Tag: Springfield Lakes

Tennis Star Ash Barty Shares Heartwarming Family News from Springfield

Former tennis champion Ash Barty, who resides in the Greater Springfield region, has announced she is expecting her second child, further embracing her family-focused lifestyle while continuing to contribute to the local community.

Read: Springfield Lakes Community Stands Behind Brisbane Lions’ Aaron Shattock After Gold Coast Accident

A Growing Family in Springfield

On Christmas Day, Ms Barty shared the joyous news of her growing family through a social media post featuring her 18-month-old son Hayden wearing a shirt reading, “I am going to be a big brother.” 

The 28-year-old, who retired from professional tennis in 2022, lives with her husband Garry Kissick in Brookwater, an exclusive neighbourhood within Greater Springfield.

Ms Barty’s decision to settle in the area reflects her strong ties to the community where she grew up. Since retiring, she has chosen a quieter life close to nature while raising her family. In a recent interview, she emphasised her love for the local lifestyle, describing the region as a perfect place for her family to grow.

Life After Tennis: Community and Creativity

Though retired from the sport, Ms Barty remains deeply involved in tennis and broader community initiatives.

Ash Barty
Photo Credit: Ash Barty/Instagram

As Tennis Australia’s National Indigenous Tennis Ambassador, she works to inspire Indigenous youth to explore opportunities in the sport.

Earlier, she established the Ash Barty Foundation, which uses sport and education to empower young Australians. Her foundation will be a key presence at the Brisbane International’s charity showcase on 29 December, where she will participate alongside tennis legend Pat Rafter.

Beyond her ambassadorial work, Ms Barty has authored a memoir titled “My Dream Time” and released a series of children’s books, “Little Ash,” aimed at encouraging young readers. These creative pursuits reflect her commitment to making a lasting impact beyond tennis.

Ash Barty
Photo Credit: Ash Barty/Instagram

In addition to her investments in Springfield, Barty recently purchased a $2.52 million beachfront apartment in Palm Beach, Queensland, which will serve as a family holiday retreat when construction is completed in 2025.

Read: Almost Ready! Springfield Greenbank Arterial Upgrade Enters Final Stages

Published 26-Dec-2024

Mother’s Heartbreaking Loss in Ipswich Sparks Sophie’s Law Discussions

Photo Credit: Haylee Loccisano/Facebook

Haylee Loccisano’s life was forever changed after a head-on collision in Ipswich claimed the life of her unborn daughter, Celeste. 

Read: Springfield Lakes Community Stands Behind Brisbane Lions’ Aaron Shattock After Gold Coast Accident

The incident occurred on Ipswich-Boonah Road when a 17-year-old driver veered into oncoming traffic. The accident, which left Ms Loccisano critically injured, has reignited conversations around Sophie’s Law, the state’s legislation recognising unborn children lost due to criminal offences.

A Tragic Event on Ipswich-Boonah Road

On 16 May 2024, Ms Loccisano, 26 weeks pregnant, was travelling with her mother near Ipswich. The crash occurred when the teen driver, reportedly distracted by a passenger’s phone, crossed double white lines and collided with Ms Loccisano’s vehicle. Despite emergency efforts, her unborn daughter could not be saved following an emergency C-section.

Ms Loccisano suffered life-threatening injuries, spending a week in a coma and undergoing eight surgeries. The crash left her reflecting on how her life had changed forever in an instant as she travelled at 100 km/h and saw the approaching car fail to round the corner. The impact of the accident and subsequent coma left doctors unable to assure her family of her survival. She expressed profound heartbreak over losing her daughter Celeste, describing how her suffering would have been bearable if her child had survived, but instead, she now faces a long recovery while physically impaired and grieving her loss.”

Sophie’s Law and Its Significance

Sophie’s Law Ipswich
Photo Credit: Pexels

The death of unborn infants in criminal occurrences is recognised as an aggravating factor in punishment under Sophie’s Law, which was passed in 2023. Sophie Milosevic, an unborn child killed in a drunk driving crash in 2014, inspired the law’s name.

