Discover Ipswich Magazine 2021

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VENUES Award- winning GRAND HOMES MOUNTAIN BIKING Heli

PARTY IDEAS Kids birthday IN THE 'SWICH PITCH Where to

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Book a JapaneseTea Ceremony

IPSWICH VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

VISIT US at Queens Park, 14 Queen Victoria Parade, Ipswich DiscoverIpswich.com.au (07) 3281 0555 info@discoveripswich.com.au

OPENING HOURS Monday – Friday 8.30 am – 4.30 pm

Weekends and Public Holidays 9.00 am – 4.00 pm Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Contents

IPSWICH FLAVOURS Instaworthy dishes..................................... 5 Family friendly food.................................... 6 Meet the chefs........................................... 8 Award-winning venues............................. 11 Romantic dining....................................... 13 The spice of life........................................ 14 Picnic bucket list...................................... 15 Where to go when the sun goes down. ... 16 IPSWICH HERITAGE Grand homes........................................... 18 Time to relax............................................ 19 Spooky tales............................................ 20 Top of town tour....................................... 21 IPSWICH ADVENTURE Helicopter mountain biking...................... 23 Up, up and away...................................... 24 Can you handle being strapped into 500hp?.............................................. 25 Best places to get on the water. .............. 26 Where to go bird watching and hiking. .... 27 IPSWICH COUNTRY Escape the city........................................ 28 Go behind the scenes at Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre. .................... 30 Great camping spots. .............................. 31 IPSWICH CULTURE Street art tour. ......................................... 32 Get in touch with your inner artist............ 34 Plan your dream wedding........................ 35 Vintage shopping trail.............................. 36 Boutique shops........................................ 38 Explore Springfield. ................................. 40 Best places to throw a kids birthday party...42 Kids entertainment. ................................. 44 Where to stay........................................... 46 WHAT'S ON Major events............................................ 48 Enduro events.......................................... 50 Events calendar....................................... 51 Directory........................................................ 52 Ipswich Central map...................................... 57 Ipswich Region map...................................... 58

Acknowledgement of Country Ipswich City Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners as custodians of the land and waters with which we share. We pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging, as the keepers of their traditions, customs, cultures and stories of proud peoples. Tread lightly! Ipswich City Council is committed to environmental sustainability and preserving our green space for the enjoyment of future generations. While visiting our fair city we encourage you to respect the environment by sticking to designated paths in natural areas, keeping your distance from wildlife and placing your litter in the bins provided. Once you are finished with this guide please dispose of it responsibly. Why not pass it on to a friend or family member that may also enjoy visiting Ipswich. With the year we've just had, I don't blame you if you've been keeping to yourself. But if you're ready to explore and find some adventure, we've got plenty here in Ipswich – and we're open for business! I encourage you to explore your backyard and do one thing you haven't before; take that hot air balloon ride, challenge yourself with a climb up Flinders Peak or try a few of those 72 craft beers they have on tap at the Prince Alfred Hotel. Immerse yourself in the region's delights and you'll leave with lasting memories while helping small businesses to recover after a hard year. – Rocky Welcome Advertise with us This publication has been produced and delivered by Ipswich City Council. To advertise your event or product in other Discover Ipswich advertising opportunities, please contact (07) 3810 7448 or email tourism@ipswich.qld.gov.au .

Cover shot: Spicers Hidden Vale

The ratings listed in this magazine were accurate as of February 2021 and may change over time. Visit Tripadvisor.com.au for current ratings.

Dates subject to change. All information is correct at time of printing. We recommend you check with operators before visiting to ensure information is still correct, due to the ever changing times we live in.

in the zoo Who ´ s who

With over 42 species and around 200 animals in care – dingoes, bilbies, wallabies, water dragons and a whole petting zoo – the Ipswich Nature Centre, located in beautiful Queens Park, is an unmissable experience. Don't miss a magical day out for the whole family. For an up-close and personal adventure around the Nature Centre, contact the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre about available guided tours.

Book an Animal Encounter

tour from $10

“Beautiful setting and easy parking and access...” Review of Ipswich Nature Centre by a Tripadvisor Traveler 24 January 2021

DiscoverIpswich.com.au (07) 3281 0555

FLAVOURS

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Instaworthy DISHES IPSWICH CBD A BEYOND

We eat first with our eyes is a well-known saying, and with good reason. As hunter-gatherers, humans historically needed to scope and find nourishment.

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Our methods of finding food may have changed, but the principle still applies: we love our food to look good. Here are some dishes from the City of Ipswich area that demand our attention; Instaworthy dishes that invite us to reach right into the photograph to

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taste the food on display. They provide food for the senses, to enjoy both looking at and eating.

