Tag: ipswich

Paralympic Preview: Susan Seipel Rows in Paris Double Challenge

Ipswich-born Susan Seipel, 38, is set to compete in two semi-finals at the final weekend of the Paris Games. Seipel has established herself as a versatile and accomplished athlete across multiple disciplines, and is now aiming for Paralympic gold.

Read: Pool and Horseback to Paralympic Kayak: the Multisport Odyssey of Susan Seipel

Susan Seipel in two events

The three-time Paralympian’s participation in two separate events showcases her versatility and endurance as an athlete. Seipel is scheduled to participate in two semi-final events:

Va’a single 200m semifinal: 7 September, 6:28 p.m.
Final: 7 September, 7:52 p.m.

Kayak single 200m semifinal: 8 September, 6:14 p.m.
Final: 8 September 2024, 7:41 p.m.

Read: Ipswich Jets Secure Backing as Queensland Aims for NRL Expansion

Seipel has already demonstrated her competitive edge in the qualifying rounds. She secured the fourth fastest time in the va’a single heats with a time of 1:04.03. In the kayak single event, she qualified with the seventh fastest time, clocking in at 1:01.29.

About Susan Seipei

Susan Seipel was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex, a condition that affects her joints and muscles. Despite undergoing several surgeries as a child, she excelled in para-sports, becoming an elite para-swimmer and paracanoeist.

She represented Australia at the Rio Paralympics in 2016, where she won a bronze medal in paracanoe. She became the first Australian to win a medal in para-canoe at the Paralympic Games.

Seipel’s resilience and passion for sport have made her an inspiring figure in the Paralympic community.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published 07-September-2024

Ipswich Jets Secure Backing as Queensland Aims for NRL Expansion

Plans for a fifth National Rugby League (NRL) team in the state have been endorsed, with the Ipswich Jets’ bid potentially bringing professional rugby closer to Springfield Lakes residents.

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

Potential locations and government support

Miles has suggested the Ipswich Jets or the Brisbane Tigers—both clubs that currently play in the Hostplus Cup under the Queensland Rugby League banner—as possible contenders for the new team.

The Queensland government is backing the NRL’s plans to establish an 18th team by 2028, citing the success of the Redcliffe-based Dolphins, who joined the league last year, as evidence to support this campaign.

The government believes that an additional Queensland team would further strengthen the state’s status as a “rugby league heartland.”

“If the NRL are going to add teams to the competition, they absolutely have to seriously consider a Queensland bid,” Miles said.

Ipswich Jets secure funding

The Ipswich Jets have recently secured $40 million in funding for their NRL bid, with the aim of joining the expanded competition by 2028. This funding, sourced from local government and private investors, is allocated for infrastructure, facilities, and community development. 

If successful, the team would be based in Ipswich, with Wayne Bennett as head coach. Bennett has led the NRL’s newest team, the Dolphins, to one win away from reaching the finals in just their second season.

Third team at Suncorp?

Despite his enthusiasm for a new team, Miles has ruled out the construction of a new stadium. He suggests that any additional team would play at Suncorp Stadium in Milton, noting that there are still weekends when the venue is not used for rugby league.

Read: L’Oréal Opens First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

At present, Sydney hosts nine teams in the NRL, while Brisbane has only two. For residents of Springfield Lakes, a new team could bring top-tier rugby league action closer to home, along with increased community engagement and opportunities for local involvement in the sport.

Published 05-September-2024

Ipswich Fights ‘Lunchtime Brothel Specials’ in Corner Stores

Locals in Ipswich are calling for action to address loopholes in recently passed laws that permit brothels to operate and advertise in residential areas, corner stores, and shopping centres.

Read: L’Oréal Unveils First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

They voiced concerns over the possibility that numerous former corner stores could begin displaying explicit advertisements on outdoor billboards following the legalisation of home-based prostitution earlier this month.

The new legislation, which took effect on 2nd August, allows brothels to open in any commercially zoned area. In residential zones, a single-sex worker and one non-resident can operate from a house.

brothel
Photo Credit: Pexels

Last week, the council received complaints from Silkstone residents about topless women outside a former corner store now legally operating as a brothel.

Cr Paul Tully highlighted that the state legislation allows brothels to open near churches and schools and advertise on outdoor billboards.  He emphasised that under the new rules, brothels could also apply to the council for extended trading hours, and while residents could lodge complaints, officers lack the power to regulate.

