ipswich Archives - Page 5 of 13

A Christmas Clean-Up: Ipswich Residents Celebrate Bin Collection’s Festive Return

Just in time for Christmas, garbage workers gave locals in Ipswich and the area from Springfield Lakes to Amberley a much-appreciated gift: the end of a week-long work stoppage, restoring rubbish collection to thousands of households.

The Holiday Disruption

As bins piled high in the summer heat, Ipswich locals faced an unusual festive challenge: managing their waste amid the industrial action. The protest, which affected over 90,000 collections in suburbs like Springfield Lakes and Amberley, left households scrambling to cope.

Free drop-off points were made available, and some neighbours stepped up to help those unable to manage on their own.

Residents noted that the timing of the suspension, just before Christmas, added significant stress. Some acknowledged the importance of the workers’ fight for better conditions while coping with the disruptions in their daily routines.

Ipswich garbage cleared for Christmas — **Photo Credit: ICC**

A Festive Resolution

However, Council and the workers came to an agreement that brought the protest action to an end and bin collections back to the streets.

The new deal includes a 13.75 per cent pay rise over three years and a move to a shorter 36.25-hour work week by mid-2026. The workers’ representatives described the agreement as a significant achievement, emphasising that it represented fairness and recognition for the workers’ contributions.

The resumption of garbage services was widely welcomed by the community. Residents likened the sight of garbage trucks rolling down their streets to receiving an early Christmas present, reflecting relief and gratitude at the timing of the resolution.

Ipswich bin collection — *Photo Credit: ICC*

Coming Together as a Community

While this has disrupted daily life, it also highlighted the resilience and generosity of the Ipswich community. Some residents stepped in to assist their neighbours by transporting waste to council facilities, while others displayed patience and understanding as they waited for the issue to be resolved.

Ms Teresa Harding acknowledged the challenges posed by the missed collections but expressed gratitude toward the community for their understanding during the dispute. She also thanked the workers for their contributions to clearing the backlog and resolving the situation ahead of the holidays.

The agreement for garbage truck drivers and field staff is viewed as a victory for pay and recognition of their essential role, especially during busy times like the holiday season. Officials expressed a commitment to learn from the dispute and ensure fair working conditions to prevent similar issues in the future.

Published 22-Dec-2024

Industrial Action Threatens Waste Collection for Thousands in Ipswich

Residents in eight Ipswich suburbs are being urged to prepare for disruptions to waste collection following an industrial action by workers.

Read: Ipswich and other Suburbs Swelters as Thousands Lose Power in Weekend Heatwave

Rallies were held last week by the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and Australian Workers Union (AWU) outside the Riverview resource recovery centre and Ipswich City Council’s administration building in the Nicholas Street precinct.

Photo credit: Transport Workers Union – Queensland/Facebook

The strike saw 30,000 rubbish bins not collected in Springfield, Springfield Lakes, Springfield Central, Camira, Gailes, Spring Mountain, Brookwater, and White Rock last Friday, December 13.

Call for Fair Pay and Conditions

The unions are calling for a six per cent pay rise in the first year, followed by five per cent in the second year and four per cent in the third year, along with higher superannuation contributions.

“These workers carry out critical work for the community day in, day out. It’s time the Council offers a fair pay deal, so these garbos and Council staff can support their families and retire with dignity,” TWU Queensland explained.

The dispute isn’t limited to bin collection services; it is also expected to impact other council operations, including road maintenance, parks and gardens, cleaning, and mechanical services.

In response, Ipswich City Council said that the unions’ initial demand of a 15 per cent wage increase over three years, along with higher superannuation contributions, would place considerable strain on the council’s budget. The council stated that despite months of negotiations, the unions have not been willing to adjust their position.

Measures Introduced to Ease Disruptions

Photo credit: Ipswich City Council/Facebook

Council Acting Chief Executive Officer Matt Smith said the industrial action is likely to cause significant disruption to residents whose bins are scheduled for collection on Friday.