The teen driver in Ms Loccisano’s case became one of the first individuals sentenced under Sophie’s Law. In 2024 November, she received 100 hours of community service and a six-month driving disqualification. No custodial sentence was imposed due to her age, remorse, and inexperience.

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington has acknowledged the community’s concerns regarding the sentencing under Sophie’s Law. She has stated that further legal advice is being sought to ensure that penalties align with the gravity of such incidents and meet public expectations.

Community Sentiment and Reactions

Haylee Loccisano calls for stronger penalties for Sophie's law
Photo Credit: Haylee Loccisano/Instagram

Ms Loccisano has said publicly how devastated and disappointed she is with the punishment decision, saying that it was not enough for the like that was taken away from her. She called Celeste a “miracle baby” following four prior miscarriages and said in a victim impact statement that the loss was incalculable.

Sophie’s Law proponents Sarah and Peter Milosevic agreed, claiming the penalty was insufficient for the seriousness of the offence. Concerns have also been raised by the community regarding the light punishments for crimes that result in such severe losses.

Renewed Calls for Stricter Penalties

The case has sparked discussions about strengthening legal responses to reckless driving incidents, particularly those resulting in fatalities. Advocates are urging policymakers to revisit sentencing guidelines under Sophie’s Law to ensure justice for victims and deter dangerous behaviour on the roads.

Moving Forward

As Ms Loccisano continues her recovery, she remains committed to honouring her daughter’s memory and advocating for greater accountability under Sophie’s Law. The tragedy has highlighted ongoing challenges in balancing legal reforms with considerations of age and intent in sentencing.

Haylee Loccisano remains committed to advocating for Sophie's Law
Photo Credit: Haylee Loccisano/Instagram

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

For the Ipswich community, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of distracted driving and the importance of robust laws to protect lives.

Published 24-Dec-2024

Springfield Lakes Community Stands Behind Brisbane Lions’ Aaron Shattock After Gold Coast Accident

Photo Credit: Brisbane Lions/Facebook

Aaron Shattock, a celebrated former Brisbane Lions player with ties to Springfield Lakes, is in critical condition following a serious accident at his Gold Coast property. 

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

Brisbane Lions Aaron Shattock
Photo Credits: AFL Queensland

Mr Shattock, recognised for his contribution to the Lions’ 2002 AFL Grand Final victory, was involved in an incident while operating an excavator on the afternoon of 22 December. The machinery rolled over, resulting in him being trapped beneath it.

Emergency crews arrived at the Worongary property at approximately 12:50 p.m., responding swiftly to the situation. A 44-year-old father of three was rescued using hydraulic tools and subsequently transported to Gold Coast University Hospital due to life-threatening chest injuries. Mr Shattock continues to be in intensive care, currently in an induced coma, as the community remains on edge, eagerly anticipating updates regarding his health status.

Springfield Lakes: The Lions’ Home Ground Connection

Mr Shattock has ties to Springfield Lakes due to his previous involvement with the Brisbane Lions, whose training and administration facility is situated in that suburb. The Brighton Homes Arena stands as a significant emblem of the club’s connection to the local community.

Michael Voss, the former captain of the Lions and a teammate of Mr Shattock during the team’s premiership years, expressed profound devastation regarding the situation. He characterised it as challenging to understand, particularly due to its occurrence so near the Christmas holiday.

In a show of solidarity, he conveyed sincere support, highlighting that the thoughts and prayers of the entire community are directed towards Mr Shattock and his family as they navigate this difficult period.

Mr Shattock’s enduring connection with the Labrador Tigers Football Club underscores his dedication to the sport, as he has taken on roles as a player, coach, and committee member following his retirement from the AFL. A statement from the club has described Mr Shattock as “dearly loved,” while offering “thoughts, love, and prayers to the Shattock family during this challenging time.”

Details of the Gold Coast Tragedy

Aaron Shattock Gold Coast Accident
Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

QAS has confirmed that Mr Shattock was engaged in work on his property at the time of the incident. Paramedics were quick to the scene, employing hydraulic equipment to lift the excavator and successfully free the individual trapped beneath it. The forensic crash unit of QPS is currently looking into the details of the incident.

