Community Matters - January 2024

Community Matters

City of Ipswich update

January 2024

Division 4 Cr Kate Kunzelmann, Division 2 Cr Nicole Jonic, Division 2 Cr Paul Tully, Division 1 Cr Jacob Madsen, Division 3 Cr Marnie Doyle, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, Deputy Mayor and Division 4 Cr Russell Milligan, Division 3 Cr Andrew Fechner and Division 1 Cr Sheila Ireland

completion, with another crucial stage set to be completed later this year. And it is sure to be another bumper year of major festivals and events with SPARK Ipswich, Planes, Trains and Autos, CMC Rocks QLD, Festival of Horsepower and Galvanized. These upcoming successes will continue the momentum our city has built since 2020 when the council returned to elected representation after a period of interim administration. As a team, this council worked diligently to take important steps to restore the council and city’s reputation, including establishing the Integrity and Transparency Hub, giving unprecedented access to the city’s financial books and making Ipswich the most open and transparent local government in the country. We’ve galvanised our community spirit through the toughest of times including the 2020 Halloween hailstorm which devastated parts of Ipswich and of course the twin rain and flood events of early 2022.

Our city’s flood recovery is ongoing. In partnership with the State and Federal governments, we’ve delivered the innovative Voluntary Home Buy- Back Program, enabling families to sell flood-impacted properties and be freed from future flood risk. There have been big wins in the waste space too as we’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with our community to push for waste industry compliance. Council has led the way on resource recovery, through the Waste and Circular Economy Transformation initiative and delivering a Resource Recovery Strategy. At the heart of the strategy is delivering fit-for-purpose services such as the new kerbside collection service, upcoming citywide Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) program and plans for two new Resource Recovery Centres. In 2023, Ipswich welcomed its 250,000th resident. We’re still Queensland’s fastest growing city, and poised for even bigger things in 2024. I look forward to sharing our city’s successes with you all. Mayor Teresa Harding

Welcome to the January edition of Community Matters for 2024. Happy New Year Ipswich! It’s hard to believe that 2023 is behind us - where does time go - and here we are, poised for another exciting year for our wonderful city. It’s an important year for Ipswich with local government elections to take place in March. There are big community milestones just around the corner, including the opening later this year of the new HOYTS Cinema and redeveloped Commonwealth Hotel in the emerging Nicholas Street Precinct in Ipswich Central. Our new on-demand citywide kerbside collection service starts this month, giving residents a more convenient way to dispose of large unwanted items. The city’s largest ever road upgrade, the Springfield Parkway Springfield Greenbank Arterial duplication project will continue driving towards

City-wide Update Mayor Teresa Harding

UPGRADE PLANS PROGRESS Plans to improve the city’s premier performing arts facility, Ipswich Civic Centre, are progressing. at what opportunities there are for the Civic Centre.

SECURING OUR CITY’S 2032 LEGACY Ensuring our city maximises the opportunities on offer in the lead up to, during and beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane is a major focus for your council. To bring these opportunities to the fore and grasp them with both hands, council has developed the Leveraging 2032: Our Roadmap to the Olympic and Paralympic Games. “The Games is expected to deliver $8 billion in economic benefits for Queensland,” Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said. “Our roadmap showcases opportunities that we know can deliver outcomes to advance Ipswich and positively contribute to the legacies driven by the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. “Sport is a powerful driver, it brings us together, improves health and well-being, and builds positive and productive communities. However, the 2032 Games is far more than just a sporting event. “Our community has highlighted transport connectivity as the most important legacy outcome for our city, ensuring we are connected to each other and to our neighbouring councils in a safe, efficient and reliable way. “Our roadmap sets a foundation to achieve this and many other legacy opportunities in the lead up to, during and beyond the 2032 Games. The next decade will represent a golden era for the south-east, and Ipswich is well placed to take full advantage of the opportunities before us.” View the Leveraging

“CBRE’s analysis found there is merit in council progressing Ipswich Civic Centre redevelopment plans to the next stage. “Council allocated $200,000 in its 2023-2024 Budget to proceed with a level of further due diligence including technical assessments, high level concept designs and cost estimates. “This is an important project for our city and council wants to ensure that as our population grows, so too do our community facilities.”

