Springfield Lakes Archives - Springfield Lakes

Bowel Cancer Test Ignored by Most at Springfield Hospital

A Brisbane woman’s bowel cancer diagnosis following a routine screening test at a Springfield-based hospital has highlighted concerns over low participation in Australia’s national bowel screening program.

Early Detection at Springfield Lakes Raises Broader Health Concerns

Charlotte Hassing, a Brisbane resident, underwent a free bowel cancer screening after her general practitioner issued a test kit due to low iron levels and ongoing fatigue. Despite having no noticeable symptoms, the test detected hidden blood in her stool, which later led to a confirmed cancer diagnosis following a colonoscopy at Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

National Program Sees Low Uptake

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s most recent monitoring report, over 60 per cent of eligible participants between 2021 and 2022 did not complete their free screening kits. Out of approximately six million people invited, only 40 per cent participated.

Of those who returned a positive test result in 2022, only 13.5 per cent received a follow-up colonoscopy within the recommended 30-day period. Wait times for colonoscopy services varied significantly depending on location, with delays ranging from 133 to 197 days.

Mater Specialist Highlights Urgency of Early Screening

Dr Sylvia Vigh, a gastroenterologist at Mater Private Hospital Springfield and Mater Private Hospital Brisbane, emphasised that bowel cancer often progresses without visible symptoms. She noted that by the time common signs—such as visible blood in stool, abdominal pain, fatigue, or weight loss—appear, the disease may already be advanced.

Data shows that 90 per cent of stage one bowel cancer cases can be successfully treated if diagnosed early. However, reduced follow-up rates and prolonged wait times could impact treatment outcomes.

Policy Change Expands Screening Age Range

To address increasing cases among younger Australians, eligibility for the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program was recently expanded. As of 1 July 2024, individuals aged 45 to 49 may opt in to receive a free screening kit every two years. This adjustment responds to a concerning trend, with one in nine new bowel cancer cases now occurring in people under 50.

Since the program’s introduction in 2006, more than 11.4 million kits have been completed, with approximately 4.8 million people participating at least once.

colonoscopy test — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Uncertainty Remains for Patients

Charlotte Hassing’s condition was found to be hereditary and is currently being treated with immunotherapy, which has shown better effectiveness in her case than traditional chemotherapy. While her treatment continues, she said the psychological strain of waiting and uncertainty has been more difficult than the treatment itself.

Published 10-July-2025

Road and Recreation Projects Progress in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Ipswich City officials have announced significant funding for road upgrades, park improvements, and community facilities in Springfield Lakes under the 2025–26 budget.

Roads and Upgrades Drive Budget Focus

Springfield Parkway is undergoing a major upgrade as part of the city’s largest road project, with $7 million allocated to continue Stage 2. This stage will see the section from Topaz Road to near the Springfield Greenbank Arterial Stage 1 intersection widened to four lanes. The work includes cycle lanes, a shared pedestrian path, and the conversion of the Topaz Road roundabout to a signalised intersection.

A further $750,000 has been committed for the upgrade of Augusta Parkway and Sinnathamby Boulevard. This project involves lane duplication from Eden Station Drive to Main Street and includes bridge duplication works between Springfield Central and Augustine Heights.

Springfield Lakes road upgrades — *Photo Credit: City of Ipswich*

Maintenance and Safety Across Division 2

The budget includes $3.1 million for sealed road rehabilitation across locations such as Springfield Lakes, Goodna, Camira, Carole Park and Augustine Heights. Updates to traffic signals will be funded with more than $200,000 allocated for improvements at Redbank and Carole Park intersections.

Stormwater drainage improvements in Bellbird Park will receive $250,000 as part of a two-year $750,000 program targeting Perdita Street, Katandra Crescent and Rosemary Street.

Parks, Libraries and Community Facilities

Council has allocated $400,000 to replace the mountain slide at Grande Park in Springfield Lakes. Springfield Central Library will benefit from $407,000 for upgrades and planning towards a new library. Sports facilities will see $310,000 in rehabilitation works, including renewed lighting at Evan Marginson Park’s netball court at Goodna.

