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Springfield Central Station Park ‘n Ride Recognised with International Design Award

Did you know that the Springfield Central Station Park ‘n’ Ride received an Award of Merit in the Rail/Transit category, a global recognition from the US-based magazine Engineering News-Record?

Read: Multi-Storey Mega Park ‘n’ Ride Now Serving Springfield Central Commuters

Engineering News-Record (ENR) honoured 31 winning projects from 23 countries through the Global Best Projects Awards, which were judged by industry leaders on criteria including quality, innovation, safety, collaboration, and community benefit.

The Springfield Central Park ‘n’ Ride was praised for its innovative design, striking visual impression, and accessibility.

Opened to the public in May 2022, the $44.5 million multi-storey parking facility was designed by GHD and built by ADCO for the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

With five parking levels, it brings total customer parking at Springfield Central Station to around 1,100 spaces, part of the Queensland government’s $160 million park-and-ride upgrade program.

According to Joshua Rhodes, GHD Design Senior Designer, the concept for the carpark form was inspired by nature’s ability to create organic symmetry and efficiency within irregular shapes.

“The car park is conceived as an object within the landscape, formed by the natural forces around it, which are also evident in the existing urban response. The design attempts to balance creating a building of its place, inspired by the site’s geology and hydrology, while also creating a distinctive landmark that signals the gateway to the greater Springfield area,” Rhodes stated.

This was not the first recognition for the Springfield Central Station Park ‘n Ride structure. Earlier in 2023, it also received the Queensland Major Contractors Association Design Excellence Award. This award honours projects with innovative contributions to civil construction that can be broadly applied.

About the ENR Global Best Projects

The competition honours outstanding global construction projects and the companies behind them. It recognises projects built anywhere in the world, focusing on the unique challenges, risks, and achievements of designing and constructing in diverse, remote locations worldwide.

Eligible projects are judged on several criteria, including how teams overcame challenges, embraced safety (meeting or exceeding local and international standards), demonstrated innovation and industry contribution, and exhibited quality construction and craftsmanship.

For the Springfield Park ‘n Ride, COVID-19 supply chain issues required the team to pivot from the original precast concrete structural design. The engineer devised a hybrid system using post-tensioned slabs and beams for most of the structure, along with a reinforced concrete beam-and-slab system for the more complex corners and helix.

Read: Springfield Lakes Property Market Continues to Surpass Previous Records

Receiving the ENR Global Best Project Award of Merit highlights the project’s success in overcoming challenges like supply chain disruptions whilst exemplifying safety, sustainability, and quality craftsmanship.

Published 26-December-2023

Severe Storm Causes Havoc in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Facebook / Brisbane Weather

A severe storm unleashed widespread damage in Springfield Lakes and nearby suburbs one week before Christmas.

Tragically, a 30-year-old man lost his life during the storm, found unconscious near fallen power lines on Murarrie Road. Despite efforts to save him, his injuries proved fatal.

Residents were alerted by the Bureau of Meteorology on Friday, December 15, 2023 about the impending severe thunderstorm, warning of destructive winds, large hailstones, and heavy rainfall that could cause flash flooding.

Photo Credit: Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology

The storm’s intensity was staggering, with winds reaching speeds of up to 169 km/h.

It rampaged through Brisbane’s CBD, Brisbane Airport, Ormiston, Moreton Bay, and Mud Island before striking Springfield Lakes. Hail suddenly blanketed the yards of Springfield Lakes residents.

Furniture became airborne, trees toppled, and in Brookwater, a tree narrowly missed houses and people but destroyed a car.

The aftermath was starkly visible, leaving a trail of destruction and plunging over 14,000 residents in the state’s southeast into darkness without power.

Published 18-December-2023

Springfield’s Centenary Motorway Exit 32 Reopens

In a major development for the Springfield community, the Centenary Motorway’s Exit 32, a crucial junction that had been closed for extensive roadworks, has reopened after six months.

