Ipswich in Spring - 2025

Your guide for entertainment, events and activities IPSWICH IN SPRING 2025

Ipswich.qld.gov.au

IPSWICH ART GALLERY

We're open 7 DAYS A WEEK 10AM — 5PM d'Arcy Doyle Place, Ipswich

SEE WHAT ’ S ON Mark Rothko, 1957 # 20, 1957, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, purchased 1981 © Kate Rothko Prizel & Christopher Rothko. ARS/Copyright Agency. Sharing the National Collection , Ipswich Art Gallery, 2024. Image courtesy of Nicholas Street Precinct.

Ipswich Art Gallery is one of Australia’s most visited regional galleries! Offering vibrant exhibitions, heritage displays, and engaging programs for children and families.

Message from Ipswich Mayor, Teresa Harding

As we start to enjoy the warmer weather and longer days, there is no better time than springtime to enjoy all Ipswich has to offer. We look forward to celebrating our proud heritage city as the flora blooms throughout our city. Taking a step back in time with especially for the kids, Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favourite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical JR.

subsequent to publication of this brochure, no responsibility is accepted for accuracy of content. This publication is copyright. Other than for the purposes of and subject to the conditions prescribed under the Copyright Act 1968 (C’wlth), no part of it may in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, micro copying, photocopying, recording or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without prior written permissions. If you wish to disseminate or share this information and or images please contact Ipswich City Council for permission. There’s plenty to do around our beautiful city, especially enjoying getting out and about in the garden. A good way to do that is to grab some tips during Sustainable Ipswich, an annual celebration of everyday actions we can take as a community to create a more liveable city. We will welcome many visitors during spring as our local tourism operators continue to offer unique experiences from farm experiences to outdoor adventures and culinary delights. The season is also a signal to start thinking about deserving individuals and groups for acknowledgement in the annual Ipswich Australia Day Awards, with nominations open until November. So, spring into action and get ready for the best times in Ipswich as the countdown to another summer begins.

Front cover image: miniBOUNCE Ipswich. If you have any feedback regarding the Spring Guide, please email council@ipswich.qld.gov.au or visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au Disclaimer: Published by Ipswich City Council © 2025 At time of printing all information is current and correct. Every care has been taken to ensure the information in this brochure is correct at the time of publication. Ipswich City Council accepts no responsibility for any errors, omissions or changes leading to such information being incorrect. As activities, programs and events may cancel or move the many fabulous shows on offer. Filled with heart, humour, and an unforgettable Celtic-inspired score, Come From Away is a moving celebration of community, connection, and the best of human spirit. And Galvanized – A Festival of Heritage, we showcase our city’s history and the best heritage experiences and events Ipswich has to offer across 10 days from 5 to 14 September 2025. As we travel further back in time, the Dinosaur Discovery will be taking over once again during the September school holidays. Join in on the unforgettable, immersive experience of a world once ruled by dinosaurs. Back in this century the Ipswich Civic Centre is celebrating their heritage, 50 years of laughs and drama for our city. What better way to kick off the next half century by attending one of

It replaces a two-decade old planning scheme with a contemporary, fit-for- purpose scheme that will better allow Ipswich to respond to growth over the next 20 years. The Ipswich City Plan 2025 will deliver increased diversity of housing, helping boost citywide stock from 92,700 homes to 192,400 across the life of the plan, putting downward pressure on home prices and helping address the housing shortage, homelessness and overcrowding. Almost 100,000 people were engaged during the community consultation phase PAVES WAY FOR 100,000 HOMES OVER 20 YEARS NEW IPSWICH CITY PLAN

The Ipswich City Plan 2025 came into effect from 1 July 2025.

Ipswich is set to remain a stronghold of housing affordability with a new plan to unlock construction of 100,000 homes across the next 20 years. The Ipswich City Plan 2025, which came into effect on 1 July 2025, tackles housing delivery head on to cater for a population expected to double to more than half a million by 2046. The plan also includes the new Local Government Infrastructure Plan to drive infrastructure needed to support growth. The new planning scheme will allow Ipswich, as one of Australia’s fastest growing communities, to capitalise on the opportunities and address the challenges that come with rapid growth.

of the development of the plan. The plan is available online at Ipswich.isoplan.com.au/eplan

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Ipswich CITY PLAN

2025 Thinking about a second dwelling on your property? To help meet the growing demand for diverse and affordable housing, council introduced new opportunities on 1 July 2025, to encourage Secondary Dwellings and Dual Occupancies in established suburban residential areas. These housing options offer flexible living arrangements that can support extended families, provide rental opportunities or simply make use of underutilised residential land. To make it easier for the community, council has removed the requirement for planning approval in most instances where a Secondary Dwelling or Dual Occupancy is proposed. This allows more people to call Ipswich home whilst protecting what we value about our established suburbs.

