Ipswich Police Seize Seven Knives from Man in CBD Crackdown

A recent police operation in Ipswich CBD has resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of several weapons, including seven knives from one individual, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat knife crime in the area.



On October 2, Ipswich police conducted a coordinated surge operation across three key locations: the Safe Night Precinct, the train station, and a local shopping centre. The operation, which included high-visibility patrols and wanding under Jack’s Law, led to the scanning of 71 individuals and resulted in 10 people being charged with 14 offences.

The most significant arrest came at an Ipswich train station, where a 20-year-old man was found in possession of seven knives and drug paraphernalia during a wanding check. Despite claiming the knives were related to a former career as a chef, police determined that the items did not match this description. The man has been charged with possessing a knife in a public place and is scheduled to appear before Ipswich Magistrates Court on October 30.

Acting Inspector Lee Fortune of the Ipswich Police praised the operation’s success, noting that it marked the first wanding operation in a shopping centre. “The feedback we received from locals was overwhelmingly positive,” Fortune stated. He emphasised the impact of these proactive efforts in seizing weapons and preventing potential violent offences.

Since the statewide implementation of Jack’s Law in April 2023, Ipswich has seen 135 wanding operations resulting in the seizure of 57 weapons. This recent operation underscores the police’s commitment to utilising the expanded powers granted under Jack’s Law to enhance community safety.



The Ipswich police expressed gratitude for the support from the community and local businesses, pledging to continue their efforts in creating safer public spaces throughout the city.

Published 5-October-2024

Springfield Grande Shopping Hub Soon to Rise in Springfield Lakes

Springfield Lakes residents can look forward to a new shopping destination as Springfield Grande prepares to open its doors in early 2025.



Springfield Grande, previously known as Springfield Lakes Shopping Village, will soon begin construction at its prime location on 11 Grande Avenue. This much-anticipated project comes to fruition under the new ownership of Limbada Group, taking the reins after Taree Property faced voluntary liquidation.

The owners are pushing forward with the approved plans for the centre, aiming to commence construction in just four months. With this timeline in mind, locals can look forward to Springfield Grande’s grand opening in early 2025.

Site plan | Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council / developmenti.ipswich.qld.gov.au

Strategically positioned a mere three and a half kilometres from the thriving Orion Shopping Centre in Springfield Central, Springfield Grande will be ideally situated to meet the growing demands of the community. Anderson highlighted the centre’s intent to cater to the rising needs of nearby Aveo retirement living, as well as the expanding communities at Springfield Rise and Greenbank Arterial.



The current blueprint for Springfield Grande reveals an impressive array of businesses, poised to deliver a diverse range of services and products. Anchored by a Drakes Supermarket, the centre will also feature a 7/11 convenience store, a Snap Fitness gym, the popular Yiros Shop, Sushi Hyo, and JAX Tyres Auto. 

Retail elevations | Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council / developmenti.ipswich.qld.gov.au

Moreover, a pharmacy, bottle shop, laundromat, kebab shop, and bakery will enhance the convenience and variety offered to shoppers. Anderson expressed the team’s ongoing commitment to finding the perfect tenants to complete the centre’s vibrant atmosphere including a café and restaurants.

The plans for Springfield Grande may also include the addition of an auxiliary childcare centre, ensuring that families in the area will have access to quality care whilst attending to their shopping needs.

Published 19-May-2023