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1. Indian Tadka 2. Dinmore Cottage 3. Ballistic Brewery, Bar & Kitchen 4. Breakfast at Stephanie’s 5. La Mocha Cafe 6. The Cafe Kalina 7. Dovetails

8. Fourthchild 9. Ungermann Brothers 10. Little Mode Cupcakery 11. Ruby Chews

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Burgers & Shakes

12. Mondaze 13. The Yard on Glebe

By Marj Osborne Food Blogger @FoodGoldCoast

See more dishes online at Discoveripswich.com.au/instaworthy ■

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FLAVOURS

Family friendly food options IN IPSWICH

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from 201 reviews If you’re looking for something to eat in the centre of Ipswich city, you will find plenty of options, and each with its own personality! Rafter & Rose, right in the centre of town, has a gorgeous setting and a wonderful cosy atmosphere. Open for breakfast and lunch, they offer a range of sweet and savoury choices which are both scrumptious and filling, not to mention beautifully presented! We couldn’t resist their French toast which looked like a work of art – almost too good to eat! 2. Fourthchild from 370 reviews Surely an inclusion on anyone’s must visit restaurant lists, Fourthchild certainly will not

Looking for a family friendly cafe or restaurant that serves up a little more than nuggets and chips? Here are a few of our recommendations in Ipswich that we’ve personally ‘kid-tested’ for both food, friendliness, comfort and entertainment!

disappoint. Open seven days a week and catering for all mealtimes, this family run cafe and restaurant has developed an impressive reputation both in Ipswich and beyond. We stopped in on a busy Sunday morning and we were very impressed with the service

received in a full restaurant. A diverse menu meant there was something for all of our tastes, although the Breakfast Board deserves special mention as it was perfect for our little ones to nibble on, and the French toast and pancake plates were irresistible!

IPSWICH’S PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT, DINING & GAMING DESTINATION

facebook.com/BrothersLeaguesIpswich @brothers ipswich Find us on Facebook and Instagram or at BROTHERSIPSWICH.COM.AU OPEN 10AM – 2AM EVERY DAY GUARANTEED Phone: 07 3817 2999 Emai l : info@brothers ipswich.com.au

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5. Jets Leagues Club

3. Racehorse Hotel, Booval

from 52 reviews If you asked our kids where they wanted to eat in Ipswich, we’re sure that the Racehorse Hotel would be at the top of the list! Not just because of the fantastic kids’ menus or friendly service, nor that they have an amazing games room. There’s just something about their amazing freakshakes that the kids can’t forget! But there’s a lot more to the 'Horse than the awesome milkshakes and great playground – the meals are fantastic, affordable and there’s always a welcoming and friendly vibe. 4. PA Hotel from 199 reviews An institution in Ipswich for over 170 years, the PA Hotel should certainly be considered when looking for a family friendly meal in Ipswich. With awards such as Best Casual Dining Restaurant (Qld) in 2018 and Australian Hotel of the Year (2017), you know that you will be in for a great experience. There are three different dining experiences – Tap’d, Char’d or Plantations (and even a takeaway option), all of which serve up fantastic meals at great prices. The kids’ meals were substantial and super yummy and the service was efficient and friendly. And all of this in wonderfully presented and comfortable surrounds.

from 29 reviews As far as family friendly restaurants go, Jets Leagues Club is a fantastic choice. Not just for its great kids’ menu which includes a drink and dessert, but it’s very welcoming of the little ones! A small games room is definitely welcome while waiting for meals (although the service is really fast), and you can even grab a little colouring and activity pack to pass the time while mum and dad finish their meals. The menu has a wide range of choices and is well priced too.

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7. Oikos Cafe Oikos Cafe, right in the heart of Ipswich is immensely proud to be supporting its local community by providing healthy meals, a friendly atmosphere and using local produce. Coffees are a specialty, but their menu of healthy and tasty meal options and colourful fresh juices are just as highly recommended! We tried out a couple of the bowls on offer which are packed full of healthy fruit, grains and yoghurt – super tasty and the little ones loved them! So with a lunch of healthy options and fresh juices you can be satisfied that the kids are ticking all the right boxes in nutrition. ■

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6. Raw Energy

from 9 reviews Have you ever struggled to find a cafe that serves yummy food that the kids will tuck into, but is also healthy? Raw Energy in Springfield is a fantastic choice offering a wonderful array of meals with a focus on healthy and full energy foods! It has a casual and friendly vibe, and heaps of activities for the kids (and adults) while you are waiting and dining – card games, books, toys and even a little blackboard will certainly keep the little ones occupied while you relax and enjoy the food! Add to that the wonderful, relaxing views of the Orion Lagoon and it’s no wonder that this is one very popular spot for those in the Springfield area!

There’s definitely no shortage of family friendly dining options in Ipswich and the huge variety of foods, flavours and atmospheres will ensure that all tastes are well catered for!

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Restaurant 11.30am to 2pm every day

Gaming 10am to 4am

5.30pm to 8.30pm Sun to Wed and 5.30pm to 9pm Thur to Sat Table service with a full menu for all tastes - multi award winning steaks from our local supplier JBS Coffee Shop 10am to 4am every day Try a coffee from our range of hand crafted blends

Comfortable clean room with the latest machines Corner Bar Great for that after work get together With a fantastic bar menu

PLUS 5% OFF COMPLIMENTARY MEMBERSHIP Show this ad to receive a complimentary membership and receive an extra 5% off any restaurant, coffee shop or bar purchase.

