Springfield Lakes Archives - Page 4 of 12

Raising Awareness for Dysphonia in Augustine Heights

Augustine Heights resident Nichola MacNeil is using her voice—a voice she once lost—to raise awareness of a little-known yet life-changing condition: dysphonia, ahead of World Voice Day.

Local Advocate Shares Personal Struggle

Nichola MacNeil, a long-time resident of Augustine Heights, is drawing attention to World Voice Day, observed on 16 April. Ms MacNeil has been living with Spasmodic Dysphonia for five years.

While she was initially left unable to speak, Nichola has since regained a functional voice—though it still fluctuates and presents ongoing challenges. Despite this, she continues to be an active part of her community.

“There was a time I couldn’t even pronounce my own name,” Nichola shared. “I was unable to communicate with my three beautiful children, husband or friends. My business was falling apart as I was no longer able to speak.”

At her lowest point, Ms Macneil felt devastated and isolated due to the lack of available support. Since then, she has become an ambassador for the Australian Dysphonia Network (ADN). Ms Macneil advocates for greater recognition and support for those affected by voice disorders.

“At this present time I’m able to speak and have a functional voice (this fluctuates),” she said. “In the beginning I was left devastated, unable to speak. My mental health reached very low points—a place I never want to experience again.”

“I’ve been teaching free yoga for cancer for the last 12 years,” she said, “with an 18-month break when I couldn’t even pronounce my name. I also delivered Encore, a free eight-week program for women who have had breast cancer.”

The Impact of Chronic Voice Disorders

Dysphonia, including Spasmodic Dysphonia, can result from various causes such as laryngeal damage, underlying health conditions and neurological factors. The disorder affects approximately one in every 100,000 people in Australia and New Zealand. Dysphonia disrupts personal communication. It can lead to severe social and professional consequences. Individuals in voice-dependent occupations like teaching, sales, or performing are particularly affected.

Currently, there is no formal recognition of voice disorders as a disability in Australia. This gap means those unable to work or requiring time off to rest their voices receive little financial support. Advocates, including Ms MacNeil, argue that this needs to change. They highlight that the ability to communicate should be valued as highly as other fundamental senses.

World Voice Day Initiatives

Along with World Voice Day, the Australian Dysphonia Network promotes the “World Voice Day Walk.” The walk is part of its awareness campaign. The event encourages people to walk while discussing the importance of vocal health. There are no registration fees or distance requirements. Participants can join at their own pace throughout April.

Dysphonia awareness walk — *Photo Credit: ADN/Facebook*

JOIN THE WVD WALK

The ADN also plans to illuminate notable landmarks in its “Light Up” campaign. This initiative will bring attention to the challenges those with chronic voice disorders face. Individuals can also contribute by setting up fundraising pages and direct donations to support ongoing advocacy efforts.

Community Involvement and Support

Ms MacNeil has remained active in her community despite her struggles. She has taught cancer survivors free yoga classes for over a decade. She has also been involved in the “Encore” program. Through the program, Ms Macneil offers support to women recovering from breast cancer.

Ms MacNeil urges the Augustine Heights community to support World Voice Day. Locals can help amplify the message that voice disorders deserve greater recognition and support by sharing stories and joining the walk.

Published 3-Apr-2025

Springfield Lakes: Four-Lane Exit 32 Ramp Now Open

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The newly upgraded Exit 32 ramp at Springfield Central has opened to traffic for the first time, featuring four lanes to reduce congestion and improve access for Springfield Lakes and surrounding areas.

Largest Road Project in Springfield Lakes

The opening of four lanes on the Exit 32 ramp at Springfield Central marks a significant milestone in the largest road upgrade project ever undertaken by Ipswich City Council. The project, carried out in conjunction with the State, aims to reduce congestion on the Centenary Motorway and enhance access to Springfield Lakes and nearby areas.

Improved Traffic Flow and Safety

The newly opened ramp now features two through lanes and two left-turning lanes, leading to a new signalised intersection at Springfield Greenbank Arterial and Main Road. This change is expected to alleviate bottlenecks and improve traffic flow, particularly during peak hours.

The upgrade is part of a broader initiative to replace the existing roundabout at Main Street/Springfield Greenbank Arterial Road/Exit 32 with a signalised intersection, thereby enhancing safety and increasing capacity. The State funded the project under the State Road Network Upgrades program, with a total investment of $6.5 million.