“This protected industrial action being taken by union members within council’s resource recovery division now means residents in eight suburbs may not have their rubbish bins collected on Friday,” Mr Smith said.

“For residents whose bins are normally collected on Friday morning, we ask they put their bins on the kerb as normal. If their bins are not collected today, we ask they bring their bins back in at the end of the day.”

To help residents manage their waste, council will waive disposal fees at the Riverview and Rosewood resource recovery centres. The free service will be available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for residents in the affected suburbs, with up to 80kg of general waste allowed. Proof of address, such as a driver’s licence, will be required.

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

Council will also prioritise collections for essential services. “Council is working to prioritise a limited collection service for medical facilities and residents with medical collections,” Mr Smith added.

While council negotiates with unions to resolve the dispute, residents are encouraged to stay informed through Council’s website or by contacting council’s customer service team at 07 3810 6666 for their waste collection concerns.

Published 17-December-2024

Ipswich and other Suburbs Swelters as Thousands Lose Power in Weekend Heatwave

A widespread power outage on Sunday evening plunged over 25,000 homes in Ipswich, Ripley, Raceview, and Camira into darkness, raising concerns about the resilience of southeast Queensland’s electricity grid as the region braces for a scorching summer.

The outage, which struck at the peak of a heatwave that saw temperatures climb to a sweltering 30°C, left residents without power for several hours. It disrupted Christmas gatherings and raised fears of a repeat of last year’s Christmas blackouts.

Energex confirmed that the surge in demand, driven by residents seeking relief from the heat with air conditioners and fans, overwhelmed parts of the network. While sufficient power was available in the system overall, the prolonged high temperatures and energy use caused localised strain, triggering protective mechanisms that shut down sections of the grid to prevent equipment damage.

Ipswich bore the brunt of the outages, with suburbs like Ripley, Camira, Collingwood Park, and Redbank Plains experiencing the most prolonged disruptions. Power was largely restored by 10:00 p.m., but some residents, particularly in Ripley, reported ongoing issues with their electricity supply and internet connectivity well into Monday morning.

The situation has sparked a debate about the capacity of the region’s electricity infrastructure to cope with the increasing demands of hot summers. Veteran Ipswich councillor Paul Tully criticised Energex’s handling of the situation, labelling the blackout “one of the worst in decades” and raising concerns about the lack of warning and information provided to residents. He also highlighted the potential for damage to household appliances caused by the power fluctuations.

Michelle Farquhar, Queensland head of the Australian Industry Group, stressed the need for a thorough investigation to prevent similar occurrences over Christmas. She emphasised the importance of understanding the grid’s readiness for future heat waves, especially in light of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

Residents took to social media to share their experiences, expressing frustration, resilience, and humour. While some lamented the inconvenience and disruption to their Christmas plans, others praised the efforts of Energex crews working in challenging conditions to restore power. Many residents also shared stories of community spirit, with offers of assistance and shared meals among neighbours.

This incident has reignited concerns about the adequacy of southeast Queensland’s ageing electricity infrastructure and its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Energy experts have warned of the potential risks associated with brownouts, including damage to household appliances and disruptions to essential services. With the peak of summer still to come, questions linger about the grid’s ability to meet the rising demand and whether necessary upgrades have been adequately addressed.

Published Date 12-December-2024

History in the Making: Gout Gout and Ipswich Grammar

A star rises from Ipswich Grammar—faster than anyone could have imagined. Sixteen-year-old sprinter Gout Gout has made waves once more, both nationally and internationally.

His record-breaking performances in the All-Schools Athletics Championships have electrified the school, the community, and sports enthusiasts across the country.

Read: Springfield Lakes Sees Baby Boom as Birth Rates Surge and Families Flock In

A star is born

Born to South Sudanese parents, Monica and Bona, who moved to Australia in 2006, Gout has quickly become a name synonymous with speed and determination. From training at local Brisbane tracks to capturing national headlines, his journey has been meteoric. At just 16, Gout is not only breaking records but also proving that Ipswich Grammar is home to Australia’s next great athletic talent.