COVID Safe plan in place

15 Downs Street North Ipswich Ph (07) 3202 1887

15 Downs Street North Ipswich • Ph (07) 3202 1887 • www.ipswichjets.com.au *T & Cs apply

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FLAVOURS

THE CHEFS Meet

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Ash Martin exudes a humble, heart-felt respect for local produce and the people who grow it. The restaurant, set in the homestead that is the jewel in the crown of this extensive Spicers Retreats property, wraps itself around an ethos of smoke, fire and coals. The menu offers up real food, sourced from around the region – often coaxed up from the ground by producers specifically for this kitchen – and from on-site gardens. Guests staying at the retreat and visitors here to dine are encouraged to enjoy interactive experiences such as the market garden tour, sunset wine and cheese sessions and cellar tastings in a custom built wine room. 3. Shawn Breen Shawn brings some serious American swag to the Ipswich food scene, having grown up in Brooklyn and worked in some iconic restaurants

1. Josh Lawson Simple. That one word explains the approach of one of this region’s best known chefs, Josh Lawson, in the kitchen at Bakehouse Steakhouse . The Stevenson family behind this restaurant, set in a reclaimed century-old bakery, have a background in the meat industry and own farms, including one at Byron Bay that supplies premium pork. Exceptional beef is sourced from Stanbroke teamed with healthy seasonal salads and moreish fries. Lawson has spent time in many prestigious kitchens including the acclaimed Brisbane bistro Two Small Rooms and BLVD. 2. Ash Martin At the helm of this region’s much loved Good Food Guide-hatted restaurant, Homage ,

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THE COTTAGE RESTAURANT Ipswich ’ s Best Dining Venue Australian Good Food Guide Readers ’ Choice 2016-2020 7 Course Degustation Menu À La Carte Dining High Teas Groups, Conferencing, Weddings P. 3143 2644 www.thecottagerestaurant.com.au

IndianMehfil_DiscoverIpswich_quarterpage:Layout 1 19/10/2020 11:57 AM Page 1

Serving the finest authentic Indian cuisine in the heart of Ipswich since 2010 • Dine in, Takeaway&Delivery • Lunch Specials • Fully Licensed Bar • FunctionRoom• Banquets • Corporate&Birthday Parties

116 Brisbane Street Ipswich • 3281 8683 • www.mehfil.com.au

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across New York City, Mexico and New Orleans. He’s cooked for Hollywood stars such as Meryl Streep and John Goodman and spent several years in Brisbane kitchens before arriving at The Pumpyard Bar and Brewery in 2020. Burgers, pizzas and 16-hour smoked brisket are among the crowd favourites. “We use the beer in the cooking as much as we can working with head brewer Kenny. He explains the complex flavours he’s brewing and we use them in dishes, like the Super Model pale ale in the fished batter.” 4. Shannon Ellison Next door to Pumpyard in the 88 Limestone precinct, you’ll find Dovetails where Shannon Ellison has introduced a refined modern- Australian menu. Shannon has a background at award-winning restaurants in the Northern Territory and brings his love of native Australian ingredients. Watch out for signatures like crocodile that he dusts with native thyme and aniseed myrtle, fries lightly then serves with a rosella compote, purple congo potatoes and bunya nut pesto. He enjoys sourcing the freshest Queensland produce he can find, like Mooloolaba prawns served with a creamy garlic sauce, and finger lime in the cheesecake spring rolls.

Fenton rolled out a huge custom-built smoker to the front lawn of the heritage- listed landmark and began offering Fenton’s Fired Up on Saturdays. He created beautiful sides to go with slow smoked brisket and chicken wings, and his concept was a smash hit. 7. Chef Rana For more than a decade, Indian Mehfil has brought colourful Indian food to the Ipswich dining scene and Chef Rana has been in the kitchen for six of them. He specialises in northern Indian and Mughlai style cuisines which he honed His career highlights have included cooking for the Indian cricket team when they played in Brisbane in 2015. Look out for Chef Rana's personal favourite dishes Pahari Bkra (goat), Kamal Kakdi and Tawa Chicken as specials. See more at Discoveripswich.com.au/meet-the-chefs ■ 6 while working with the Peninsula chain of hotels in Bombay and Muscat, Oman, in the early 1990s.

5. Mark Naoum Classic European technique and modern wow factor inform the menu at The Cottage Restaurant where chef Mark Naoum and his wife Ange have created a brilliant fine dining destination in a restored heritage cottage. Queensland produce, that you might expect to stumble upon in any of the country’s capital cities. There’s a fine wine list on offer It’s elegant cuisine, showcases premium

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including champagnes to enjoy with Mark’s brilliant French-leaning creations. Watch out for exceptional set menu offerings marking special occasions such as Mother’s Day and Christmas. 6. Fenton Keogh Fenton was perhaps best known for the French restaurant, Fentons, which he ran in Ipswich for more than a decade. That was until he fired up the smoker in 2020 and garnered a whole new league of followers! He and wife Lisa have run weddings and events at The Ipswich Club for some time but needed to come up with a new take-away option.

