Springfield Lakes Residents Mobilise for Annual Clean Up Australia Day

Springfield Lakes residents have answered the call to action, joining the mission of Clean Up Australia to combat litter and safeguard the environment.



Community Effort in Springfield Lakes

Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc., a group dedicated to preserving local parklands and waterways, is organising the annual Clean Up Australia Day event at Discovery Parkland. The group, affiliated with Queensland Water and Land Carers (QWaLC), aims to foster environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices within the community. The event will focus on removing litter from Discovery and Regatta Lakes, addressing the significant issue of plastic pollution that threatens marine life.

Volunteers are encouraged to participate, with registration available online and on the day at the Discovery Parkland carpark. Residents who wish to clean up their streets can also register and receive rubbish collection bags and gloves. Kayak and canoe owners can launch their vessels from the Regatta Lake pontoon to participate in the water-based clean-up effort.

Environmental Impact and Awareness

The organisers stress the importance of preventing litter from entering waterways, highlighting the long-lasting harm of plastic waste. They state that plastic breaks down into micro pieces, entering the food chain and endangering marine animals. The event aims to contribute to keeping Moreton Bay and the wider coastline clean.

Participants are advised to wear sun-protective clothing and closed-in shoes and, if possible, bring their own water bottles, garden gloves, and litter grabbers. Disposable gloves will be provided, and morning tea will be served after the clean-up.

National Movement and History

Clean Up Australia Day is a nationwide initiative that began in 1990. Inspired by Ian Kiernan’s concern over ocean pollution, the organisation has grown into a well-known environmental charity that provides practical solutions for sustainable living. 

It works with communities, governments, and businesses to tackle waste management and environmental protection. The organisation aims to remove existing rubbish and prevent future accumulation of waste.



The Clean up Australia Day event will be held on Sunday, 2 March 2025, from 7:30 AM to 10:30 A.M. AEST, at Discovery Parkland, 180 Springfield Lakes Boulevard Carpark, Springfield Lakes, QLD 4300, Australia.

Published Date 24-Feb-2025

South Ripley Land Secured to Protect and Conserve Koala Habitats

A new land acquisition in South Ripley, spanning 32 hectares, highlights Ipswich’s focus on preserving koala habitats and enhancing environmental conservation.



Preserving Natural Environment

The property lies within an ecological corridor connecting two of Ipswich’s largest conservation areas: White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate and Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate. The area supports native wildlife, including koalas, and features vital plant species. The land was identified as ecologically important, providing crucial connections between existing conservation spaces.

This acquisition is part of Ipswich’s Enviroplan program, designed to preserve the city’s environment and natural beauty. Funds from the Enviroplan levy were used to secure the land, ensuring its long-term protection for wildlife and the community.

Photo Credit: IpswichCityCouncil

Balancing Growth and Conservation

With Ipswich’s population rapidly growing, protecting green spaces like South Ripley is increasingly critical. This land is a wildlife corridor between conservation estates, ensuring safe habitats for koalas and other native species. Its preservation supports not only biodiversity but also recreational opportunities such as bushwalking.

Ipswich has prioritised balancing urban growth with environmental conservation, with efforts including thousands of hectares of land acquisitions for ecological management. The South Ripley property is vital to these ongoing efforts, contributing to sustainable city development.

Community Impact and Future Plans

The newly secured land adds to over 7,000 hectares of conservation-focused properties Ipswich manages. Moving forward, Council plans to continue targeting ecologically significant areas, particularly in high-growth suburbs, to protect biodiversity and cultural heritage further.



In addition to land acquisition, Ipswich has advanced renewable energy initiatives and repurposed flood-hit properties into green spaces, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and making Ipswich one of the greenest cities in southeast Queensland.

Published 31-Dec-2024