The Springfield Community 5K Your Way International Women’s Day Fun Run, backed by Queensland X-Ray, was initially scheduled for early March at Brighton Homes Arena. The event was first postponed due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred and then cancelled after further rainfall rendered conditions unsafe by late March.
Despite two formal cancellations, a group of 25 participants gathered at Brighton Homes Arena for an unofficial walk to mark the occasion and acknowledge the fundraising effort. The group included local officials Milton Dick and Shayne Neumann.
The event still achieved its target, raising $27,000 for Mater Chicks in Pink, supporting local services such as the Mater Cancer Care Centre in Springfield.
Photo Credit: Bebold Properties/Facebook
Fundraising Goals Exceeded Despite Setbacks
The original fundraising goal of $15,000 was surpassed by nearly $12,000. Contributions funded practical services, including mastectomy bras and counselling, and contributed to life-saving research. Organisers encouraged participants to complete the 5km walk individually, in their own communities.
Community Adapts with Flexibility
Locals engaged with the “5K Your Way” initiative after the event’s cancellation. Families such as breast cancer survivor Corinne’s walked together independently, highlighting how the community adapted to continue their involvement despite the disruption.
Photo Credit: Bebold Properties/Facebook
Support Remains Strong in Springfield Lakes
Support from residents, volunteers, and sponsors was acknowledged by the organising committee. In addition to those who attended in person, other city officials and community figures expressed their support remotely.
Event organisers confirmed the Springfield fun run will return on 8 March 2026. Planning has already begun, with hopes to double this year’s fundraising result. A push for stronger weather contingency measures was also noted.
Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield Central has been officially confirmed as a venue for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.Although the allocation of specific sports to venues won’t happen until 2026, it is strongly considered a prime choice to host the modern pentathlon event.
The confirmation came through the 100 Day Review Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Infrastructure report. This report solidified the arena’s existing place in the Games masterplan. The Brighton Homes Arena serves as the headquarters for the Brisbane Lions and is the home ground for the club’s women’s AFL team.
Brisbane’s role as a Games-ready venue has been consistently recognised since it secured the Games in July 2021. It formed part of the original bid and was supported through subsequent reviews.
Local Reaction and Funding Context
Photo Credit: Google Map
The city government also pointed out that Ipswich had missed out on receiving additional funding commitments as part of the substantial $7.1 billion funding allocated by the Australian and Queensland governments for the 2032 Games.
This was despite multiple submissions to the review and undertaking its advocacy work. Other growing council areas, such as Logan and Moreton Bay, had secured funding for indoor sporting facilities last year due to strong representation from their state and federal MPs.
Out of 77 councils in Queensland, only about a dozen were confirmed in this review to host a Games venue. Despite most councils missing out, it is generally viewed that Ipswich would have a “front row seat” to the major sporting and cultural event.
Stadium Details and Future Planning
Photo Credit: Google Map
The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) report identified Brighton Homes Arena in the 2021 Future Host Questionnaire submission as the planned venue for the modern pentathlon event, with a capacity for 10,000 spectators. GIICA assessed the stadium’s overall connectivity via rail, bus, active transport, and private vehicles as good.
However, the report indicated that bus shuttle services connecting to park ‘n’ ride facilities and transit hubs elsewhere in Brisbane would be needed to manage Games demand beyond Springfield Central Station’s capacity. Improvements to “last mile” connectivity—the final leg of the journey to the venue—were also identified as necessary.
GIICA mentioned receiving a few submissions specifically about Ipswich Stadium. One submission suggested developing a second field at the site. While potentially useful, allowing for extra power and water services installation that could benefit Games operations, GIICA concluded the second field is not required to run the Games competition at the venue.
The report also clarified that the Brisbane 2032 organisation is responsible for allocating specific sports to venues. This process will occur once the final sport programme is confirmed with the International Olympic Committee in 2026.
Separate from the venue confirmation, the recent announcement included good news for local grassroots sports. Four Ipswich sporting clubs were confirmed beneficiaries of the first Games On! grant funding round, sharing close to $2 million.
The funding includes $800,000 for the Ipswich District Junior Tennis Association for court surface improvements, $800,000 for the Rosewood showgrounds to upgrade floodlights, $150,000 for the Ipswich Musketeers Baseball Club for spectator seating, and $150,000 for the Norths Tigers Ipswich Senior Rugby League Football Club, also for spectator seating.