Mayor Teresa Harding expressed concerns about women’s safety after being informed that police would no longer be required to patrol legal brothels.

The council plans to write to Planning Minister Meaghan Scanlon and other local politicians to express its concerns about the loopholes. This is a developing situation in Ipswich as the city grapples with the implications of the new legislation.

Council is seeking to close loopholes that could enable legal brothels to use suggestive signage, such as “lunchtime specials,” “Two-for-One Tuesdays,” or “Happy Hour Discounts.”

Read: Controversial Greyhound Facility Gets Green Light in Ipswich Despite 6000 Objections

However, council officers noted in a recent meeting that any changes to the laws to restrict legal prostitution would need to apply to all home-based businesses. They clarified that while the council could control the size of billboards, it couldn’t regulate their content.

Published Date 27-August-2024

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

As global attention shifts to the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Lima, Peru, Ipswich Grammar School sprint sensation Gout Gout is rapidly becoming one of Australia’s brightest and most viral young athletes, with a natural running form and athleticism that reminds many people of a young Usain Bolt.

Read: Goodna Star Eithen Leard Set to Shine at 2024 Paris Paralympics

Early beginnings and rapid ascent

Born in Ipswich in 2007 to South Sudanese immigrant parents, Gout Gout’s journey in athletics began just a few short years ago. His talent was first spotted at an inter-house carnival at Ipswich Grammar School, where he impressed with his natural running form.

“Gout came to Ipswich Grammar as a full fee-paying student,” recalls coach Diane Sheppard. “I saw him run around and he got right up on his toes. He is a great kid from a great family.”

From these humble beginnings, Gout’s progress has been nothing short of remarkable. In the span of a few short years, he has transformed from an unknown in the athletics world to a record-breaking phenomenon, drawing international attention.

Coach Sheppard said this about him in 2022: “Six or eight months ago, he looked like one of those things that blow around in car yards. His arms were out of control.”

“I can go faster. There is always pressure, but I am just running,” the then-fourteen-year-old said.

Record-breaking teenage sensation

At age fourteen, Gout broke the Australian U16 record for the 100m with an impressive time of 10.57 seconds. A year later, he set a new Australian U18 record in the 200m with a time of 20.87 seconds, which he later improved to 20.69 seconds in January 2024.

In March 2024, he further solidified his status by clocking a blistering 10.29 seconds in the 100m at the Queensland Athletics Championships, matching the heat time of Olympian Rohan Browning at the Paris Games.

Given these record-breaking performances, it’s no surprise that comparisons with sprinting legends have begun.

Comparisons to Usain Bolt

Athletics Australia president and Olympian Jane Flemming was among the first to draw the parallel, noting similarities in their running style and early career trajectories.

Gout, for his part, takes the comparison in stride. “It’s pretty cool because Usain Bolt is arguably the greatest athlete of all time and just being compared to him is a great feeling,” he says.

“Obviously, I’m Gout Gout, so I’m trying to make a name for myself.”

A video of his lightning-fast race at the Queensland State Champs this year has gone viral this week. Admirers from around the world are drawn to his dominant talent and an iconic name that’s impossible to forget.

As he prepares for the World Athletics Under-20 Championships, expectations are high. Gout himself remains grounded, focusing on the joy of competition rather than the pressure of expectations. “It feels like this is where I’m meant to be,” he says.

“Running is pretty much my favourite thing to do. Just being out there versing everyone, versing faster people… pushing out of the blocks and everything about the track.”

Read: From Promise to Paralympics: Taymon Kenton-Smith Aims for Glory Beyond Paris

While the Lima championships represent Gout’s first major international competition, many in the athletics community are already looking further ahead. With the Paris Olympics now in the rearview mirror, Gout represents a bright hope for Australia’s sprinting future.

Published 25-August-2024

Controversial Greyhound Facility Gets Green Light in Ipswich Despite 6000 Objections

Photo Credit: Racing Queensland

Despite a massive public outcry, a controversial greyhound breeding facility in Ipswich has been given the green light.

Read: Digging for Truth: How the Goodna Cemetery is Central to the Wolston Park Mental Hospital Inquiry

The development, set to house 125 dogs and puppies, has sparked outrage from animal welfare groups, which lodged a staggering 6,200 submissions against the proposal.

Photo Credit: Racing Queensland

The facility, owned by Snow Catton, will be located on Ipswich Boonah Rd at Purga, just a stone’s throw from the state government’s new $39 million greyhound track, The Q. It will feature 103 kennels, six pup yards, two exercise yards, a 200-metre running track, a 12-metre bullring, and four parking spaces.