Your options: A Secondary Dwelling is a smaller dwelling on the same lot as a primary dwelling (e.g. a granny flat). Any person/s can occupy the Secondary Dwelling. It cannot be separately titled. A Dual Occupancy means two dwellings on one lot, with no requirement for one to be subordinate to the other. They may be attached (e.g. a duplex) or detached, and can be strata titled. The new Ipswich City Plan 2025 allows a generous approach to the size of a second dwelling based on the size of the property. Refer to the table below for the Gross Floor Area (GFA) allowable, without a planning approval.

Dual Occupancy Dwelling (GFA m 2 )

Secondary Dwelling (GFA m 2 )

Lot size (m 2 )

> 450–600 > 600–800

60 90

–

120 150

> 800

120

There are a number of requirements that need to be met, such as setbacks, building heights and car parking. Building and plumbing approvals are still required for any new building works.

Scan the QR code to find out more, including the full criteria for when planning approval is not required. D wnl a th fac shee

Find out more about how we are shaping the future of our city at Ipswich.qld.gov.au/cityplan

Australia Day Awards 2026 Ipswich

Do you know a community group or an individual who goes above and beyond? Show your appreciation and nominate them for an Ipswich Australia Day Award. Categories include Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Cultural Award, Sport and Recreation Award, and Community Group of the Year.

To nominate, visit Ipswichaustraliadayawards.com.au NOMATIONS CLOSE SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER 2025

CLUBS BENEFIT WITH NEW SILVER JUBILEE SPORTS FACILITY CLUBHOUSE

The new Silver Jubilee Sports Facility Clubhouse.

canteen and food preparation area, to cater for all community sporting clubs that use the facility. The clubhouse has incorporated sustainable initiatives including solar cells and rainwater harvesting tanks. It also features unisex toilets, a medical room and cleaners’ room. It is expected to be used by a large range of local sporting clubs and codes. It will also service multiple existing sports fields and courts and support organised sporting groups. The facility is also fully accessible for people with a disability. Externally, upgrades include concrete terraced seating and pathways, separate storage bays, landscaping and turf around the perimeter, a covered walkway and relocation of the existing shelters.

Ipswich clubs are benefiting with the completion of a new clubhouse at Silver Jubilee Park. The Australian Government continues to partner with local governments across Queensland to get high-priority local community infrastructure off the ground – with construction of the Silver Jubilee Sports Facility clubhouse at Spring Mountain a recent example. The more than $3.5 million project delivered a new clubhouse and amenities, benefiting new and regular user groups, community users and schools. This was supported by more than $1.97 million from the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and $1.55 million from Ipswich City Council. Situated at the centre of the sports grounds, the new building includes a club room, four change rooms and amenities, referees’ and officials’ rooms, a commercial grade kitchen, as well as a

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Twigley Farm

The best of Ipswich in spring

Celebrate everything spring has to offer with family-friendly adventures, camping and more...

See some baby animals In spring you can usually meet some babies at Ipswich hobby farms. See baby sheep at EWE Nique Hobby Farm as lambing season is from winter into spring each year, camels at Summer Land Camels and cria (baby llamas) at The Llama Farm . Unwind with the perfect picnic There are some amazing places to have a picnic in Ipswich. Including businesses like The Soul Nook Collective that take care of all the hard work for you. Or you can opt to visit one of the fantastic parks around, all you need to do is pack the esky. Camping and farm stays Enjoy a breath of fresh country air at farm stays this spring! Stay in a tiny house on a cattle farm on the banks of the Brisbane River at Pocket Retreats , go glamping or stay in a beautifully renovated house at Twigley Farm or find yourself on a farm with mountain views at Tallavalley Farm B&B . Go camping at Hardings Paddock or Ivory’s Rock to feel a million miles away surrounded by bushland.

EWE Nique Hobby Farm

Dinosaur Discovery

Queensland Museum Rail Workshops

The Soul Nook Collective

Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights

Fun kids’ things to do September school holidays are just around the corner and now’s the perfect time to start planning an epic adventure. Head to Nicholas Street Precinct to explore Dinosaur Discovery, Queensland Museum Rail Workshops for trains and the sciencentre, ride the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail or try a child-friendly escape room at Seraphim Escape Rooms . Father’s Day ideas Spring also means it’s nearly Father’s Day. Celebrate the dad in your life with the perfect gift – an experience he will never forget. Take dad up high in a hot air balloon, race around the track in a Mustang or enjoy fresh produce in an olive grove.

