brookwater Archives - Springfield Lakes

Ash Barty’s Son Pictured Taking First Golf Steps from Brookwater

Ash Barty’s son Hayden has taken early steps into golf, with the Brookwater local sharing photos of her two-year-old showing interest in the sport.

Sporting Legacy Continues in Brookwater

Ash Barty’s two-year-old son, Hayden Kissick, is already showing signs of following in his parents’ sporting footsteps. The toddler was recently pictured with his first set of junior golf clubs — a gift from Callaway Golf — in a moment shared by Barty on social media.

Barty, who is closely associated with Brookwater in Queensland, has claimed an amateur golf title at the Brookwater Golf and Country Club. Her continued involvement at the club highlights an enduring connection to the local sporting community.

Background in Elite Sport

Barty retired from professional tennis in March 2022 after holding the world No. 1 ranking. Her transition to golf followed years of success across tennis and a brief stint in professional cricket. She has since maintained involvement in community events and local tournaments.

Her husband, Garry Kissick, is a PGA trainee professional. The couple met in 2016 at the Brookwater Golf Club, and later married in a private ceremony in July 2022. They announced the birth of their first child, Hayden, in July 2023, and welcomed a second child, daughter Jordan, in June 2025.

Ash Barty's son — *Caption: The Kissicks’ second child, Jordan.*
*Photo Credit: Ash Barty/Instagram*

Early Interest in Golf

Hayden’s recent photo with a junior golf bag drew widespread attention online, including responses from athletes and fans. The post, which quickly attracted thousands of likes, showed Hayden smiling beside his new clubs.

The early start is unsurprising given the family’s background. Both of Barty’s parents played representative golf for Queensland, and her partner remains active in the sport.

Looking Ahead

With Hayden’s second birthday recently celebrated and a second child welcomed in June 2025, Barty and her family continue to share glimpses of life beyond elite sport. Whether golf becomes Hayden’s path remains to be seen, but his early exposure to the sport reflects the family’s enduring ties to elite competition — and to Brookwater.

Published 26-July-2025

Creative Hearts Co to Launch New Art Gallery and Creative Hub in Greater Springfield

Creative Hearts Co, a new art gallery and creativity hub, is now open on Melaleuca Drive in Greater Springfield, ushering in a vibrant new chapter for local arts, community connection, and creative exploration

Read: Ash Barty Playground Serves Up Fun in Brookwater and Surrounds

Located at 7006 Melaleuca Drive in Brookwater, the gallery is more than just a showcase of visual art. It’s a welcoming, purpose-built space designed to bring people together, spark imagination, and support creative journeys for all ages and backgrounds.

The launch follows the overwhelming response to Creative Hearts Co’s six-week pop-up gallery at Orion Springfield Central in December 2024. That trial run drew enthusiastic crowds—from emerging artists and families to schools and community organisations—highlighting the need for a lasting creative hub in the region.

“This isn’t just an art gallery—it’s a place where people can feel seen, heard and valued,” said co-founder Hue Kedge. “Art is the starting point, but what we’re really creating is a space for community, connection, growth and belonging.”

Transformed from a former sales office into a light-filled, boutique gallery, the new venue offers wheelchair access, private parking, a curated feature wall, and calming, thoughtfully designed interiors. Future plans will also see the outdoor space come to life with gardens, seating areas, and creative installations.

Co-founder Sean Ferguson said the space has been designed with intention. “It’s light-filled, inviting, and instantly calming. We’ve shaped it into a place people simply enjoy being in, and we’re only just getting started.”

Beyond exhibitions, the gallery will host workshops, artist talks, creative business events, and accessible programs for schools, grassroots groups and emerging artists. The vision is to build a space that’s as much about participation as it is about presentation.

“We understand how powerful shared experiences can be in bringing people together.” said co-founder Marie Ferguson. “This space is about creating access—giving the community a chance to engage with something new, to connect through hands-on experiences, and to explore creativity in ways they may not have thought possible.”

The project has been made possible with the generous support of Springfield City Group, whose commitment to grassroots initiatives continues to nurture community and culture in the region.

“We’re proud to support Creative Hearts Co as they bring people together through creativity at a local level,” said Dr Richard Eden, Executive General Manager at Springfield City Group.