This approval will likely open the floodgates for similar developments in the area, cementing Ipswich’s position as a centre for the greyhound industry. Thousands of international animal rights activists voiced their concerns, claiming the facility would endanger animals’ lives.

Photo Credit: Racing Queensland

However, the council granted preliminary approval after the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission reviewed all submissions and advised it had no jurisdiction over animal welfare concerns. The commission will oversee the facility’s operations, including monitoring animal welfare practices.

Residents also raised concerns about noise pollution and the environmental impact on local wildlife, particularly koalas. To address these issues, a 1.8-metre acoustic fence will be built around the kennels, and operational hours will be restricted to 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. The kennels must also be at least 50 metres from a documented koala habitat.

Photo Credit: Racing Queensland

Despite these measures, concerns remain about the adequacy of the noise impact assessments and the lack of local council control over animal welfare. Mayor Teresa Harding voiced her apprehensions about gambling, property values, and the council’s limited power to regulate animal welfare.

Read: Man With Autism Fights for Life After Brutal Bashing in Springfield Lakes

The final decision will be made by the full council in late August.

Published Date 19-August-2024

Pool and Horseback to Paralympic Kayak: the Multisport Odyssey of Susan Seipel

Ipswich-born Susan Seipel has faced life with the rare condition Arthrogryposis Multiplex, characterised by joint fusion and absent muscle formation in her legs. Despite enduring countless surgeries since infancy, her indomitable spirit propelled her to excellence in three parasports.

A record-breaking swimmer, an international-level equestrian, and a bemedalled Paralympic kayaker, this unstoppable athlete has her sights set on Paralympic gold.

Read: From Promise to Paralympics: Taymon Kenton-Smith Aims for Glory Beyond Paris

Aquatic beginnings

At four years old, Seipel began swimming as part of her physiotherapy program. Her natural affinity for the water quickly became evident as she first competed alongside able-bodied classmates. Between 1999 and 2001, Seipel set six Queensland State Games records and three Australian National Age records in freestyle and backstroke as a para-swimmer.

Equestrian excellence

Seipel’s sporting journey took a new direction at age seven when she discovered horseback riding at The McIntyre Pony Riding for the Disabled Centre. What started as a therapeutic activity evolved into a passion for equestrian dressage. Her exceptional skill in the sport was recognized with three Australian National Championship titles.

In 2006, she made her international debut at the Pacific Rim Para-Equestrian Dressage International Competition in Canada, winning a bronze medal. However, financial constraints led her to step back from equestrian competition in 2010, marking a significant shift in her athletic career.

Susan Seipel transitions to para-canoe

In 2012, Seipel discovered para-canoeing at a “come and try” day led by Olympian Amanda Rankin. This new sport reignited her competitive spirit, and she quickly excelled in both single kayak and single outrigger canoe disciplines. Her natural talent became apparent as she began competing at national and international levels.

Seipel’s hard work culminated in her participation in Rio 2016, where para-canoe made its debut. She secured a bronze medal in the women’s KL2 200m, becoming the green and gold’s first Paralympic medallist in the sport.

At Tokyo 2020, Seipel added a silver medal in the inaugural women’s VL2 200m event to her collection. Her consistent performances at World Championships and World Cups between Paralympic Games further demonstrate her ongoing commitment to excellence.

Off the water, Seipel has played a crucial role in establishing para-ice hockey in Australia, showcasing her immense versatility and dedication as an athlete.

Read: Play, Fitness, and Heritage: Inside the Reimagined RJ Richardson Park in Goodna

Seipel’s relentless pursuit of excellence continues unabated. Set to make her third Paralympic appearance at Paris 2024, she’s laser-focused on transforming her previous Paralympic podiums into a golden finish.

Published 12-August-2024

Play, Fitness, and Heritage: Inside the Reimagined RJ Richardson Park in Goodna

Goodna’s RJ Richardson Park has undergone a stunning $1.5 million makeover, breathing new life into this popular riverside destination. 

Read: Commune With Nature and Calm Your Spirit at Nerima Gardens

At the heart of the park’s transformation is an impressive paddle steamboat play structure, capturing the imagination of young visitors. This deconstructed steamboat serves as both a playground centrepiece and a tribute to the 19th-century era when goods were transported along the river between Brisbane and Ipswich. 

Richardson Park
Photo credit: Ipswich City Council/Facebook

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding describes it as an “unmissable feature,” inviting children to climb and engage in imaginative play.

