ipswich Archives - Page 4 of 13

Tivoli Drive-In Beats the Odds in a Changing Entertainment Landscape

In an era of soaring living costs and evolving consumer habits, the iconic Tivoli Drive-In Theatre is a testament to resilience and adaptation.

While many traditional entertainment venues struggle to stay afloat, the Tivoli has managed to carve a unique niche, offering affordable family fun and a nostalgic experience that resonates with audiences.

This enduring success story is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by drive-in theatres across Australia. A recent Queensland University of Technology (QUT) study revealed that only 12 drive-ins remain consistently operational nationwide. The Tivoli, which opened its gates in 1976, has survived and thrived under the leadership of Pastor Fred Muys, who acquired the venue with a vision of community service.

Tivoli Drive-In — *Photo Credit: Google Map*

The Tivoli now operates a registered charity, providing food assistance to those in need and vocational training for the unemployed. However, maintaining the drive-in has become increasingly challenging due to rising operational costs and changing entertainment preferences.

Pastor Muys acknowledged the financial pressures, stating that the drive-in would be unsustainable without the support of local functions and events. He attributed the Tivoli’s success to its ability to adapt and reinvent itself, offering a “retro, family experience” that appeals to a broad audience.

This sentiment was echoed by experts, who emphasised the importance of nostalgia and affordability in today’s entertainment market. Professor Martie-Louise Verreynne from the University of Queensland (UQ) noted a growing trend of consumers seeking to relive past experiences. At the same time, Dr Nicolas Pontes, also from UQ, highlighted the impact of inflation on entertainment spending.

Dr Pontes explained that what was once a regular treat has become more of a luxury, adding that rising costs are forcing many people to reserve restaurant dining and other forms of entertainment for special occasions.

Despite these challenges, the Tivoli draws large crowds, particularly during the summer and school holidays. Pastor Muys attributed this to the drive-in’s commitment to affordable pricing, with tickets as low as $15 per car for two new release movies.

He emphasised that they have deliberately kept the cost down to ensure working-class families can still enjoy a night out at the movies.

However, the future of drive-in theatres like the Tivoli remains uncertain. QUT urban environment expert Mimi Tsai pointed out the increasing scarcity of suitable land, particularly in inner-city suburbs, where development pressures are mounting.

She explained that a drive-in cinema in inner-city suburbs is almost impossible due to the soaring cost of land.

Nevertheless, Dr Heck from QUT believes that these classic venues hold a special place in the hearts of many Australians. She recalled fond memories of visiting drive-ins in the 80s and 90s and emphasised the unique “novelty and social experience” they offer.

She affirmed her belief that drive-in theatres will always be important in Australian culture.

For Pastor Muys, the reward lies in seeing families create new memories at the Tivoli. He shared anecdotes of patrons expressing their delight at finding the drive-in still operational after many years.

He emphasised the importance of supporting the Tivoli, as it is one of only two drive-in cinemas in south-east Queensland.

The Tivoli Drive-In’s story reminds us that there is still a place for tradition and nostalgia even in a rapidly changing world. The Tivoli has survived and flourished by adapting to new realities and staying true to its community-focused values, offering hope for other classic entertainment venues struggling to stay afloat.

Published Date 27-Jan-2025

Ipswich’s WG Hayden Humanities Centre Demolished for Hospital Car Park

Photo Credit: MID-0324-0826

The WG Hayden Humanities Centre in Ipswich, a long-standing community hub, is being demolished to create a new multi-storey car park for the Ipswich Hospital expansion project.

The 47-year-old building, once a bustling centre for over 60 community groups, is now a construction site shrouded in mesh screens. Excavators are busy clearing the site where the state government plans to build a seven-storey car park with space for approximately 875 vehicles and retail areas.

This car park will service the new eight-storey Ipswich Health Centre, replacing the former council administration building, global information centre, and Roderick Street car park. It could also be expanded to accommodate 450 vehicles.