In a notable AFL career, Mr Shattock participated in 68 games representing both the Brisbane Lions and Port Adelaide. His contributions included a significant role in the Lions’ victory in the 2002 Grand Final against Collingwood. Following his tenure in the AFL, he transitioned to a prominent role with the Labrador Tigers, where he assumed leadership responsibilities and garnered respect in both athletic and community circles.

Support Pours In for Mr Shattock and His Family

Support has surged within the AFL community and among fans throughout the region for Mr Shattock and his family. Messages of encouragement and solidarity have proliferated across social media platforms. Labrador Tigers life member Nick McGuire has praised Mr Shattock, calling him “a pillar of the club.” McGuire highlighted Mr Shattock’s significant contributions as both a coach and a father figure within the football community.

Close friend Todd Featherstone praised Mr Shattock, stating he is “one of the great guys—not only as a teammate but as a person.”

In a recent statement, the Brisbane Lions expressed their ongoing support, with a club spokesperson highlighting Mr Shattock’s significant contributions to both the club and the broader AFL community.

Aaron Shattock Former Brisbane Lions Player Accident
Photo Credit: Brisbane Lions

A Life of Dedication and Impact

Mr Shattock was drafted in 1998 and made his debut in 2000, which was a big move for the Brisbane Lions. He rapidly became a pivotal figure during the team’s prosperous era in the early 2000s. Following his retirement from the AFL in 2006, he committed himself to the Labrador Tigers Football Club, where he assumed various roles including player, captain, coach, and committee member.

Mr Shattock has made significant contributions that reach beyond the playing field, actively participating in the club’s renovation efforts and the development of junior players, highlighting his commitment to fostering future talent.

The Road to Recovery

As Mr Shattock remains in intensive care, messages of support and hope continue to pour in from the Springfield Lakes and broader AFL communities. Authorities are currently awaiting updates on his condition as investigations into the accident continue to unfold.

Read: Almost Ready! Springfield Greenbank Arterial Upgrade Enters Final Stages

The AFL community and the residents of Springfield Lakes are coming together in support of Mr Shattock, emphasising the significant influence he has had in both his athletic career and his community involvement.

Published-23-Dec-2024

Fast but Focused: How Athletics Australia Supports Gout Gout

Global athletics leaders and Australian officials are urging caution in managing the expectations surrounding Ipswich Grammar’s 16-year-old sprint phenom Gout Gout, even as the young star continues to break records and draw comparisons to Olympic legends.

Read: Industrial Action Threatens Waste Collection for Thousands in Ipswich

Managing great expectations

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe has emerged as a leading voice advocating for measured development of the teenage sprinter. “He is clearly talented, but there is a bit of realism here as well,” Coe emphasises. The former Olympic champion points to a sobering statistic: the majority of junior champions never successfully transition to senior competition.

“This is a rare and precious talent that will need nurturing and protecting,” Coe added.

Gout Gout’s path forward

Athletics Australia is actively working to shield their young star from excessive pressure. Jane Flemming, Athletics Australia President, underscores the need for the teenager to lead a normal life. “You can imagine at the moment he’s going to have every sporting code, every agent, every commercial entity, they’ll all be chasing him and he hasn’t even finished year 11,” Flemming tells Sydney radio station 2GB.

The national body’s strategy involves ensuring Gout can balance his athletic development with typical teenage experiences. Under the guidance of coach Di Sheppard, the focus remains on long-term development rather than immediate success. Flemming envisions a career path that could span multiple Olympic cycles, emphasising the importance of both physical and mental well-being.

The name debate

An additional aspect of Gout’s story is an ongoing dispute over his name’s pronunciation. While his manager, James Templeton, insists on “Gout Gout,” the athlete’s father, Bona, advocates for the pronunciation “Gwot.” The discrepancy stems from an Arabic translation error during the family’s migration process to Egypt—before the sprinter’s birth in Australia.