The park’s design thoughtfully incorporates elements that honour both recent history and the enduring connection of Traditional Owners to the river. A meticulously carved timber Indigenous canoe sits moored among a recreated rocky riverbank, offering a striking visual reminder of the area’s cultural heritage. 

Sandstone rocks, etched with traditional markings and symbols, not only represent the riverbank but also provide opportunities for nature-based play—a feature specifically requested by the community.

Richardson Park
Photo credit: Ipswich City Council/Facebook

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the upgraded outdoor exercise area, now equipped with state-of-the-art callisthenics equipment suitable for all levels. Ample green spaces have been preserved, perfect for picnics, group exercise, or simply relaxing by the river.

The park’s facilities have been comprehensively enhanced to accommodate more visitors. Existing shelters, seating areas, and BBQ facilities have been refurbished, with additional amenities added to cater to the increasing number of families enjoying this riverside gem. Improved lighting and landscaping further enhance the park’s appeal and functionality.

Photo credit: shapeyouripswich.com.au

Cr Andrew Antoniolli, Chair of the Infrastructure, Planning and Assets Committee, emphasised that the new playground features reflect the community’s historical and ongoing connection to the river. This thoughtful redesign ensures that RJ Richardson Park not only serves as a recreational space but also as a living monument to Goodna’s rich riverside heritage.

Read: Goodna Units Demolished, Making Way for Green Space After Flood Buy-Back

Funded through a partnership between the Queensland Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program and Ipswich City Council, the revitalised RJ Richardson Park stands as a shining example of how public spaces can be reimagined to honour the past while serving the needs of the present community.

Published 12-August-2024

Cracks Force Speed Limit Drop on Major Ipswich Highway Bridge

Motorists using the westbound Bremer River Bridge on the Warrego Highway in Ipswich now face a reduced 60km/h speed limit and new travel conditions after serious cracking was discovered in the structure.

Read: Ipswich Everyday Hero Inspires Nominations for QBANK Awards

Following a structural inspection, the Department of Transportation and Main Roads (TMR) confirmed that “fatigue cracks exist in the steel girders.” Engineers suspect that the damage is probably a result of the bridge enduring heavy loads over the years, especially since many present-day trucks are significantly heavier than those for which the bridge was originally constructed to accommodate. The Bremer River Bridge started operating in 1958

Bridge Safety and Restrictions

While TMR has determined that the bridge remains safe for public use, several precautions have been implemented:

– Speed limit reduced to 60km/h for all vehicles
– Specific travel conditions for heavy and oversized vehicles
– Load restrictions for trucks

These measures aim to reduce the risk of crack growth and manage loads while further inspections are carried out.

Current Usage and Future Plans

The westbound bridge currently supports about 30,000 vehicles daily, including 4,000 heavy vehicles. To address the structural issues, TMR is undertaking the following actions:

– Immediate welding works to ensure ongoing safety
– Installation of crossovers in the centre median for oversize overmass (OSOM) vehicle movements
– Traffic signals for night-time OSOM vehicle crossings

Bremer River Bridge Ipswich
Photo Credit: TMR

Rehabilitation Project

A major rehabilitation project is planned to extend the life of the existing bridge structure:

– $85 million in total funding, jointly provided by the State and Federal Governments
– Re-decking of main bridge spans
– Propping works to restore original capacity
– Further strengthening works scheduled to begin in 2025

The speed and load restrictions are expected to remain in place for an extended period, affecting both local commuters and freight transport. TMR has stated that these precautions are necessary to ensure the safety of all road users while the rehabilitation works are carried out.

Read: New Direct Bus Route to Connect Springfield and Ipswich

Published 26-July-2024

Ipswich Everyday Hero Inspires Nominations for QBANK Awards

The unwavering spirit and dedication of Queensland’s frontline workers and volunteers will be recognised for a 10th year with nominations for the 2024 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards now open, inspired by last year’s Ipswich winner.

Read: Springfield Lakes Community Transforms Healthcare at Mater Private Hospital

Highlighting Ipswich’s Own Everyday Hero

Last year, Ipswich’s own Margaret Langdon was honoured as a finalist in the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards, making her community proud. Margaret, a dedicated volunteer, and sewing enthusiast, was celebrated for her outstanding work in helping community service participants learn new skills in a safe and engaging environment.