Mayor Teresa Harding highlighted sport’s critical role in building communities and promoting inclusion within the city. She remarked that as Ipswich’s population grows, so does the demand for local sports facilities. The Mayor described the nearly $2 million commitment as a massive boost for the clubs and the city. She concluded that while stadiums are important, the true “golden opportunity” from the 2032 Games is encouraging a generation of young people to become interested in health, activity, and sports participation.
Springfield Lakes is gearing up for the 5K Your Way Fun Run. Starting and finishing at Brighton Homes Arena, this event set for Sunday, 9 March 2025, will bring the community together to support women living with breast cancer.
A local favourite, the yearly Springfield Fun Run brings friends and families to walk or run for a worthy cause. The event raises money for Mater Chicks in Pink, a group committed to supporting breast cancer-affected women and families.
Stories from locals show why this event matters. Diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in 2023, Corinne was just 39 when she joined the Fun Run while still undergoing treatment.
Another local, Maria, faced her own challenges after being diagnosed with advanced breast cancer in 2022. She highlighted the strength and support these events bring to everyone.
Key Event Details
The 5K walk kicks off at 8:00 a.m. Participants are encouraged to arrive at Brighton Homes Arena by 7:30 a.m. The route follows pathways through Springfield Central, with volunteers stationed along the way to guide and assist.
Participants can enjoy a variety of events in the arena following their crossing of the finish line. There will be a sausage sizzle, coffee, watermelon, face painting, and more. It’s a chance to relax and connect after the walk.
How to Register
Registrations are open now. Participants can join as individuals, create their own team, or be part of the Springfield 5KYW team. Registration details are available on the official fundraising website.
For further information, organiser Tracy Bold can be contacted at 0412 468 233 or via email at tracybeboldproperties.com.
Bringing the Community Together
Springfield Lakes residents have embraced this event, uniting to support those facing breast cancer. Personal stories from past participants highlight how much it means to have this kind of local support.
It’s more than just a walk. It’s about showing solidarity and care for those in the community who need it most.
The Fun Run is set to be a day of fitness, fun, and fundraising. With every step, participants will help make a difference for women and families dealing with breast cancer.
The Brisbane Lions will face the Adelaide Football Club in the 2025 AAMI Community Series pre-season match at Brighton Homes Arena, with the Springfield Lakes Hotel positioned as the premier accommodation option for attendees.
The highly anticipated match is set for Thursday, 27 February 2025, at 7:10 PM, bringing the excitement of live AFL to Springfield Lakes.
A Community-Centred Event
The 2025 AAMI Community Series offers a unique opportunity for communities across Australia to host AFL matches, creating excitement and engagement with the sport. From 25 February to 2 March 2025, all 18 AFL clubs will participate in matches designed to give fans a first glimpse of their teams before the premiership season begins.
The Brighton Homes Arena fixture will feature the reigning 2024 AFL premiers, the Brisbane Lions, against the Adelaide Football Club. This match is a standout event in the series, giving Springfield Lakes locals and travelling fans an unforgettable football experience.
For fans attending the match, the Springfield Lakes Hotel is a top accommodation choice. Situated in the heart of Springfield Lakes, the hotel offers a perfect blend of convenience and comfort, ensuring a stress-free stay for visitors.
The proximity to Brighton Homes Arena makes it an ideal base for game day, with special offers for direct bookings providing added value. Fans are encouraged to explore the local area while soaking in the excitement of the match.
AAMI’s Commitment to Football
AAMI continues its support of community football through the AAMI Community Series, aiming to improve access to live AFL matches across regional and local areas. AFL officials highlighted the family-friendly nature of the event, emphasising that members and children can attend for free, further strengthening the connection between the sport and its community supporters.
The AFL has confirmed that all matches in the series will be broadcast live on Foxtel and Kayo, ensuring fans nationwide can follow the action.
Game Schedule
Ticketing and Match Details
Tickets for the 2025 AAMI Community Series matches will be available from February. The AFL has confirmed standard game conditions, including four 20-minute quarters with time on, full umpiring panels, and competitive play.
Fans can find updates on ticketing and match information via the Brisbane Lions’ website. Brighton Homes Arena promises excitement and community celebration for those planning to attend the game in person.
On a high-stakes night at Princes Park, the Brisbane Lions’ hopes for consecutive AFLW premierships were shattered by a commanding North Melbourne side. The Lions vs Kangaroos clash ended in a decisive victory, with the final score of 5.9 (39) to 1.3 (9) showcasing the Kangaroos’ dominance.
