Greater Springfield Archives - Springfield Lakes

Greater Springfield to Turn Pink for Mater Chicks in Pink Fun Run

Greater Springfield’s breast cancer survivors and their supporters are invited to paint the town pink on 9 March by joining the community’s second Mater Chicks in Pink International Women’s Day Fun Run.

Read: Springfield Lakes Ready for Community Fun Run

Presented by Queensland X-Ray, this inspiring event aims to raise critical resources to assist women battling breast cancer.

Uniting for a Cause

Photo credit: International Women’s Day Fun Run/Facebook

Breast cancer remains a pressing health challenge in Australia. In 2022 alone, Cancer Australia reported a staggering 20,428 new cases of breast cancer diagnosis, making it the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country.

The Mater Chicks in Pink initiative empowers women affected by breast cancer to focus on what truly matters—their health and cherished moments with loved ones—by alleviating the emotional and financial burdens of the disease.

Your Impact Matters

By participating in the 5K Your Way event or donating, you can help fund essential services that make a tangible difference in the lives of breast cancer patients. Contributions will support:

Personalised Support Services: Free, practical support such as mastectomy bras, wigs, and scarves to help women feel more like themselves.
Advanced Medical Technology: Investment in cutting-edge equipment to provide faster and potentially life-saving breast cancer diagnostics.
Programmes for Wellness: Initiatives like Mum, Memories and Me and Return to Wellness that help women navigate their journey to survivorship.
Breast Cancer Research: Groundbreaking studies conducted at Mater to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.

Making a Difference Locally

Funds raised will directly benefit breast cancer patients at Mater hospitals across Queensland, including Brisbane, Springfield, Redlands, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, and Bundaberg.

Mater Private Hospital Springfield’s Breast Care Nurse, Shiralee Bremner, highlights the vital role of community support. Shiralee Bremner explained that breast care nurses assist patients in navigating specialist appointments, managing treatment side effects, and preparing for success in survivorship.

Shiralee’s position was made possible by community donations to the Mater Foundation, underscoring the importance of fundraising initiatives like the Fun Run.

Join the Movement

Read: Little Lifesavers Returns to Orion Lagoon: A Fun Way to Learn Lifesaving Skills!

Signing up for the Fun Run is simple—visit Mater Foundation’s website to register for the 5K Your Way event. Whether you choose to run, walk, or jog, every step you take helps create a brighter future for women facing breast cancer.

Published 21-January-2025

Efforts to Save Platypus Habitat Ramp-Up in Greater Springfield

Photo Credit: IpswichCC

The waterways of Greater Springfield, including Woogaroo Creek, are under threat from urban development and severe weather events, prompting urgent restoration efforts to protect platypus habitats.

Restoring Waterways to Protect an Icon

Local councils and environmental groups have launched a multi-million-dollar project to restore creeks across South East Queensland, with a key focus on the Greater Springfield area, including Ipswich and Ripley. The initiative aims to improve the health of waterways like Woogaroo Creek in Augustine Heights, which have been significantly affected by urbanisation and recurring floods.

Heavy rains in 2022 brought more than 400 millimetres in three days, causing widespread erosion and destruction in areas such as Ipswich, Ripley Valley, and surrounding suburbs. Environmental experts say the damage is impacting vital habitats for platypus, which rely on stable creek banks for shelter.

Ipswich is leading the charge to rehabilitate these waterways. A $4-million program will plant over 30,000 native trees along creek banks, aiming to reduce erosion and support the broader aquatic ecosystem.

Woogaroo Creek in Augustine Heights is a platypus habitat — *Photo Credit: IpswichCC*

Monitoring and Research Challenges

To better understand the platypus population, Ipswich officials have partnered with the Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland on an environmental DNA analysis program. Testing at more than 300 sites across 115 waterways in 2023 revealed minimal signs of platypus presence since the floods.

Wildlife expert Tamielle Brunt from the society highlighted Queensland’s lack of long-term studies compared to other states. This gap in data has prevented the platypus from being listed as a nationally threatened species, despite evidence of population decline over the last decade.

Ms Brunt believes stronger monitoring systems and conservation funding are essential to ensure the survival of this iconic Australian species. She said the lack of formal recognition means platypus conservation is often overlooked in environmental assessments.

A Community-Focused Approach

Jack McCann, a waterway health officer in Ipswich, said the restoration project represents a broader push to address environmental pressures caused by rapid urbanisation. Suburbs such as Ripley Valley and Augustine Heights are experiencing significant growth, which increases runoff into creeks during heavy rains.