This reopening, on 11 Dec 2023, marks a significant milestone in Springfield’s infrastructure development, aimed at accommodating the area’s booming population and reducing congestion on one of the region’s key motorways.

Months of Closure to Fast-Track Roadworks

The closure of Exit 32, which began on August 21, was part of a strategic decision to expedite the construction work in the Springfield area. This move was intended to improve safety for workers and save months of roadwork for the community.

The decision was pivotal in allowing uninterrupted work on the upgrade from a single-lane exit to a four-lane configuration.

Significant Upgrades for Improved Traffic Flow

“Commuters stuck in daily queues down the Centenary Motorway between Ellen Grove and Yamanto have been telling us for a long time that this section needs to be significantly upgraded to support Springfield’s booming population.” Charis Mullen, State Member for Jordan, said.

Ms Mullen also noted the commitment of $6.5 million by the State Government for this major entry point into Springfield to reduce peak hour congestion and improve safety.

Centenary Motorway Exit 32 — Photo Credit: Charis Mullen MP/Facebook

Mayor Teresa Harding of Ipswich commented on the larger implications of the project, tying it with the council’s current expansion of Springfield Greenbank Arterial to four lanes.

“The expansion of Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial from two lanes to four lanes is council’s biggest-ever roadwork project, and it is vitally necessary we complete it as quickly as possible,” she said.

The mayor emphasised that closing Exit 32 saved months in construction time and millions in overall project cost, fast-tracking its reopening.

Celebrating the Reopening in Time for the Holidays

The timing of the reopening was especially noteworthy, coming just before the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Mayor Harding expressed her gratitude for the community’s patience during the construction period. She also pointed out the convenience the reopening would bring for holiday shopping and activities in the area, including easier access to Orion Springfield Central, Robelle Domain, and Orion Lagoon.

With the completion of these upgrades, residents and commuters in Springfield can look forward to a smoother and safer travel experience. The expanded Exit 32 is expected to significantly reduce congestion on the Centenary Motorway and improve ease of access into Springfield.

Published 12-Dec-2023

Springlake Hotel Has Re-Opened After $3 Million Renovation

Did you know that Springlake Hotel has re-opened following a multi-million-dollar renovation?

Surrounded by natural bushland and overlooking the neighbouring lake, the pub has undergone an extensive facelift to modernise its offering for patrons of all ages, with a focus on live entertainment, casual dining and live sports. The renovations include a family friendly bistro, outdoor terrace with a huge playground, revamped sports bar and expansive functions space that has been brought back to life.

Designed by Farrago, the interiors highlight natural wood and orange tones, with brown leather banquettes, relaxed tan leather armchairs and mid-century vibes.

Springlake Hotel — Photo Credit: Supplied

Ensuring that the most can be made of Queensland’s warm weather and native surrounds, a new wrap-around alfresco terrace has been added that offers a mix of high and low tables for guests to soak up the sun. Attached, is a huge kids playground that will keep the little ones entertained for hours, so the adults can kick-back and relax.

Sports lovers will love the revamped Sports Bar with six-metre screen showing all the sporting action live and loud, and with a state-of-the-art TAB. A weekly schedule of live music will add to the entertainment for those in the Sports Bar.

The new-look family friendly bistro is serving up a delicious menu created by Executive Chef Dylan Kemp. Offering a range of elevated pub classics and a brand-new Smokehouse offering, serving up specialty dishes prepared in the smoker daily, like the Low & Slow Beef Brisket and the Butcher’s Board, which gives customers the opportunity to sample a range of smoked items from Cheese Kranskies, pulled pork and lamb ribs.

A range of house-made BBQ sauces have also been created to compliment the smoked menu including the Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce, Alabama White Sauce and Dan’s House BBQ Sauce.

Springlate Hotel Food — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

There’s also a dedicated Kids Platter to keep the younger tummies happy with a choice of seven mains served with a drink and a dessert.

