Tag: Springfield

Gelatissimo Springfield Now Offers Limited-Edition Flavours from Around the World

Filipino Ube Cheesecake. Hawaiian Tropical Coconut. Belgian Chocolate Marble Seashells. Sample the flavours of the world through gelato at Gelatissimo Orion Springfield Central and other Gelatissimo stores across Brisbane.  

Read:  Moey’s Butcher & Grill: Largest Range of Quality Meat Opens in Springfield Lakes

Available for a limited time only,  “Flavours Around the World” brings three distinct flavours to enjoy. First on the list is their all-new Filipino Ube Cheesecake. This exciting new addition to their selection consists of ube — a delicacy from the Philippines made of mashed and boiled purple yam — as well as chunks of the more local Jiggle Cheesecake. 

Photo credit: Instagram/Gelatissimo

For those wanting a tropical beach vibe, Hawaiian Tropical Coconut consists of coconut gelato topped with pineapple chunks and salted macadamias, harvested from rainforests in Northern New South Wales and Queensland. Their tropical flavours, when blended together, aim to recreate the essence of Hawaii. 

Photo credit: Instagram/Gelatissimo

Belgian Choc Marble Seashells is an inspired creation made out of white chocolate gelato with a hazelnut ripple alongside authentic Italian hazelnut swirls reminiscent of Belgian chocolates. 

Photo credit: Instagram/Gelatissimo

Since these limited flavours have been launched, sales have been brisk with some flavours rapidly selling out due to popularity and demand. The promotion is available for a limited time only, until supplies last, so check your nearest store for availability. 

For more information on stores and store hours, visit their website here. Follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on scoops and serves, deals and dates, as well as any other special announcements concerning their limited-time flavours.

New Stellar STEM Program Launched in a Springfield Indigenous School

Hymba Yumba Independent School, a Springfield indigenous school, was the site of the national unveiling of the Stellar STEM Program for 14 schools in Springfield, Ipswich, Logan and Brisbane. The program is a project of PFI Aerospace Richland.

Read: New STEM Centre Opens at Ipswich Grammar School

PFI Aerospace general manager Megan Badger and her team were at the school on 19 April 2021 to guide the students on how to make a Hybrid rocket motor, which was then ignited at the school grounds. The event became a symbolic “launchpad” for female students to consider pursuing a passion for STEM.  

Also present during the launch were Dr Kaye Spark (Ph.D. soil science, environmental science, research scientist) and Harriet Angus (mechanical engineer) who answered questions from the students as they presented a hands-on workshop. 

The students said that they thought it was cool and empowering to see women in science demonstrating how to build a functioning rocket.

Principal Peter Foster said that Hymba Yumba Independent School’s female population consists of 140 jarjums (Aboriginal word for children) from a total of 280 students. Mr Forster welcomed the program as the girls could learn from the best at STEM. The principal also said that he hopes to see more female jarjums enjoying science and expressing an interest in a science-based career when they graduate from school.  

Read: Environbank Installs Super Kiosk RVM at Springfield Orion Shopping Centre

Incidentally, Hymba Yumba Independent School moved into its new $3.5 million science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics building in February 2021, which has been the centre of learning for the jarjums. 

Centenary Highway Transport Options Upgrade in Springfield, Ipswich Now a Priority

The upgrade of transport options in Springfield and Ipswich, specifically on the Centenary Highway, was added among 44 proposals in the latest priority list of Infrastructure Australia.

Westbound of this 43-kilometre stretch, which is also known as the M5, was projected to increase by 400 percent as the population between Springfield and Ipswich is expected to grow from 222,000 to 558,000 residents in the next 20 years. 

Read: Springfield City to Build First Hydrogen Energy Facility in Australia

According to the priority list, the daily trips from Ipswich to Springfield Lakes on the Centenary Highway were at 7,500 in 2016 but it will increase to 40,000 trips by 2036 as job opportunities also increase.

Robin Jackson, the chief of Infrastructure Australia, said that the current public transport options in this area will not support the future needs of the suburbs. Currently, the drive from Ipswich to Springfield takes 32 minutes and bus rides take almost two hours on three routes.

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Thus, the Ipswich City Council proposed adding bus networks to increase the frequency of services and coverage, as well as improving the existing roads and providing more public transport options.