Community Response: No Right Turn Controversy

Despite the upgrade, some residents have expressed frustration with the removal of the right-turn movement from the Exit 32 ramp. The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) made the decision to prohibit right turns at the intersection to optimise signal performance, improve travel time reliability, and enhance road safety.

Some community members, however, feel that the change makes navigating the area more cumbersome, as it requires drivers to head towards Orion, perform a U-turn at the roundabout, and then return to the intersection. Despite public feedback, TMR has remained firm. They stated that the change was essential for improving intersection performance.

Springfield Lakes upgrade — *Photo Credit: QLD Gov*

Project Status and Alternative Routes Available

Construction on the Exit 32 upgrade is ongoing. Some minor works, such as line marking, will still be completed as weather permits. Motorists affected by the right-turn restriction are advised to use Exit 31 or Exit 33 as alternative routes.

Contact Information

For further information or feedback regarding the upgrade, residents can contact the Department of Transport and Main Roads via email at metropolitanregion@tmr.qld.gov.au or phone (07) 3066 4338.

Published 1-Apr-2025

Springfield Lakes Single Mum’s Life Transformed by $833,000

A Springfield Lakes single mother’s life took an extraordinary turn when she secured a staggering $833,000, allowing her to purchase her own home outright.

The resident, overwhelmed with joy, initially believed she had won $8,300. It wasn’t until a second, more thorough check that she realised the true extent of her fortune. She shared her disbelief with a colleague over the phone, expressing that the magnitude of the win was yet to register fully.

The winner reported struggling to sleep until the early morning hours, such was the excitement of her discovery. The woman felt a sense of cosmic favour, attributing her good fortune to a possible intervention from her deceased parents. She also considered that a different server or store may have changed her outcome.

Springfield Lakes — *Photo Credit: The Lott*

The substantial prize money will enable the woman to purchase a home without a mortgage, a long-held dream. With retirement only a few years away, the win provides significant financial security. She expressed immense gratitude for the unexpected windfall.

The winning ticket was purchased at Nextra Orion, in the Orion Springfield shopping centre. The store owner, Vivek Ganesh, expressed his team’s excitement at selling another division one winning entry, following a similar win only three months prior. He noted the store’s history of selling winning tickets and shared that the team had started celebrating with customers. A Facebook post and in-store posters were created to share the good news with the community.

The winning numbers for the Saturday draw were 16, 11, 42, 34, 29, and 45, with supplementary numbers 14 and 18. Across Australia, six division one winning tickets were drawn, with three in Victoria, two in New South Wales, and one in Queensland.

The national total of division one winners for the financial year has reached 344, with 86 of those winners residing in Queensland. In 2024, 149 millionaires were created across Australia through the Saturday draw, total winnings exceeding $400.2 million.

Published Date 31-March-2025

Springfield Lakes Opens Ash Barty Playground for Local Families

Photo Credit: MPDavidCrisafulli/ Facebook

A new playground, designed in collaboration with tennis legend Ash Barty, opened in Springfield Lakes. It offers the community a unique space with tennis-themed features and nature play areas.

A Playground for the Community

The Ash Barty Playground, a project funded by the Queensland Government with $525,000, is now open to the public. The park, located at 58 Scoparia Drive in Brookwater, was created through a partnership between the government, Ipswich City Council, Springfield City Group, and Ash Barty herself.

The former world number one tennis player was involved in the design process, ensuring the playground reflected her connection to the local area and her passion for encouraging children to be active.

Tennis and Nature Combined

The playground features a half-court and rebound wall with a painted tennis net, allowing children to practice their tennis skills. Beyond the tennis elements, the park includes a dry creek bed and nature play equipment, providing diverse play options. Looped pathways, designed to resemble a tennis ball when viewed from above, connect the various areas of the playground.

The paths are lined with pine trees, each accompanied by a story, and the playground also offers new shade structures, seating, and ample greenery to create a welcoming atmosphere.

A Tribute to a Local Hero

Officials said that Ash Barty preferred a playground for the community rather than a statue to honour her achievements. The Minister for Sport stated that the playground acknowledges her sporting career and status as a respected Queenslander. He further commented that Barty’s humility and connection to her roots were evident in her request.

The Ipswich Mayor noted that the playground will inspire local children to participate in sports. Barty expressed her fondness for Springfield Lakes and her satisfaction in contributing to a space that families can enjoy. Ash Barty, the Minister for Sport Tim Mander, and Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding attended the official opening of the playground. The playground officially opened on 2025 March 24.