Gout shatters records in the All-Schools Athletics Championships

SORRY WHAT?!👂 10.04? 👀

Teenage sensation Gout Gout gets the crowd roaring with a spectacular though windy 10.04 (+3.4) performance in his U18 100m Heat – the fourth fastest time in all conditions by an Australian in history.

Stay tuned for the final at 3:40pm AEST. Tune in… pic.twitter.com/UbXfzH5mj6
— Athletics Australia (@AthsAust) December 6, 2024

Gout’s rise reached new heights at the national All-Schools Athletics Championships in Queensland. Representing Ipswich Grammar, he ran an astonishing 10.04 seconds in the 100m heat. Though an illegal tailwind rendered the time unofficial, it signalled his raw potential. Gout didn’t disappoint in the final, clocking a legal 10.17 seconds—securing his place as one of the fastest under-18 sprinters in history.

The highlight of the championship, however, came in the 200m event. The teenage sensation smashed Peter Norman’s 56-year-old national record with a blistering time of 20.04 seconds. Norman’s record, set at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, had stood as an untouchable benchmark for generations. Gout’s historic run cemented his status as Australia’s most exciting young sprinter.

GOUT OF THIS WORLD 🌏🌏

In 20.04-seconds, 16-year-old Gout Gout has sprinted into athletics history as Australia's fastest ever man over 200m, taking down Peter Norman’s Australian record of 20.06 from the 1968 Olympic Games.

20.04 (+1.5). The oldest record in the books is… pic.twitter.com/wVpPSebbAp
— Athletics Australia (@AthsAust) December 7, 2024

For the Queenslander, the records are just the beginning. With ambitions to train with world-class sprinters like Noah Lyles under the guidance of coach Lance Brauman, he has his sights set on the global stage.

Gout credits much of his success to his coach, Diane Sheppard, who has been his mentor since he was discovered at Ipswich Grammar in Year 7. “She basically told me I could be great, and that was the first time anyone ever told me something like that,” he explained. “It’s been a fantastic relationship with Di since.”

About to turn 17 this December, his achievements aren’t just remarkable for his age—they’re globally competitive. His time of 20.04 seconds in the 200m makes him the second-fastest under-18 sprinter in history, trailing only U.S. star Erriyon Knighton. Beyond his lightning speed, his humility and dedication make him a role model for young athletes at Ipswich Grammar and beyond.

Read: Who is Gout Gout? Ipswich Grammar Teen Sprinter Takes Internet by Storm

“I’ve been chasing this national record for a while now,” Gout shared after his historic run. “In the heat, I thought I got it, but it was a crazy tailwind, so I just did the same thing and got the job done.”

“These are adult times and me, just a kid—I’m running them,” he said. “It’s going to be a great future for sure.”

Published 12-December-2024

Murder Charges in Redbank Plains Apartment Complex

Photo Credit: Google Maps

One man has been formally identified and charged in connection with the murder of Daniel Finley, a 43-year-old disabled man, at an apartment complex in Redbank Plains on Thursday evening, 28 November 2024.

Key Details

Anton Quay Haynes, 33, appeared briefly at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Saturday morning. He and a 48-year-old co-accused have been charged with murdering Mr. Finley, who was found dead at a Lillian Street address around 8:40 PM.

Crime Scene Insights

Detective Superintendent George Marchesini revealed that the victim suffered “significant stabbing injuries”. Police have seized multiple bladed weapons for forensic examination.

Crucially, Supt. Marchesini emphasised this was not a random attack, stating the individuals were known to each other. Local witnesses reported seeing an agitated man walking around the apartment complex and banging on doors prior to the incident.

Community Context

The murder occurred at the same location where shots were fired just a week earlier. Police confirmed they believe the two incidents are linked.

Mr. Finley was reportedly known in the local community for hosting parties and playing loud music at all hours.