The demolition has brought mixed emotions to Ipswich residents. The WG Hayden Humanities Centre was more than just a building; it was a place where people connected, accessed vital services, and built a strong sense of community. The centre offered a variety of resources, including an auditorium, a cafeteria, meeting rooms, and office spaces. It was a valuable resource for many, offering services ranging from multicultural support to aged care.

Former tenant Wendy Anderson, who ran a childcare business in the centre for over six years, remembers the building fondly. She described it as a place that met everyone’s needs, where people supported each other and formed a strong community.

Anderson recalled how the tenants rallied around her during her battle with breast cancer, generously donating to her fundraising efforts for the Biggest Morning Tea. She also expressed concern that many groups struggled to find affordable alternatives after the centre closed, with some even shutting down.

The demolition of the WG Hayden Humanities Centre is part of a larger plan to revitalise healthcare services in the Ipswich region. The Ipswich Health Precinct (IHP) expansion project, developed by Destravis, aims to create a network of modern health facilities. This will be achieved in three stages: the first stage is expected to be completed by 2024, the second by 2026, and the final stage by 2031.

The plan includes upgrading existing infrastructure at Ipswich Hospital, repurposing underutilised buildings in the city centre, and establishing new health services in the Ipswich Health Precinct and surrounding areas like Ripley and Springfield. The project has garnered support from the West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, the Department of Health, and other key stakeholders.

Published Date 15-Jan-2025

Strange, Unexplained Lights West of Ipswich: A Local’s Account

CC-BY 2.0/szapucki/Flickr

A series of unexplained lights in the skies west of Ipswich has captured the attention of local resident Gracie Johnson, who has been documenting regular appearances of what she describes as bright, pulsating orbs near her 16-acre property since November.

Read: Celebrate The Rolling Stones with Blake Evans Band at the Orion Hotel

Johnson, living about 50 kilometres from Ipswich, consistently observes three distinct orbs appearing after 10:00 p.m. on clear nights. She explains that the lights display purposeful movement patterns and emit an unusually bright, rainbow-like pulsating light.

She noted that the lights are unmistakably not stars, as they are both brighter and located on the horizon.

Pattern of Unexplained Lights

The first significant sighting took place in early December when Johnson felt an unexplainable urge to step outside her home. She initially noticed a single light that was soon joined by two others, forming a linear formation.

She recalled observing a plane flying by before the lights appeared. Initially, there was one light, followed by two more that aligned in a straight line. The lights were closer to the horizon and lower than the plane.

RAAF or Something Else?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Royal Australian Air Force (@ausairforce)

The property’s proximity to RAAF Base Amberley, located 8 kilometres southwest of Ipswich, has prompted some local residents to suggest military operations as a possible explanation. Several community members point out that night training exercises and aircraft operations could account for the unusual sightings.

Johnson, however, maintains that the lights’ characteristics differ from typical drone activity, citing their intense brightness and appearance outside permitted recreational drone operating hours. The positioning of the lights aligns with known flight paths in the region, raising further questions.

Read: Brisbane Lions to Take on Adelaide at Brighton Homes Arena

A Positive Perspective

Despite the mysterious nature of the sightings, Johnson emphasises that her experiences have been far from frightening. She observes that even her cat appears captivated by the phenomena, focusing intently during these nighttime events.

She remarked that noticing the lights, knowing they weren’t stars, didn’t evoke fear but rather curiosity. Johnson encourages others to approach similar sightings with an open mind, viewing them as opportunities to learn and discover.

She advises paying more attention to the world around us, as fascinating occurrences often go unnoticed. To her, the unknown represents a chance for growth and understanding.

Published 15-January-2025

Public Health Inquiry Launched to Address Odour Concerns in Ipswich

Ipswich residents have long raised concerns about odours emanating from industrial sites in Swanbank and New Chum. These odours have sparked health worries in the community, leading to a six-month Public Health Inquiry designed to address these issues.

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

The Inquiry will include extensive public consultation, giving locals an opportunity to share their experiences and the impacts the odours have had on their daily lives. Residents of Ipswich have been dealing with ongoing health problems that they strongly attribute to waste odors. These issues include rashes, headaches, respiratory problems, chest pain, sore throats and eyes, and nausea.