Despite the Lions’ renowned defensive pressure, they were overwhelmed by North Melbourne’s midfield brilliance, spearheaded by the unstoppable Jasmine Garner. Brisbane’s coaching team tried every trick in the book, with Jade Ellenger and captain Breanna Koenen taking turns to curb Garner’s influence. Yet the North Melbourne star couldn’t be contained, amassing 35 disposals, 22 contested possessions, and 13 tackles in a match-winning display.
The opening quarter set the stage for North’s victory. They surged ahead with the first three goals, building a 17-point lead that Brisbane couldn’t overcome. Ellie Hampson offered a glimmer of hope, converting after a downfield free kick, but it was to be Brisbane’s only major score of the night.
Craig Starcevich praises the Kangaroos
Lions’ coach Craig Starcevich, while disappointed with the result, showed admirable sportsmanship in his post-match reflections. “What I saw in the first half today was the best footy I’ve ever seen in the AFLW,” Starcevich acknowledged, praising North Melbourne’s pressure and quick ball movement.
Despite the disappointment, Brisbane’s sustained excellence continues to define their program. Starcevich also emphasized the increasing competitiveness of the AFLW: “It’s going to be harder and harder to win, so we just have to keep getting better.”
Though the night belonged to North Melbourne, Brisbane’s remarkable consistency in reaching the grand final deserves recognition. As the AFLW continues to evolve, the Lion’s unwavering excellence will keep them firmly in the premiership conversation.
Published 01-December-2024
Match preview published on 26-November-2024.
Lions vs Kangaroos: An AFLW Grand Final Rematch for the Ages
The Brisbane Lions are primed for another defining moment in their AFLW journey as they prepare to face the North Melbourne Kangaroos this Saturday, 30 November in the 2024 AFLW grand final. Lions vs Kangaroos kick off 6:45 p.m. at IKON Park.
The reigning premiers face an undefeated North Melbourne side eager to claim their first premiership, while Brisbane aims for back-to-back flags in familiar territory.
The clash at Melbourne’s IKON Park will once again showcase both teams’ premiership credentials: with the Lions looking to avenge their season-opening defeat and the Kangaroos seeking redemption after their 2023 grand final loss to Brisbane.
Brisbane’s elite status solidified with four players earning All-Australian honours in 2024. Midfield dynamo Ally Anderson, averaging 26.2 disposals and 13.8 contested possessions, secured back-to-back selections. Dynamic winger Sophie Conway, also claiming her second consecutive jacket, averaged 17.4 disposals and 5.1 tackles in a standout season.
First-time selections Belle Dawes (18.8 disposals, 4.3 clearances) and Taylor Smith (22 goals) have proven themselves as stars, with Smith forming a lethal forward partnership alongside Dakota Davidson.
Lions vs Kangaroos
North Melbourne, last season’s runners-up and this season’s undefeated minor premiers (10-1-0), will challenge a battle-hardened Brisbane side. The Lions’ campaign for a third premiership will rely on their All-Australian quartet and the experience gained from five straight preliminary final appearances and three consecutive grand final appearances.
In Round 1 at Brighton Homes Arena, North Melbourne broke their Brisbane hoodoo with a commanding 44-point victory, their first win over the Lions in six attempts. Brisbane, however, showed resilience, going 11-1 since that early season setback to secure another grand final berth.
Kate Lutkins announces retirement
The grand final week announcement of Kate Lutkins’ retirement adds extra motivation for the pride. The three-time All-Australian and 2021 grand final best-on-ground performer leaves an indelible mark on the club, with coach Craig Starcevich praising her transition to mentoring the current squad during this finals campaign.
“It’s been such an awesome career, I’m really thankful to have been part of this program, especially the last two years,” Lutkins said, having been with the Lions since their inaugural season.
The stage is set for an epic encounter between two AFLW powerhouses, with the Lions determined to add another chapter to their proud history. For Brisbane faithful, Saturday’s battle for supremacy can’t come soon enough.
The Brisbane Lions have stormed into their third straight AFLW grand final, as Lions vs Crows delivered another triumph for the maroon, blue and gold with Brisbane overwhelming Adelaide by 18 points at Brighton Homes Arena.
The 7.8 (50) to 4.8 (32) triumph sets up a blockbuster rematch with undefeated North Melbourne at Ikon Park on Saturday, 30 November.
The defending champions will face their biggest test yet against North Melbourne, who demonstrated their premiership credentials with a dominant preliminary final victory over Port Adelaide. The clash presents Brisbane with an opportunity to defend their crown against the season’s only undefeated team, in a replay of their memorable 2023 grand final triumph.