In addition, $100,000 over two years has been set aside for design and planning of improvements at the Goodna SES facility at Redbank Plains, with construction expected in 2026–27.

road upgrades — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Looking Ahead

The projects form part of Ipswich City Council’s broader plan to manage rapid growth in Division 2 through upgraded infrastructure and community services. Further stages of road works are scheduled across coming financial years, with continued investment planned to meet the needs of the expanding population.

Published 5-July-2025

Salvinia Weed Management Continues in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook

Authorities and developers in Springfield Lakes are continuing efforts to manage the invasive salvinia weed across local water bodies following significant but incomplete removal.

Weed Infestation Prompts Intervention

Salvinia, a fast-growing aquatic weed, has become a persistent issue in Springfield Lakes, prompting joint action from Ipswich City Council and Stockland. In early 2025, residents reported one of the worst outbreaks seen in decades, with large sections of the lakes covered in dense mats of the weed. Long-term locals expressed concern over environmental impacts and increasing mosquito activity due to stagnant water.

salvinia outbreak — *Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook*

Initial Measures and Removal Efforts

Early mechanical removal efforts commenced in February 2025 after Stockland acknowledged the severity of the infestation. Mechanical harvesting and hand removal were prioritised, alongside weekly spray treatments. By April 2025, around 99 percent of the weed was reportedly cleared from the main lakes, with visual improvements seen at Spring Lake.

A trial involving a ‘spider excavator’ was later conducted at a hard-to-reach pond on Viewpoint Drive. This specialised machine was used in combination with aquatic weed booms to clear the terrain and remove weed clusters in areas previously inaccessible to standard equipment.

Persistent Regrowth at Regatta Lake

Despite earlier clearance, salvinia regrowth was observed in mid-April at Regatta Lake. Community group Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. documented the resurgence, noting coverage had returned to approximately 25 percent of the area. The weed was reported to be spreading along Lakeside Avenue and beyond, forming dense mats even in cooler weather.

Authorities were notified, including Ipswich City Council, Stockland Springfield Rise, Biosecurity Queensland, and local representatives. The weed’s ability to regrow from residual fragments and its movement through wind and rain-fed inflows has complicated eradication efforts.

Springfield Lakes salvinia management — *Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook*

Ongoing Strategy and Alternatives

In response to the recurring outbreak, local authorities have reinstated regular spraying programs and are continuing with mechanical and manual removal where needed. Experts indicate that salvinia thrives in nutrient-rich, slow-moving water, and complete removal may be unrealistic due to inflows from connected catchments.

Biological control and upstream monitoring have been identified as necessary components of long-term containment, alongside public reporting to Biosecurity Queensland. Community members have been encouraged to remain vigilant and report any sightings.

Community Concerns and Maintenance Issues

Beyond the weed infestation, residents have also raised broader concerns about general maintenance in the area, including overgrown walkways and deteriorating vegetation near the lakes. Some suggested that earlier equipment may have unintentionally contributed to the weed’s spread by transferring fragments between sites.

Despite these challenges, local groups remain engaged in monitoring efforts, and there is continued cooperation between the council, Stockland, and environmental organisations.

Outlook: Continued Vigilance Needed

Authorities have stated that while progress has been made in Springfield Lakes, complete eradication of salvinia remains unlikely. The focus has shifted to long-term containment through regular treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental monitoring. Efforts are expected to continue as the situation evolves, with collaboration remaining central to managing the local waterways.

Published 25-June-2025

$3.5 Million Clubhouse Opens at Silver Jubilee Facility

Photo Credit: H & G Contractors Pty Ltd/Facebook

A brand-new Silver Jubilee Sports Facility Clubhouse has been completed in Spring Mountain, delivering a major upgrade for local sport clubs and community groups in one of Ipswich’s fastest-growing areas.