Dr John Gerrard (Photo credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/JohnGregoryGerrard/Wikimedia Commons)

An expert panel, led by former Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard, will oversee the process, investigating the potential health effects of the noxious smells.

“This Inquiry will document any health impacts resulting from the waste and composting facilities at Swanbank odours, the impact they’re having on the community, and aims to identify the solutions to present to the government,” Dr Gerrard said.

Stop the Stink, a local group advocating for change, has welcomed the news. The group has been vocal about the need for action, emphasising the importance of expanding the Inquiry’s scope to include odour issues across the entire Ipswich region.

Public Health Inquiry — Photo credit: Department of Environment

The Department of Environment recently prosecuted operators linked to the odours and reported significant progress in holding them accountable. The department has also outlined measures to improve air quality, including the possibility of amending environmental authority for operators near residential zones if they fail to control odours effectively.

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

The Inquiry’s findings, including recommendations for addressing the issues, are set to be released in mid-2025. For Ipswich locals, this is seen as a crucial step toward resolving an issue that has affected their quality of life for years. Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultations and share their stories to ensure their voices are heard.

Published 13-January-2025

Ipswich Farewells Drag Racing Icon Margaret Kreis

The Ipswich community and the Australian drag racing world are mourning the loss of Margaret “Margie” Kreis, a beloved local who dedicated nearly five decades of her life to the sport. Known for her warmth, tireless energy, and unwavering commitment, Margie was a cornerstone of the drag racing family in Queensland.

Read: Ipswich Family Escapes Devastating Earthquake in Vanuatu

Margie’s journey in drag racing began in 1977 when she volunteered as an official at the Surfers Paradise International Raceway for the first round of The New Year Series. Her passion for the sport only grew stronger when Willowbank Raceway opened in 1985, where she became an integral part of the racing community.

Photo credit: Willowbank Raceway/Facebook

Willowbank Raceway, where Margie was a cherished volunteer official, paid heartfelt tribute to her enduring contributions:

“Margie’s warmth, enthusiasm, and tireless spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Margie wasn’t just a volunteer; she was family, our friend, and her legacy will forever be a part of Willowbank Raceway.”

Last year, her contributions were honoured in a special way with a hut at Willowbank Raceway being officially named “Margie’s Place.”

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) Australia also expressed their admiration for Margie’s contributions:

“The sport of Australian Drag Racing has just lost a very beautiful person who personified the very essence and commitment to the sport. Margaret was the familiar face that helped assure you that you were back at our happy place – The Dragstrip.”

Photo credit: Spot On Performance & Fabrications/Facebook

Spot On Performance, a business specializing in race car fabrications, shared their sorrow at Margie’s passing:

“You will be forever remembered and dearly missed. Signing in at the track will never be the same without you and our catch-up chats. You always went out of your way to get us sorted.”

A proud Ipswich local, Margie’s love for drag racing was not just evident in her roles at the track but also in the relationships she built and the lives she touched. Known for her welcoming smile, selflessness, and boundless energy, she made an indelible mark on the sport she adored.

Read: Lifeline Volunteer from Ipswich Nominated for Australian of the Year After 40 Years of Service

Margie’s legacy will live on at Willowbank Raceway and beyond, in the memories of her fellow volunteers, racers, and fans who will forever cherish her contributions. As tributes continue to pour in, it’s clear that Margie Kreis was more than a drag racing official—she was the heart and soul of the track, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, kindness, and a love for the sport that will inspire generations to come.

Published 9-January-2025

Ipswich Family Escapes Devastating Earthquake in Vanuatu

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

An Ipswich family has safely returned to Australia after surviving a powerful earthquake that struck the island nation of Vanuatu while they were on holiday.

The family, consisting of Kelli Harvey, Mischa King, and their five-year-old son Ethan, was enjoying a vacation in Vanuatu when a 7.3-magnitude earthquake hit the island last Tuesday. They were about to leave the popular Blue Lagoon swimming spot when the earthquake struck, turning the clear blue water a murky brown and violently shaking the ground.