The centre was established in 1975 as a civic hall and while it has been adapted over time, it needs an upgrade to better serve the community, including local performers, into the future. “As a result of the centre’s age there are also growing maintenance requirements,” Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said. “For these reasons, council engaged CBRE to undertake an early-stage business case to look

MILESTONES KEEP COMING FOR NICHOLAS STREET PRECINCT

The milestones have been coming thick and fast for our emerging city heart, the Nicholas Street Precinct, as it charges ahead into the New Year. An important celebration was marked recently with the last beam bolted into place on the roof at the future home of new entertainment and recreation in Ipswich – the building on the corner of Brisbane and Ellenborough streets. “The restoration of this site from an un-maintained, empty building to what will be a lively, attractive centrepiece to Ipswich’s re-emerging city heart is a major project,” Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said. “In the coming months, focus will turn to completion of the internal fit-out as council continues working with leasing agents Colliers to secure an exciting range of tenants. The building will be the home of HOYTS Cinemas and other entertainment options later this year.

Mayor Teresa Harding with Hutchinson Builders chairman Scott Hutchinson (left) and HOYTS representative Luke Ormsby

“Combined with the exciting progress on the Commonwealth Hotel at the northern end of Nicholas Street, Ipswich residents will benefit from a remarkable, revitalised heart before the end of this year. “Across all of the Nicholas Street Precinct, we have 11 tenants now secured with more on the way.” Leases secured across the Precinct so far include HOYTS, Aus Hotels, Gelatissimo, TerryWhite Chemmart, That Dumpling Place, Zambrero, Sushi Hyo, Sofia Nails, Stellarossa, Bun Bun Bao and Austhetica.

2032 roadmap at Ipswich.qld.gov.au

2

Spanning an area of 1,090 square kilometres, Ipswich is home to more than 250,000 residents and counting, making it the fastest-growing city in Queensland.

January 2024

ON-DEMAND KERBSIDE STARTS THIS MONTH

Ipswich residents will have greater access and more flexibility to dispose of unwanted household items with changes to the large item kerbside collection service from this month. The large item collection will be an annual on-demand service ensuring that it is more convenient, safer for residents and pedestrians and allows more materials to be saved from landfill. This is a huge win for the community and our environment. RAAF Base Amberley can no longer claim the title of ‘fastest engines in Ipswich’ with a new MACH 12 player moving to the city. Aerospace start-up Hypersonix has moved into Carole Park and with their arrival further strengthened Ipswich’s Defence supply chains.

Council is offering each eligible Ipswich household one collection each year at no charge. Residents can choose when they want to use their large item collection service and arrange for collection when it suits them. This replaces the former biennial (every two years) citywide service and is aligned with council’s innovative Resource Recovery Strategy, as well as improving convenience for residents. Last year saw numerous ‘waste wins’ for the Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said once again an innovative Defence industry company has chosen to base itself here in Ipswich to be in the best position to take on the global space industry. “Right now, more than 20 per cent of Queensland’s Defence workforce operates in Ipswich. The Defence

community with the selection of the Redbank Plains site for the future Southern Resource Recovery and Animal Management centres, plus ongoing community consultation for a new Western Resource Recovery Centre. There was also significant progress towards the citywide rollout of the three-bin service, including Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO). For all you need to know about the new on-demand kerbside service, visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au

WHERE TO FIND THE FASTEST ENGINE IN IPSWICH

industry continues to grow in Ipswich with more than 4,500 workers employed locally, a 16 per cent yearly increase equating to about 600 new jobs and employment pathways for residents and a stimulated local economy,” Mayor Harding said.

Mayor Teresa Harding Phone (07) 3810 6011 Email mayor@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE TeresaHardingIpswich @mayorteresaharding CONTACT DETAILS

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, Hypersonix Co-Founder, CTO and Head of Engineering Michael Smart and Hypersonix CFO Matt Hill at the opening of Hypersonix. Insert: The DART AE Hypersonic Vehicle