By Wendy Hughes Travel and food writer @wwwendy

FLAVOURS

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VENUES Award-winning

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Queensland'S BEST

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1. Pumpyard Bar and Brewery

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5. CSI Ipswich

6. PA Hotel

4. Ballistic Beer Co

from 25 reviews When Dancing Bean opened a cafe in the Ipswich CBD, roasting their own beans on-site made sense. Today the roasting business is so popular that cafes all over the city are stocking the Ipswich Blend. In the International Golden Bean awards, the Ipswich blend received one silver and two bronze awards. Roaster and barista

from 3 reviews There’s a good reason why people come from all over to try the beers on offer at Ballistic Beer Co in Springfield, and that’s because the beers are all brewed locally. The original Salisbury venue has won over 30 awards in the last few years. Straight after launching the Springfield Pilsner and the new Springfield venue the beer won a silver medal in the Independent Brewers Association Indie awards.

from 24 reviews CSI Ipswich received an award from Clubs Queensland for two years running in the category of Best RSL in Queensland in 2018 and 2019. The club includes a sports bar, a huge bistro, live entertainment and a gaming room, and is located right next door to Riverlink Shopping Centre, which makes it a perfect spot for visitors. Its success comes down to its community focus and great customer service.

from 199 reviews The Prince Alfred Hotel has three

from 38 reviews A rising star on the

from 426 reviews When you have a meal at Pumpyard Bar and Brewery it’s impossible to not see all the certificates on the wall for their beer. Brewed on-site, you can’t miss the smell of yeast and hops in the air when sitting down for a meal from their American chef, or sampling a beer made by a man who learned his craft in Germany, giving The Pumpyard a truly international flavour.

Ipswich dining scene, Bakehouse Steakhouse was last year named the Best Steak Restaurant (informal) at the Restaurant and Catering Awards for Excellence for Queensland and the Northern Territory. The steakhouse has a reputation for fresh farm to plate produce, endless fries and gorgeous sides like dukkha and feta baked carrots!

different dining areas, Plantations, Tap’d and Char’d, and has twice won the most coveted award in hospitality. The venue won best casual dining restaurant for Plantations in the 2018 Queensland Hotel Awards and best Traditional Hotel Bar for Tap’d in 2019. They also won Australian Hotel of the Year at the 2017 Australian Hotel Awards. ■

Naoyuki Kitajima is always creating something new.

Introducing …

The Coffee Roasters Collective

Home of Dancing Bean Specialty Roasters and much, much more … 164 Brisbane Street, Ipswich Central • Café • Roastery • Equipment • Contract Roasting ___________ facebook.com/coffeeroastersco___________ facebook.com/DancingBeanHQ________coffeeroastersco.com.au________

opening hours 10 AM - 4 PM -

Excluding xmas and good friday

Large entertainment lounge

Function packs available

Large indoor kids games room

Cafe from 10am-2pm 7 days a week

$1 Member for Life

From within the Heart of Ipswich Together We can Build a S S onger Community. r it i t rt i t r il r it .

| 5a Lowry Street, North Ipswich 4305 | Phone: (07) 3812 3366 | www.clubipswich.com.au clubipswich

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By Tiana Templeman Travel journalist @ourtraveltemple

4. Rafter & Rose

from 201 reviews Greenery spills out of funky plant pots and eclectic, mismatched furniture giving Rafter & Rose a charming hip yet homely touch. The cafe is a favourite with dog-loving locals who sit outside with their pooches. Treat yourself to coffee and an almond croissant for breakfast. 5. Indian Mehfil from 340 reviews Spice up your night with dinner at this local favourite renowned for excellent curries, tasty tandoori and delicious vegetarian dishes. Housed in a beautiful historic building, Indian Mehfil serves classics such as butter chicken plus traditional Punjabi dishes. 6. Fourthchild Cafe & Restaurant from 370 reviews Whether you and your sweetheart are after breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong at Fourthchild. If the weather is good, grab a seat on the deck and enjoy the view of St Mary’s Church or head inside to the intimate dining room with cosy tables for two. ■

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good times and simple food done well. Think towering burgers, pizzas and crunchy beer battered fries that disappear as quickly as the frosty beer which is made on-site. 3. Homage Restaurant from 139 reviews Hatted chef Ash Martin is renowned for combining local ingredients with high-end French techniques. It’s a match made in heaven for foodies at Homage, which has a cosy two-way fireplace and a romantic vibe. Dishes such as coal roasted pork with lemon aspen and sour apple and a sophisticated wood roasted lamb are a highlight.