Lions vs Crows
Brisbane’s midfield dominance was led by Orla O’Dwyer and Ally Anderson (24 disposals each), while Dakota Davidson proved dangerous up forward with 2.3 from 14 possessions. Adelaide’s Ebony Marinoff (30 disposals), Anne Hatchard (25), and Chelsea Randall (18 disposals, two goals) fought hard in defeat.
Dakota Davidson’s influence proved pivotal in shifting momentum during the second quarter. The dynamic forward’s strong contested marking and unconventional falcon assist to set up Courtney Hodder’s goal sparked Brisbane’s revival when they needed it most.
After trailing at half-time, the Lions unleashed a devastating four-goal assault in the third quarter that transformed the contest. Brisbane’s increased tempo and precise ball movement proved too much for Adelaide in humid conditions, with Cathy Svarc emerging as the catalyst. Svarc doubled her disposal count and contributed directly to two crucial goals that broke the game open.
On the brink of history—again
The victory marks Brisbane’s sixth consecutive win over Adelaide and continues their remarkable run of reaching six AFLW grand finals in nine seasons since the AFL Women’s inception—missing the finals series just once in that span. Another grand final victory would secure their third premiership, matching Adelaide’s record and cementing their legacy as the AFLW’s most successful club.
As they prepare for next week’s decider, the Lions’ ability to overcome early adversity and finish strongly, alongside their winning legacy, positions them as worthy challengers to North Melbourne’s perfect season.
The Brisbane Lions vs Hawks qualifying final lived up to its billing, with the reigning premiers surviving a fierce challenge to claim a six-point victory away at Ikon Park.
Brisbane’s 6.2 (38) to 4.8 (32) triumph books their fifth-straight preliminary final appearance and secures crucial home ground advantage after a week’s rest.
Following a challenging week marked by crowd incidents in round 10, Dakota Davidson made an immediate impact, opening the scoring with an impressive display of athleticism. The Lions’ all-time leading goalkicker gathered a ground ball and converted truly, setting the tone for her standout performance.
The Hawks controlled the early stages, building an 11-point advantage in the second quarter. However, their inaccuracy in front of goal proved costly, converting just two majors from seven scoring opportunities.
Brisbane’s trademark attacking flair ignited after halftime, with Ruby Svarc sparking the comeback. Her dynamic play created crucial scoring opportunities, leading to back-to-back goals from Cathy Svarc and Taylor Smith that shifted momentum in Brisbane’s favour. Davidson’s second goal in the final term, celebrated with a defiant hair ruffle, built a crucial 12-point buffer.
Brisbane’s defensive unit stood tall after a slow offensive start, with Bre Koenen, Nat Grider, and Jennifer Dunne proving impenetrable. Ally Anderson grew into the game despite close attention from Mattea Breed, while Orla O’Dwyer’s 17 disposals provided important drive.
After the Lions vs Hawks match, Brisbane faces an anxious wait regarding midfielder Belle Dawes’s availability for the preliminary final after a second-quarter incident involving Hawk Ainslie Kemp.
Dawes, charging at full pace, attempted to pull out of a tackle but collected Kemp high. While Kemp passed her concussion assessment and returned to play, the incident’s impact on Brisbane’s finals campaign remains uncertain.
The victory grants Brisbane a week’s rest before hosting either Adelaide or Fremantle at the Brighton Homes Arena. The Lions’ championship defence continues to gather momentum, with their ability to overcome adversity reinforcing their premiership credentials as they pursue a spot in their third consecutive grand final.
Fresh off a shock defeat, the Brisbane Lions women’s team look to bounce back when they host the Sydney Swans this Sunday, 27 October. The crucial clash comes as the Lions aim to secure a top-two finish and the home qualifying final that comes with it. Lions vs Swans kick off 4:05 p.m. at the Brighton Homes Arena.
The twelfth-placed Cats delivered an unexpected blow to Brisbane’s campaign last Sunday, outplaying the Lions in a defensive masterclass that resulted in a 7.5 (47) to 5.7 (37) victory at GMHBA Stadium. The loss marked Brisbane’s first defeat since the opening round, with the usually potent Lions’ forward line unable to break through Geelong’s defensive pressure.
The Lions face a significant challenge with key forward Dakota Davidson ruled out due to concussion protocols following a heavy fall in the second quarter of the Geelong match. Davidson’s absence was notably felt in the second half, as Brisbane struggled to maintain their offensive efficiency.
