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Trees Illegally Chopped At The White Rock Conservation Estate

There seems to be a growing number of trees that are being illegally chopped down in protected areas in Springfield.

Recently, Councillor Sheila Ireland posted on her Facebook page photos of chopped down ironbark trees at the White Rock Spring Mountain Conservation Estate. Along with the photos, she captioned them with the Ipswich City Council’s penalty for the illegal act and urged anyone with information to contact the council.

Prior to that discovery, two ironbark trees were spotted chopped down inside the conservation estate. They were discovered by Luise Manning, the president of the Springfield Lakes Nature Care Group. According to Mr Manning, whoever did that have also illegally entered the estate because of the broken lock that they found.

Ms Manning believed that the trees might have been used for firewood. She was upset about what happened considering that she and her group have worked hard protecting these trees and even put up nesting boxes on some of the trees there for the wildlife.

The council protects trees and vegetation on private lands to preserve the character, amenity, biodiversity, historical and ecological values of the city. In order to chop down a tree within a private land, the individual must first obtain an approval from the council and certain factors will have to be considered before the council gives their seal of approval.

With no leads yet as to who is doing this, the council urges anyone with information to contact them at 3810 6666.

Celebrate Peaks To Points Festival 2018 In Ipswich

Step outside and be closer to nature with the whole family and celebrate this year’s Peaks to Points Festival. Happening in several parts in Queensland, if you’re in Ipswich, there are some activities that you might want to check out!

21 July

Tour of Ipswich’s Tributaries, Conservation Estates and Green Assets
(9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)

Hosted by the Bremer River Network and Ipswich City Council, this bus tour takes guests to Ipswich’s waterways and green assets. See waterway rehabilitation areas and also get to visit the White RockSpring Mountain Conservation Estate.

Bookings are essential, book here.

Address: Riverheart Parklands, 20 Bremer Street, Ipswich

Our Wild Backyard Guided Bushwalk
(10:00 a.m.)

Hosted by Native Plants Queensland, this is a guided tour through the eucalyptus forest and surrounds of the White Rock Conservation Estate.

Contact Esther at ipswichnpq@gmail.com for more details.

Address: School Road, Redbank Plains, Meet at the carpark at the White Rock Conservation Estate

Garden of Eden
(1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

Another event hosted by the Bremer River Network, this is a community weeding event happening at Cribb Park.

For more details, contact Anthony Edwards at goegcribbpark@gmail.com

Address: Cribb Park, 39 Pelican Street, North Ipswich

28 July

Bird Watching at Rosewood
(7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.)

Hosted by the Rosewood District Protection Organisation Inc., join other bird watchers as well as other admirers of flora and fauna on this guided walk. There will also be morning tea after the walk.

Each person will cost $5 whilst it’s $10 per family.

Address: Armstrong Park, Rosewood – Amberley Rd, Rosewood (Meet at carpark)

Our Wild Backyard Guided Bushwalk
(8:00 a.m.)

Go on a walk through the riparian landscape surrounds of Native Plants Queensland’s earlier revegetation projects.

Contact Esther at ipswichnpq@gmail.com

Address: Opossum Creek Parklands, 58 Scoparia Drive, Brookwater

29 July

Shapcott Park National Tree Day Planting
(9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.)

Hosted by the council, plant along the Bremer River to help improve the water quality and bank stabilisation. This will also help provide habitat for wildlife.

Address: 116-118 Gladstone Road, Coalfalls

New Brisbane Lions Sportsground Becomes A Step Closer To Reality

Good news! The future seems to becoming brighter for the Brisbane Lions as plans for their new sportsground in Springfield is finally coming to fruition.

Following the Brisbane Lions’ move to Springfield Central, a promised $30 million in funds from state and federal government have been scheduled.

Half of the budget has already been set aside in the State Budget. This secures $15 million making a new sports ground closer to reality.

In May when the Federal Government wrote to the AFL club pledging their support for the project, indicating that it would match $15 million in funding from the State Government, setting the total funding at the present $30 million.

In light of this, ground clearing has already commenced with an expectation that the money will be coming in. The Brisbane Lions expects that the funds will be coming in from the Federal Government this August.

For now, the club is using its own $40 million of funds from its own kitty to get things started. In fact, they have started designing the proposed Arena sports ground in January of this year.

This upcoming project will not just provide athletes a better facility to train. It will also create long-term jobs and help boost sports at the grassroots level.

Let Your Kids Create & Have Fun This Winter School Holiday Break 2018 In And Around Springfield Lakes

The winter break is here! If you’re looking for fun and enriching activities for your kids in and around Springfield Lakes, there are some places where you can enrol them in so they continue to learn and have fun whilst they are on a break.