Grab a free copy of the Ipswich precinct guides, available from the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre.

IPSWICH CENTRAL PRECINCT GUIDE

GREATER SPRINGFIELD PRECINCT GUIDE

FIND OUT MORE

FREE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP-OFF DAY Sunday 12 October Riverview Resource Recovery Centre, 81 Riverview Road, Riverview How much can I drop off? Up to 20 litres/kilograms per waste type will be accepted, however up to 100 litres of paint will be accepted. Charges No charges for listed accepted items on this day. Standard disposal fee for any other waste items brought on this day. Ipswich residents only. Proof of residency required.

For further information, visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/waste or phone (07) 3810 6666.

IPSWICH ECONOMY BOOMS AS IT BURSTS THROUGH $15 BILLION MARK

The Ipswich economy continues to go from strength to strength.

That target has been smashed already with 95,532 jobs recorded in 2024. The city has experienced a $2.4 billion increase in GRP over the past three years. That is fantastic news for a region which has faced some tough economic challenges in recent times. GRP is a valuable indicator of an area’s level of investment attraction and sustained growth. It is the amount of region’s wealth which is generated by businesses, organisations and individuals working in the area.

The Ipswich economy is defying state, national and international trends with more jobs than ever before and a booming financial bottom line. The city’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) – which measures the total value of goods and services produced in the region – has broken through the $15 billion mark for the first time in history, according to latest economic data. The Ipswich economy is growing at a faster rate than Queensland’s and Australia’s, putting the city in a strong position for years ahead. Economically, Ipswich continues to punch well above its weight.

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In council’s Economic Development Strategy 2023–2027 a target of 95,040 jobs by 2027 was set.

IpSwIcH SuStAiNaBlE LiViNg FeStIvAl 2 2

Saturday 18 October 9.00 am – 1.00 pm Tulmur Place

Nicholas Street Precinct will be a hive of activity with free sustainability workshops, activities and stalls.

Free kids shows and activities will keep the little ones entertained Join free workshops for practical skills on everything from beekeeping to bicycle maintenance Talk with experts on ways to improve your sustainable lifestyle, from home design to EV technology.

For more information visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/sustainability

The bees are buzzing and everything’s growing! Here’s how you can help boost Ipswich’s natural environment: your environment this spring 4 ways to help

1. Lend a hand with Bushcare Ipswich has a dozen groups from Springfield to Rosewood where volunteers have regular working bees to improve local bushland sites. Ipswich.qld.gov.au/volunteering 2. Play Agents of Discovery Download the free app for an exciting interactive game combining digital and natural worlds. Find new Mission locations each month! Ipswich.qld.gov.au/enviroed 3. Pick up your free plants Council’s nursery offers six free plants to Ipswich residents. Featuring fantastic natives, the plants are grown to suit Ipswich conditions. Ipswich.qld.gov.au/freeplants 4. Join a community planting A free planting event for World Rivers Day will be on Sunday 28 September at Kippen Park,

Goodna to restore Woogaroo Creek. Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com

SPRING School Holiday Fun

IPSWICH LIBRARIES Dig and Discover!

Unearth hidden secrets from the ancient and prehistoric past at Ipswich Libraries’ branches these school holidays! FREE adventures to uncover for all ages!

Butterfly Conservation Drop-In Egyptian Sarcophagus Workshop eWaste Workshop

Eye Spy: Prehistoric Discoveries Drop-In Fossil Finds Drop-In Road Test a Robot Drop-In School of Rocks Drop-In

Shields and Heraldry Workshop Wildlife Unleashed Performance. Bookings open Friday 29 August For more information visit Ipswichlibraries.com.au

NICHOLAS STREET PRECINCT Dinosaur Discovery 22 September – 4 October

Stomp into Tulmur Place to see the ROARRRSOME interactive dinosaur displays! Enjoy face painting, markets and photo opportunities, plus enjoy a live show of the Dinosaur Train characters from 25 to 30 September. Tulmur Place, Nicholas Street Precinct 10.00 am – 2.00 pm daily Three hours of free parking For more information visit Nicholasst.com.au

IPSWICH CIVIC CENTRE SEUSSICAL JR. 24–25 September

Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favourite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical JR., a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, presented by Fusion Arts Inc. Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that’s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant! For more information visit Ipswichciviccentre.com.au/whats-on

ACTIVE KIDS Roll into school holiday mode with the Active Kids school holiday program! With a variety of FREE and low-cost activities, kids will be energised, entertained and eager to learn new skills.