Published Date 24-March-2025

Springfield Lakes Anticipates New Monthly Market with Local Produce and Crafts

Photo Credit: Springfield City Group

Springfield Lakes residents eagerly await the start of the Robelle Domain Parklands Market in April 2025, where you will find fresh produce, tasty food, and unique handcrafted items, all within a short stroll from the scenic lagoon.

Future Community Gathering Spot

Springfield Lakes Anticipates New Monthly Market with Local Produce and Crafts — *Photo Credit:* *Springfield Markets/ Facebook*

The Robelle Domain Parklands Markets are set to become a popular community gathering spot. They will allow locals to support small businesses and enjoy a relaxed Sunday outing.

Market organisers are preparing a variety of stalls, ensuring there will be something for everyone, from those seeking fresh fruit and vegetables to those looking for a special gift or a delicious meal. The location near the Robelle Domain Lagoon is expected to create a pleasant atmosphere for shopping and socialising.

Variety of Future Stalls

Starting in April 2025, visitors to the market can expect to explore a range of stalls, including food trucks serving diverse cuisines, vendors selling seasonal produce and artisan goods, and craftspeople displaying their handmade creations.

The market organisers emphasise the importance of supporting local producers and artisans and encourage residents to come and discover the unique items on offer. The market aims to provide a platform for small businesses to showcase their products and connect with the community.

Market Dates and Times

The Robelle Domain Parklands Markets will be held on the first Sunday of each month, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, at 155 Southern Cross Circuit, Springfield Central, starting April 6, 2025. The confirmed market dates for 2025 are 6 April, 4 May, 1 June, 6 July, 3 August, 7 September, 5 October, 2 November, and 7 December.

Published Date 18-March-2025

Free Aqua Fitness Draws Crowds to Orion Lagoon at Springfield Lakes

Photo Credit: Orion Lagoon/ Facebook

Want a refreshing way to get fit? Experience the buzz at Orion Lagoon! The free aqua aerobics program is now making waves, with many people already loving the accessible exercise, demonstrating a strong community interest in accessible exercise.

Community Engagement and Program Details

Free Aqua Fitness Draws Crowds to Orion Lagoon at Springfield Lakes — *Photo Credit:* *Orion Lagoon/ Facebook*

The Ipswich City Council has expanded its Active and Healthy Program to include weekly aqua fitness sessions at the popular Orion Lagoon. This initiative aims to provide residents of all ages and abilities with a low-impact exercise option. The program’s rapid growth from 40 participants in its first week to 120 in the second indicates its significant appeal.

Council representatives state that the program builds on the success of similar aqua fitness classes held at other council pools in Goodna, Bundamba, and Leichhardt. They emphasise the importance of sport and recreation in fostering a healthy and connected community.

Orion Lagoon’s Features and Accessibility

Orion Lagoon, located within Orion Springfield Central and the Robelle Domain parklands, offers a range of interconnected pools designed to cater to diverse age groups and swimming abilities. The lagoon features shallow pools suitable for toddlers, deeper sections for more experienced swimmers, and areas with interactive water features.

The facility operates with seasonal opening hours: from 5:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during summer (September to April) and from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during winter (April to August). Adults must actively supervise children under 13 at all times, and security personnel are present on-site. The lagoon provides amenities such as lockers, shaded areas, and a barbecue pavilion, with nearby cafes and dining options. Permitted flotation devices are limited to small kickboards and child flotation aids.

Feedback and Impact

Council representatives have reported receiving positive feedback from attendees, noting the diverse range of participants, including mothers with young children, elderly citizens, and those new to water-based activities.

The program is part of a broader initiative registering over 8,000 Ipswich residents. It offers a variety of free and low-cost physical fitness and wellness classes. The council states that the program aims to improve health outcomes while bringing the community together.

Published Date 12-March-2025

Springfield Lakes on Alert as Tropical Cyclone Alfred Approaches

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a developing story. | Photo Credit: Bureau of Meteorology

Residents of Springfield Lakes and surrounding areas face the prospect of life-threatening floods as Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to bring up to 700mm of rain and gale-force winds, potentially making landfall near Brisbane.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for the region, expecting intense rainfall and gale-force winds that could bring down trees and cause flash flooding.

Here’s what’s going on as Brisbane prepares for Cyclone Alfred:

RECOVERY CENTRES AND SANDBAGS REOPENING

Transport

All CityCat and ferry services have been suspended until further notice.
The Story Bridge footpaths will be closed from 5.30pm Wednesday 5 March until further notice.
Bus services will be suspended from the last service on Wednesday 5 March until further notice.