Read: Lakeside Views and Top Service Define Moselle’s Café + Restaurant in Springfield Lakes

“Spaces like this play a vital role in nurturing culture, connection and well-being across our region.”

With its official opening set for 4 June, Creative Hearts Co invites the community to experience a new destination for creativity, connection and culture—one that celebrates both the individual and the collective spark.

Published 4-June-2025

Ash Barty Playground Serves Up Fun in Brookwater and Surrounds

There’s a new reason for families to head outdoors in Brookwater, with the opening of a fun-filled, tennis-themed playground that celebrates one of Ipswich’s most beloved sporting heroes — Ash Barty.

Read: Ash Barty Honoured with First Aboriginal Barbie Doll in Celebration of International Women’s Day

Located at Opossum Creek Parklands on Scoparia Drive, the Ash Barty Playground is a vibrant tribute to the former world number one tennis player and cricket professional. True to Barty’s legacy, the playground is designed to inspire the next generation to get moving, try new things, and enjoy the outdoors.

The highlight of the new play space is a mini tennis court with a rebound wall — complete with a painted-on net — perfect for young players to practise their swing. The design goes one step further: when viewed from above, the curved, interconnecting paths that link the playground together resemble a giant tennis ball, a subtle nod to the sport that made Barty a household name.

What makes this project extra special is the story behind it. Rather than accepting a statue in her honour, Barty humbly requested something that would give back to the community — a playground that would get kids active and bring families together. It’s a gesture that speaks volumes about her character and her ongoing commitment to inspiring young people.

Photo credit: Queensland Sport and Recreation/Facebook

“Encouraging children to be active and play is a passion of mine, and I can’t wait for local families, including my own, to visit this beautiful space,” shared Barty on Instagram.

“Fun fact… from above, the looped, connecting pathways resemble a giant tennis ball,” she added.

Read: Ash Barty to Build ‘Forever’ Home at Brookwater Residential

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Ash Barty or simply looking for a new weekend adventure, the Ash Barty Playground is well worth a visit. Don’t forget to add it to your family’s to-do list and enjoy a day out in this fresh new space designed with both fun and inspiration in mind.

Published 7-May-2025

Residential Growth Expands in Augustine Heights and Brookwater with 300 New Homes

Photo Credit: Azure

Augustine Heights and Brookwater are set to see more than 300 new homes constructed by 2026, with developer Azure responding to growing housing demand in Ipswich.

*Caption: Oakmont by Azure*
*Photo Credit: Azure*

Two master-planned developments by Azure are currently under construction in Augustine Heights and Brookwater. These projects form part of the developer’s broader pipeline, which includes 100 homes to be delivered across Ipswich in 2025, and a further 271 in 2026. Among those, the Augustine Heights and Brookwater sites will contribute a combined total of over 130 homes.

Housing Supply Grows with Ipswich Population

Azure’s latest residential push includes ‘Ember’ in Augustine Heights and ‘Oakmont’ in Brookwater, contributing over 130 new homes to the region. Ember comprises 74 homes set in a subtropical landscape, while Oakmont offers 61 residences bordering the Brookwater Golf Course. Both developments have commenced construction and are scheduled for completion by late 2026.

Ember: Affordable Design-Led Living in Augustine Heights

Ember is positioned as a serene community offering design sophistication at a more accessible price point. The development features three and four-bedroom terrace homes with flexible indoor-outdoor living, modern aesthetics, and premium internal finishes.

Azure developments — *Caption: Ember by Azure*
*Photo Credit: Azure*

Ember places emphasis on light, space, and functional living, with timber tones and refined material palettes used throughout. Communal amenities include a 20-metre swimming pool, a kids’ splash pool, sun lounges, and shaded cabanas, all part of Ember’s private AClub offering.

Homes are priced between $750,000 and $990,000. As of March 2025, eight residences remain available to purchase, set to be released in Stage 8 sales later in the year.

Azure residences in Augustine Heights and Brookwater — *Caption: Ember by Azure*
*Photo Credit: Azure*

Oakmont: Premium Residences Fronting Brookwater Golf Course

Oakmont in Brookwater offers a more exclusive option within a gated community. The development includes three-bedroom terraces under the Oakmont Collection and a separate Signature Collection of four-bedroom homes, featuring expansive views of the golf course.