1. Dovetails Restaurant

from 155 reviews Dovetails delivers fine dining fare in the historic Pumpyard precinct. Drop in for a bacon waffle sandwich for breakfast on weekends or a juicy eye fillet from Grandchester for dinner. If the weather is good, the deck shaded by Poinciana trees offers lovely views of the park. 2. Pumpyard Bar and Brewery from 426 reviews If you fancy a laid back, fun date night, this is the place for you. At Pumpyard, it’s all about

88 Limestone St, Ipswich 4305 Visit us online at ungermannbrothers.com.au Follow Us on Facebook & Instagram @ungermannbrothers

Ungermann Brothers - An ice cream experience that you won’t forget.

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FLAVOURS

By Kerry Heaney Travel and food writer @eatdrinkbekerry

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hunting is a daily task for researchers but even with a pinging tracker and a sharp pair of eyes, finding a fluffy koala bottom high in a tree is not easy. The 26 koalas on the property are masters of hide and seek. A ride on the wild side Next door to the resort, the Hidden Vale Adventure Park caters for outdoor enthusiasts who like to hike, run or ride like keen mountain biker, Skroo Turner. There are over 110 kilometres of trail network on the 4,856 hectare property designed to cater for all ages and abilities. It’s a great adventure day out for children and adults, beginners and seasoned professionals. You can hire both standard and electric bikes or bring your own. There’s also a Skills Park to hone your moves before you take on any trail challenges and an uplift transfer service for those who want to take the downs but not suffer the hills. ■ “A great experience from start to finish.” Review of Homage Restaurant by a Tripadvisor Traveler 7 December 2020

It opened in February 2020 to house Homage and the luxury resort’s reception and lounge facilities. The accommodation here is an eclectic mix of restored Queenslander cottages which enjoy sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. Playing hide and seek with koalas Just a short walk from the Homestead, The Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre is a passion project for Spicers Retreats founder Jude Turner and her husband Graham “Skroo” Turner. A partnership between the Turner Family Foundation and the University of Queensland, the centre is home to a diverse range of native wildlife and is busy developing new wildlife management systems and conservation techniques. Spicers Hidden Vale visitors can explore the centre on a 45-minute tour or join researchers working on the Hidden Vale Koala Project. Bear

There’s a cosy, welcoming ambience and relaxed country elegance plus the promise of exceptionally good farm gate to plate food from Chef Ash Martin. Located deep in the heart of Ipswich City yet only one hour’s drive from Brisbane, the two-chef hat and state fine dining award winning restaurant, Homage offers the sort of dining experience that food lovers dream about. Chef Martin is dedicated to using produce plucked from Homage’s own vegetable gardens and orchards or sourced from farms just down the road. Martin calls the Homage Restaurant menu spontaneous, drawing as it does from the best local produce available on the day. But there’s nothing unplanned about the exquisite flavours arising from the Mibrasa grill and the dining experience that awaits restaurant guests. Raised to the ground by fire, the Spicers Hidden Vale Homestead building was rebuilt to strongly echo its heritage past.

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SQUARE 1. Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway Picnic Train SQUARE 2. The Soul Nook Collective SQUARE 3. Watercress Creek Olives and Limes SQUARE 4. Queens Park SQUARE 5. Kholo Gardens SQUARE 6. Sip ‘n’ Dip SQUARE 7. Colleges Crossing BUCKET LIST Picnic

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More information Discoveripswich.com.au/picnics

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the sun WHERE TO GO WHEN

goes down…

out for special Sunday sessions and Saturday night gigs with local and touring artists. 3. Casa Mia from 100 reviews Now home inside the Country Motel in Ipswich, Casa Mia is open until late Monday to Sunday. The venue not only serves delicious Italian dishes but great entertainment with stage shows and open mic nights. Once a month Dancing with the Queens is on stage with a live musical theatre dining experience. Each production showcases professional drag artists from all around for highly entertaining, cabaret and burlesque style performances. Look out for from 77 reviews At the other end of the Pumpyard laneway sits Ungermann Brothers, a 60s inspired ice creamery great for a treat on your night out. Listen out for the electro swing music for a sweet end to your night. Indulge in handcrafted ice cream, desserts, milkshakes and macarons. Tuck into an adults only rum and raisin sundae or try one of the gourmet ice cream flavours their special themed nights! 4. Ungermann Brothers

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Look out for monthly events including dog friendly Sunday sessions.

1. Pumpyard Bar and Brewery

from 426 reviews Located in the Ipswich CBD the Pumpyard Bar and Brewery has a reputation as the place to be as the sun goes down in Ipswich. The Heritage building is also home to 4 Hearts Brewing Company and Dovetails Restaurant. On weekends the laneway between both venues fills with the sound of DJs and indie artists.