Weather Warnings and Forecasts

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts that Alfred will approach the coast, bringing with it the possibility of 200 to 400 millimetres of rain in some areas. A cyclone watch, the first in New South Wales since 1990, has been issued, highlighting the severity of the expected conditions.

The bureau has indicated that the storm’s most intense period will likely occur on Friday and continue into Saturday, when the cyclone is expected to land. Residents should expect gale-force winds, potentially exceeding 90 kilometres per hour in gusts, beginning Wednesday evening and increasing in intensity over the following days.

The risk of tidal surges and coastal hazards is also significant, particularly for southern Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Community Preparedness and Safety Measures

*Free green waste tipping at the Chandler Resource Recovery Center.*

Local authorities are urging residents of Springfield Lakes and nearby communities to take immediate steps to prepare for the cyclone. They have stressed the importance of staying informed through official channels, such as the Bureau of Meteorology’s tracking map and local council disaster dashboards.

Residents are advised to develop emergency plans, assemble emergency kits with supplies for at least three days, and understand the meaning of weather warnings. Psychological preparation is also crucial, with resources available to help manage stress and anxiety during severe weather events.

Effective immediately, Brisbane’s CityCat and ferry services will be suspended as a preventative measure to secure vessels ahead of the storm’s arrival. Flood watches exist for catchments and rivers across Queensland and New South Wales.

Impact on Local Services and Infrastructure

Springfield Lakes on Alert as Tropical Cyclone Alfred Approaches — *Photo Credit:* *Bureau of Meteorology/ Facebook*

The potential impact of Cyclone Alfred extends beyond immediate weather hazards. Road closures are possible, and residents are advised to check QldTraffic for up-to-date information. Schools may also face closures, and updates will be provided through official channels.

The disruption of ferry services in Brisbane highlights the potential for widespread disruption to local transportation. The rescue of a Lithuanian rower off the Queensland coast, who was caught in the cyclone’s strong winds, is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the storm.

Staying Informed

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for Brisbane City Council’s Severe Weather Alerts and accessing the council’s Emergency Dashboard for up-to-date weather warnings.

Please note: enclosed shoes must be worn at all Council sandbag stations. A maximum of 10 bags per vehicle is allowed.

As of 4-March-2025. Please monitor the BCC site for updates.

Published Date 03-March-2025. Updates ongoing continuously.

Photo Credit: Bureau of Meteorology

Springfield Lakes Residents Mobilise for Annual Clean Up Australia Day

Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Cleanup/ Youtube

Springfield Lakes residents have answered the call to action, joining the mission of Clean Up Australia to combat litter and safeguard the environment.

Community Effort in Springfield Lakes

*Photo Credit:* *Springfield Lakes Nature Care Cleanup/ Youtube*

Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc., a group dedicated to preserving local parklands and waterways, is organising the annual Clean Up Australia Day event at Discovery Parkland. The group, affiliated with Queensland Water and Land Carers (QWaLC), aims to foster environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices within the community. The event will focus on removing litter from Discovery and Regatta Lakes, addressing the significant issue of plastic pollution that threatens marine life.

Volunteers are encouraged to participate, with registration available online and on the day at the Discovery Parkland carpark. Residents who wish to clean up their streets can also register and receive rubbish collection bags and gloves. Kayak and canoe owners can launch their vessels from the Regatta Lake pontoon to participate in the water-based clean-up effort.

Environmental Impact and Awareness

Springfield Lakes Residents Mobilise for Annual Clean Up Australia Day — *Photo Credit:* *Springfield Lakes Nature Care Cleanup/ Youtube*

The organisers stress the importance of preventing litter from entering waterways, highlighting the long-lasting harm of plastic waste. They state that plastic breaks down into micro pieces, entering the food chain and endangering marine animals. The event aims to contribute to keeping Moreton Bay and the wider coastline clean.

Participants are advised to wear sun-protective clothing and closed-in shoes and, if possible, bring their own water bottles, garden gloves, and litter grabbers. Disposable gloves will be provided, and morning tea will be served after the clean-up.

National Movement and History

Clean Up Australia Day is a nationwide initiative that began in 1990. Inspired by Ian Kiernan’s concern over ocean pollution, the organisation has grown into a well-known environmental charity that provides practical solutions for sustainable living.

It works with communities, governments, and businesses to tackle waste management and environmental protection. The organisation aims to remove existing rubbish and prevent future accumulation of waste.