3

Division 1 Update Cr Jacob Madsen and Cr Sheila Ireland

MAJOR UPGRADE CONTINUES

HELPFUL TIPS FOR RAISING COMPLIANCE CONCERNS It can be tricky to know what to do when you have a development compliance concern. To help, here are some answers to common questions. What does council do when it receives a complaint about building work, land use or development? Investigations are prioritised based on risk to the community. When investigating complaints, council officers will first confirm if the works are approved or compliant with an existing approval. You may only be contacted if council requires more information so providing photos or other evidence to support any alleged unapproved uses or works will help with investigations. If after investigation the complaint is substantiated, council officers will determine the most appropriate course of compliance action. How long does it take council to take compliance action? Matters relating to land use, building work or development can often take considerable time to resolve and legislated compliance processes require council to provide certain time frames for people to respond to notices and take action. Does council provide updates and outcomes on investigations? Council’s investigations and actions are subject to the Information Privacy Act 2009 and therefore council is unable to provide any private information specific to investigations and actions taken by council. Council will provide an update when enforcement or compliance action has commenced.

NEW LIGHTS SHINE AT FERNBROOKE OVAL Sports and recreation activities will shine brighter at Fernbrooke Oval after the installation of new lights. Division 1 Councillor Sheila Ireland said the extensive works included lights for sports fields and surrounding areas. “There are four new 40-metre sports field lighting towers, along with seven new nine-metre car park lights and seven new five-metre path lights,” Cr Ireland said. “The new lights will allow the facility to operate more at night, increasing its accessibility for the surrounding community.” Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said council would continue to invest in facilities for the community. “New lights aren’t just a physical structure because we know sport brings so much more to our included $11.7 million for Stage 3. “This important road upgrade includes expanding the single carriageways to dual carriageways, as well as installing new traffic lights and adding shared footpaths and cycleways to improve safety for all road users,” Cr Ireland said. Major upgrades to Redbank Plains Road are progressing well across Stage 3, with one kilometre of road work currently underway between Argyle and Shannon streets. Division 1 Councillor Sheila Ireland said the 2023-2024 Budget

Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said road construction between Argyle Street and Highbury Drive was nearing completion. “Between Verran Street and Shannon Street, the northbound carriageways are now substantially complete, and construction of the new centre median retaining wall is in progress,” Cr Madsen said. “This retaining wall, due for completion in early 2024, will allow for the northbound and southbound carriageways to be split. Next, we will begin construction of the southbound carriageway.”

Division 1 Cr Sheila Ireland and Division 1 Cr Jacob Madsen inspect new lights installed at Fernbrooke Oval

community, creating connections and inclusion across our multicultural city, as well as keeping people active,” Cr Madsen said. “Fernbrooke Oval is currently home to rugby league and cricket, but these lights may also help out other sports in the future.”

4

Division 1 stretches from Mt Mort in the west to White Rock in the east and includes Blackstone, Calvert, Deebing Heights, Ebenezer, Flinders View, Goolman, Grandchester, Jeebropilly, Lower Mount Walker, Mount Forbes, Mount Walker West, Mutdapilly, Peak Crossing, Purga, Raceview, Redbank Plains, Ripley, South Ripley, Swanbank and Willowbank.

January 2024

IN BRIEF

NEW MODERN CLUBHOUSE A BOOST FOR SOUTH RIPLEY

Free immunisations available Ipswich City Council runs free Community Immunisation Clinics. Clinics start back up from 9 January 2024. They are held at key locations around Ipswich on a regular, scheduled basis. No appointment is needed. Vaccinations given are per the National Immunisation Program Queensland. For more information, including locations, times and dates, visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au and search ‘immunisation’. New Active and Healthy app It’s now even easier to get active and healthy with the launch of a new Active and Healthy app. The app is your one-stop-shop to view the current timetable, book and cancel from any of council’s free Active and Healthy activities. The first step is to simply sign up to become a member of the program. It’s free. Start your year off right and sign up at Bit.ly/46qPQh0 Mowing schedule online Did you know Ipswich City Council publishes a mowing schedule online? The online map is easy to use and shows when local grassed areas and parklands across the city are next scheduled for mowing. Rain and storm events, as well as machinery breakdowns sometimes impact the scheduling. To keep up to date, visit Maps.ipswich.qld.gov.au/mowing