Kelli Harvey described the terrifying moments as she tried to get her son out of the water. She witnessed trees swaying and heard people yelling to run.

Escape from Paradise

The earthquake caused widespread damage in Vanuatu, flattening buildings and disrupting essential services like power and water. The family’s resort lost both, and they faced ongoing aftershocks. As they made their way towards the capital, Port Vila, they saw increasing evidence of the destruction. Luckily, they secured a spot on a Royal Australian Air Force evacuation flight and returned home with only the clothes on their backs, leaving their luggage behind.

A Helping Hand in a Time of Need

Throughout the ordeal, the family received invaluable support from their local tour guide, Barry, known as Baz. When a tsunami warning was issued after the earthquake, he guided them to safety, taking them to his own home, which was located on higher ground. Baz ensured they stayed informed and calm despite the chaotic situation. He even gave young Ethan a sense of normalcy by allowing him to play with his children.

Giving Back to the Community

The earthquake significantly impacted Barry’s life as well. His home was damaged, his water tank destroyed, and his livelihood threatened by the disruption to tourism. Touched by his kindness and recognising the hardships he now faced, the Harvey-King family set up a GoFundMe page to help Barry rebuild his home and life. They have already successfully transferred the initial funds raised to him and are encouraging further donations.

The family expressed immense gratitude for Barry’s assistance and support from the Australian government, as well as those who donated to their fundraiser. They are now safely back in Ipswich, counting their blessings and focusing on recovering from their experience.

Published Date 03-January-2025

Lifeline Volunteer from Ipswich Nominated for Australian of the Year After 40 Years of Service

Photo Credit: Australian of the Year Award

Elizabeth Gough, a 92-year-old Lifeline volunteer from Ipswich, has been nominated for the Australian of the Year Award for her four decades of dedication to crisis support.

The 92-year-old Ipswich resident has been a volunteer for Lifeline’s Crisis Support line, mentoring new recruits and helping thousands of callers struggling with issues ranging from loneliness to financial difficulties. Her contributions have been recognised widely, including her nomination as the 2025 Queensland Local Hero for the Australian of the Year Awards.

Four Decades of Service in Ipswich

Ms Gough began her volunteering journey with Lifeline nearly 40 years ago, driven by a desire to ensure that no one faces their struggles alone. Over the years, her dedication has made her a cornerstone of the Lifeline Ipswich community, where she has supported both callers and her fellow volunteers.

Known affectionately as “Auntie Elizabeth,” Ms Gough has mentored countless new crisis supporters at the Ipswich centre, running practice calls, providing one-on-one coaching, and offering encouragement to build confidence. Fellow volunteers admire her ability to adapt to modern technologies and her continued enthusiasm for learning.

Supporting the Ipswich Community Through Challenges

Ms Gough’s commitment to Lifeline extends beyond routine shifts. She has worked during particularly stressful periods, including the Christmas season, when many callers face heightened difficulties. She has noted that financial worries, family conflicts, and loneliness are common issues during the holidays, making support services especially vital at that time of year.

For Ms Gough, every call matters. She has shared that knowing she has helped even one person feel better during her shift makes her work meaningful. Her ability to empathise and listen has saved lives and inspired many in the Ipswich community.

Recognition for Outstanding Contributions

Ms Gough’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2016, she was honoured for 32 years of service, and in 2024, she received the Mary Parsissons Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award. These accolades celebrate her nearly 40 years of unwavering service, during which she has provided mentorship and leadership while remaining a steady voice of support for callers in crisis.

Elizabeth Gough Lifeline volunteer from Ipswich — *Photo Credit: Lifeline/Facebook*

The Australian of the Year Awards nomination further highlights her impact, both in Ipswich and across Queensland, recognising her as a role model for resilience, compassion, and dedication.

Despite her long tenure, Ms Gough remains committed to her role, continuing to take shifts at the Lifeline Ipswich crisis centre and helping the next generation of volunteers succeed. Her enduring presence demonstrates the importance of community-focused support and the impact one individual can have.