For more information visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/activekids

IPSWICH ART GALLERY IAG Kids: Imagine... 13 September – 23 November

Imagine a dedicated art space to experiment, reflect and create. Imagine being inspired by artworks from contemporary Australian artists. Imagine making your own! Imagine... is a hands-on exhibition for all ages, where you can respond to the gallery’s collection through your own creative making – all materials provided. Free entry, 10.00 am – 5.00 pm 7 days.

For more information visit Ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au

QUEENS PARK ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTRE

Encourage the kids to get involved in our local environment and learn about sustainable living. Enjoy a range of fun workshops and activities during Sustainable Ipswich these September school holidays. Open Tuesday to Saturday 9.00 am – 2.00 pm Queens Park Environmental Education Centre, Merle Finimore Avenue, Ipswich Find sustainability-themed school holiday activities by visiting Ipswich.qld.gov.au/sustainability

Let's get it sorted

Recycling

Garden Organics

General Waste

TISSUES AND PAPER TOWELS DRINKING GLASSES PACKETS AND SOFT PLASTICS (including plastic bags) FOOD SCRAPS LONG LIFE MILK AND JUICE CARTONS (Tetra Pak)

GRASS CLIPPINGS PRUNINGS, CUTTINGS AND TRIMMINGS TWIGS AND STICKS PALM FRONDS WEEDS

GLASS

METAL

PLASTIC

CARDBOARD

PAPER

For more information visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/recycling

This initiative is supported by the Queensland Government’s Recycling and Jobs Fund

ACTIVE AND HEALTHY? YES WE ARE!

There are many activities on offer through council’s Active and Healthy program.

Almost 90 per cent used the Active and Healthy app to book classes, with the feedback showing the app to be easy to use and navigate. The Active and Healthy program is a direct outcome and delivery action of the Ipswich Community Development Strategy and the Active Ipswich Strategy 2032. In 2024, it featured 40 weekly activities, 18 nutrition workshops and 131 Active Kids school holiday sessions, including Learn 2 Ride sessions.

Ipswich is making big strides in healthy living, with recent results showing almost 30,000 residents took part in Active and Healthy programs in 2024. The free and low-cost activities range from exercise classes to healthy eating workshops, for residents of all ages and fitness levels. The latest survey of the program shows that 79 per cent of participants identified improvements in their physical health, while 64 per cent said their mental health had improved. Overall, participants gave our programs an average of 4.36 out of 5.

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STRIDES MADE IN INVASIVE WEED MANAGEMENT

The spider excavator machine moving down slope.

The spider’s unique design allows it to traverse steep terrain and enter shallow water bodies, making it ideal for challenging environments like the pond at Viewpoint Drive. Treatment was also carried out at the pond near 31 Vistula Circuit Reserve, where council deployed an aquatic weed harvester to remove a dense mat of salvinia that had formed on the water’s surface.

More than 80 tonnes of the invasive weed salvinia has been removed from two key waterways in Ipswich as part of a coordinated approach by Ipswich City Council and developer Stockland. Salvinia is a highly invasive aquatic weed that is capable of rapid growth in favourable conditions, in some cases, doubling in size overnight. Prolonged wet weather can contribute to the growth of salvinia and reduce the effectiveness of growth management measures. In a council-first trial, specialist equipment known as a ‘spider excavator’ was deployed to remove salvinia from a hard-to-access pond at 9000 Viewpoint Drive in Springfield Lakes.

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ENTRIES CLOSE 6.00 pm Sunday 31 August 2025 All entries are displayed in the exhibition and can be purchased by visitors, helping artists build their profile and connect with new audiences.

EXHIBITION 8-15 November 2025 Open daily 10.00 am - 4.00 pm

more info

Creatorsofipswich.com.au

THE OTHER SIDE OF CREATIVE INDUSTRIES Workshops that support local Ipswich artists to grow their skills, build confidence and make the most of creative opportunities. ENTERING THE IPSWICH ART AWARDS – 16 AUG THE ART OF GRANT WRITING – 28 + 30 AUG DESIGNING ART PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH – 29 AUG

GRANT BUDGETS – RADF – 18 SEP

APPLYING FOR THE IPSWICH COMMUNITY GALLERY – 11 OCT THE SPOTLIGHT STRATEGY – 23 OCT

Visit Creatorsofipswich.com.au for bookings and to follow us for program updates.