A $2.18 million modern clubhouse, changerooms and supporting infrastructure for Ironbark Park has boosted the popularity and capability of the South Ripley playing fields. Division 1 Councillor Sheila Ireland said the new facilities featured toilets and showers, amenities, facilities for people with disabilities and an office. “There’s also a meeting room, storage area, amenities for referees, new footpaths and a commercial quality canteen – everything for local clubs and families to enjoy a friendly match or a serious tournament,” Cr Ireland said. “Ironbark Park was South Ripley’s first major sports ground, home to the Ripley Valley Football Club seniors, women’s and junior teams, so this will boost sports in the local area and the wider Ipswich sporting community.” Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said council was committed to

supporting the needs of local athletes and the broader community. “RVFC has grown from 80 members in its first year to over 400 now and they turn away dozens more every year,” Cr Madsen said. “The club has over 30 junior teams and eight senior teams: There is a huge demand for better sporting and community facilities in this booming area and we want to encourage more locals to get active and play sport.” RVFC president David ‘Willow’ Wilson said the new facilities would benefit the community greatly. “The new facility is great and the dedicated changerooms and amenities will particularly benefit the girls and women, who previously had

to get changed with towels.” This project is co-funded by a $1 million commitment from the Australian Government through the Investing in Our Communities Program.

RVFC Registrar Alison Wilson, Cr Jacob Madsen, President David Wilson, Vice President Nick Paterson, Cr Sheila Ireland and Secretary Chris Shennan at the clubhouse

Cr Jacob Madsen Phone (07) 3810 8191 Email jacob.madsen@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE crjacobmadsen CONTACT DETAILS

Cr Sheila Ireland Phone (07) 3810 8190 Mobile 0499 015 883 Email sheila.ireland@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE sheilairelanddivision1

5

Division 2 Update Cr Paul Tully and Cr Nicole Jonic

WALKING THE WALK FOR MEN’S HEALTH

BIG YEAR AHEAD FOR CITY’S LARGEST ROAD UPGRADE Significant work continues to upgrade and future proof critical services for the Springfield area as part of the Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial Duplication Project. Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said upgraded services included gas, sewer, water and telecommunications. “These upgrades will keep Ipswich connected and growing,” Cr Jonic said. “Adding drainage systems, major earthworks and asphalt laying while managing 19,000 vehicles per day has presented some construction challenges Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said works in 2024 would include the area’s largest watermain being lifted into place. “The pit is located under the original entry to the Springfield Park ’n’ Ride and a key feature of Stage 3 construction is new entry and exit points to the Park ‘n’ Ride,” Cr Tully said. “Road construction will feature the Main Street roundabout being progressively removed to make way for a new signalised intersection that will be able to manage higher traffic volumes and ease traffic congestion.” For more information about council projects visit Maps.ipswich.qld.gov.au/ civicprojects and council is thankful for the continued patience of the community.”

A new The Man Walk sign for Robelle Domain is set to inspire conversations about men’s health. Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the sign would be installed before the entry to John Nugent pedestrian bridge in Springfield Central. “The Man Walk sign is part of a not-for-profit organisation that coordinates active walks nationwide to promote an inclusive and safe space to support men’s health,” Cr Jonic said.

“The Springfield Lakes group meets at Robelle Domain numerous times throughout the week to walk and talk together and this will help spark conversations about that.” Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said council was committed to building connections for everyone in the community. “I know sometimes blokes can find it hard to open up and talk about their issues, so this will connect everyone that much easier,” Cr Tully said. “Now, we can really talk the talk and walk the walk at the same time.”

NEW SCHOOL CROSSING WILL BOOST SAFETY FOR FAMILIES

A supervised school crossing will be installed on Alice Street, Goodna, just in time for the new school year at Westside Christian College. Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the school crossing would be completed between Stuart and Audrey streets. “Council is installing a safe, supervised crossing point for Westside Christian College students who need to make their way over this busy street,” Cr Jonic said. “Work started in mid-December and will be completed by 22 January, the first day of the new school term.” Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said residents would see some traffic control on-site over the month. “Local residents are asked to park off the street to allow the work to continue,” Cr Tully said. “The work will involve constructing concrete kerb ramps, some sections

Cr Paul Tully and Cr Nicole Jonic on Alice Street, Goodna

of the connecting concrete footpath, the installation of signage and pots for crossing flags, and line marking. “This is an important and welcome addition to Alice Street for the safety of our school students and their families when going to and from school.” Work will be continued Monday to Friday between 7.00 am and 5.00 pm, weather permitting. For more information, contact council on (07) 3810 6666 or email capitalprojects@ipswich.qld.gov.au

6

Division 2 stretches from Gailes in the north to Spring Mountain in the south, and includes Augustine Heights, Bellbird Park, Carole Park, Brookwater, Camira, Goodna, part of Redbank, Springfield, Springfield Central and Springfield Lakes.