Those looking for a destination to host an event need look no further than the fully equipped, large scale function rooms. Perfect for weddings, christenings, birthdays, anniversaries, corporate events and parties and any other style of event. The spaces will also be converted for frequent large live entertainment events for the community to enjoy.

A series of weekly specials and events is sure to keep locals happy, whatever the day of the week:

Mondays: $25 Steaks & Poker
- 250g rump steak, chips and salad
Tuesdays: $20 Pub Classics
- Beef Burger, Chicken Schnitzel, Caesar Salad, Fish & Chips or Ricotta Gnocchi
Wednesdays: Feed The Family
- Two Brisket Burned End Sandwiches with slaw & cornbread, plus two kids meals
- $1 from every Parmi sold will be donated to MS Queensland through Spinglake Hotel’s ongoing Local Heroes charity partnership program
Thursdays: Parmi Thursdays
- Chicken or Vegetarian Parmigiana served with crispy chips and fresh salad
Fridays: Meat Tray Raffle, Live Entertainment, Tradie Club, Jag the Joker
Saturdays: Live Entertainment
Sundays: Kids Eat Free & Kids Entertainment
- Free kids meal with every full-priced main meal purchased
- Free Animal Zoo between 12pm – 3pm
Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 3pm – 5pm

Springlake Hotel will celebrate its re-opening with a Locals Weekend 15th – 17th December, packed full of giveaways, live music, activities and tasters:

Friday 15th December
- Tradie Club, Smoker Lesson giveaway, BBQ tasters and live music
Saturday 16th December
- Kids entertainment and free petting zoo, live music, BBQ tasters, and TAB Sports Bar take-over
Sunday 17th December
- Kids entertainment and free petting zoo, BBQ tasters and UFC296 in the Sports Bar

Springlake Hotel Venue Manager Adam Fuller is thrilled to be welcoming local residents and workers back to the pub.

“We’re extremely proud of Springlake Hotel’s revamp and the wide offering it now brings to our community. There truly is something from everyone, from casual get-togethers, mid-week dinners, live sport, and entertainment – we can’t wait to see everyone back enjoying our local.”

Springfield’s Ambitious Journey Towards a Health and Knowledge Hub

Maha Sinnathamby, the visionary founder of Springfield City Group, is embarking on an ambitious journey in Springfield, a suburb that’s been steadily transforming since its inception in 1992. Drawing inspiration from the Texas Medical Center, Mr Sinnathamby aims to establish Springfield as a leading knowledge and health precinct.

Over three decades, Mr Sinnathamby and his business partner Bob Sharpless have turned 2,860 hectares of land into a thriving community with more than 53,000 residents across six suburbs. Their relentless pace and innovative thinking have been crucial in Springfield’s evolution.

Central to Springfield’s transformation is the Knowledge Precinct, spanning 120 hectares and focusing on health, education, and innovation. This precinct represents a significant step towards realising Sinnathamby’s vision of enhancing human and social capital.

“Health, education and IT are the key drivers to make a unique community,” Mr Sinnathamby explained, underscoring his commitment to planning a city of the future.

The Texas Medical Center, known as the world’s largest medical complex, serves as the blueprint for Mr Sinnathamby’s vision. He plans to emulate its success in Springfield by focusing on life sciences and collaboration in medical research and education.

Springfield boasts an extensive network of transport links, schools, and recreational facilities. The Mater Hospital, set to be the nation’s largest, anchors a 52-hectare health precinct. An 18-hectare education precinct centered around the University of Southern Queensland adds to Springfield’s allure as a hub for learning and innovation.

With a focus on education and family, Springfield offers twelve schools and nineteen kindergartens. The university campus further cements the suburb’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of Australians.

The Springfield master plan, valued at $88 billion, has been 25% complete as of 2020.