LIVE MUSIC – COMEDY – ENTERTAINMENT – DANCE – THEATRE

Cover image: MIXTAPE SESSIONS JK-47 2025. Photographer: Tamcam Images

MIXTAPE SESSIONS MEG WASHINGTON W/ SPECIAL GUESTS

23 AUGUST STUDIO 188

HATCHERY AiR VEZ 29 AUGUST STUDIO 188

IPSWICH ONSTAGE THE FEMALE OF THE SPECIES 21–24 AUGUST

THE ROBERTSON BROTHERS 29 AUGUST

HATCHERY AiR MILLY AND THE MATHS SHOW 5 SEPTEMBER STUDIO 188

SUPPORTED BY

WORLD COMEDY 30 AUGUST

IPSWICH BATTLE OF THE BANDS 6 SEPTEMBER

SUPPORTED BY

SATURDAY DOUBLE FEATURE 6 SEPTEMBER

MOSS w/ Scraps

STUDIO 188 13 SEPTEMBER

From the breakout success of his debut single Lullabye feat. Akacia, which clocked over 200,000 plays in its first month, proud First Nations electronic artist Moss has quickly carved a name for himself in Australia and beyond. With support from global heavyweights like Marshmello, Yellow Claw and Jauz, and a home at October Records, Moss brings cinematic, bass-heavy production with emotional intensity . His track Sabre Teeth – which won triple j Unearthed’s DIY Supergroup competition and hit #1 on their charts – led to an official release featuring Genesis Owusu . In 2023, Moss reimagined Solid Rock with Goanna, Tasman Keith and William Barton , earning major industry attention and becoming the anthem for the NRL’s Indigenous Round and Brisbane Riverfire. His 2024 single Strictly 4 Tha with UK rap icon Example , released via Monstercat, earned nearly half a million streams and saw the duo tour nationally. On stage, Moss has electrified lineups at Wildlands, Rabbits Eat Lettuce, Ability Fest and more, while also being selected by Ableton for their Live 11 showcase. Supporting Moss is Scraps – the ‘dehydrated disco’ project of Meanjin/Brisbane producer Laura Hill. Think cubist synth-pop, acid ballads and echo-laced storytelling. Woozy, warped and utterly unmissable.

This program is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

13-21 SEPTEMBER

VIVA PAVAROTTI 28 SEPTEMBER

24-25 SEPTEMBER

WALTZING WILARRA THE

IPSWICH CIVIC CENTRE 8 OCTOBER

Charlie, Elsa and Fay take you on a musical journey back to 1940’s post war Perth. Against a backdrop of curfews and the fear of arrest for consorting, white and black manage to form their own club. For a night they can forget their worries and experience rare happy times singing, dancing, listening to music and with a little luck… romance. Forty years on, as the club faces demolition, our three characters meet once again to stage a musical reunion and protest in an attempt to save their old stomping ground. As the trio reflects upon loves lost and found, old arguments and alliances resurface. Dark secrets and ghosts that have lingered for more than half a century are revealed, and we discover that reconciliation is more than saying sorry. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body.

SUPPORTED BY

COMEDY ALLSORTS 10 OCTOBER

ECHOES OF PINK FLOYD 11 OCTOBER

MIXTAPE SESSIONS KATE ‘BABYSHAKES’ DILLON W/ THE DAISY RIFLES

11 OCTOBER STUDIO 188

THE ROY ORBISON STORY 24 OCTOBER

THE WESTSIDE SCRAMBLE 23 OCTOBER STUDIO 188

AKMAL 1 NOVEMBER

MURPHY’S PIGS 30 OCTOBER

A YEAR IN MUSIC 25 OCTOBER

MEDITERRANEAN WITH MZAZA DINNER AND SHOW 8 NOVEMBER

THE UK ROD STEWART SHOW 29 NOVEMBER

SUPPORTED BY

THE WESTSIDE SCRAMBLE 27 NOVEMBER STUDIO 188

FRIDAY DOUBLE FEATURE 14 NOVEMBER

Ipswichciviccentre.com.au (07) 3810 6100 BOOK NOW

ATTENTION ARTISTS!