Funding Brings Project To Life

The $3.5 million Silver Jubilee Sports Facility Clubhouse was funded jointly by the Australian Government and Ipswich City Council. The federal contribution of $1.97 million came through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, while Council added $1.55 million.

*Photo Credit: Mayor Teresa Harding/Facebook*

Construction began in late 2024 and finished by mid-2025, with H&G Contractors leading the build. The clubhouse adds to the broader Silver Jubilee precinct, which features sports fields, courts and family-friendly areas. Local leaders said the facility fills a long-standing need for organised sport and supports the suburb’s growing number of young families.

Built For People, Sport And Connection

The clubhouse features a large clubroom, four change rooms, officials’ spaces, a commercial kitchen, medical rooms, and ample storage. Outside, it includes terraced seating, accessible paths, landscaped turf, a covered walkway, and relocated shade shelters.

*Photo Credit: Charis Mullen MP/Facebook*

Sustainability features like solar panels and rainwater tanks help reduce environmental impact. The facility is fully accessible, with unisex toilets and inclusive design for people with disability.

Growing With The Local Community

The new clubhouse will serve clubs like Springfield Lakes Hawks Rugby Union and Springfield Stingers Touch Football. Both clubs see the facility as key to growing their membership and improving support for players.

Local councillors highlighted Spring Mountain’s fast population growth and the need for quality shared spaces. As sport in the area has expanded, the clubhouse fills a gap in local infrastructure. Its close location to nearby fields gives clubs access to the amenities they’ve long needed.

Launch And Community Event

A community celebration will take place on Saturday, 21 June 2025, alongside a junior rugby match hosted by the Springfield Lakes Hawks. Residents, players and families are invited to see the new clubhouse in action.

Local and federal leaders said the project is part of a wider push to improve community facilities across Ipswich. Strong support and clear demand helped deliver the build on time. The clubhouse is expected to be a lasting hub for sport and connection in the area.

Published 19-June-2025

Brothers Charged in Springfield Lakes Domestic Violence Murder

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Two brothers have been charged with the domestic violence murder of a 23-year-old woman in Springfield Lakes, a tragic event that has deeply saddened the local community.

Khalilullah and Masihullah Habibi were arrested on Friday night, May 17, and subsequently charged in connection with the woman’s death. Emergency services were called to a home in the Ipswich area, south-west of Brisbane, around 8:00 p.m. on Friday following reports that a woman had collapsed. Police and paramedics found her unresponsive and were unable to revive her.

Court Proceedings Begin

domestic violence — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police*

The case was mentioned for the first time in Ipswich Magistrates Court on Monday morning, 20 May. During the brief hearing, a full brief of evidence was ordered, and the matter has been adjourned until next month. Both brothers remain in custody and will not be required to appear at the next court mention.

Community Impact and Background

The Queensland Police Service confirmed that the victim and the two men charged are all from Afghanistan and had only been living at the Springfield Lakes home for a short time.

Authorities are working with the Afghanistan consulate to locate the woman’s next of kin, who has since been identified and lives overseas. Investigators have contacted the next of kin and are liaising with federal agencies to make the necessary notifications.

Rita Anwari, a prominent community member who lives near where the incident occurred, stated that her heart was breaking, highlighting the victim’s young age.

Detective Inspector Michael Manago spoke on Saturday, 18 May, saying it was a “terribly tragic event” and extended thoughts to the woman’s family and friends. He also acknowledged the first responders who attended the scene and performed CPR in an attempt to revive her.

Published Date 22-May-2025

Education Providers Plan for Growth in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Springfield City Group

Education stakeholders met in Springfield to address rising school enrolment demand as the region braces for rapid population and demographic growth.

Background and Context

Education stakeholders met in Springfield Lakes to address rising school enrolment demand as the region braces for rapid population and demographic growth.

Growth Pressures and Forecasts

A recent event held in Springfield gathered key figures from Queensland’s education and tertiary sectors. The session focused on long-term demand for schooling in the city, drawing on data prepared by Econisis for Springfield City Group in March 2025.