Read: History in the Making: Gout Gout and Ipswich Grammar

Despite the careful tempering of expectations, Gout’s achievements speak volumes. His recent 20.04-second performance in the 200m at the Australian All Schools Athletics Championships places him among the world’s elite junior sprinters.

As Athletics Australia works to protect and nurture this rare talent, the focus remains on ensuring the phenom reaches his 30s “in good physical and mental shape,” as Flemming puts it, potentially setting the stage for a long and successful career in international athletics.

Published 19-December-2024

Springfield Lakes Drivers to Benefit from New Turning Lanes and Roadside Improvements

Springfield Lakes residents and other motorists will benefit from major safety improvements recently completed along a 14-kilometre stretch of the Brisbane Valley Highway.

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

The upgrades, which focus on the section between the Warrego Highway and Fernvale, are designed to reduce the risk of head-on and run-off-road crashes.

The Queensland Government fully funded the $14.4 million project through its Targeted Road Safety Program. This investment addressed the recent increase in serious accidents on this busy route.

Improving Safety for All Road Users

Springfield Lakes
Photo Credit: QLD Government

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) oversaw the project, which included a range of safety enhancements.  One of the key changes is the introduction of a “wide centre-line treatment”. This means the space between lanes of oncoming traffic has been increased, giving drivers more room for error and reducing the chance of head-on collisions.

To improve safety further, dedicated right and left-turn lanes have been added at key intersections, including Ironbark Road, Borallon Station Road, and Glamorgan Vale Road. These lanes help control traffic flow and make it easier for drivers to turn safely without disrupting other vehicles.

Reducing Roadside Hazards

The project also focused on removing potential hazards along the roadside.  This involved clearing vegetation and installing guardrails to protect vehicles from leaving the road.  Minor improvements were also made to the bus stop at James Street, and a new police enforcement bay was constructed south of Glamorgan Vale Road to assist the Queensland Police Service in monitoring the highway.

Project Delivered in Stages

Springfield Lakes
Photo Credit: QLD Government

The safety upgrades were completed in two stages. The first section, a 5.5-kilometre stretch between Bayley Road and Sandy Creek, is finished.  Final sealing works on this section will be done in late 2023 when the warmer weather provides optimal conditions. The second package of work, covering the remaining distance between Sandy Creek and Fernvale, is currently underway and expected to be finished by late 2024.

Read: Springfield Lakes Woman’s ‘Amazing’ $100 Skip Bin Find Highlights Rise of Desperate Aussie Trend

Scott Whitaker, North Coast Regional Director for the Department of Transport and Main Roads, highlighted the importance of these upgrades. He explained that the wide centre-line treatment is a proven method for reducing head-on collisions, significantly improving safety for the more than 10,000 motorists who use this section of the Brisbane Valley Highway daily.

Published Date 16-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

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.

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

Stephen K Amos Headlines Springlake Hotel Comedy Night

Get ready for a belly-aching night of laughs, Springfield Lakes! The Springlake Hotel is rolling out the red carpet this November for the internationally acclaimed master of wit, Stephen K Amos, in a show that’s guaranteed to leave you in stitches.

Read: Carseldine Markets to Host Dog-Centric Barktoberfest

Photo Credit: Supplied

Amos, a multitalented performer known for his BAFTA-nominated work, RTS award-winning writing, and recent appearance on “I’m A Celebrity Australia,” will showcase his new show, “Oxymoron,” at the Springlake Hotel on Wednesday, 6 November 2924. 

Amos, a regular on the international comedy circuit, has charmed audiences worldwide with his natural delivery, honest material, and knack for audience interaction. 

His unique comedic voice and impressive acting skills have garnered critical acclaim, solidifying his position as one of Britain’s most beloved comedians.

Photo Credit: Supplied

This comedy highlight is part of a broader trend of Queensland pubs becoming hotspots for top-tier comedy this spring. Alongside Amos’s Brisbane shows, Australian comedy favourites Dilruk Jayasinha and Lizzy Hoo will bring their split-bill act to two pubs in North Queensland. 