APPLY NOW

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM The Artist in Residence (AiR) Program provides up to six weeks access to rehearsal and performance spaces for emerging talent or established artists/ groups to research, experiment, collaborate and develop new or existing work which promotes arts and cultural engagement. Fire Station 101 + Studio 188 VENUES Ipswich Civic Centre, Studio 188 and Fire Station 101 have launched two new programs in 2025 as part of their HATCHERY 4305 THE CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT INCUBATOR initiative and invites YOU to be a part of it! IPSWICH ONSTAGE SERIES Aimed at developing and showcasing the performing arts and stories of Ipswich, the Ipswich Onstage Series offers scheduled 7-day blocks at Ipswich Civic Centre. Artists will receive in-kind access to rehearsal and performance spaces, technical equipment and specialist advice, along with front of house services to present ticketed performances to the public. Ipswich Civic Centre Rooms: George Hogg Auditorium or the Cunningham Room VENUE

ipswich FIlm festival 2025

FESTIVAL PREMIERE AND PANEL DISCUSSION 11 OCTOBER

FILM SCREENINGS 11 + 18 OCTOBER

AWARDS CEREMONY 18 OCTOBER

Ipswich.qld.gov.au/iffy LEARN MORE

Nicholas Street, Ipswich

ENTRIES OPEN 31 OCTOBER

5–14 SEPTEMBER

GALVANIZEDIPSWICH.COM.AU

Join us for Galvanized – A Festival of Heritage. This year’s festival showcases Ipswich’s best heritage experiences, celebrating the stories, people and places that have shaped the region. The 2025 program features a spectacular range of events including newly reimagined Great Places of Ipswich, offering rare access to some of the city’s most remarkable heritage locations; The

Mayor Teresa Harding City of Ipswich

Limestone Frolic, a lively celebration of historic dance and music; the stylish Baker's Ball; and the atmospheric Steam & Smoke BBQ. Unlock the secrets of the region’s rich and layered history with exclusive access to rarely seen heritage assets. Enjoy open days, hands-on workshops and guided tours that bring history to life – perfect for curious minds and heritage lovers alike. Whether you’re uncovering hidden history, exploring iconic sites, or enjoying unforgettable heritage events, Galvanized invites you to connect with Ipswich’s proud past. Bring your friends and family to discover, learn and make memories together.

WELCOME TO Galvanized respectfully acknowledges the Traditional owners, the Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul People of the Yugara/Yagara Language Group,

as custodians of the land and waters we share. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, as the keepers of the traditions, customs, cultures and stories of proud peoples.

Event information is correct at time of printing.

GREAT PLACES OF IPSWICH 13 Sep | 10.00 am – 2.00 pm $5 per person per property Ticketed event – bookings essential Galvanizedipswich.com.au Great Places of Ipswich opens the doors to some of the city’s most significant heritage sites, rarely accessible to the public. Explore remarkable buildings including exclusive access to the historic Great Hall at Ipswich Grammar School. Discover the people and stories behind these treasured sites.

Presented by Ipswich Festivals

GREAT PLACES OF IPSWICH BUS TOUR Ticketed event – bookings essential Visit the Great Places of Ipswich individually or take a Bus Tour. The tour includes access to each venue and a Devonshire Tea and lunch.

Presented by Discover Ipswich

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

THE LIMESTONE FROLIC 5 Sep | 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm Dandiiri Room, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich Free event – bookings essential Music and dance are a living link to our heritage. Discover more about the history of dance in early Ipswich, with demonstrations and an opportunity to experience the dances yourself.

Marburg school students performing a Gavotte dance, Marburg. C 1912. Courtesy of Picture Ipswich

Presented by Ipswich Libraries

STEAM & SMOKE BBQ

7 Sep | 9.30 am – 4.00 pm Queensland Museum Rail Workshops, North Ipswich Ticketed event – bookings essential Celebrate Dad with a smoky twist this Father’s Day at the Steam & Smoke BBQ! Enjoy live music, smoked meats, artisan demos, and hands-on history. Perfect for BBQ lovers, history buffs and curious minds of all ages. Book your tickets online now and make it a day to remember.

Presented by Queensland Museum Rail Workshops

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS

THE BAKER'S BALL 13 Sep | 5.30 pm – 11.00 pm Marburg Ticketed event – bookings essential A 1940s progressive dinner dance through Marburg. Dress in your vintage best and practice your swing dancing for this night of fun and frivolity.

Presented by The Great Marburg Bake Off

46 Chermside Road, Ipswich, 1920s. Courtesy of Picture Ipswich

CHARACTER HOUSES – LIVING, LOVING, BUILDING THE LEGACY 13 Sep | 2.30 pm – 4.00 pm Dandiiri Room, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich Free event – bookings essential

Ipswich is home to over 7,000 culturally significant heritage places—many of them privately owned character homes of diverse styles and eras. This public talk introduces the new 2025 Character Code and informally explores what it means to be a custodian of a character house today. Hear from a range of voices as we unpack the priorities, passions and pitfalls of preserving heritage at home.