Mr McCann explained that stabilising creek banks and improving water quality will benefit not only platypus but also the wider ecosystem. He emphasised the importance of involving the community in conservation efforts, with local workers planting vegetation and conducting educational outreach.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said Council is committed to taking a proactive approach to protecting native species. She stressed the importance of combining restoration projects with comprehensive data collection to track the impact of environmental efforts.

The $200-million Urban Rivers and Catchment Program is crucial for addressing waterway health across Australia. A portion of this ($3 million) is being allocated to the Ipswich region.

Allotted $3,000,000 to help restore platypus habitats in SEQ. — *Photo Credit: DCCEEW*

Published 3-Jan-2025

Tennis Star Ash Barty Shares Heartwarming Family News from Springfield

Former tennis champion Ash Barty, who resides in the Greater Springfield region, has announced she is expecting her second child, further embracing her family-focused lifestyle while continuing to contribute to the local community.

A Growing Family in Springfield

On Christmas Day, Ms Barty shared the joyous news of her growing family through a social media post featuring her 18-month-old son Hayden wearing a shirt reading, “I am going to be a big brother.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Garry Kissick (@gazlfc90)

The 28-year-old, who retired from professional tennis in 2022, lives with her husband Garry Kissick in Brookwater, an exclusive neighbourhood within Greater Springfield.

Ms Barty’s decision to settle in the area reflects her strong ties to the community where she grew up. Since retiring, she has chosen a quieter life close to nature while raising her family. In a recent interview, she emphasised her love for the local lifestyle, describing the region as a perfect place for her family to grow.

Life After Tennis: Community and Creativity

Though retired from the sport, Ms Barty remains deeply involved in tennis and broader community initiatives.

As Tennis Australia’s National Indigenous Tennis Ambassador, she works to inspire Indigenous youth to explore opportunities in the sport.

Earlier, she established the Ash Barty Foundation, which uses sport and education to empower young Australians. Her foundation will be a key presence at the Brisbane International’s charity showcase on 29 December, where she will participate alongside tennis legend Pat Rafter.

Beyond her ambassadorial work, Ms Barty has authored a memoir titled “My Dream Time” and released a series of children’s books, “Little Ash,” aimed at encouraging young readers. These creative pursuits reflect her commitment to making a lasting impact beyond tennis.

In addition to her investments in Springfield, Barty recently purchased a $2.52 million beachfront apartment in Palm Beach, Queensland, which will serve as a family holiday retreat when construction is completed in 2025.

Published 26-Dec-2024

Celebrating Springfield’s Quiet Achievers for International Women’s Day

Meet the women chosen you chose to honour for International Women’s Day! Orion Springfield Central called upon the Greater Springfield community to nominate local women who are making a positive impact, and the response has been incredible!

These remarkable women embody the spirit of resilience, compassion, and dedication, each contributing uniquely to the betterment of our community and beyond.

Lauren Bickley: A Story of Love and Resilience

Lauren, a devoted mother of two and a pillar of support in the local community, shares a profound bond with her husband Shaun. Their lives took an unexpected turn in 2020 when Shaun endured strokes, leaving him visually impaired and grappling with aphasia, a condition affecting his speech. Despite their immense challenges, Lauren and Shaun remained steadfast in their commitment to each other, bravely navigating this new chapter together.

Sarah Knopke: A Beacon of Generosity and Unity

Sarah, a longtime resident of Springfield Lakes, has woven herself into the fabric of our community for over a decade. As a devoted wife, nurturing mother, and cherished Gigi, her impact resonates deeply with all who cross her path. Recognised for her unwavering commitment to good causes, Sarah is a beacon of generosity and compassion.

Kristy and Sarah: Fostering Wellness and Empowerment

Kristy and Sarah, the dynamic duo behind Revive Yoga and Wellness Centre, epitomize dedication to both women’s empowerment and the flourishing of the community. As owners, they’ve meticulously crafted an inclusive haven that transcends the boundaries of traditional yoga studios.

Kristy & Sarah — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Shelleigh Lole: Empowering Youth and Fostering Community

Shelleigh, a beloved resident of Springfield Lakes, radiates warmth and dedication, particularly in her tireless support of the community’s youth. Together with her husband Fana, they have operated Lole’s Barber Shop in the area for ten years. Shelleigh’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and community enrichment is a shining example of compassionate leadership.