2. Ballistic Springfield, Brewery, Bar and Kitchen from 3 reviews

With locally brewed beer on tap, a great beer infused menu, trivia and open mic nights, the night life takes off at Ballistic Springfield. Look

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Bookings & Enquiries casamiaipswich . com . au 0491 680 226

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Located in the Country Motel Ipswich Complex 250 South Station Rd Raceview

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like Dutch spice, blue cheese and fig or dark chocolate and orange! 5. Brothers Leagues Club from 68 reviews Live entertainment is a huge part of the offering at Brother’s Leagues club. The free entertainment sees some of the most talented solo artists from South East Queensland performing every Friday and Saturday night and you can enjoy morning melodies on Thursday mornings. The venue is open until 2am every night and is a great place for locals to meet up and enjoy a night out with delicious cocktails, the pink gin spritz is a local favourite, and a scrumptious seafood or steak dinner in Shamrocks restaurant. 6. Ipswich Civic Centre From popular artists to classic rock acts, the Ipswich Civic Centre has a year-round program of entertainment for all tastes. This venue has seen many great shows grace it’s stage from Aussie act Busby Marou to the Imperial Russian Ballet and comedians like Jimeoin! Pre-show drinks and snacks are available at the bar. There’s also options to add a cheese platter to your ticket for special events. To see what's on head to Discoveripswich.com.au/ whats-on

7. Studio 188 Inside a heritage listed Art-Deco former Baptist Church, Studio 188 delivers an intimate setting for emerging artists and main stream acts. Look out for independent and cutting edge musicians on offer, right in the heart of the Ipswich CBD. Check out their website for up to date details and to book tickets. 8. Banshees Bar and Art Space Banshees is a friendly bar and art space where you can enjoy live performances, contemporary art exhibitions, and community events. Banshees are purveyors of the weird, wonderful, and obscure. The bar is open Wednesday to Saturday and stays open until midnight! Wednesday nights are open mic nights, Thursday nights is your time to shine with karaoke, and on the weekends you can discover diverse bands live on stage. ■

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Ipswich’s most spacious motel offering a ‘home away from home’ resort style atmosphere, with a warm country welcome and parking at your door. Laze around the pool. Enjoy a cocktail or beer in the alfresco dining area surrounded amongst lovely gardens. Gelati for kids! Pizza for lunch! Dine in or order room service from Casa Mia Restaurant located within the motel grounds. Walk from and back to your room for functions. Call & Save (07) 3202 4622 View more at countrymotelipswich.com Country Motel Ipswich... The first choice for a long or short stay

The perfect location for any reason

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HERITAGE

Grand homes OF THE HERITAGE CITY...

By Wendy Hughes Travel and food writer @wwwendy

a B&B set in a fine early 20th Century example of Mission Revival architecture. Out of town, Woodlands of Marburg offers a wedding and event space, accommodation and cafe on the site where Thomas Smith built his stately home in 1890 and where he and wife Mary raised their 11 children. Twice a year the National Trust of Queensland runs Great Houses of Ipswich – a chance to step inside three privately owned heritage homes. The next is scheduled for mid-2021. Coach tours are available on the day, including Devonshire Tea (enquire at the Visitor Information Centre or call (07) 3281 0555 ), or visitors can travel between one or two or all three under their own steam and pay a small entry fee at each home. For more details see Discoveripswich.com.au . Pick up your Heritage Homes map from the Visitor Information Centre. ■

This is a city that had surged to great heights by the late 1800s and into the turn of the century on the back of booming industries such as coal, rail and wool. Entire streets of elaborately detailed and incredibly grand mansions rose up as the town reached further into the hilly surrounds and dales. Those houses today – included in the city’s 7,000-plus heritage listed sites – showcase another era while also bringing great character to Ipswich as a city. Take a drive around some of the old inner suburbs such as Woodend, Coalfalls, Sadliers Crossing, Eastern Heights and Newtown – and get out and walk to take in the majestic architecture gems lining the streets. Some of the region’s heritage landmarks, once residential homes, are now the sites of flourishing character-filled businesses, including The Cottage Restaurant in historic Darver Cottage, built in 1861, and Cumquat House ,

You might have heard Ipswich has a few old houses worth a look. Well, it’s true. And the visual feast of so many heritage beauties in one location will likely exceed any expectations you might arrive here with.

HERITAGE

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“I love this place what a treat”

Review of Ipswich Massage and Herbal Spa by a Tripadvisor Traveler 19 November 2020

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Ipswich Massage and Herbal Spa, resplendent after a renovation last year, is now offering more therapies than ever in one stunning space. The works not only have allowed for more services, but uncovered beams bearing the names of past Ipswich residents. The building was first constructed in the 1900s and as it turns out used beams from a play shed erected at the Ipswich Grammar School in 1877. The beams remain exposed in the newly renovated rooms. Stepping inside from busy Brisbane Street in the Top of Town, you are suddenly in an oasis of calm. As well as a day spa and a variety of therapeutic massage options, you can access osteopathy, physiotherapy, acupuncture and Chinese medicine (from a fifth generation practitioner). Pilates, yoga and meditation classes are held in an on-site studio and these classes are NDIS approved. Owner Sonja Glinster says the practice adheres to a philosophy of healthy living and a holistic approach that takes its inspiration from nature. In wild times (looking directly at you 2020) it is comforting to know there’s a place you can go where your absolute relaxation and wellbeing is the primary focus. TIME TO