The report forecasts that student enrolment will more than double from 14,392 in 2023 to over 28,771 by 2046, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 3.1 per cent. In 2025 alone, demand is expected to exceed 15,000.

This growth aligns with the broader population projection, which sees the Springfield catchment increasing from approximately 159,000 in 2023 to more than 400,000 by 2046—a rise of 253 per cent. Children aged 14 and under make up 26.1 per cent of the population, well above the Brisbane and Ipswich averages.

Springfield Lakes education — *Photo Credit: Springfield City Group*

Private and Specialist School Opportunities

The strongest pressure will fall on non-government schools. Private enrolments rose 18.5 per cent over five years, with future projections indicating a shortfall of more than 1,700 places by 2036 and over 3,900 by 2046.

There is currently no single-sex private school in Springfield. However, demand for up to 2,000 such places is anticipated by 2046.

Specialist education is also emerging as a priority. An estimated 5.5 per cent of local children are neurodivergent, with projected enrolment needs exceeding 1,400 by 2046. There is additional interest in schools aligned with faith, language, or culture—driven by the area’s high levels of linguistic and religious diversity.

STEM-focused schooling is another emerging opportunity, with technical roles in engineering, science, and ICT expected to nearly quadruple by 2036.

Springfield Lakes school planning — *Photo Credit: Springfield City Group*

Supporting Factors and Economic Conditions

The growth is backed by solid economic indicators. Household incomes in the region are above national averages, unemployment remains relatively low, and local business registrations have increased by 50 per cent since 2019. The catchment also shows high rates of post-school qualifications, suggesting a workforce geared for advanced education pathways.

Next Steps and Planning Outlook

With enrolment demand set to surpass infrastructure capacity, education providers are expected to plan new school sites and expansions over the next decade. The Springfield City Learning Coalition will continue to coordinate efforts around data sharing, employment readiness, and sustained delivery of quality education.

The region’s development as a learning city remains central to its future, with Springfield Lakes positioned as a key growth node requiring early intervention in school planning.

Published 2-May-2025

Salvinia Management in Springfield Lakes Faces New Challenges

Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook

Efforts to control the salvinia outbreak in Springfield Lakes have made significant progress, but recent reports show that regrowth remains an ongoing challenge in certain areas.

Initial Progress on Salvinia Removal

In early April 2025, Stockland Springfield Rise confirmed major progress in the management of Salvinia molesta across Springfield Lakes. Following weeks of mechanical harvesting, approximately 99 percent of the weed had been cleared from the main lakes. Local official Charis Mullen reported a notable improvement, with clear waters returning at Spring Lake and plans underway to reinstate regular spraying schedules.

Salvinia, a highly invasive aquatic fern, can double in size within days under ideal conditions. Its presence in Springfield Lakes had prompted concern from residents about water quality, mosquito breeding, and environmental health.

Salvinia Management — *Photo Credit: CharisMullenMP/Facebook*

Recent Developments: Regrowth Observed at Regatta Lake

Despite the clearance efforts, new observations from Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. on 17 April 2025 confirmed that salvinia remains active at Regatta Lake. Photographs taken from the observation deck showed the weed spreading from the bridge at Lakeside Avenue up past the bend, nearing 55 Promenade.

Coverage at Regatta Lake had increased to approximately 25 percent compared to previous reports on 22 March. The group noted that the weed continues to grow despite cooler temperatures, moving with windy conditions and forming thicker mats on the water surface.

Reports, supported by photographic evidence, have been submitted to Biosecurity Queensland, Ipswich City Council, Stockland Springfield Rise, and city official Charis Mullen.

Understanding the Ongoing Challenge

Salvinia molesta thrives in nutrient-rich, slow-moving waters and remains resilient even after major removal efforts. It spreads rapidly, blocks sunlight, reduces oxygen levels in the water, and disrupts aquatic ecosystems.

While mechanical removal provides immediate visual improvements, residual fragments or reintroduction through rain events can quickly spark regrowth. Regular spraying, biological controls, and upstream management are key to containing outbreaks over the long term.

*Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook*

Community Observations and Next Steps

Local community groups and residents continue to monitor salvinia growth across the Springfield Lakes network. The recent report from Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. highlights the need for sustained action, particularly at Regatta Lake.

Stockland Springfield Rise has indicated that reinstated spraying programs will begin as soon as possible to control regrowth. Ongoing collaboration between local authorities, residents, and environmental organisations remains critical.

Ongoing Monitoring Essential for Springfield Lakes

While Springfield Lakes has achieved significant salvinia removal, continued vigilance and management are required. New growth at Regatta Lake illustrates the persistent nature of the weed and the importance of long-term control measures to protect the local waterways.

Biosecurity Queensland encourages all residents to report sightings of invasive pests such as Salvinia molesta. Community members who suspect salvinia infestations are advised to report directly to Biosecurity Queensland by calling 13 25 23, or through their online reporting system.

If further investigation is required, a biosecurity officer may follow up. The Department of Primary Industries stresses that managing the spread of invasive species is a shared responsibility, and reporting plays a key role in early intervention.

Published 30-Apr-2025

Lakeside Views and Top Service Define Moselle’s Café + Restaurant in Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Moselles Café + Restaurant/ Facebook

Moselle’s Café + Restaurant in Springfield Lakes has become a highly regarded community favourite. It draws locals and visitors with its scenic lakeside setting, pet-friendly atmosphere, and consistently praised food and service.

Lakeside Charm and Atmosphere

The café and restaurant prides itself on its serene lakeside view, which reviewers often describe as lovely and amazing. This scenic backdrop provides a relaxing setting for diners enjoying a meal or coffee. The establishment promotes a pet-friendly environment, welcoming furry companions to join their owners.

It is also noted as accommodating families, including those with babies. Since new owners took over in early 2019, the outdoor seating options have been increased, allowing more patrons to enjoy the surroundings. Diners might also catch the unique sight of model sailing boats being raced on the lake nearby.

Popular Menu for Brunch and Beyond

*Poached Chicken Salad*
*Photo Credit:* *Moselles Café + Restaurant/ Facebook*

Moselle’s is particularly noted for its brunch offerings, with a menu described as tasty and colourful. A standout item frequently mentioned is the Smashed Avo on sourdough, often served elevated with additions like golden halloumi, poached eggs, roasted tomatoes, balsamic glaze, and dukkah.

Other popular breakfast and brunch choices include decadent Pancakes, Brekkie Burgers, American Breakfasts, Veggie Omelettes, and Acai Bowls. The menu extends beyond breakfast, featuring lunch options such as generous Beef Burgers, Chicken Pasta, and classic Fish and Chips with salad. A specific kids’ menu caters to children aged 12 and under with choices like Kids Big Brekkie, Pancakes, Toasties, and Mini Burgers.

*Photo Credit:* *Moselles Café + Restaurant/ Facebook*

To accompany meals, the café serves excellent coffee, a range of smoothies, and displays cake options in a cabinet. Reviewers have also highlighted the availability of excellent gluten-free choices, such as burger buns.

High Marks for Service and Quality

Visitors consistently praise the quality of both food and service at Moselle’s Café + Restaurant. The food is often called tasty, sensational, and of a high standard. Complementing the meals, the staff are frequently described in reviews as great, friendly, fast, attentive, efficient, and welcoming. Reports suggest staff try to engage positively with customers, including children.

This combination of quality food, attentive service, and the pleasant atmosphere contributes to its reputation as a family favourite and a place visitors couldn’t fault, often recommending it for brunch or simply a meal with a beautiful view. One review site awarded it a strong 4 out of 5 coffee cup rating, reflecting the positive customer experiences.

Published Date 18-April-2025

Bats and Biodiversity Take Centre Stage in Springfield Lakes

Springfield Lakes residents will soon be turning their eyes — and ears — to the skies as they participate in a unique evening event designed to spotlight the quiet lives of local bats and other nocturnal wildlife.