Legal Proceedings

Both Haynes and his co-accused are scheduled to return to Ipswich Magistrates Court on December 20 for a further mention.

Police Appeal

Detective Superintendent Marchesini has appealed to anyone with potential information to contact local authorities.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Published 30-November-2024

Stunned Driver Pulls Over for Majestic Encounter with a Black-necked Stork in Ipswich

Photo Credit: Australian Museum

A local photographer, Danny Lloyd, experienced an extraordinary encounter with nature while driving through Ripley. The unexpected visitor? A magnificent Black-necked Stork.

Black-necked Stork — *Photo Credit:* *Australian Museum*

Lloyd was cruising along at a leisurely pace when he noticed the large bird soaring overhead. Intrigued, he pulled over to get a better look.

Lloyd was amazed by the stork’s size and grace. He described the encounter as unforgettable.

Armed with his camera and a powerful lens, Lloyd captured stunning images of the stork. The bird’s distinctive green neck and striking yellow eyes were particularly eye-catching.

Black-necked Storks are common in northern and northeastern Australia. They often venture into open areas, such as grasslands and paddocks, to search for food. While they are typically found in wetland habitats, this particular stork has taken a detour into the suburban landscape.

Lloyd’s encounter has sparked interest and admiration among nature enthusiasts. Many have praised the photographer’s skill in capturing such a breathtaking moment.

The incident serves as a reminder of the incredible wildlife that can be found, even in the most unexpected places.

Published Date 26-November-2024

Lions vs Kangaroos: Brisbane’s Premiership Hopes Dashed by Dominant North Melbourne

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.

Read: Springfield Resident Advocates for Minorities in 2025 Miss Galaxy Australia Pageants

North’s midfield 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.”

Read: Stunned Driver Pulls Over for Majestic Encounter with a Black-necked Stork in Ipswich

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.

Read: Cyber Scam Hits Queenslander, Experts at University of Southern Queensland Warn of Rising Threats

Stars align 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.

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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.

Read: Lions vs Crows: Brisbane’s Masterful Second-Half Display Books AFLW Grand Final Spot

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.

Lions vs Crows: Brisbane’s Masterful Second-Half Display Books AFLW Grand Final Spot

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.

Read: Springfield E-Scooter Trial Wraps Up

A rematch on the cards

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.

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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.

Read: Christmas Beetle Swarms Surprise Residents in Springfield and Camira

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.

Published 25-November-2024

Springfield E-Scooter Trial Wraps Up

Photo Credit: Beam Mobility

The shared e-scooter trial in Springfield, operated by Beam Mobility, will finally conclude. The 15-month pilot programme aimed to assess the potential of e-scooters as a transportation option within the city.

Beam Mobility e-scooter — *Photo Credit:* *Beam Mobility*

Throughout the trial, more than 27,000 trips were made across Springfield Central, Spring Mountain, and Springfield Lakes, averaging around 75 trips daily. The data collected will now be analysed to determine the future role of shared e-scooters in Ipswich’s transport network.

Councilor Andrew Antoniolli, Chair of the Infrastructure, Planning and Assets Committee, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the e-scooter trial. He highlighted the positive community response and the minimal number of safety incidents reported.

The trial data indicates that e-scooters were primarily used for short, “last-mile” trips to and from public transport hubs and major community centres like Springfield Central Train Station, Orion Springfield Central Shopping Centre, and the University of Southern Queensland.

Residents are encouraged to share their feedback on the trial through an online survey on the Shape Your Ipswich page.

This input will be crucial in shaping future decisions about integrating shared e-scooters into the city’s transport landscape.

Published Date 11-November-2024

Lions vs Hawks: Brisbane’s Fifth-Straight AFLW Prelim Secured in Tight Contest Against Hawthorn

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.

Read: Will Woogaroo Forest Survive Brisbane’s Building Boom?

Lions vs Hawks, a tale of two halves

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.

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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.

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Key moment under review

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.

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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.

Published 10-November-2024