Augustine Heights and Brookwater residences — *Caption: Oakmont by Azure*
*Photo Credit: Azure*

The terraces are defined by colonial-style windows, awnings, curated gardens, and bold neoclassical architecture. Internal features include high-end finishes, generous kitchens with butler’s pantries, integrated ILVE appliances, and refined entry statements.

Prices range from $1.34 million for standard residences to $1.72 million for homes within the Signature Collection. As of March, 70 per cent of Oakmont homes have been sold.

Azure residential development in Augustine Heights and Brookwater — *Caption: Oakmont by Azure*
*Photo Credit: Azure*

Community Demand and Local Sentiment

Azure Director Trent Kiernan said strong interest in both locations indicates high demand for quality housing in the Ipswich region. Sales Manager Allyce Kluver described Brookwater as a premium destination within Ipswich. She added that the region’s appeal is growing due to local economic growth, new job opportunities, and improved education offerings.

Future Outlook

Azure’s developments are part of broader efforts to address housing demand in southeast Queensland. The company intends to continue investing in the Ipswich area, which is expected to become a significant residential hub within the next decade.

Published 26-Mar-2025

Odour Relief on the Horizon for Brookwater as Recycling Facility Ordered to Upgrade

Ipswich residents may soon experience relief from persistent odour issues that have affected the Brookwater area for the past two years.

Read: Ipswich Residents Near Swanbank Industrial Area Asked to Report Odour Issues

NuGrow, a local recycling company, has been ordered by the Planning and Environment Court to implement significant changes to its waste processing operations.

The court’s decision comes after prolonged discussions between NuGrow, environmental regulators, and community representatives. The ruling outlines a comprehensive four-year plan aimed at addressing odour concerns while maintaining the facility’s important role in waste management.

Under the court order, NuGrow must complete several stages of improvements. Within the first month, the company is required to implement immediate odour reduction measures, including the use of chemicals to neutralise smells from liquid waste tanks and improved monitoring of composting conditions. They must also apply for necessary approvals to construct an engineered membrane system for containing odorous materials.

Over the next two years, NuGrow is tasked with installing a state-of-the-art enclosed composting system designed to minimise odour emissions. The entire upgrade process must be completed within four years to ensure compliance with strict regulations for processing waste near residential areas.

The Environment Department has stated that these measures are designed to provide the quickest possible relief for affected residents while allowing for the development of long-term solutions.

Brad Wirth, executive director for industry development and South East compliance at the Environment Department, commented on the decision. He acknowledged that while the process had been lengthy, the department views the court ruling as a positive step.

“The stronger composting regulations that were introduced last month gave us the extra ammunition we needed to be able to secure this outcome, putting an end to months of litigation which had no guarantee of delivering this same level of benefit to community, or within these same timeframes, had it gone to a full hearing in the Court,” Mr Wirth stated.

“This is good progress but we aren’t done yet, and we will continue to pursue opportunities to improve the Ipswich community’s experience with local waste operators.”

Read: New Regulations Target Odour Issues at Swanbank and New Chum

Local residents are encouraged to stay informed about the progress of these upgrades. The Brookwater community will likely see gradual improvements in air quality as NuGrow implements the required changes over the coming months and years.

Published 26-September-2024

Townhouses with Brookwater Golf Course Access Green-Lit in Springfield

A new $72 million townhouse development has been approved within an exclusive enclave at Springfield, promising luxury living with direct access to the Brookwater golf course.

Read: Brookwater Golf & Country Club: Gateway to Queensland’s Elite Golfing Experience

The Oakmont development by Azure will comprise 61 luxury townhouses situated along the edge of the 8th hole of the Brookwater golf course designed by Greg Norman. The residences will offer views over the fairways and greens stretching out to the surrounding mountains.

With the aim of cultivating a sense of community living, Oakmont will boast expansive landscaped garden areas, shared amenities and facilities for residents, and a centralised pedestrian pathway linking the different townhomes together.

Those who will live at Oakmont will have the luxury of utilising an upscale wellness centre featuring a steam room, sauna, magnesium mineral plunge pools, and a fully-equipped fitness centre. Further adding to the resort-like amenities on the 2.36-hectare property is a 20-metre lap pool surrounded by lounge areas and recreational green spaces.

According to Azure Director Trent Keirnan, Oakmont epitomises their philosophy of creating distinguished residences primarily aimed at owner-occupiers and investors seeking a premium residential offering.