Mr Sinnathamby’s group is seeking global partners to continue building the city. With $18 billion already invested, a further $70 billion is needed to realise this master plan fully.

As Springfield continues to grow, with a projected population of 145,000, it remains a testament to Mr Sinnathamby’s philosophy of thinking big and innovating.

Published 6-Dec-2023

Springfield Lakes Among Many Affected as Getta Burger Chain Closes Doors

Getta Burger, a familiar name in Queensland’s fast-food scene, has entered liquidation, leading to the closure of 14 out of its 17 stores. The closed outlets include those in Capalaba, Clayfield, North Lakes, Cannon Hill, Victoria Point, West End, Bridgeman Downs, Carina, Springfield Lakes, Holmview, Yamanto, and Yatala.

Established in 2014, Getta Burger has been a popular choice among Queenslanders. However, the chain has been grappling with financial difficulties, resulting in debts exceeding $500,000. Founder Brent Poulter pointed to the rising cost pressures after COVID-19 as a significant factor in this development.

The timing of the liquidation process, initiated without seeking government support during the pandemic, is particularly hard-hitting as it coincides with the Christmas season. This decision has led to 107 employees losing their jobs, creating a challenging situation for many families, including in Springfield Lakes, during what is typically a festive time of year.

The liquidation highlights the harsh economic realities faced by businesses in the food and beverage industry. Getta Burger struggled with a 30% increase in power bills and substantial rises in the cost of ingredients. Poulter noted that these rising operational costs made it challenging to maintain quality without increasing prices for customers.

The closure underscores the competitive and challenging nature of the food industry, where businesses must adapt and manage costs effectively. The collapse of a well-known chain like Getta Burger is indicative of the broader struggles within the sector, especially in the context of increasing living costs.

As the liquidation process unfolds, the exact scale of the Getta Burger’s debts is still being determined.

Published 25-Nov-2023

Goodna Street Life: Sustaining Community Support in Challenging Times

Photo Credit: Goodna Street Life/Facebook

Goodna Street Life, established in 2015, has emerged as a key organisation in the community by dedicating itself to providing housing and vital support to the homeless and vulnerable.

At the heart of Goodna Street Life’s mission are facilities like Helen’s Haven at 229 Brisbane Rd Goodna. This centre is not just a place of shelter but also a provider of essential services such as food, counselling, and support.

Additionally, The Haven offers the community affordable breakfast options, with every purchase contributing to the charity’s mission. Chef Kerryn, under Chef Steven’s guidance, ensures that each meal supports Goodna Streetlife’s wider community efforts.

Laurels Place, initiated in January 2022, has played a critical role in the community, especially during the 2022 floods, providing emergency accommodation to over 100 people. This initiative highlights Goodna Streetlife’s commitment to offering immediate help and protection during emergencies.

Addressing the Housing Crisis: A Significant Challenge

However, Queensland’s intensifying housing crisis has put Goodna Street Life at the forefront of a significant struggle.

Despite their persistent efforts, the charity confronts substantial challenges in keeping their services operational amidst escalating costs, underscoring the critical need for community backing. Richard Glover, a housing support officer, along with his team, are deeply involved in aiding Ipswich’s marginalised residents.

“I’ve asked my department to continue working with Goodna Street Life to assist them so they are stable, safe and compliant,” Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said. “Our frontline housing staff are on hand to assist residents if necessary.”

Engaging the Community: Upcoming Events

Looking ahead, Goodna Street Life is organising the Helen’s Haven Community Market on 3 Dec 2023. This event promises to bring the community together with a variety of stalls, Mega Op Shop Sales, and extended breakfast hours, contributing to the charity’s fundraising activities.

The narrative of Goodna Street Life is one of relentless dedication and unwavering support for the needy. In these challenging times, the importance of community involvement and assistance becomes ever more evident. The residents of Goodna and surrounding areas are encouraged to support this vital charity, helping to ensure the continuity of these essential services.

Published 23-Nov-2023

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