Emma Atherton: Championing Women’s Health and Well-being

Emma is a driving force within the community, spearheading initiatives to enhance women’s health and well-being. As a Co-Founder of iCare4U, Emma is pivotal in orchestrating events, managing social media, and advocating for health and wellness. Her forthcoming Women’s Clinic, staffed by a team of allied health professionals, will serve as a beacon of empowerment and healing for women in need.

These unsung heroes exemplify the values of strength, compassion, and resilience. Their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts inspire us all to strive for greatness and positive change.

Honouring Contributions with a Special Exhibit

To further honour the contributions of these remarkable women, Orion Springfield Central has curated a special in-centre display showcasing their stories and achievements. This exhibit pays tribute to their indomitable spirit and aims to inspire the community to strive for greatness and positive change.

International Women’s Day — Photo Credit: Supplied

A Vibrant Community Space

“Orion Springfield Central is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a vibrant community space that thrives on inclusivity and celebration,” said Melanie Hodge, Senior Asset Manager at Orion Springfield Central. “We are immensely proud to showcase the stories of these phenomenal women who embody the values of strength, compassion, and resilience. Their contributions serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for us all.”

Orion Springfield Central remains committed to fostering an environment where every voice is heard and everyone is celebrated. Please visit Orion Springfield Central’s website for more information about the showcased women and other community initiatives.

Published 8-March-2024

Billionaire Maha Sinnathamby Puts Large Springfield Property on the Market

Billionaire property developer Maha Sinnathamby is selling a 12.7 hectare mixed-use development site in the Greater Springfield area, located 25 km southwest of Brisbane.

Founder of the Springfield City Group, Sinnathamby aims to “inject a new wave of activity” into the already rapidly growing region with this offering.

Maha Sinnathamby, visionary property developer

Maha Sinnathamby has been developing the Greater Springfield area for over 30 years. His company wants to maintain the momentum of growth in the region through the sale of this site.

The Greater Springfield area has already benefited from $18 billion worth of investment in infrastructure projects. This includes the $1.2 billion Springfield rail network, the $80 million Brighton Homes Arena, and the $85 million Mater Hospital.

High retail demand in region

The site, known as City West, has initial approvals in place for a variety of uses including retail, commercial offices, entertainment, leisure and medium density residential.

According to Colliers agent Lachlan MacGillivray, new retail floorspace in the region needs to grow by 2.2 million square metres over the next decade to meet the demands of population growth. Hence, sites like City West are becoming critical as demand outweighs supply.

The City West site is being marketed through an expressions of interest campaign by Colliers and Stonebridge Property. The campaign closes on March 15.

Published 29-February-2024

Sydney Biotech Aegros to Build $352-Million Manufacturing Hub in Greater Springfield

Did you know that Aegros, a Sydney-based biotech company, is building a new $352-million manufacturing hub at BioPark Australia in Greater Springfield?

Once opened, the facility is expected to increase output for blood plasma products by one million litres a year through its patented Haemafrac plasma fractionating process.

Aegos founder Professor Hari Nair said that his method is twice as effective as the process traditionally used. It’s also more cost-effective and can be delivered at a faster rate than overseas supply chains. Currently, only 53 per cent of plasma products used in Australia are manufactured in the country whilst the rest are imported.

Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick confirmed that the plasma therapeutics company wants to establish its global headquarters in Queensland, which will provide more jobs for highly-skilled Queenslanders.

“Once Aegros has secured all necessary approvals and finance, the two-year construction will support an estimated 230 jobs,” Mr Dick said.

“Aegros estimates that its facility will create 348 long-term jobs across its first four years of operation.

“The company aims to use its unique advanced technology to develop and manufacture lifesaving therapeutic blood products.

“Therapies produced from the plasma in the blood can help fight infection or diseases such as Lupus and Type 1 diabetes, can promote blood clotting, prevent shock and assist with post-surgical recovery.

“The Springfield facility will have the capacity to process one million litres of human plasma per year.

“Australia imports almost half of the essential plasma and blood products used to develop biopharmaceuticals, so this new facility will position Aegros to meet the needs of the domestic market.

“Aegros also aims to capture some of the $19 billion global export market for therapeutic plasma products.

Aegros Greater Springfield — Photo Credit: CharisMullenMP/Facebook

Member for Jordan Charis Mullen hailed Aegros choice to set up a facility in Greater Springfield as its underscored a vote of confidence in the region. The new industry could also attract and create hundreds of skilled jobs locally.