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On the state level, the Queensland Government has set out plans to fix 65 level crossings across the southeast by either building bridges or removing hazards. Road closures and restrictions are also in the proposal, with the Federal Government undertaking the following initiatives for the M5: 

  • intersection and on-ramp and off-ramp improvements
  • implementing smart freeway technology
  • road widening

Springfield Rolls Out Plans to be the World’s Greenest City by 2038

By 2038, Greater Springfield will become the “model community of the future” as the  Springfield City Group starts its ambitious transformation into the world’s greenest city.

Featured with houses with solar panels on every roof, electric car charging stations everywhere, hydrogen-powered buses and other advances in green technology, the strategic sustainable plan is a collaboration between French energy giant ENGIE, its subsidiary Tractebel, and the Springfield City Group. The partnership was established in 2018. 

Read: The $5.8 Million Engineering Building Expansion at USQ Springfield, Ipswich Commences

The investment is reportedly worth more than $3 billion, with 100 percent of the power usage turned into renewable energy. The development will also see Greater Springfield residents enjoying 30 percent of natural green space. 

The five pillars of this project are focused on the following: 

  • Urban – Greenspace mixed with urban agriculture and green transport routes.
  • Mobility- Reduction of average cars per household whilst improving EV charging infrastructure, including paths for electric scooters and bicycles
  • Buildings – Bioclimactic designs with solar protection and energy-efficient system
  • Energy – 100 percent renewable, with improved energy storage and hydrogen refueling
  • Digital – Innovative smart city solutions

Read: Ipswich Adopts 2 Types of Six-Month Free Parking Trials

Chairman Maha Sinnathamby said that Springfield, with its current 45,000 population, is ideal for this project as the nation’s fastest-growing community. 

“We have one chance – and the responsibility to our residents – to get this right and be an ongoing example for others to follow,” Mr Sinnathamby said. “The focus on efficient and sustainable energy production, storage, and integration with the community has never been more important for Australia and for us. I’m confident that ENGIE can assist us to be a world leader in innovative and smart city solutions.”

Photo Credit: Springfield City Group

In line with this project, some buildings within the city’s business district have started rolling out rooftop solar, including Orion Shopping Centre and the Springfield Tower.

View the complete report of this project online. 

Springfield Greenbank Arterial Project: Major Road Duplication to Prioritise Stage 3

Key roads in the Springfield region will undergo major upgrades in 2021 under the Springfield Greenbank Arterial (SGA) Duplication project. Work will start with Stage 3, which covers Eden Station Drive to Sinnathamby Boulevard.

According to MP Charis Mullen, the Ipswich City Council decided to change the SGA sequencing to start with Stage 3 “given the other major projects in the area.”

“This was in a letter sent to residents recently,” Ms Mullen said.

Read: First Names Picked for New Ipswich CBD Development

Stage 3’s key features include the following: 

  • Road widening to four lanes
  • Springfield Greenbank Arterial/Main Street/Centenary Highway roundabout upgraded with signalised intersection
  • New entrance/exit at the Springfield Central Railway Station carpark
  • Construction of road cycle lanes for cyclists and pedestrians

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) plans to erect a multi-storey carpark at the Main Street intersection before the roadwork begins.

Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

This Springfield Greenbank Arterial project is necessary to meet the travel demands that will come with city’s rapid growth. 

“The overall project includes 3.9 km of road duplication and shared path upgrades. The project is set to be the largest single road project in the Council’s history,” the fact sheet stated. “With such a large capital cost to the Council, if delivered in a single year, the project would consume over half of the typical capital works budget. By spreading the costs across a number of stages, the project can be delivered over multiple years, and allows for Council to continue to deliver its usual portfolio of new roads, road rehabilitation, open space, drainage and facilities project.” 

Read: Café Kalina Tackles Mental Health Awareness: Have a Cuppa and Chat with No Judgements

The timing of construction will still be determined but it is approximated to take 12 months to complete. 

For questions about the Springfield Greenbank Arterial project, phone 07 3810 6666 or email IED.Projects@ipswich.qld.gov.au.

Pay It Forward in this Pandemic with Two Butchers

The coronavirus spread across the globe might bring disheartening news but it’s also highlighting how communities are coming together. If you need a burst of inspiration or good news, then this initiative from Two Butchers is guaranteed to make you smile.

This butcher shop located on Main Street, Springfield Central, recently launched a “Pay It Forward Meat Packs” donation drive, where you can help provide meals for families supported by Westside Community Care. 

