Tag: Springfield Lakes

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

Lions vs Kangaroos: AFLW Grand Final Rivals Meet in Season Opener at Brighton Homes Arena

The Brisbane Lions Women are set to kick off their 2024 AFLW season and title defence with a grand final rematch against North Melbourne on Sunday, 1 September. Lions vs Kangaroos kick off 3:05 p.m. at the Brighton Homes Arena.

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

Lions vs Kangaroos

The Lions enter the match with an impressive record against the Kangaroos, having won all five of their previous encounters since North Melbourne joined the competition in 2019.

Despite the flawless record, each game has been a closely fought contest, underscoring the intensity of their rivalry. This perfect record stands out, as the Kangaroos have managed to defeat their sixteen other opponents in their short AFLW history.

Courtney Hodder, known for her explosive speed and relentless pressure, is set to play her 50th AFLW game, bringing her dynamic play to the Lions’ lineup. Dakota Davidson, who has consistently scored against North Melbourne, will be aiming to add to her tally of five goals in this matchup.

The Lions also welcome back Kate Lutkins, a foundation player and three-time All-Australian, who returns after missing last season due to the birth of her daughter. Lutkins’ last appearance for the Lions was in the 2022 Grand Final.

A new face in the pride

Shanae Davison, who joined the Lions from West Coast after a standout season, is set to make her debut for the Lions. Known for her outside run and precise ball use, Davison has impressed during the preseason and earned her spot in the lineup.

Coach Craig Starcevich has high expectations for Davison, praising her as a “great runner” with “silky skills,” capable of making an impact across multiple positions, whether at half-back, wing, or half-forward.

Read: L’Oréal Opens First Queensland Warehouse in Ipswich

As the Lions prepare to defend their title, the match against North Melbourne presents an early test of their championship mettle. A victory in this grand final rematch would not only continue their dominance over the Kangaroos but also signal their intent to remain at the top of the AFLW.

Published 31-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

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

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

Springfield Lakes’ para-archer Taymon Kenton-Smith is not just competing; he’s redefining what it means to be a Paralympian. Born with a partial left hand, Kenton-Smith embraces the mantra, “half the hand, twice the effort.”

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

A promise to keep

His journey in archery began at the tender age of six, setting the foundation for a career marked by determination and resilience.

At 14, Kenton-Smith made a pivotal promise to his grandmother that she would see him compete at a Paralympic Games. This promise became the driving force in his athletic journey, propelling him toward his ultimate goal.

Kenton-Smith’s Paralympic debut at Tokyo 2020 realised his long-held promise at age 27. Competing in the men’s individual recurve event, he secured 18th position and was eliminated in the 1/16 Elimination Round. Despite the early exit, Kenton-Smith expressed pride in fulfilling his promise and representing Australia on the world stage.

Teaming up with fellow debutant Imalia Oktrininda, Kenton-Smith also competed in the Open Mixed Team Recurve 1/8 Elimination. While the pair didn’t progress to the quarter-finals, the experience proved invaluable for the Paralympian.

Overcoming self-doubt and honouring his Nanna

However, Kenton-Smith’s journey wasn’t always smooth. Behind his achievements lies a battle with self-doubt.

“There were naysayers everywhere, and the biggest naysayer was the person looking at me in the mirror every day,” he admits. This self-awareness has shaped his approach to competition and training.

To honour his grandmother, Kenton-Smith has an Agitos–the Paralympic symbol–tattooed on his forearm. The tattoo includes a flaming arrow with the words “Thank you Nanna,” a tribute to the woman who drove him to greatness in more ways than one.

Taymon Kenton-Smith in Paris and beyond

Kenton-Smith’s Paris schedule is as follows:
Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round: 29 August, 9:00 p.m.
Elimination: 4 September, 5:00 p.m.
Quarterfinal to Final: 5 September, 1:30 a.m.

Afterwards, he’ll be joined by multi-sport athlete Amanda Jennings in the mixed team portion:
Mixed Team Recurve Open Elimination: 5 September, 6:00 p.m.
Medal Rounds: 6 September, 1:15 a.m.

What drives him now is a vision beyond just winning medals. While Taymon is training hard for Paris 2024, his motivation extends beyond Paralympic glory; he routinely speaks on behalf of both the Paralympics and Archery Australia at various panels and public speeches, endorsing the great sport of para-archery.

As  Brisbane 2032 approaches, Taymon is not just training for his events but is also actively shaping the future of the sport through his advocacy and mentorship.

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

In Paris 2024, Kenton-Smith stands as a strong contender in Australia’s six-member archery squad. With 160 athletes across 17 sports, the Paralympic team represents a blend of experience and fresh talent.

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

Published 12-August-2024

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

A 37-year-old autistic man is relearning basic skills and trying to thrive in life after being viciously attacked by youths during an evening walk near the Ashleigh Barty Tennis Court in Springfield Lakes.

Read: Sight-Saving Surgery in Springfield Transforms Lives of First Nations People

The Incident

On 26 March,  Benjamin Cant was found by a security guard in a pool of blood near the Ashleigh Barty Tennis Court. The attack left him with severe injuries, including a caved-in head, shattered face, brain damage, punctured lung, and broken ribs.

Mr Cant remained in a coma for several months following the assault. His recovery has been marked by multiple surgeries, including eight neurosurgeries, as well as brain infections and seizures. Doctors had to remove pieces of his skull and install a permanent brain shunt to prevent further damage.

Mr Cant has begun the challenging process of relearning to walk and talk. He recently spoke his first words using a voice box and ate his first meal of mashed vegetables on 26 July, though he still relies on a feeding tube.