Meanwhile, Prof Nair is also looking forward to forge a relationship with the region’s medical community and universities to develop better plasma therapies for a myriad of diseases.

“In this way, Aegros is also proud to be able to contribute to the country’s future pandemic preparedness.

“The support of the Queensland Government’s Invested in Queensland program and Springfield City Group has been invaluable to Aegros in moving forward with this project here in Queensland.”

Ash Barty to Build ‘Forever’ Home at Brookwater Residential

Photo Credit: Ashbarty / Instagram

Newly retired Ash Barty is planning to build her dream home and spend her retirement years in Brookwater Residential.

In a Brookwater Residential video, Ash talks about why she chose Brookwater and what she loves about the community. She purchased the property at Brookwater Residential – which also features the Greg Norman-designed Brookwater Golf Course – last year for $882,000 and is now building her new home.

The tennis icon spent her childhood in Greater Springfield. Living with her mom and dad there her whole life and with her sister also a stone’s throw away, she said that it makes sense to her to think that “this is the destination that I want to live forever.”

Artist impression of what the interior of Ash Barty’s Brookwater Residential home would look like — Artist impression of the *Brookwater Residential home* Ashleigh Barty is building | Photo Credit: REA Group – Brookwater Residential / realestate.com.au

And as to why she chose to live in the community at Brookwater, she said that she loves how “low-key” the lifestyle is at Brookwater.

“It’s quiet, it’s calm, it really suits our lifestyle. Brookwater has so much to offer in all different facets of lifestyle,” she explained.

“They’ve got a golf course, plenty of walking tracks, cafes, they’ve got all of these things that ticks all the boxes for me and that’s where I see myself forever.”

However, the three-time grand slam winner made sure that the design elements of her new home would have plenty of space outside and since she spends a lot of time in the kitchen, she also wants it to be just how she imagined it.

Describing the process of designing her “forever” home, she said that trying to explain what is in her brain and how to get the message across was “quite confronting” at the start. But everyone that she worked with at Brookwater made the whole process seamless and “nailed it.”

“In the end, when you look back at all the decisions you’ve made, there wasn’t one regret – there never will be a regret. And I think that the best part of it is that we’ve done it. This is it! And it’s on the page and I can’t wait to see the process of it being built.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ash Barty (@ashbarty)

Ash recently stunned the sporting world when she announced her retirement from professional tennis at the age of 25. In an emotional video that she shared on social media, she said that she is grateful for everything tennis has given her but she knew that the time is right to “chase other dreams and put the racket down.”

But why retire when she is at the peak of her career?

“To be able to win Wimbledon…the one true dream that I wanted in tennis, that really changed my perspective.

“I just had the gut feeling after Wimbledon – and I have spoken to my team quite a lot about it — and there was just a little part of me that wasn’t quite satisfied, wasn’t quite fulfilled.

“And then came the challenge of the Australian Open and I think that for me just feels like the most perfect way, my perfect way, to celebrate what an amazing journey my tennis career has been.

“As a person, this is what I want. I want to chase after some other dreams.”

Demand for New Single-Sex Schools Has Grown in Greater Springfield

Photo credit: https://www.greaterspringfield.com.au/

There is a growing demand for single-sex schools in the Greater Springfield area, mirroring a similar trend observed across the site, and development of facilities to meet the demand is expected to grow in the region.

Read: New Services, More Beds Part Of St Andrew’s Ipswich Private Hospital’s Expansion

According to Independent Schools Queensland, there are already 22 single-sex schools in the State at present. Still, some of these schools receive inquiries at three times the rate of their current capacity.

Maha Sinnathamby, the entrepreneur behind the Greater Springfield development said Springfield’s expected population boom would see another 12 new schools built in the coming years, in addition to a new state school revealed in the State’s most recent budget.

Aerial view of Greater Springfield (Photo credit: https://www.greaterspringfield.com.au/)

Greater Springfield, Australia’s largest master-planned community, currently has 11 schools that cater for more than 11,000 school-aged students. But now that there are already more than 50,000 people in Springfield, which is expected to double in the next decade, more education facilities are needed in the area.

“With 11 schools currently accommodating our 11,000 school-aged students, at least 10 more will be required to accommodate the projected doubling of our school-aged population by 2036,” said Springfield City Group Education and Health Services director Meera Honan in a media statement.