The Bat Detective Walk, organized by Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. (SLNC) and held on Wednesday, 17 April from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m., coincides with Bat Appreciation Day. The community event will take place around Regatta Lake and nearby conservation areas, offering participants a hands-on look at how bats are monitored and why they matter to the local ecosystem.

Shifting Public Perception about Bats

SLNC says bats are often misunderstood and commonly seen as pests or disease carriers. But in reality, bats are important in controlling insect populations and maintaining biodiversity. This event aims to educate the public while also collecting valuable data for ecological monitoring.

Before the walk begins, participants will get a brief introduction to bat species found in the Springfield Lakes area, along with the environmental threats they face. Organisers will also demonstrate how to use bat echodetectors, small handheld devices on loan from Titley Scientific, which are used to record high-frequency calls made by microbats that are usually beyond the range of human hearing.

*Photo Credit: Sharp Photography/Creative Commons 4.0*

A Walk with a Purpose

During the walk, small groups will move around the lake and through a nearby conservation reserve, using the detectors to identify bat calls. After sunset, a spotlight survey will be conducted to observe other nocturnal animals active in the area. All data collected, including bat call recordings, will be submitted to the iNaturalist platform, contributing to broader efforts to track and protect wildlife in the White Rock Spring Mountain Reserve.

At the end of the walk, the group will meet back at the BBQ shelter at Teenager Park, located at the corner of Waterside Drive and Lakeside Avenue, to review the audio recordings captured and discuss their findings. Light refreshments and cold drinks will be provided.

A Family-Friendly, Educational Outing

SLNC encourages families to attend and notes the event is suitable for all ages. Participants are asked to bring a smartphone, torch, and binoculars, and to wear closed-in shoes and clothing suitable for warding off mosquitoes. Parking is available off-street near the meeting point.

This event is part of SLNC’s ongoing efforts to engage the community in local conservation and biodiversity projects, offering everyday residents a chance to get involved in citizen science in a meaningful, hands-on way.

Published 15-April-2025

Community Fun Run in Springfield Lakes Raises $27K Despite Cancellations

Photo Credit: Mater

A community-led fun run in Springfield Lakes raised $27,000 for breast cancer support services and research, despite repeated weather cancellations.

Weather Delays Cause Major Disruptions

The Springfield Community 5K Your Way International Women’s Day Fun Run, backed by Queensland X-Ray, was initially scheduled for early March at Brighton Homes Arena. The event was first postponed due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred and then cancelled after further rainfall rendered conditions unsafe by late March.

Smaller Gathering Maintains Momentum

Despite two formal cancellations, a group of 25 participants gathered at Brighton Homes Arena for an unofficial walk to mark the occasion and acknowledge the fundraising effort. The group included local officials Milton Dick and Shayne Neumann.

The event still achieved its target, raising $27,000 for Mater Chicks in Pink, supporting local services such as the Mater Cancer Care Centre in Springfield.

Women’s Day Fun Run — *Photo Credit: Bebold Properties/Facebook*

Fundraising Goals Exceeded Despite Setbacks

The original fundraising goal of $15,000 was surpassed by nearly $12,000. Contributions funded practical services, including mastectomy bras and counselling, and contributed to life-saving research. Organisers encouraged participants to complete the 5km walk individually, in their own communities.

Community Adapts with Flexibility

Locals engaged with the “5K Your Way” initiative after the event’s cancellation. Families such as breast cancer survivor Corinne’s walked together independently, highlighting how the community adapted to continue their involvement despite the disruption.

Springfield Lakes fun run — *Photo Credit: Bebold Properties/Facebook*

Support Remains Strong in Springfield Lakes

Support from residents, volunteers, and sponsors was acknowledged by the organising committee. In addition to those who attended in person, other city officials and community figures expressed their support remotely.

Future Planning Already Underway

Event organisers confirmed the Springfield fun run will return on 8 March 2026. Planning has already begun, with hopes to double this year’s fundraising result. A push for stronger weather contingency measures was also noted.

Published 10-Apr-2025