January 2024

IN BRIEF

GOODNA BOWLS CLUB BACK TO ITS BEST AFTER RESTORATION

Footpath upgrade for Camira The footpath from the car park adjoining the Camira Friends and Neighbours Hall off Bruce Lane at Camira will be extended to ensure a smooth transition from the car park to the existing footpath. The project is being funded through the Provisional Projects program, which allows councillors to put forward projects that are important to their community but not already on the capital works program. Know more about your city Want to know more about what’s happening in your community? Shape Your Ipswich is council’s online community engagement platform where you can have a say on council projects, initiatives, new ideas and more. There are also updates on important council projects. To see what it’s all about, visit Shapeyouripswich.com.au Disaster dashboard online Ipswich City Council’s Disaster Dashboard is the best way to keep up to date with local information in emergency situations such as during bushfires, storms and floods. The dashboard provides information about Ipswich road closures, power outages and community recovery efforts. Visit the dashboard online at Disaster.ipswich.qld.gov.au

Restoration work on the Goodna Bowls Club, which was extensively damaged in the 2022 floods, was recently finished. Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said the club was severely impacted by the flooding. “Internal works included the removal and replacement of all damaged internal wall linings and fixtures, and the installation of new flooring,” Cr Tully said. “There was also mould remediation work done throughout the clubhouse, which included chemical treatment of all hard surfaces. “Externally, the irrigation system and maintenance shed was repaired, and parts of the retaining wall supporting the bowling green were replaced.” Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said council was committed to getting the city’s sporting clubs and community facilities back up to scratch.

“Council has invested $500,000 in the Goodna Bowls Club restoration and this project joins others in the division such as the restoration of Kippen Park,” Cr Jonic said. “Works are also in progress at Jim Finimore Park and Rotary Park – the journey to recovery is long, but council is determined to build back stronger, better and more resilient “Since the 2022 flood events, more than $20 million has been spent on infrastructure and recovery works across the city, helping to fix more than 300 community assets damaged by flooding, including 25 sites home to local sporting clubs, community facilities and parks.” Council is working closely with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority to maximise the funding support provided to council under the Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Cr Nicole Jonic, Deputy Chairperson Kevin Dunning, Secretary Susan Stafford, Treasurer Catherine Wilmington, Chairperson Thelma Hodkinson and Cr Paul Tully at the restored Goodna Bowls Club

CONTACT DETAILS

Cr Nicole Jonic Phone (07) 3810 8193 Mobile 0499 014 332 Email nicole.jonic@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE CrNicoleJonicDiv2

Cr Paul Tully Phone (07) 3810 8192 Email paul.tully@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE PaulTully

7

Division 3 Update Cr Marnie Doyle and Cr Andrew Fechner

IMPROVING LIVEABILITY IS A KEY FOCUS ACROSS DIVISION

WORKS PROGRESSING ON NEW FACILITIES FOR BMX CLUB A new canteen, first aid room, pathways, toilets and storage area at the Willey Street Park are on track to finish in February 2024. Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said the new facilities at the BMX track would help develop the city’s young riders. and council is proud to support initiatives that help develop our athletes and build community connections,” Cr Doyle said. “All ages and levels can participate and it is a great way to build confidence, get active and increase coordination.” Division 3 Councillor Andrew Fechner said the new additions would help attract future state and national BMX events to Ipswich. “Council supported the Ipswich & West Moreton BMX Club in 2021 when the city hosted the AusCycling BMX State Championships and we’d love to see more of these marquee events come to Ipswich,” Cr Fechner said. “These events will help support “BMX is one of the fastest growing sports in Australia