“In all we have about 23 modalities from all around the world, and they all bring something different to the table,” she said. Sonja says there was a lot people could do to restore calmness, wellbeing and balance in their lives after the tumultuous times 2020 has delivered. “Many people can’t cope with change and find it quite stressful,” she said. “An hour of just lying down, relaxing, listening to the music and just breathing while you have a massage can have a huge impact. “We know we’ve done a good massage when they come out and can’t remember their PIN when they go to pay,” Sonja chuckles. She said many people have stopped and reassessed the way they’ve been living life this year and some have realised they need a level of self-care in their routine. “Instead of treating massage as a rare luxury they are coming in once a month.” Acupuncture was also becoming more sought after as a treatment for a variety of conditions. “It is really great seeing the change in people, sometimes even after just their second session… we have found it is helpful in treating depression, auto-immune conditions and post-natal depression.” Ipswich Massage and Herbal Spa also stocks a variety of carefully sourced aromatherapy, herbal and beauty products, including the Anima Mundi Apothecary range from New York. See more at Discoveripswich.com.au/massage ■

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HERITAGE

Spooky tales, Many of the historical sites surrounding the Ipswich CBD, home to new dining and cultural hubs, harbour some of the region’s spookiest ghost stories. GHOST HUNTERS AND HISTORY…

map-marker-alt Woodlands of Marburg, Haunted Mansion Tour

around the grounds to learn the history of the mansion built in 1890, including its first owners the pioneering Smith family and how the estate later became a Seminary. The mansion is now home to a weddings venue with accommodation and cafe open on the weekends. The Haunted Mansion Tour takes you inside the mansion where paranormal investigators guide you through the rooms and ghost hunting technology with the lights off. Listen for messages from the mansion’s former owners Tommy and Mary Smith who had 11 children when they lived there, as well as some of the priests that passed away within the mansion. Visit rooms that turn instantly cold as soon as you walk in and feel the hairs on the back of your neck stand up as spirit boxes bring forth messages from beyond. Finally Sip ‘n’ Dip has partnered with a paranormal investigations team Pariah Paranormal to bring an interactive Paint ‘n’ Paranormal tour to Ipswich. Your ticket includes dinner or nibbles, a drink and a learn to paint class which includes all your materials. Your paint class could be learning to paint the historic venue that you’ll be investigating or The Scream, Edvard Munch’s famous painting. After your guided art class, go on a paranormal investigation of the venue, complete with spirit boxes and Ouija boards. Some of the venues include the Marburg Pub , Wolston Farm House , Goodna Cemetery and Jets Leagues Club. ■

map-marker-alt Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour

buried at the cemetery. He had severe burns on his legs and back and initials branded into his flesh, he had claimed he escaped the fire at the siege of Glenrowan with another member of the gang. His untimely death came when he was decapitated by a coal train coming into Ipswich. It was told that he would often walk along the railway lines. Another way to explore the ghosts of Ipswich's past is to join on a new Haunted Mansion Tour at Woodlands of Marburg . The tours take you

Fortunately for those that love a spooky tale there’s three tours you can do to explore that side of Ipswich’s history. Learn about some of the historic graves at the Ipswich Cemetery with Jack Sim’s Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tours . Mr Sim has been researching the grim and macabre tales of the heritage city for years. One of the stories is about James Ryan, who claimed he was one of the members of the infamous Kelly gang. Mr Ryan’s remains were

HERITAGE

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By Wendy Hughes Travel and food writer @wwwendy

Spend some time in the heritage city of Ipswich and it won’t be long before you hear mention of Top of Town and Nicholas Street Precinct. So, where are these areas, specifically?

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Top of Town refers to a stretch of Brisbane Street right in the heart of Ipswich that has an entire strip of spectacular heritage buildings. And much like those cities in foreign countries that are so good to explore, mixing modern business with timeless character, Ipswich’sTop of Town has a unique and quirky kind of allure. A mix of independently owned and family-run shops, businesses and cafes have opened in the area in recent years, offering a unique shopping experience. In perhaps the best known landmark of this part of town, the Old Flour Mill , you’ll find a special array of retailers including The Soul Cauldron and Embers & Twine . Back out on the street, fashion outlets like Oh JoJo! Boutique , Soul Sista and Obsession Shoes bring hard-to-find labels to the city – and attract regulars from Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Toowoomba. Cute to Boot specialises in baby and toddler shoes, clothing and nursery items thoughtfully sourced from around the world. Other outlets to explore include the retail and gallery space Arttime Supplies and the Aladdin’s Den that is Vintage Advantage . Rafter & Rose around the corner on Ellenborough Street, Fourthchild in a majestic old building, the nostalgia-inducing Retro Diner and German restaurant Heisenberg Haus are among the eateries you’ll find in this area. Wander a little further past historic St Paul’s Church and you’ll find yourself in the striking new Nicholas Street Precinct , including the site formerly known as the Ipswich Mall. This area has emerged as an exciting dining and retail pocket in the city – keep watching as more and more new businesses are set to open in this area and its surrounding laneways. ■

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Experience everything Ipswich Civic Centre has to offer!