Benjamin Cant Springfield Lakes
Photo Credit: Ella Wilesmith/Facebook

Police Investigation

Following a public appeal for information, police have charged a 14-year-old local boy with acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, personal violence, and deprivation of liberty. The teen is being held in custody pending a September court appearance. Police are continuing their investigations into the attack.

Ella Wilesmith, Mr Cant’s mother, has criticised the government’s approach to youth crime. She believes that current youth crime laws are too weak and that children need better deterrence and consequences. Ms Wilesmith emphasised the immense emotional and financial toll on victims and their families. She is scheduled to meet with Premier Steven Miles to discuss her concerns.

Read: New Report Reveals Queensland Schools with High Exclusion Rates

The incident has sparked debate about community safety and the effectiveness of current youth crime policies in Queensland.

Woman Sentenced for Serious Crash on Centenary Motorway

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A Springfield Lakes woman has been sentenced for causing a serious crash on Centenary Motorway in 2021 while attempting an illegal U-turn.

Read: New Report Reveals Queensland Schools with High Exclusion Rates

Lali Nagaraj, 53, appeared in Ipswich Magistrates Court on Tuesday, pleading guilty to dangerous operation of a vehicle. The crash on Centenary Motorway occurred on September 30, 2021, when Nagaraj, then 51, missed her usual exit due to roadworks.

The court heard that around 10:20 PM, Nagaraj stopped her car on the 100 km/h motorway and attempted a three-point turn across double white lines. Her vehicle ended up perpendicular to oncoming traffic.

An eastbound driver, travelling at approximately 90 km/h, collided with Nagaraj’s car despite attempting to brake. The victim suffered nine fractured ribs, a sternal fracture, and lacerations, resulting in a week-long hospitalisation and subsequent physiotherapy.

Read: Wimbledon Welcomes Back Springfield Tennis Legend Ash Barty

Magistrate Robert Walker acknowledged Nagaraj’s remorse, nearly clean driving record, and letter of apology. However, Nagaraj received a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and a six-month driving disqualification. Convictions were recorded.

Published 25-June-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

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

A Springfield Lakes mother has hosted a fundraising concert after her husband was diagnosed with cancer, raising over $4,500.

Read: Springfield Nurse Lisa Warburton Celebrates 15 Years of Compassionate Care

Rina Sandford, 60, organised her second fundraiser for Cancer Council after her husband Michael Sandford was diagnosed with cancer three years ago.

Michael had been going for regular blood tests every year on his birthday. His doctor noticed that his PSA number, an indicator of prostate cancer, was slightly elevated. After a series of referrals and tests, Michael’s cancer diagnosis was confirmed.

Rina’s “Kick Cancer to the Curb” concert occurred in Springfield Lakes on 1 June 2024. The event featured live band music, a photo booth, and a raffle. 

Local band Brit Beat Mania performed for free. Founder and guitarist Gary Allen, a cancer survivor himself, said the band is committed to supporting such good causes. Gary expressed the band’s dedication to helping in any way possible, highlighting the challenges cancer poses and the importance of contributing to funding for cancer research.

Local businesses donated raffle prizes, which Rina purchased using her Flybuys points. She and her husband, both retired, aimed to support the community without incurring significant personal costs. The raffle was designed to engage the community and make the event more appealing, as everyone enjoys being appreciated.

Michael was fortunate to recover quickly after surgery, thanks to the early detection by his GP. Within two months of the diagnosis, he underwent a robotic surgery that successfully removed the cancer.

Read: Dedicated Volunteer Brings Comfort to Cancer Patients in Springfield Lakes

The concert showcased the community’s support and highlighted the importance of early detection and research in fighting cancer.

Published 21-June-2024

Massive Expansion Urged for Lions’ Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield

Nearly two years after opening its doors, calls are growing to expand the hugely popular Brighton Homes Arena in Springfield to meet overwhelming demand.

Read: State-of-the-Art Brighton Homes Arena Propels Brisbane Lions Into the AFL Grand Final

The $82 million venue has attracted over 316,000 visitors since its November 2022 launch by hosting a mix of sports events, community programs, and corporate functions. 

That blockbuster debut has led to increasing calls for the Brisbane Lions to further their vision of creating a prime sporting and recreation hub for the booming western corridor.

Photo credit: Roy Fitz/Google Maps

Lions CEO Greg Swann said there have been calls to develop the sprawling site with a massive MCG-sized playing field that can be accessed by the community and nearby Hymba Yumba Independent School. Calls have also come in for additional facilities like hardcourts for the club’s wheelchair AFL team and a childcare centre.

Mr Swann said expansion would help address the lack of green space and sporting amenities in the rapidly-growing region. He explained that access to such facilities is a real challenge across Southeast Queensland, so there have been calls for the Lions to provide more community sporting areas and infrastructure in order to solidify their place in the local community.

Photo credit: Cam Young/Google Maps

The potential new playing field would significantly boost recreation opportunities, as families already flock to the arena’s existing oval daily for exercise and sports. They would see kids playing basketball onsite or people running laps.

The arena has also quickly become an events destination, hosting seven AFLW matches along with international sporting delegations from China, Japan, the US, UK, Switzerland and Papua New Guinea in the nearly two years since opening.

Mr Swann said the high attendance in that span, which exceeded their expectations, demonstrates there is pent-up demand for facilities like theirs in Springfield and Ipswich. 

Read: Townhouses with Brookwater Golf Course Access Green-Lit in Springfield

With calls intensifying to build on the arena’s runaway success, the Brisbane Lions are facing pressure to ensure their new home’s impact continues growing within the western corridor community.

Published 27-May-2024