Two community projects are on the agenda for Division 3 to improve liveability in the local community. Division 3 Councillors Marnie Doyle and Andrew Fechner are working to have a bench seat installed at Tofa Mamoa A Samoa Park, Redbank. “The section of the park along Goodna Creek is a favourite spot of the residents from the nearby Redbank Palms lifestyle community,” Cr Fechner said. “The seat will offer a quiet place where residents can sit to enjoy the serenity of the park.” 53 MOBILE OFFICES HELD ACROSS THE DIVISION IN 2023 Division 3 Councillors Marnie Doyle and Andrew Fechner have thanked residents who attended their Community Matters mobile offices in 2023. “Over 2023, Marnie and I spoke with hundreds of residents at our 53 mobile offices in local parks and shopping centres across Division 3,” Cr Fechner said. “We’ve been able to action issues raised by residents including potholes, damaged street signs, illegal parking and tree trimming. “We’ve had great conversations with residents about their thoughts and ideas for their suburbs and our city.” Councillor Doyle said residents valued the opportunity to connect with their local representatives.

Improving pedestrian safety at Silkstone is also a focus. “Andrew and I were contacted by residents who cross Blackstone Road at the pedestrian island near Coles Silkstone,” Cr Doyle said. “They were concerned about

the safety of the refuge island, particularly for our elderly residents. “To improve safety, and in

response to community feedback, we are working to have pedestrian grab handrails installed on the island that will help pedestrians better stage their crossing.”

Cr Marnie Doyle and Cr Andrew Fechner with Riverview Neighbourhood Watch members at a Community Matters catch-up - one of 52 held in 2023

“With 23 suburbs in Division 3 from One Mile and Leichhardt in the west to about 1,000 Goodna homes west of Stuart Street in the east, it is important residents have an opportunity to speak with their councillors near where they live and shop,” Cr Doyle said. “Our 2024 mobile office program begins Monday 15 January at the Beacon Wellbeing Hub in Leichhardt, followed by Redbank Plaza on Thursday 18 January and Booval Fair on Saturday 20 January. “You’ll find the times and locations on these and our other mobile offices by searching ‘Community Matters’ on council’s website.”

future champions such as Chloe Duncalfe and Holyee-Ann Jackson.”

Willey Street Park also features an open kick-around area and

playground equipment. The $1.5 million project is partially funded by the Queensland Government.

8

Division 3 stretches from One Mile, Leichhardt and parts of Wulkuraka in the west to parts of Redbank and Goodna in the east, and includes Basin Pocket, Booval, Bundamba, Coalfalls, Collingwood Park, Dinmore, East Ipswich, Eastern Heights, Ebbw Vale, Ipswich, Newtown, North Booval, Riverview, Sadliers Crossing, Silkstone, West Ipswich, and Woodend.

January 2024

IN BRIEF

KERB AND CHANNEL PROJECT COMES UP TRUMPS

Memorial plinths in place A memorial plinth recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who served in all wars and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice is now in place at RSL Gardens in Nicholas Street, Ipswich. The plinth is one of nine commemorating sacrifices made in various conflicts. Council worked with Ipswich RSL Sub

Work is now complete on rehabilitating road pavement and replacing sections of kerb and channel on Trumper and Leslie streets at East Ipswich. The $1.135 million upgrade is part of council’s citywide kerb and channel rehabilitation program, with some elements also identified under flood recovery. Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said design and survey work was completed in the last financial year, with construction getting underway in July. “East Ipswich was a foundational suburb in our city, bounded on two sides by the Bremer River,” Cr Doyle said. “As our city grows rapidly, it is essential that council’s assets in our earliest-formed suburbs are not forgotten and are well maintained. “Residents in this pocket of East Ipswich have been eagerly awaiting

this upgrade, which makes the completion of the upgrade even sweeter.” Division 3 Councillor Andrew Fechner said that council undertakes a forward program of kerb and channel projects each year, either rehabilitating existing assets or installing new kerb and channel where none existed previously. “The rehabilitation of Trumper and Leslie streets means better roads for residents and improved drainage by directing stormwater from the road into the underground drainage network,” Cr Fechner said. “Council has committed $267.2 million this year towards capital works, of which $75 million is for flood recovery projects,” Cr Fechner said. “The renewal of essential infrastructure, including kerb and channelling, is vital to make sure the Ipswich urban road network is maintained and fit-for-purpose.”