NORTH IPSWICH RESERVE CORPORATE CENTRE

STUDIO 188

IPSWICH CIVIC CENTRE

See the program at Ipswichciviccentre.com.au

NORTH IPSWICH RESERVE CORPORATE CENTRE

ADVENTURE

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IN IPSWICH Helicopter mountain biking

By Jessica Wilson Journalist, RACQ Publishing Racqliving.com.au

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“Highly recommend the whole experience” Review of Pterodactyl Helicopters by a Tripadvisor Traveler 22 November 2020

Willowbank MX is a recreational ride park for motocross enthusiasts open seven days a week. Grab your bike and test out the seven professionally designed tracks for beginners all the way to advanced riders. Bookings essential.

We rode along a fire trail to get used to the bike’s electric features – the greatest invention in biking: going uphill is just as much fun as going downhill – before tackling one of the 'easy' 10km single tracks. Getting out into the bush was a lovely experience and we encountered huge kangaroos, wallabies and some stubborn cows who weren’t keen on moving off the trail. There was even the decaying skeleton of a light plane, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, which we stopped to explore. We completed the 10km circuit in about an hour. Then we headed to Spicers Hidden Vale , next to the Adventure Park, for a well-earned beer, burger and chips at the recently reopened Homage restaurant bar before our return flight to Archerfield. ■

Before this adventure I had never been in a helicopter before and could not remember the last time I rode a bike, let alone on single- track mountain biking trails, and I’m not sure which I was more nervous about. Luckily, our pilot Brett from Pterodactyl Helicopters, Archerfield, was both a fantastic flyer and an accomplished mountain biker who filled us in on some of the finer points of off-road biking as we flew towards Hidden Vale Adventure Park , Grandchester. Any nerves I had vanished as soon as we left the helipad and I took in the stunning views from the cockpit. If you think the view from a plane is great – the uninterrupted view from a helicopter is next level! Brett provided us with a map of the park’s trails and recommended a few that would be suitable for our riding skills.

OTHER IPSWICH MOUNTAIN BIKING LOCATIONS

Castle Hill, Blackstone Reserve. Located in the Ipswich CBD is 15km of International Mountain Biking Association rated trails. White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate. The estate covers 2,500 hectares of bushland, so you’ll find a trail to have some fun on. Access is off School Rd, Redbank Plains. Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate. There’s over 2,000 hectares of estate to explore, located between the Flinders Plum picnic area and Hardings Paddock campground.

Experience the best of South East Queensland OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Donate now 0417 727 532 admin@pterodactyl.com.au

404 Wirraway Avenue, Archerfield QLD 4108 www.pterodactylhelicopters.com.au

scenic flights | winery tours | adventure tours | pub crawls | charters | weddings | more

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ADVENTURE

“The whole experience was so relaxing and comfortable. Highly recommended.” Review of Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights by a Tripadvisor Traveler 14 February 2021

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By Tiana Templeman Travel journalist @ourtraveltemple

FLOATING IMAGES

It’s just after 6.00 am when a mob of kangaroos bound away from the Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights take-off site as the first light of dawn touches the sky. The balloon and basket are unloaded from the truck, large fans inflate the sturdy yellow and blue balloon then the burners are turned on and we are ready to go.

A skilled pilot is able to light the burners at the right interval and duration to keep the balloon slowly drifting up and down at the altitude required to catch the most ideal winds. Once the initial excitement from the take-off is over and we get used to the gentle movement of the balloon, it is as if everyone has agreed to be quiet for a few minutes. Conversation stops and we enjoy the beauty of our surroundings in silence, taking in the sweeping scenery unfolding around us. In the distance, we spot the support vehicle following along behind, ready to meet the balloon when we land. After flying over farms, creeks, and bush for an hour it is almost time to come back to earth and the balloon begins to descend. Graeme ensures we are all in the correct landing position, holding on to the handles inside the basket with our feet firmly on the floor, and gently brings the balloon down in a field. Our arrival is heralded by a kookaburra chorus and a cheery farmer on a quad bike who has escorted the support vehicle to our landing spot. ■

Owner-pilot Graeme Day learned to fly in Annecy in France and has been soaring above Ipswich for 20 years. After a safety briefing, we climb into the basket and the balloon rises gracefully into the sky. In the distance, Brisbane’s high rise pierce the sky and rolling hills are crowned by the sun’s orange glow. It is so smooth that it seems impossible we are flying. It doesn’t take long before the balloon leaves the colourful roofs of Ipswich behind and farmland forms a patchwork on the ground below. Slowly the sun rises above the highest mountains and bathes the landscape in a warm glow. It is amazing how much you can see when you’re soaring above the landscape. From the sky you get an entirely different perspective on the unique rural beauty of Australia. Graeme makes piloting a hot air balloon seem easy but it is trickier than it looks. The only way to steer is to climb or descend into winds going in different directions. Hot air makes the balloon go up and cooling air makes it slowly descend.