The Springlake Hotel reopened late last year after a multi-million dollar renovation. It now features an inviting pub focusing on entertainment and casual dining, the ideal venue for Stephen to showcase his new show.

buy tickets

Read: Trent Dalton Brings Bracken Ridge to the Bookshelves

Comedy fans across Queensland are spoilt for choice this spring, with a diverse range of comedic talent set to grace the stages of local pubs. 

Whether it’s the internationally renowned humour of Stephen K Amos or the homegrown hilarity of Dilruk Jayasinha and Lizzy Hoo, there’s something to tickle everyone’s funny bone.

Published Date 14-October-2024

Comedy Star Stephen K Amos to Perform at Newly Renovated Springlake Hotel

Internationally acclaimed comedian Stephen K Amos is bringing his hilarious new show “Oxymoron” to the recently renovated Springlake Hotel, scheduled for Wednesday, November 6th at 7:30 PM.

Photo Credit: Supplied

Read: New Mater Public Hospital in Springfield: A Boost for Healthcare and Real Estate

Photo Credit: Supplied

The BAFTA-nominated and RTS award-winning comedian, fresh from his stint on “I’m A Celebrity Australia,” will be gracing the stage of the Springlake Hotel, which reopened late last year after undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. The venue, now boasting a focus on entertainment and casual dining, provides an ideal setting for Amos’s comedic talents.

Photo Credit: Supplied

This event is part of a larger comedy initiative bringing top-tier talent to Queensland pubs. While Amos will be performing at two other Brisbane venues, the Springlake Hotel show offers a unique opportunity for Springfield Lakes locals to enjoy world-class comedy in their own backyard.

Tickets for the show are priced at $44.90, and given Amos’s popularity, early booking is strongly advised. The intimate setting of the pub promises an up-close and personal experience with one of the UK’s most celebrated comedians.

get your tickets here!

Read: Lions vs Bulldogs: Brisbane Host Footscray in Mid-Week Clash

As the comedy scene in Queensland pubs heats up this spring, the Springlake Hotel’s hosting of Stephen K Amos stands out as a must-see event for comedy enthusiasts in Springfield Lakes.

Published 25-September-2024

Underdog Taymon Kenton-Smith Captures Hearts, Finishes in Fourth in Para Archery

Although he finished fourth in the recurve open competition, Springfield Lakes para archer Taymon Kenton-Smith emerged as an unexpected star in Paris 2024. Kenton-Smith captured attention with his vibrant persona, colourful hairstyle, and impressive performances against top-ranked opponents, quickly becoming a crowd favourite.

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

Taymon Kenton-Smith, giant-killer

Ranked 21st in the world, Kenton-Smith showcased his remarkable skill by defeating several higher-ranked competitors. He eliminated world No. 1 Samuel Molina of Mexico and overcame world No. 4 and No. 7 ranked archers, advancing to the semi-finals before finishing fourth. 

“I didn’t just go up against the best in the world. I beat them,” Kenton-Smith proudly declared after running a tough gauntlet.

A colourful personality

While Kenton-Smith’s performances on the field were awe-inspiring, his presence off the field was equally striking. At the historic Esplanade des Invalides venue, he stood out with his green and gold hair, a bucket hat adorned with a wedge-tailed eagle feather, and a stuffed kangaroo by his side. 

Between rounds, he energised the crowd, dancing to the venue’s music and encouraging audience participation, which quickly endeared him to spectators.

Kenton-Smith’s journey has always been about more than just competition. At 14, he promised his grandmother she would one day see him compete in the Paralympics. Although she passed away before his debut in Tokyo, her memory continues to motivate him. 

“That promise was what drove me [there],” Taymon reflected.

Read: L’Oréal Opens First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

After his individual event, Kenton-Smith participated in the mixed team event with teammate Amanda Jennings, where they secured a ninth-place finish.

Despite missing out on a medal, Kenton-Smith remains upbeat. “I came here to win and I won the crowd, so that’s definitely something. I will never be forgotten, I’m pretty sure about that.”

Published 08-September-2024

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