Mr Keirnan stated that at a minimum, each residence at Oakmont would be a high-quality terrace home offering three bedrooms plus a multipurpose room, further enhanced by the desirable open setting provided by being situated adjacent to a championship golf course.

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

Construction is scheduled to commence in early 2025, with completion expected by the third quarter of 2026. The development has already generated significant buyer interest from the market.

The approval for Oakmont promises a new benchmark in luxury townhouse living nestled alongside one of the region’s most prestigious golf courses at Brookwater.

Published 28-March-2024

Brookwater Golf & Country Club: Gateway to Queensland’s Elite Golfing Experience

Joining the elite ranks of Brookwater Golf & Country Club is not just a matter of wealth or desire. Even for Australia’s sports luminaries, admission to this prestigious golf haven is a feat, hindered by long waiting lists, hefty fees, and exacting standards.

Nestled in the heart of Queensland, Brookwater Golf & Country Club, while a recent addition in the region, has swiftly cemented its status as an 18-hole masterpiece, a creation of Australian golfing legend Greg Norman. This club not only offers a superb golfing experience but also holds a special place in the hearts of sporting icons like tennis superstar Ash Barty.

Upholding Standards & Exclusivity

The membership process to this club is intricate, involving endorsements from current members and multiple interactions with club managers. This meticulous procedure ensures that new members align with the club’s prestigious clientele.

Brookwater Golf & Country Club — Photo Credit: Ben White/Google Maps

Brookwater offers various membership options, with fees varying based on factors such as residency, age, and skill level. Residents enjoy waived joining fees for 7-day memberships, while nonresidents face a joining fee and higher annual costs. The club facilitates online application forms, accommodating different age groups and preferences.

Brookwater maintains a strict dress code for both ladies and gentlemen, ensuring that all members and guests present themselves in a manner befitting the club’s prestigious status. This code excludes casual or offensive attire, emphasizing the club’s commitment to maintaining an environment of respect and professionalism.

Ranked highly by Golf Digest and Top 100 Golf Courses, Brookwater’s reputation extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. It stands as the #1 Public Access Course in Queensland, as recognized by Golf Australia Magazine. This accolade underlines the club’s exceptional quality and its allure for golf enthusiasts.

Ash Barty’s Connection to Brookwater

The club’s prominence is further heightened by its association with Ash Barty, former World No. 1 tennis player and now a golfing marvel. Her victories in the club’s ladies’ competitions, shortly after retiring from tennis, speak volumes of her athletic prowess.

Moreover, Brookwater holds sentimental value for Ms Barty, being the place where she met her husband, Garry Kissick, further intertwining her personal and professional journeys with the club.

Her seamless transition from tennis to golf, exemplified by her success at Brookwater, has garnered admiration from golfing legends like Tiger Woods. Her repeated victories at the club’s tournaments underscore her remarkable adaptability and skill in the sporting arena.

For more about Brookwater Golf & Country Club, check their Facebook page.

Published 22-Jan-2024

Golf Next? Ash Barty Clinches Golf Title at Brookwater

Ash Barty shocked the world of tennis when she retired at the top of her game so she could go after ‘other dreams.’ These days, she can be seen swinging a golf club in winning form at Brookwater Golf and Country Club, where she recently proved her championship streak isn’t over just yet.

On Saturday, 2 April 2022, Ash won the ladies’ competition against five women at the Brookwater Golf and Country Club. The 25-year-old bagged $30 for her win, a far cry from her over $30-million winning in tennis.

Nonetheless, there have been speculations were that the World No. 1 could be coming out of retirement to play golf professionally. It won’t be a surprise to her fans, however, as Ash is quite a talented golfer and played with Tiger Woods before.

Woods even said that Ash has “got a great swing.” Two-time Queensland amateur champion Louis Dobbelaar also believes that Ash has all she needs to pursue golf as she’s natural at it.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ash Barty (@ashbarty)

Ash has been a member of the Brookwater Golf and Country Club for a few years and she also won the club championship in 2020. Members adore her down-to-earth nature.

The tennis superstar is currently building her new home at Brookwater Residential as it suits the quiet lifestyle she craves for. The golf course is a stone’s throw away from the residential community.

