Photo credit: Covella Greenbank/Google Maps

Blackburn shared most people only need around $30,000. However, he saved a bit more than that, recognising that there are often additional expenses beyond just the deposit.

He noted that there are usually extra costs involved, such as stamp duty on the land and various registration fees, so it’s prudent to have a slightly larger savings cushion to cover those additional outlays.

A spokesperson for AVID Property Group, which is behind Covella, stated that buyer inquiry remains strong at the development, with first-time home buyers making up 50 percent of the inquiries.

It’s revealed first-time home buyers at Covella Greenbank are not only seeking affordability, but also a community with access to transportation, green open spaces, and lifestyle amenities such as shopping and dining options.

The first home owner grant provides eligible first-time home buyers in Queensland with either $15,000 or $30,000 to put towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

Read: Flowers and Coffee Abound at Greenbank’s Adored O’NO Cafe

Blackburn’s story serves as an inspiration to other young people who may be daunted by the prospect of homeownership. By being disciplined with his spending, working tirelessly, and taking advantage of government programs, Blackburn has proven that it is possible to break into the property market at a young age.

Published 16-April-2024

Ipswich Detectives Seek Public’s Help to Identify Repeat Robbery Offender

Detectives from the Ipswich Criminal Investigation Branch are appealing to the public for assistance in tracking down a serial robbery suspect believed to be responsible for two violent crimes in the Springfield area.

Read: Police Identify Man Killed In Greenbank Dog Attack

The first incident took place around 11:50 p.m. last January 31, when an unidentified man reportedly entered a business on Woodcrest Way.

Authorities say the suspect threatened a staff member with a knife and demanded money. The employee complied, and the robber fled the scene heading towards Woodcrest Way and Commercial Drive.

Just over a month later, on 2 February 2024, what appears to be the same man allegedly struck again – this time targeting a business on Springfield Parkway around 8:30 p.m. Police claim the suspect threatened workers with a large wrench, assaulted one of the attendants, and made off with an undisclosed sum of cash.

Authorities have released descriptions and images of the suspect, who is described as a tanned man around 6 feet tall with a stocky build, short dark hair, and a patchy black moustache.

During the robberies, he was reportedly wearing a grey or navy blue “Blues” football jumper, black pants, and black athletic shoes.

Read: Intervention Initiative Helps African-Australian Youths Reconnect With Their Community and Culture

Members of the public with relevant details are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. You can provide information using the Queensland Police’s online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Alternatively, you can call Policelink on 131 444.

Robbery cases in Springfield

Whilst the recent robbery incidents in Springfield are concerning, data from Queensland Police Service indicates these have been isolated events, with the broader Springfield area experiencing relatively low levels of crime over the past year.

According to the Online Crime Map, there were only two cases of robbery in the suburb in the 12-month period leading up to 9 April 2024.

Nevertheless, apprehending this suspected repeat offender remains a top priority for Ipswich detectives, who are hopeful the public can provide the crucial information needed to track down the perpetrator and prevent any further violent crimes from occurring.

Published 10-April-2024