Bricks 4 Kidz

With several locations in Brisbane, Bricks 4 Kidz offer educational play programs for children. For the winter holiday break, they offer the following activities:

Bat League Heroes & Villains for ages 5+ (2 July) – Play the role of Batman or save the city with your own motorised models that you will build during this workshop.
Junior Robotics LEGO WeDo for ages 7+ (2 July) – Turn your lego pieces into a robot and tell it exactly what to do. Children will have fun building their robots and at the same time, try their hand on computer programming.
LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Robotics for ages 9+ (2 July) – Let your children unleash their creativity and extend their knowledge through the use of sensors, motors, and other intelligent units that will help them design robots.
Transformation Creations for ages 5+ (9 July) – This is a fun-filled workshop where children can use their creativity and their engineering skills to build and transform.

You can book for the workshops here.

Address: 4 Langley Road, Camira-Springfield

The Studio of Performing Arts

During the break, why not enroll your child at TSOPA’s vacation care? The workshops will run from Mondays to Fridays:

Monday & Friday – Acrobatics
Tuesday & Thursday – Aerial Circus
Wednesday – Circus including juggling, plate-spinning, staff twirling & barrel walking

You can book here.

Address: Level 1, Retail Building, Education City Drive, Springfield Central, QLD, 4300

Alikis Art In Mind

Boost your kids’ art skills by enrolling them tinan art workshop this school holiday. Alikis implements a 7-Step System that can teach your kids the skill of drawing regardless of their age and development stage.

Click here to find out more about their workshops.

Address: Crest Ridge Parade, Brookwater, QLD 4300

GKR Karate

Let your kids learn the most popular and respected Martial Arts in the world. They offer children’s classes from five years old and above.

Click here for the free trial.

Address: Springfield Lakes State School, 63 Springfield Lakes Boulevard, Springfield Lakes 4300

Springfield Central State High and Two Ipswich Schools to Get Chunk of $250-M Funding to be 2020-Ready

Springfield Central State High School and two Ipswich high schools will benefit from the 2020 Ready government funding for the construction of additional classrooms to accommodate incoming students in 2020.

Bremer State High and Ipswich State High will get $8 million and $9 million respectively as part of the $250 million budget commitment from the government. Springfield Central SHS and 54 other state high schools will also receive funding through the 2020 Ready program.

Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said, “our Government’s $250 million boost will ensure schools in Ipswich can accommodate the additional students expected in our high schools in 2020 and into the future.”

“At Bremer State High over $8 million will be spent on two new two-storey prefabricated buildings housing extra classrooms,” she added.

Artist’s impression of Ipswich State High’s new Performing Arts Centre. Photo credit: ipswichshs.eq.edu.au

According to Member for Ipswich West Jim Madden, the $9 million funding for Ipswich State High which will be spent on a new performing arts centre.

“Work has commenced on the centre and everyone is extremely excited about the project and what it will bring to the school,” Mr Madden said.

Works for Ipswich State High’s New Performing Arts Centre already started. Photo credit: Facebook/The Ipswich State High School

Education Minister Grace Grace said the multi-million 2020 Ready budget commitment for infrastructure investment would support an anticipated 17,000 additional students across Queensland.

“The ‘2020 Ready’ program signals the next phase of Queensland’s major education reforms, which started more than a decade ago,” she said.

The introduction of prep started in 2007 with the government’s Flying Start initiative.

“With the original prep students set to graduate from high school at the end of 2019, we will have – for the very first time – six full year levels of students in Queensland secondary schools from 2020,” said the minister.

“This new $250 million investment for additional classrooms will prepare those schools identified as requiring additional capacity for the additional students expected in 2020.”

All Aboard the Historic Grandchester Express : An Exciting Experience for Folks in Springfield, Ipswich and Nearby Areas

Hop on a historic train ride and take the Grandchester Express at Grandchester Station. The first train journey in Queensland took off from the original Ipswich railway station to Grandchester on 31 July 1865.

To commemorate the event, everybody is invited to come and experience a ride on the heritage steam train. Go to the very first train station that was built in Queensland and chug your way through the very first Queensland route.

The trip is 2.5 hours long and will depart from the Workshops Rail Museum at 10:00 a.m. on 7 July and 6 October. Go from one carriage to another and experience the ride from the quaint balconies in each carriage.

You can also take in the magnificent exhibits and stories at The Workshops Rail Museum. You also get to know about train operations and hear stories from actual railway workers. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience!

The train trip is suitable for all ages. You can get your tickets here.

Address: Workshops Rail Museum, North St., North Ipswich

Plans for the Shared Springfield Multi-Purpose Hall Revealed

Designs for the multimillion-dollar, multipurpose hall that would be shared by Springfield Central State High School and Ipswich City Council are currently being reviewed.