Every week, the community care distributes free bread, vegetables, grocery and other essential items to the needy. If you’d like to make their meals more nutritious and filling, Two Butchers came up with two types of meat packs specifically created for this food drive. 

A $30 pack can feed a family for 3 days, while the $65 pack is good for a week-long meat supply. These may only be purchased as vouchers in-store or online for easier distribution.  

Photo Credit: Two Butchers

Read: 7 Ipswich Artists Debut At Brisbane Street Art Festival

First Donation

On Aug. 14, Two Butchers completed the first set of meat pack deliveries.

“A heartfelt THANK YOU to all our amazing customers, community and businesses that stepped up and joined forces with Orion and Two Butchers to help make a difference to families in need,” the butchers said in a Facebook post. 

Photo Credit: Two Butchers/Facebook

“COVID-19 has impacted our community greatly and there are many who are doing it tough. Pastor Phill Cutcliffe and the hardworking volunteers of Westside Community Care are wonderful! We are proud to be part of such an amazing community and proud to support Westside Community Care.” 

But this is not all that you can do to pay it forward. Two Brothers also set up a donation box at the entrance of Coles and Woolworths in the Greater Springfield where you can drop food items like canned goods, noodles, sauces and spreads, or baby food. 

Photo Credit: Two Butchers/Facebook

Who are the Two Butchers?

Two Butchers is an award-winning meat retailing shop owned and managed by Steven McMeniman and Kenneth Kearney. They commit to the highest standard of supplyinh grass fed, antibiotic free and farm fresh meats, as well as support ethical practices in raising farm animals.

For store hours, product availability and news about their donation drive, follow Two Butchers on Facebook.

Read: Ipswich to Springfield Transport Corridor Moves Forward

Most Innovative Community Transport Bus To Hit Springfield Roads

Photo Credit: hino.com.au

“Poncho,” an 18-seater mid-sized bus with provision for a wheelchair and eight standees has been introduced in Springfield.

The Hino Poncho bus was launched in Springfield Lakes in line with the introduction of Route 533, a loop service from Spring Mountain to Orion Shopping Centre and Springfield Central station, running twice an hour on weekdays. 

Hailed as the most innovative community transport bus in Australia, Poncho features an ultra-low floor design allowing for quick and easy boarding and alighting for all passengers, regardless of ability. It’s compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA), which outlines provisions for equal public access to services and facilities, including public transport.

Read: DA Approved For Six-Storey Tower In Ipswich CBD

Aside from excellent accessibility and being Australian DDA-compliant, Poncho boasts state-of-the-art safety features such as ABS, a comprehensive field of vision, door security and emergency exits. 

Poncho is fitted with a fuel efficient, turbo charged 4-cylinder diesel engine for competitive, cost efficient running and performance. Operators benefit from the Poncho’s rear engine access which makes carrying out service and mechanical work easy. This helps reduce maintenance costs.

Hino first arrived in Australia in 2017. Poncho is the second of its kind used on the TransLink network. The first one operated in the Logan region. It was equipped with a large 850mm sliding door touch sensitive technology for added safety.

Route 533 Hours of Operation

According to TransLink, Route 533 (Spring Mountain Loop) will run at the following approximate times:


Hours of operationFrequency
Monday to Friday 6:00 am to 9:00 pm30 mins (both loops)
Saturday 7:30 am to 6:00 pm 60 mins (both loops)
Sunday / public holiday 8:30 am to 4:00 pm 60 mins (both loops)

Read: Ipswich’s Ash Barty Named 2020 Young Australian Of The Year

Bushfire Fundraising: The Coffee Club in Springfield Hosts Sip and Paint Party for Wildlife

The Coffee Club Orion Springfield has done Sip and Paint parties many times before. But on Sunday, the 26th of Jan 2020, the restaurant and community hub is hosting a special Sip and Paint bushfire fundraising event to benefit the affected wildlife in need of medical care and rehabilitation.

From 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., participants of the Sip and Paint party can relish in a relaxing activity, tapping their creative juices to create masterpieces. Guests may also enjoy tea whilst making new friends or socialising with familiar mates. 

Read: Ipswich Is Set to be Home of Queensland’s New Office for Veterans

“Let’s stand together as Australians to help our wildlife,” The Coffee Club Orion Springfield stated in its event invite. The restaurant is mounting this bushfire fundraiser in partnership with Sip n Dip Australia. 