Award Announcement on 25 January

Ms Gough’s nomination for the 2025 Queensland Local Hero will be decided during the Australian of the Year Awards ceremony on 25 January. The event will be broadcast live to the nation on ABC and iView as part of Australia Day celebrations.

Published 7-January-2025

Save Woogaroo Forest Group Continues Fight to Protect Critical Habitat from Development

The Save Woogaroo Forest Group is pressing on with its ongoing campaign to protect Woogaroo Forest, with hopes of preventing the forest’s destruction amid proposals for several large-scale developments in the area.

Read: Efforts to Save Platypus Habitat Ramp-Up in Greater Springfield

An Ecologically Significant Area

Woogaroo Forest, which spans 450-hectare, serves as a vital habitat for more than a hundred species, including koalas and owls. The forest provides essential shelter, food, and breeding grounds for these species, which are vulnerable to habitat loss. It is also seen as an important wildlife corridor that connects other natural areas, contributing to biodiversity in the region.

Photo credit: Save Woogaroo Forest – Ipswich QLD/Facebook

However, the forest now faces the threat of four proposed developments, with the most significant being a project known as Springview Estate Villages 2 and 3, which plans to build 1,800 new homes. According to the Save Woogaroo Forest Group, these developments could have a serious impact on local wildlife by fragmenting or destroying their habitats.

The group is determined to prevent the destruction of this vital habitat and has called for further action to ensure its preservation through an online petition.

“Each one of these developments will have a devastating effect on the wildlife,” the group wrote in the Change.org petition. “Woogaroo Forest is a critical habitat for not only Koalas and Powerful Owls but more than 130 species including Echidnas, Platypus, Brush-tailed Phascogales and Sugar Gliders.”

Concerns Over Planning Framework

The group has raised concerns about the planning processes being used to assess these developments. Specifically, they argue that the proposed developments are being evaluated under Development Control Plans. The group believes that these plans are outdated and do not adequately reflect current environmental concerns, particularly when it comes to protecting endangered species like the Koala.

The petition is addressed to Tanya Plibersek, Minister for the Environment and Water.

“These developments are being assessed under rare and outdated planning instruments from last century called Development Control Plans,” the group said. “However the developments must still be assessed by the Commonwealth Government under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC) 1999.

“We are calling on Minister Tanya Plibersek to ensure the development is thoroughly assessed against this Act and to reject these devastating proposals.”

Petition Calls for Urgent Action

The Save Woogaroo Forest Group has called for immediate action from decision-making bodies to address the potential environmental impacts of the proposed developments. While the projects are being reviewed under regional and state-level guidelines, the group argues that these developments must also be assessed for their impact on nationally significant environmental values, particularly threatened species and critical habitats.

The group also expressed concern about financial offset laws in Queensland, which allow developers to pay fees to offset environmental impacts, such as clearing land for development.

“We also requested that the Queensland Government change its financial offset laws to prevent developers paying a fee to allow them to clear forests and destroy wildlife habitat,” they wrote on Facebook. “To date we have only received a response from the Environment Department suggesting we write to the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Department, which we have done. We are awaiting responses.”

Petition Gains Traction

The petition, which has already gathered more than 15,000 signatures, continues to grow in support.

Supporters of the petition have expressed concern about the long-term impact of the proposed developments. The group encourages individuals to sign the petition and contact relevant authorities to voice their concerns about the proposed developments and their potential environmental impact.

Next Steps for the Group

As the group moves forward with its advocacy, it is focusing on raising awareness of the issue through continued outreach to local residents, environmental organizations, and decision-makers. The group is also calling for a more sustainable and forward-thinking approach to development in the region, one that balances the need for growth with the protection of critical wildlife habitats.

Read: Community Rallies to Protect Wildlife in Woogaroo Forest

For more information about the Save Woogaroo Forest Group and to learn more about the petition, visit their social media page.

Published 6-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

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.

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.

Koala Habitat Conservation — *Photo Credit: Koala Conservation Management*

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