The project is a part of the government’s Advancing Queensland State Schools initiative where the government has allocated $200 million to fund land acquisitions for new schools, along with 30 new and refurbished school halls.

An artist’s impression for a multipurpose hall at Springfield Central State High School. Photo credit: epathway.ipswich.qld.gov.au

The state government has committed a $6.9-million funding for the project and following Division 9 – Councillor Sheila Ireland’s campaign for council funding last year, the Council is expected to provide an additional $2 million towards the project.

Councillor Sheila Ireland said that “When completed this new multi-purpose hall would also allow for the not for profit sector to undertake important outreach services.”

The 3,566 sqm multi-purpose hall will be built on campus with the help of Education Queensland.

According to Charis Mullen MP – State Member for Jordan, the hall is expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2019 school year.

Plans for the multi-purpose hall include retractable basketball backboards, a scoreboard, and sprung sports floors. The hall will also have various amenities, an office, and meeting rooms.

New DA Submitted For New Shopping Centre and Neighbourhood Centre in Springfield Lakes

Plans for the development of the Springfield Lakes South Neighbourhood Centre, composed of a shopping centre, car wash, child care centre, and a service station on Grande Ave and Springfield Greenbank Arterial have been submitted to the Ipswich City Council by the Coles Group Property Development Ltd.

The shopping centre will have its own supermarket, restaurants, retail shops, and a child care centre. There is a separate application for a service station and car wash to be built on the same site.

The development will be broken down into two stages:

First stage – Supermarket, child care centre, retail areas
Second stage – service station, car wash, 74 car parking spaces, two fast food shops

Springfield Lakes has been rapidly developing commercially. In January of this year, work began on the $2.5-M expansion of the Spring Lake Metro Shopping Centre which is expected to bring more retail outlets to the locals.

Much of the expansion has been brought on by the shortage of retail and service facilities within the area. The property company that is in-charge of the expansion has ambitious plans over the next few years aside from the expansion. According to them, the upgrade of the shopping centre is just the beginning as they are looking for more medical, services, retail and other facilities to bring to the centre.

The expansion is set to be completed by the end of 2018.

Have A ‘Muddy’ Fun Time At Mud World In Ipswich: What To Expect

It’s time to get down and dirty with your children at this year’s Mud World in Ipswich on 21-22 April 2018. With all tickets sold out, we’re pretty sure you’re excited for this event so we’ve listed down everything you need to know to make the most out of your muddy day.

There will be two sessions per day:

Session 1 – 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Session 2 – 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Now, for the fun part! There are five realms that you can explore here.

Muddy Monsterland

Ideal for the little ones 0-2 years old, this land has a playground, shops, a bakery where you can get yourself a mud pie, and a cafe where you can grab a cup of coffee. Your little ones (and you!) will definitely be entertained here. Fun activities also await such as mud sculpting and sketching.

Village of Mud

If you’re feeling active and competitive, head on over to this realm and get on the giant mud pit! This realm is open to all ages and there are organised games that you can participate in such as tug of war, stuck-in-the-mud, and statues.

Mud Mania

For the brave hearts out there who don’t mind getting a little bit more of mud, head on over to this realm. There is a maze of mud that you have to overcome. Don’t worry, goggles will be provided. Keep in mind, it’s going to get really squirmish here!

LandSlide

How about sliding down slippery slopes filled with mud? Sounds fun, eh? This is going to be a popular attraction that will have everybody giggling with joy.

The Great Muddy Mountain Range

If you have a thing for climbing or trekking, take on the avalanches of mud in this realm. This is perfect for those who are looking for more challenging ways to navigate through more mud!

When nighttime falls, join the Muddy Wonderland Dance Party on Saturday night! This is the first ever dance party IN THE MUD!

You and your kids can dance your hearts our whilst Dj Steve play amazing beats! There are going to be lights for that party vibe.

This event will start at 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

There will also be food trucks to satisfy your hunger whilst you take breaks from the all the fun mud activities.

This two-day festival is by Nature Play QLD, an organisation that is dedicated to have kids more involved in outdoor play and to be in nature. They hold events across the country.

Address: Limestone Park, 42a Chermside Rd.

11 Fun-Filled Days at the Ipswich Festival

Get ready for the Ipswich Festival happening on 12-22 April. It’s going to be a jam-packed 11 days filled with entertainment and fun.

Catch some of the major events happening at the festival.

11 April – Michael Jackson: The Legacy Tour

Catch The Legacy Tour of Michael Jackson at the Ipswich Civic Centre starting at 8:00 p.m.

Get your tickets here.

12 April – Fire On The River

Catch Fire On The River at 7:00 p.m. at the Riverlink Shopping Centre and watch fireworks light up the night sky synchronised to music. This marks the beginning of the festivities ahead.