“The fires have been truly horrendous for all the families losing homes, our land losing hundreds of thousands of wildlife,” the establishment further said in its Facebook page. “We salute all the volunteer firefighters who have been working around the clock. We are doing OUR BIT…”

Photo Credit: The Coffee Club Orion Springfield/Facebook

Read: Meet the Springfield Woman Who Gives Hope to Foster Kids through ‘Ububele’

For every ticket booked at this event, $10 will go will be donated to the Animal Rescue Collective (ARC). The money raised for this bushfire fundraising event will be disclosed at The Coffee Club Orion Springfield Facebook page. 

For inquiries and ticket purchases, phone 3470 0638.

The Coffee Club’s spacious corner in Springfield is at the Orion Springfield Central. It’s one of 360 cafes all over Australia. 

Track Closures Scheduled on Ipswich, Springfield, and Inner City Lines

Starting from the first service on Saturday, 22 December 2018 until the last service on Saturday, 29 December 2018, there will be track closures on the Ipswich, Springfield, and Inner City lines.

Railbuses will be replacing trains between the affected stations so commuters can plan their journey in advance. Timetables will also be available to inform commuters about the schedule of the arrival times.

Take note that normal services will resume from the first service on Sunday, 30 December 2018.

Plan Your Journey

Check if the closures will affect your journey. Following are the dates and the lines that are part of the closure:

Ipswich and Springfield line track closure
Saturday, 22 December to Monday, 24 December 2018

Photo credit: TransLink

Railbus timetables and stop locations.

Ipswich, Springfield and Inner City line track closure
Tuesday, 25 December to Wednesday, 26 December 2018

Photo credit: TransLink

Railbus timetables and stop locations.

Ipswich and Springfield line track closure
Thursday, 27 December to Friday, 28 December 2018

Photo credit: TransLink

Railbus timetables and stop locations.

Ipswich, Springfield and Inner City line track closures
Saturday, 29 December 2018

Photo credit: TransLink

If your journey will be affected by the closures, make sure to plan in advance and allow time to transfer between bus and train services. Check TransLink’s Journey Planner for further information.

Railbus timetables and stop locations.

Read: Christmas Events for Kids In and Around Springfield

Improvement Works

Photo credit: Queensland Rail

Track closures are part of the improvement works on Queensland Rail’s network. Train signals between Roma Street and Corinda stations will be upgraded and new track crossovers will be installed near the Milton station.

The benefits of these upgrades include:

  • replacement of old signals infrastructure, some of which is over 50 years old
  • integration of signals with new, sophisticated train control systems
  • installation of new track crossovers, eliminating congestion and potential delays.

To know more about the improvement project, visit the Queensland Rail website.

Read: Keep the Kids Busy with School Holiday Activities at The Workshops Rail Museum

 

Spring Mountain State School Gains Official Name, Uniform Design Underway

The new primary school in Springfield West has now been given its official name — the Spring Mountain State School. Prior to the official naming of the school, it was called Springfield West State School.

The school is part of the $1.51 billion Queensland Schools Project Public Private Partnership with Plenary Schools. The partnership aims to deliver a number of Queensland schools and the Spring Mountain State School is the last one that is being built under the project.

The project has schools delivered at the following areas across southeast Queensland:

  • Pimpama
  • Burpengary
  • Pallara
  • Ripley Valley
  • Springfield
  • Griffin
  • Bellbird Park
  • Caboolture
  • Redbank Plains

Plenary Schools will construct, design, commission, partially finance, maintain and deliver facilities management services for the schools over a concession period of 30 years. The construction of the schools started in 2014.

The school’s name was inspired by the location of the school, which is located on the corner of the Spring Mountain Boulevard. It was the top name choice at several public meetings thus the final decision of using the name. Other names suggested were Springfield Rise and The Rise State School.

Spring Mountain State School will officially open in 2019 and will accommodate 760 students. It has a maximum capacity of 900 with 30 classrooms, a music and science block, resource centre, administration building, multipurpose hall, tuckshop and uniform shop, facilities officer’s room and an oval.

Photo credit: Spring Mountain State School / Facebook

Also, in July 2018, Cherie Moore was announced as the principal of the new school. She was the principal at the Moggill State School and Runcorn Heights State School.

Currently, the school is working with locals to create the school’s motto and uniform. They have released a uniform concept design and is also discussing the school’s vision statement.

To keep up with the latest updates, you can visit their Facebook page here.

Read: Springfield Central Library is Officially Open