Despite this setback, there were positive signs for Brisbane. Teenage sensation Charlie Mullins continued her impressive form with 18 disposals and a goal, while Orla O’Dwyer made a successful return from injury, contributing 14 disposals and two goals.
Lions vs Swans implications
With just two rounds remaining in the home-and-away season, the race for a top-two finish intensifies. The Lions’ main competition includes second-placed Hawthorn, who face fifth-placed Richmond in the final round, and third-placed Kuwarna, set to battle the undefeated league-leaders Kangaroos this weekend.
Brisbane’s final home-and-away fixture will see them travel to RSEA Park in Melbourne to face tenth-placed Yoorook. The Lions cannot afford to underestimate their opponents after last weekend’s wake-up call.
The clash against the fifteenth-placed Swans presents an ideal opportunity for the Lions to return to the dominant form that characterised their seven-game winning streak. With finals implications looming large, Brisbane’s response to this recent setback could define their premiership defence.
The Brisbane Lions Women have bounced back impressively after a season-opening loss to North Melbourne. With five victories on the trot, including a nail-biting win against the previously undefeated Adelaide Crows, the defending champions have firmly established themselves as AFLW contenders once more.
In a thrilling match at Brighton Homes Arena, star forward Taylor Smith secured a crucial win for Brisbane with a last-minute goal. The Lions’ tight 5.5 (35) to 5.3 (33) triumph over Adelaide showcased the defending premiers’ ability to perform under pressure.
Smith’s accurate 25m set shot with just 100 seconds left secured the win, cementing her status as the AFLW’s most lethal goal-kicker this season.
The victory against Adelaide propels Brisbane to second place on the ladder, boasting a 5-1 record. Only the unbeaten North Melbourne (5-0-1) stands above them. With the season halfway through, the Lions are primed for another finals run.
The recent win came at a cost, with Orla O’Dwyer suffering a dislocated left shoulder. O’Dwyer is expected to be out for two to three weeks, and Brisbane’s depth will be tested as they navigate this injury setback.
What’s next for the Lions Women?
Fortunately, the Lions face a favourable schedule ahead with five games remaining in the season. Four of their upcoming opponents currently sit outside the finals series spots, presenting an opportunity to solidify their position.
In a short season, every match counts—one loss could mean a tumble down the ladder. The team must remain sharp, especially for their upcoming away clash against 13th-placed Carlton this Saturday, 5 October at 7:15 p.m.
The Lions’ dominance mirrors the club’s overall positive trajectory, following the men’s team’s premiership victory. This dual success has energised the Lions faithful, fostering a palpable sense of optimism around the club.
As the AFLW season enters its second half, the Brisbane Lions women’s team appears poised for a strong finish. Their combination of skilled goal-kicking, midfield dominance, and clutch performances positions them strongly for another shot at glory.
The Brisbane Lions are gearing up for a crucial mid-week match against the Western Bulldogs this Wednesday, 18 September. Lions vs Bulldogs kick off 7:15 p.m. at the Brighton Homes Arena.
Coming off a dominant 52-point victory over Collingwood, the Lions are looking to maintain their momentum and secure their third consecutive win.
The Lions’ recent form has been impressive, with last week’s comprehensive 52-point victory over Collingwood showcasing the team’s highest capabilities.
Standout performances from Sophie Conway, Belle Dawes, and Taylor Smith contributed to the weekend trouncing and will be crucial in the mid-week match against the Bulldogs.
Lions vs Bulldogs
In an exciting development, the Lions have confirmed that Evie Long will make her AFLW debut against Footscray. Long, a product of the Lions Academy, becomes the second draftee to debut for the club this season, following Sophie Peters.
As the Lions enter a demanding period of three games in ten days, including a trip to Perth to face the West Coast Eagles, the coaching staff has made the decision to manage Shannon Campbell’s workload.
This strategic move highlights the team’s focus on long-term performance during this condensed fixture, reflecting their faith in the squad’s depth to compensate for any short-term setbacks.
Head coach Craig Starcevich and his team will be aiming to replicate the flair and joy that characterised their 2023 premiership-winning season. With a current record of two wins and one loss, the Lions have an opportunity to solidify their position in the league with another strong performance.
As Brisbane prepares to face the Western Bulldogs, fans can expect an exciting contest that will test the defending premier’s ability to maintain their winning ways in the face of a challenging schedule.