The Clean up Australia Day event will be held on Sunday, 2 March 2025, from 7:30 AM to 10:30 A.M. AEST, at Discovery Parkland, 180 Springfield Lakes Boulevard Carpark, Springfield Lakes, QLD 4300, Australia.

Published Date 24-Feb-2025

Springfield Lakes Battling Invasive Aquatic Weed

Photo Credit: MPCharisMullen/ Facebook

Springfield Lakes residents are facing a significant outbreak of salvinia, an invasive aquatic weed that has rapidly spread across the local lakes. This raises concerns about the ecosystem and prompts action from local authorities.

The Spread of Salvinia

Springfield Lakes Battling Invasive Aquatic Weed — *Photo Credit:* *Springfield Lakes Nature Care/ Facebook*

The rapid growth of salvinia in Springfield Lakes has become a major concern for residents and local authorities. Many residents have reported that the current level of infestation is the worst they have seen in years, with some who have lived in the area for nearly two decades stating they have never witnessed anything like it. The weed now covers a large portion of the lake’s surface, impacting its appearance and potentially harming aquatic life.

Community Concerns and Observations

Residents have expressed worries about the long-term effects of the salvinia on the lake’s health. They are concerned that the thick weed growth could deplete oxygen levels in the water, harming fish and other aquatic creatures. Some residents have also noticed an increase in mosquitoes, likely due to the stagnant water created by the dense weed cover.

Beyond the immediate environmental concerns, residents also point to what they feel is a wider decline in the upkeep of the lake area. Dying fig trees near Moselles, overgrown walkways, and a perceived general lack of maintenance have all been raised as issues by the community. There is also concern that the Salvinia may have been inadvertently introduced or exacerbated by previous weed removal efforts, with some residents suggesting that equipment used in the lake may have transferred the weed from other locations.

Action from Stockland Springfield Rise

Stockland Springfield Rise, the entity responsible for maintaining the lakes, has acknowledged the severity of the situation. They have announced plans for a significant mechanical removal of the salvinia in the coming weeks. This is not the first time Stockland has taken such action, and past efforts have resulted in noticeable improvements.

However, Salvinia’s invasive nature makes it a persistent problem. Because the lakes are connected to a larger catchment system, rain events can wash more weed into Springfield Lakes from upstream, making complete eradication extremely difficult. In addition to the planned mechanical removal, Stockland Springfield Rise has stated that their team will conduct weekly spray treatments and hand removal of the weed, focusing on the most severely affected areas. They also closely monitor the lakes and investigate the most effective long-term control methods.

The battle against salvinia in Springfield Lakes is likely to be ongoing. While mechanical removal and other control measures can temporarily relieve the weed’s ability to spread and regenerate, constant vigilance and maintenance are required.

The community is hopeful that the planned removal will make a significant difference and that Stockland Springfield Rise will implement a more proactive approach to managing the weed in the future, including potentially addressing the inflowing streams.

Published Date 21-Feb-2025

Springfield Lakes Hotel Investment Opportunity Attracts Interest

Photo Credit: Google Map

A prime hotel investment opportunity has emerged in Springfield Lakes. The Quest Springfield Central is being offered for sale and is expected to fetch offers from $30 million.

Prime Location in Growing Hub

Springfield Lakes Hotel Investment Opportunity Attracts Interest — *Photo Credit:* *Google Map*

The 82-room, four-star apartment hotel, completed in 2018, occupies a 2,795sqm site within Springfield Central’s thriving business, health, and education precinct.

The property also includes three additional tenancies. Its location within the Health City district is directly opposite the Mater Private Hospital and adjacent to the soon-to-be-completed 174-bed public hospital, positioning it to capitalise on the area’s expanding healthcare sector. The hotel also benefits from its proximity to new sporting infrastructure, including the Brisbane Lions AFL sports centre.

Strong Investment Fundamentals

Savills Australia and New Zealand are handling the sale. Savills representatives noted the rarity of this offering, emphasising the strength and security provided by the Quest brand and the existing long-term leases. They stated Springfield Central has become a key hub for business, education, and healthcare, driving consistent demand for quality accommodation.

They further highlighted the long-term income stream of three robust leases and the established Quest franchise model as attractive features for investors.

Expressions of Interest Campaign

The Quest Springfield Central is being offered for sale via an Expressions of Interest campaign, closing on Friday, 14 March at 2:00 1 PM (AEDT).

Published Date 20-Feb-2025