Supporting this vision, Springfield general manager Richard Eden revealed there’s a capacity to add an all-boys school and an all-girls school to the educational institutions they already have.

“Springfield is a Learning City – where learning is valued and championed. We invite anyone who wants to share in that vision and aspiration to make contact with us,” stated on the website.

Push for Single-Sex Schooling

Photo credit: https://www.greaterspringfield.com.au/

In August 2021, Greater Springfield held the Virtual Think Tank on Single-Sex Schooling which attracted over one hundred participants from a wide background including 14 universities (Australian, and International), as well as schools from across Australia.

The panel discussed single-sex schooling from a range of angles anchored by the fundamental question of how important personalised education is for students learning in today’s world.

“Many factors drive parental choice including heritage, gender-specific intergeneration ideas and reputation. Social and demographic factors also impact and limit choice and/or access. Stereotypes in schools are reflected close to Australian society and this societal and parental messaging impacts upon career choices. Often very early, even in the primary years,” Greater Springfield stated.

The virtual think tank also pointed out the benefits of single-sex schooling, such as self-confidence for students, personalised learning, and inclusivity.

St Augustine’s College in Greater Springfield Switching to Renewable Power

A number of Catholic schools in Queensland are taking concrete actions to reduce their carbon footprint and environmental impact, including St Augustine’s College in Greater Springfield.

St Augustine’s College is one of the first institutions, among 115 Queensland Catholic schools, to make the switch to renewable power following the partnership between Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) and ENGIE Australia.

The provider will be aggregating 26,000 MWh a year of renewable energy to various archdiocese buildings to save on utility costs and to maximise the benefits of solar power. The move is also part of Greater Springfield’s goal to become a 100 percent renewable city by 2038.

In a statement, BCE executive director Dr Doug Ashleigh said that they have been educating their students about the value of environmental sustainability. Thus, this move towards green electricity shows how they are leading by example.

Dr Ashleigh said that the partnership with ENGIE Australia is a win for both the environment and their school budget as it will cut down their power cost.

ENGIE Australia head Andrew Hyland welcomed the chance to work with a diverse range of businesses that now includes schools that will ramp up their role in net zero energy transition. At the same time, their service demonstrates the stability and reliability of using 100 precent renewable energy.

3 Free Greater Springfield Venues for Your Kids’ Enrichment

Are you looking for boredom-busting ideas for your kids? This January 2021, three venues in Greater Springfield are offering free exciting and enriching activities for your children and teens.

There are heaps of fun activities to choose from whether it’s unrestricted play for the little ones or a coaching program for the big kids. Plan your schedule and mark your calendars as these activities will happen before another school term starts.

1. Springfield Central Sports & Community Hall

Location: 134a Parkland Drive

Across the Springfield Central State High School Hall is a new sports and community centre that’s kicking off its youth program for 12 to 18-year-old kids with the help of the YMCA Brisbane and the Ipswich City Council.

On Monday, 18 Jan 2021, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., REKKON Youth will host a social session to boost the confidence and self-esteem of teenagers.

Then on 19, 21 and 22 Jan 2021, a cooking class hosted by Jamie’s Ministry of Food. Participants for this activity are limited and there’s a minimal fee of $10 per child.

For enquiries, phone or message 0476 021 906.

2. Orion Springfield Central

Location: 1 Main Street

The shopping centre on Main Street has recently unveiled its newest outdoor attraction for all abilities. The venue has now incorporated an in-ground trampoline and an inclusive wheelchair carousel.

Drive the whole family down to the centre’s lagoon, where a free movie will screen on Saturday, 16 Jan 2021 at 5:00 p.m. while the kids are playing in the water.

For details about this event, visit the Orion Springfield Central’s Facebook page. Please note that Orion Lagoon is operating in line with Government guidelines for Greater Springfield.

3. Springfield Central Sports Tennis Centre

Location: 22 Sportstar Drive

The Tennis Centre on Sporstar Drive has opened. On Saturday, 23 Jan 2021, from 9:00 a.m. t 2:00 p.m., world-ranking tennis players and some local sports stars will be at the venue to meet budding athletes. They will also be able to try a variety of free activities with some of the inspiring guests.

This event is hosted by Baseline Tennis Coaching and will include the following:

Free Cardio Tennis and activities for everyone
Exhibition Matches with world ranked juniors (from 10:00 a.m.)
Beat the coach (11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)
Membership Specials on the day
Raffle tickets for awesome prizes
Sausage Sizzle and drinks available for purchase