Branch and First Nations peoples on the project. Catch-up with your councillors

Catch-up with Councillors Marnie Doyle and Andrew Fechner across Division 3: Beacon Wellbeing Hub 59 Toongarra Road, Leichhardt

Monday 15 January 10.00 am – 11.30 am Redbank Plaza Outside Coles Thursday 18 January 10.00 am - 12.00 pm Booval Fair Near Robins Kitchen Saturday 20 January 10.00 am - 1.00 pm Booval Fair Near Robins Kitchen Thursday 25 January 3.30 pm - 6.30 pm Redbank Plaza Outside Coles Saturday 27 January 10.00 am - 1.00 pm

Cr Andrew Fechner and Cr Marnie Doyle at Trumper Street

Cr Marnie Doyle Phone (07) 3810 8194 Mobile 0499 018 360 Email marnie.doyle@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE MarnieDoyleDivision3 CONTACT DETAILS

Cr Andrew Fechner Phone (07) 3810 8195 Mobile 0499 016 787 Email andrew.fechner@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE AndrewFechnerDiv3

9

Division 4 Update Deputy Mayor Cr Russell Milligan and Cr Kate Kunzelmann

NEW LIGHTS ARE CREATING BRIGHTER OPPORTUNITIES

UPGRADE TO IMPROVE STORMWATER DRAINAGE Council’s 2023-2024 Budget included $500,000 for a major drainage and culvert upgrade at Adelong Avenue at Thagoona. Deputy Mayor and Division 4 Councillor Russell Milligan said the funding provided for preliminary works prior to the road upgrades scheduled for the 2024-2025 financial year. “The road closed in November last year and will reopen in March to allow for the removal and replacement of the existing stormwater culverts adjacent to Adelong Avenue Reserve,” Deputy Mayor Milligan said. The work will require the full road closure between Kavanagh Street and the western end of Adelong Avenue Reserve. Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann said local access for residents will be maintained with access via either Amaroo Road or Cummins Road. “The work being completed to replace the existing stormwater drainage culverts will include service relocations, demolition work and the construction of new culverts,” Cr Kunzelmann said. “It is always frustrating for residents when road closures are needed, but this major upgrade will significantly improve the stormwater drainage across this flood-prone section of road.” For more information

New lights at Sutton Park at 61 Workshops Street, Brassall, will help the city’s athletes and families train and play well after the sun has gone down. Deputy Mayor and Division 4 Councillor Russell Milligan said Ipswich City Council was committed to investing in sports infrastructure and facilities across the city. “Sports play an important role in keeping individuals healthy and it also plays a big part in building community connections,” Deputy Mayor Milligan said. “Sutton Park is a great example of this, with Ipswich City Football Club and all its members and

surrounding residents calling the park home.” Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann said the upgraded lights at ovals A and B would enable more use at night. “This $180,000 project will allow players to train and play into the night, allowing for a greater use of the fields,” Cr Kunzelmann said. “Ipswich is Queensland’s fastest

growing city and council will continue to invest in the community.”

The project is partially funded by the Queensland Government as part of the State Minors Funding Program.

BIG WIN FOR OWNERS OF MIHI GROVE TOWNHOUSES A major milestone was met late last year for owners of the Mihi Grove townhouse complex

in Brassall who were left in limbo after the devastating February 2022 floods. Mihi Grove was eligible for the

Voluntary Home Buy-Back Program under the Australian and Queensland governments’ $741 million Resilient Homes Fund, but current legislation buy-backs to proceed. At the time, only 34 of the 42 townhouse owners had registered for the program under the Resilient Homes Fund. “In October, with the support of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority and the National Emergency Management Agency, council agreed on a way forward to purchase all 42 townhouses through the Voluntary Home Buy-Back Program,” Deputy Mayor and Division 4 Councillor Russell Milligan said. required agreement from 100 per cent of owners for

“The Queensland Reconstruction Authority could then start valuations at Mihi Grove, putting council on the path to acquire the complex.” Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann said the outcome was a big win for all involved. “The efforts of all involved in this process to find a resolution are to be applauded. It is my wish that Mihi Grove property owners can now move towards secure and flood-free housing,” Cr Kunzelmann said. Deputy Mayor Cr Russell Milligan, Cr Kate Kunzelmann and Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding with Mihi Grove residents after the decision at the Council Special Meeting in November 2023

about local projects, visit Maps.ipswich.qld.gov.au/ civicprojects

10

Division 4 stretches from Woolshed in the west to Barellan Point in the east, and includes Rosewood, Walloon, Brassall, Amberley, Pine Mountain, Yamanto, Karalee, Marburg and more.