Aside from tennis and golf, Ash is also a great cricket player and had a full-time contract with Brisbane Heat in 2015 during her brief break from tennis in 2014. One of her former Heat coaches said that she’s very team-oriented and showed outstanding batting skills from the get-go. Her father is a major cricket fan and she sat many hours with him watching the games on TV as a child.

Despite the speculations, Ash has been mum about her next plans post-retirement from tennis. The world will just have to wait and see her next move.

Brookwater Home Smashes Record as ‘Most Expensive’ Sale to Date

A five-bedroom resort-style home, located near the Brookwater golf course, became the “most expensive” house to sell in the Ipswich neighbourhood for $1.58 million, breaking the 2019 record sale by nine percent ($1.45 million).

Sold by Brookwater Residential, the property is reportedly the first in the area to hit such a milestone.

Brookwater Residential General Manager Nick Kostellar confirmed that the new owner is also a local.

But the home also had interested buyers from other states, who were able to “tour” the house, despite COVID-19 restrictions, through virtual technology and video calls.

In fact, most businesses conducted during the pandemic were done online with many buyers never setting foot on the property before closing the sale.

According to Domain, Brookwater has become a haven for families looking to establish their roots and achieve their dreams since it opened nearly two decades ago. This neighbourhood, best known for its gorgeous surrounding and affluent homes with luxury fittings, is part of the Greater Springfield area and was designed around a Greg Norman championship golf course.

The property, which has ample open space and a rooftop view of the greens, is located just 30 minutes away from the CBD and is accessible to at least 10 schools, a private hospital and the Springfield Anglican church.

The Skin Sanctuary Celebrates 10 Years Of Beauty And Wellness

Photo Credit: Leni Images

Good skin care is important to aging gracefully and whilst certain skin conditions may be treated at home, you can take years off your face, achieve a healthy complexion, and gain a boost of confidence by visiting a specialist. Have you considered a relaxing, refreshing, and reviving retreat at The Skin Sanctuary in Brookwater?

This year, The Skin Sanctuary is celebrating 10 years of helping customers rejuvenate worn-out skin due to age and sun exposure. Sarah Hall, the owner and specialist, has 26 years of experience as a qualified Beauty Therapist, advising clients of all skin types on various skin issues.

Image from: https://www.facebook.com/theskinsanctuary/

From her clinic within the home she shares with her husband, Sarah provides holistic body therapies and advanced skin treatments to help clients relieve skin problems and reduce tension.

Her gentle demeanour, calming personality, and eagerness to listen to clients are definitive assets. If you’re concerned about results and the procedures’ effects on your skin, Sarah’s helpful guidance and careful handling will help you relax.

Here are some of The Skin Sanctuary’s services .

Full body wraps, such as the 2-hr holistic marine full body wrap with massage (not in photo).

Signature facials

Lymphatic therapy facial is a holistic approach to rejuvenating the skin.

Cosmelan is an intensive chemical peel for pigmentation.

Dermal lift microcurrent facial for a “facelift”

LED Light skin treatments

For a fully rejuvenating experience, Sarah especially recommends the pamper packages at her clinic. The Sanctuary Signature is most in-demand, providing two hours of blissful pampering of the face, back, and feet.

Check out their pamper packages here.

The Skin Sanctuary also offers Sarah’s own products for beauty and wellness.

New product alert! Skin Polish multi-action exfoliant with bamboo powder plus AHA/BHA blend of plant acids to gently refine and smooth the skin. Great step before a mask. Used 2 x weekly, it aids other skincare products absorb better. Fresh green tea scent.
Image from https://www.facebook.com/theskinsanctuary/

Her personal favourites are the cleansing oil, peptide youth elixir, and skin dew.

She has her own line of skincare items, herbal teas, and essences.

CALMING skin range: (normal, dry & sensitive skin types) milk thistle, elderflower, jacaranda flower, calendula, gotu kola are a few of the botanicals used. Enjoy the divine smell of patchouli & jasmine. Image from https://www.facebook.com/theskinsanctuary/

For its 10-year anniversary, The Skin Sanctuary is shaving $20 off the skincare package consisting of the cleanser, toner, and moisturiser.

Clients availing of the introductory facial will also get a free trial pack of products as it’s a great place to start when unsure of what products to use or what professional treatments to take on.

Click here for the pamper packages.

The Skin Sanctuary also observes COVID-19 protocols.