Margaret runs the Brisbane North Community Corrections Quest for Quilts group, which repurposes Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) uniforms into high-quality quilts for those in need. Her initiative, Quest for Quilts, allows participants to perform community service while learning valuable sewing skills.

Margaret Langdon Everyday Heroes QBank
Photo Credit: Supplied

“I worked with a group of people who mostly had never seen a sewing machine and it soon became obvious to me that making clothing was a hard place to start,” Margaret explained. “I then conceived the idea of Quest for Quilts, which was perfect as new workers could start on simpler tasks and as they gained more confidence and experience, I would teach them new sewing skills.”

Margaret’s Impact on the Community

Margaret’s program provides a welcoming space for individuals from all backgrounds to come together, learn new skills, and support each other. “Not only does it let people complete their community service hours, it provides a safe place for people to gather, learn new skills, and feel a sense of pride and confidence knowing they are doing something worthwhile to give back to the community,” she said.

Margaret expressed joy in seeing participants gain confidence and new skills each week. “It has really surprised me the number of males, some of whom have done time in prison, who are thriving in the group and demonstrate amazing determination, learning all the skills involved to create the quilts and provide lots of fun banter to keep the group alive.”

2024 Nominations Now Open

Nominations for the 2024 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards are now open and will be accepted until 31 August. 

QBANK Chief Executive Officer Byron Fuller highlighted the importance of these awards, saying, “For the last 10 years, we have put more than 54 frontline workers, dedicated volunteers and young people in the spotlight for going above and beyond the call of duty to support and uplift their communities.”

The awards recognise individuals and teams across Queensland in six categories: Achievement, Ownership, Dedication, Working Together, Excellence, and the Young Everyday Hero Award. Winners will be selected by a panel of highly respected judges and will receive $2000 deposited into a QBANK account and a further $2000 donated to a charity of their choice.

Mr Fuller encouraged Queenslanders to nominate deserving individuals or teams.

 “We are calling for more Queenslanders, from the top end to the south-east, to nominate individuals or teams across a range of sectors so we can say ‘thank you’ for their outstanding contributions,” he said.

Read: From Online to Mainstream: Local Retailer Credits Ipswich Show for Rapid Growth

Finalists will be announced in September, and winners will be recognised at the annual awards dinner at the W Hotel Brisbane on 11 October 2024.

Published 10-July-2024

Wimbledon Welcomes Back Springfield Tennis Legend Ash Barty

Former world No. 1 and Springfield-raised Ash Barty is set to make a highly anticipated return to Wimbledon this July, nearly two years after her shock retirement from professional tennis. The 28-year-old Australian tennis legend will participate in the invitational doubles event, marking her first appearance on the hallowed grass courts since her triumphant singles victory in 2021.

Read: Springfield Lakes Mum Raises Over $4500 in Fundraising Concert for Cancer Research

Invitational Doubles comeback

Wimbledon officials recently announced Barty’s participation in the legends invitational doubles event, scheduled to begin on July 9.

Barty will team up with her former doubles partner and close friend, Casey Dellacqua. The pair, affectionately known as “ABCD” (Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqua), have a history of success, including reaching three grand slam finals together.

The legends tournament will feature two groups of eight pairs competing in a round-robin format. The top pairs from each group will advance to the final, vying for a share of the ~$64,800 first-place prize. All participating pairs are guaranteed a minimum of ~$45,800 between them.

Ash Barty, legend of tennis

Ash Barty’s 2021 Wimbledon victory ended a 41-year drought for Australian women at the tournament, following in the footsteps of her mentor and idol, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, who won in 1980.

The Woodcrest State College alum also claimed grand slam titles at the 2019 French Open and the 2022 Australian Open before her surprise retirement announcement in March 2022.

Since stepping away from professional tennis, Barty has embraced family life. She married her partner Garry Kissick and welcomed their son, Hayden. Despite occasional calls for her return to the professional circuit, Barty has consistently expressed contentment with her current priorities. “I absolutely love being a mum. There’s nothing else that I prefer to do,” she said.

Dual role at Wimbledon

In addition to her participation in the invitationals, Barty will also serve as a commentator during the Wimbledon tournament.

This dual role allows her to remain connected to the sport while maintaining her retirement from professional play.

Read: Scott’s Farm in Ripley: A Century-Old Legacy Hangs in the Balance Amidst School Development Plans

The Wimbledon tournament, including the legends invitational event, is set to begin on Monday, July 1, offering fans a chance to see their hometown hero back in action on one of tennis’s most prestigious stages.

Published 22-June-2024