January 2024

IN BRIEF

WORKING WITH COMMUNITY TO DELIVER POSITIVE OUTCOMES

Noticeboard for Karalee A community noticeboard will be installed off Junction Road near the intersection with Torrens Street. The project is being funded through the Provisional Projects program, which allows councillors to put forward projects that are important to their community but not already on the capital works program. The noticeboard will allow the community to display and share messages relevant to the local area. Give volunteering a try Looking for a new activity to get involved in for the New Year? Give volunteering a go. Volunteering helps build and create communities. Council works with more than 200 volunteers across a range of programs and activities. The easiest way to get involved is by visiting the online Volunteer Portal at Ipswich.qld.gov.au/volunteering Green up your property Every year, council gives away about 120,000 free plants to help green up our city. The Free Plant Program is open to all Ipswich residents – homeowners and renters. Collecting your free plants is as easy as bringing appropriate identification and visiting either the Queens Park Nursery or one of council’s mobile nurseries throughout the year. For more info, visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/freeplants

It is often said local government is the level of government closest to the people and that has certainly been the experience of Division 4 Councillors Deputy Mayor Russell Milligan and Kate Kunzelmann. Cr Kunzelmann said the 2020-2024 council term had been all about standing shoulder to shoulder with the community. “Russell and I both put our hands up to run for council in 2020 because we’re passionate about this city and wanted to make a difference for our community,” Cr Kunzelmann said. “As this term draws to a close, it’s timely to reflect on the gains that have been made for our community, and there have been many. “Our community has been through a lot, from the Halloween hailstorm of 2020 to concerns about the Motoland raceway and of course the devastating floods in 2022, which among other impacts left Mihi Grove residents at Brassall facing an uncertain future. “Through these and many other matters, we have always taken a listening approach. By working together, good outcomes were achieved and it’s especially heartening to know Mihi Grove residents can now move forward with certainty.” Cr Milligan said Division 4 was unique because it is made up of a mix of residential and rural communities.

Deputy Mayor Cr Russell Milligan and Cr Kate Kunzelmann at Hunter Street, Brassall, which was improved in 2023

“The division is experiencing significant expansion with major growth at Thagoona and Walloon, where in fact we officially welcomed our city’s 250,000th resident in September. “I’m proud that we have delivered for all sections of the Division, including a new bridge for Keanes Road at Rosewood, gravel road improvements and upgrades to Sutton Park and Hunter Street in Brassall. “We progressed big projects such as the North Ipswich Stadium future upgrade, the Adelong Avenue upgrade and Western Resource Recovery Centre, and delivered smaller ones that made a big difference such as introducing designated parking bays on Vogel Road near Ipswich State High School. “Big or small, it’s all been about making Division 4, and this great city of Ipswich, an even better place to call home.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Russell Milligan Phone (07) 3810 8197 Email russell.milligan@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE RussellMilliganIpswich CONTACT DETAILS

Cr Kate Kunzelmann Phone (07) 3810 8196 Mobile 0499 014 884 Email kate.kunzelmann@ipswich.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-SQUARE CouncillorKateKunzelmann

11

Easily catch up with your Councillors in your local area.

Community Matters Catch up with your Councillors

Invite your divisional Councillors to your next community, sport or club meeting. Book an appointment to meet at your local library branch – Springfield Central, Redbank Plains and Rosewood. Attend a local community catch up in your area.

To organise a meeting email council@ipswich.qld.gov.au or call (07) 3810 6666.

For the full list of locations, dates and times visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/ communitymatters or call (07) 3810 6666.

Is your household ready for a bushfire, severe storm or other type of disaster?

Step 1: Understand your risk Check the Ipswich Disaster Dashboard for up to date information on weather warnings, fire ratings, power outages, traffic alerts and disaster notifications. Disaster.ipswich.qld.gov.au Step 2: Prepare an emergency plan Make a plan and ensure everyone in your household

knows what to do in an emergency. Step 3: Pack an emergency kit

Pack an emergency kit with enough essential supplies to last your family (including your pets) at least three days.