Watch Jet Man and his friend propel above the Bremer River and fly into the sky as fireworks explode.

The shopping centre will also have exciting activities starting at 12:00 p.m. leading to the fireworks show.

Smile for the photo booth in the food court and get a chance to win VIP passes to a great dining experience. Catch Dr Hubble Bubble Show and Despicable 3 with your kids as well. At 6:15 p.m., there will be a Joel Fenton’s Comedy Circus Stun Show.

12-22 April – Artworks & Unmasked

See artworks from artists throughout South East Queensland at the St Paul’s Anglican Church from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

There will be over 200 work entries on display.

The school will also showcase their talents throughout festival dates called “Unmasked.” A giant 1.5 mask will be painted by Ipswich Schools following this year’s theme: Waterways and the fate of the Sea.

12-21 April – Festival Gala

Looking for something sophisticated to do during the festival? Come to the Festival Gala and let the Ipswich City Symphony serenade you at the Ipswich Civic Centre. Get a chance to watch Silvie Paladino sing for the first time with the Ipswich City Orchestra. Tim McCallum and David Hubbard will be there as well.

Book here.

13 April – Mayor’s Festival Ball

Join the Mayor’s Festival Ball from 6:30 p.m. at the Ipswich Civic Centre that will transport you the 80’s. Dance the night away.

Call (07) 3812 2974 for bookings.

14 April – Creative Kidz

From 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at various locations from Brisbane to Ipswich Central, take your kids with you and take part in interactive workshops, robotics, tech-fun, music, and craft design.

View all the Creative Kidz’s activities here.

14 April – Festival of Lights

Watch your favourite storybook character come to life at the Festival of Lights on Brisbane Street, Ipswich Central. You can come dressed as your favourite storybook character, too!

14 April – Heritage Street Bank Party

Join the Heritage Street Bank Party starting at 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. There will be great performances at d’Arcy Doyle Place, Food Lane Stage and at the DJ Stage. Make sure you get your dancing shoes on because you will be doing a lot of dancing!

14 April – Honk!

If you’re not up for some dancing, why don’t you check out vintage and classic vehicles at the Honk! event starting at 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Brisbane Street.

15 April – Ipswich Hospital Foundation Brisbane Valley Rail Trail Bike Ride

Join the fundraising bike ride by the Ipswich Hospital Foundation starting at 8:00 a.m. at Fernvale Futures Centre.

Available trails:

14 km
44 km

Get more details here.

15 April – Gala Doll Fair

Do you love dolls? Come to the Gala Doll Fair at the Ipswich Civic Centre from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Ticket prices here.

18 April – Cabaret Five Foot Two

Join Melissa Western for Cabaret Five Foot Two starting at 7:30 p.m. at the Ipswich Civic Centre. Her performance is a tribute to the “vertically challenged” artists such as Kylie Minogue, Dolly Parton, and many more.

Book here.

18 April – Ride to Work

Ditch your vehicle and Ride to Work from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. presented by Shine Lawyers. This event encourages the local community to ride to work and celebrate the benefits of riding to work. There will be a post-celebration breakfast at d’Arcy Doyle Place.

19 April – 60’s Music

Watch a live musical from the 60’s at the Ipswich Civic Centre by The Beach Boyz. Tickets are at $35 each.

20 April – Fiesta, Food, Fun & Flavours

From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Queens Park, enjoy delicious food at Street Eats whilst your kids enjoy free children’s workshops. There will also be giant games and activities. Of course, it’s not going to be a first without the main stage entertainment by exotic Belly Dancers, Bollywood Dancers, and the traditional South Pacific Islander Fire Dance.

21 April – Jazz, Wine & Blues

At Queens Park from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., get ready for same jazz and blues as Ipswich City Big Band, Elly Hoyt, Asa Bromhall, River City Aces, Aaron West and the Custodians, Devil’s Kiosk, and Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows will give you the kind of entertainment that you seek.

21 April – It’s All Gone Mad

Dress as one of the characters from Alice in Wonderland at The Tivoli Drive In Theatre. Gates open at 3:00 p.m. oink the maddest tea parties with the Mad Hatter, there will also be a croquet court with the Red Queen. Make sure that you look for Cheshire Cat whilst you’re there!

Catch two flicks, Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through The Looking Glass starting at 6:30 p.m.

21 April – Ipswich Festival Criterium

Catch the return of the Ipswich Festival Criterium from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Queensland Penny Farthing and Historical Cycle Club have joined together to display ride of penny farthings and other historical bicycles.

Make sure you bring your own blankets and enjoy live music and food.

22 April – Ipswich 100 Bike Ride

Get active on the last day of the festival starting at 6:00 a.n. at the University of Southern Queensland Ipswich Campus.