Presented by Ipswich City Council

VISIT GALVANIZEDIPSWICH.COM.AU

TOURS

JACK SIM PRESENTS GHOST TOURS AUSTRALIA 5, 6, 12 and 13 Sep Ipswich and Goodna Ticketed event – bookings essential Hear spooky stories of various Ipswich locations on these guided tours. Presented by Historic Australia GUN PIT RIDGE HISTORY AND HABITAT WALKING TOUR 6 Sep | 5.00 pm – 8.30 pm White Rock - Spring Mountain Conservation Estate, Paperbark Flats Picnic Area Ticketed event – bookings essential Discover White Rock - Spring Mountain Conservation Estate at dusk. Watch the moon rise into the sky as the sun sets. Meet the furry locals and their feathery friends on this rare opportunity to explore the estate as the sun goes down on a guided walking tour to experience nature after the park has closed. OLD COURT HOUSE TOURS 6 Sep | 9.00 am – 4.00 pm 75 East Street, Ipswich Free event Tour the Old Court House! Built in 1859 this pre-Federation site is full of stories, brought to life by knowledgeable character tour guides. Devonshire Tea also available to purchase. Presented by Old Court House Inc. Presented by Discover Ipswich

RUBBIDY-DUBS TO PUBS MYSTERY BUS TOUR 6 Sep | 10.30 am – 3.30 pm 1 Union Place, Ipswich Ticketed event – bookings essential Hop aboard our bus to delve into the rich history of these cherished ‘pubs,’ ‘shanties,’ and ‘boozer’ spots of Ipswich. Discover the stories woven into our community’s fabric while enjoying the finest cocktails, special brews, and house specials at each venue, accompanied by a refreshing lunch. Presented by Discover Ipswich LOST IPSWICH CITY WALKS 6, 7, 13 and 14 Sep 8.00 am – 10.00 am West Street, Ipswich Free event – bookings essential Immerse yourself in the history of some of Ipswich’s most iconic buildings on a walking tour through the Top of Town. Presented by Lost Ipswich STONY CREEK BREWERY TOURS 6, 10 and 14 Sep 11.00 am – 1.00 pm 88 Limestone Street, Ipswich Ticketed event – bookings essential Experience the best of Stony Creek Brewing with a fun, historical tour, including Homer the Beer Truck, a look at brewing equipment, beer tasting, and a delicious smash burger. Enjoy a goodie bag full of local discounts. Presented by Stony Creek Brewery

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS

GALVANIZED HERITAGE BUS TOUR OF IPSWICH 12 Sep | 9.00 am – 3.30 pm Queens Park

WHERE HISTORY RESTS 14 Sep | 10.30 am and 3.00 pm Ipswich General Cemetery Ticketed event – bookings essential Join a walking tour of one of Ipswich’s greatest open-air museums, Ipswich General Cemetery. Discover the stories

Ticketed event – bookings essential Start the tour with a delicious Devonshire Tea on the verandah of the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre overlooking the HMAS Ipswich memorial and Queens Park gardens. You will then head off aboard the bus to take in the heritage city’s iconic buildings and homes with our very knowledgeable tour guide. Presented by Discover Ipswich

and sites of early settlers. Presented by Lost Ipswich, Tracey Oliveri

HERITAGE ARCHITECT TOUR – IPSWICH ART GALLERY 14 Sep | 10.30 am – 11.30 am Ipswich Art Gallery Free event – bookings essential Join City Architect Mark Tendys for an immersive tour of the Ipswich Art Gallery. Step inside Queensland’s oldest Town Hall and uncover the fascinating evolution of this heritage-listed landmark—from its civic origins to its transformation into the cultural hub of Ipswich. Discover hidden details, architectural secrets, and the enduring legacy of a building that has helped to shape the city’s identity. Presented by Ipswich City Council

SOLDIERS MEMORIAL HALL TOURS 13 Sep | 10.00 am – 2.00 pm Nicholas Street, Ipswich

Free event – bookings essential Uncover the story behind the recent rediscovery of the original town spring beneath the site and learn about the remarkable efforts of the local community to fund and build this significant memorial – dedicated to honouring the service and sacrifice of Ipswich soldiers. Presented By Ipswich RSL Sub Branch Inc.

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VISIT

JUGUN – SENSE OF PLACE 14 Jun – 21 Sep | 10.00 am – 5.00 pm Ipswich Art Gallery | Free

Charmaine Davis and Chenaya Bancroft-Davies, proud Goori women of the Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung Nations, present an exhibition of paintings of and about rivers that are important in their lives and the country around Tulmur (Ipswich), where they live and work, and Bundjalung, which is their traditional country. Presented By Ipswich Art Gallery

Chenaya Bancroft-Davies, Urarrar (Bremer River) 2025, synthetic polymer paint canvas, courtesy of the artist.

ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH QUILT FAIR 4–6 Sep | 9.00 am – 3.00 pm 7 Sep | 12.00 pm – 3.00 pm 124 Brisbane Street, Ipswich $5 at the door Marvel at hundreds of exquisite handmade quilts, each a unique work of art, beautifully displayed within the stunning St Paul’s Anglican Church. See craftsmanship, colour and creativity in one of Ipswich’s iconic heritage settings. Presented by St Paul’s Anglican Church

COONEANA AFTER DARK 5 Sep | 6.00 pm – 9.00 pm Cooneana Heritage Centre Ticketed event – bookings essential Experience life by firelight with live blacksmith demonstrations at flaming forges—perfect for dramatic photos. Music and storytelling bring history alive. Buy a jacket potato and enjoy a free drink. Presented by Ipswich Historical Society Inc.

PICTURE IPSWICH GALVANIZED CHALLENGE 5–14 Sep | Online | Free Are you ready for the Picture Ipswich challenge? Picture Ipswich will be setting you a series of tasks. Will you be able to identify when and where a photo was taken? Can you put a name to a face? Follow the Picture Ipswich Facebook page for your daily challenge. Presented by Picture Ipswich, Ipswich Libraries

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BOOVAL FAIR 6–13 Sep | 8.30 am – 5.30 pm Brisbane Road, Booval | Free

A look back at the 55 years of fashion, community and retail at Booval Fair. Presented by Booval Fair

Created by Kerry Smith

IPSWICH HOSPITAL MUSEUM 10 Sep | 8.30 am – 12.00 pm Jubilee Building, East Street, Ipswich | Free Visit the Ipswich Hospital Museum, located in the historic Jubilee Building, and explore the fascinating collection. Discover the rich history of Ipswich Hospital, from its founding in the late 1800s to its role in shaping medical

care across the West Moreton region. Presented by Ipswich Hospital Museum

ROSEWOOD STATE SCHOOL, 150 YEARS 13 Sep | 10.00 am – 3.00 pm School Street, Rosewood Rosewood State School is celebrating 150 years with a school fete to honour its rich history and strong community spirit. Join past and present students, families and locals to enjoy entertainment, celebrate the school’s legacy and reflect on its contribution to education in Queensland since 1875.

Courtesy of Rosewood Scrub Historical Society

IPSWICH FREEMASONS OPEN HOUSE 13 Sep | 10.00 am – 4.00 pm 82A Nicholas Street, Ipswich | Free Are you fascinated by the Freemasons? Learn more about this ancient fraternal society by exploring displays and listening to talks on all the aspects of freemasonry. Presented by Freemasons Queensland Ipswich Unity No.215

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AT QUEENSLAND MUSEUM RAIL WORKSHOPS HERITAGE TRADES WORKSHOPS 6 and 7 Sep | Age limits apply Ticketed events – bookings essential

BLACKSMITHING HERITAGE WORKSHOPS Try your hand at blacksmithing with Rob Scully and Wayne Schmidt in half-day or full-day workshops. DYEING WORKSHOP Join artisan Norton Fredericks and explore the chemistry and beauty of botanical dyeing. INK AND DRINK – LETTERPRESS PRINTING Join us for a unique evening of creativity. Create your own original print using historic type and laser-engraved designs. Includes one complimentary beverage and all materials. LEATHERCRAFT BELT WORKSHOP Design and craft your own leather belt with Nathan and Terri from TJ’s Leathercraft.

AT SAVAGE CUSTOM CREATIVE, WEST IPSWICH KNIFE MAKING WORKSHOPS 6, 7, 13 and 14 Sep Ticketed events – bookings essential

JAPANESE CHEF KNIFE MAKING WORKSHOP Forge your own high-carbon steel chef knife with a Japanese wa handle. BEGINNER BLACKSMITH BLADE CLASSES Learn blacksmithing basics and forge a blade to keep. TWO DAY KNIFE WORKSHOP Craft a custom stainless steel knife from start to finish.

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IPSWICH ANTIQUE CENTRE 7 Sep | 2.00 pm 86 East Street, Ipswich | Free

Enjoy a presentation on the restoration of the Congregational Sunday School Hall and its conversion into the Ipswich Antique Centre in 2010. Presented by Ipswich Antique Centre

Chasing Our Past – Looking For Leichhardt – nla.obj-136518437-1 1 Portrait of Ludwig Leichhardt, National Library of Australia

A GALVANIZED TRIVIA NIGHT 12 Sep | 6.30 pm Café Providence, 6 Amity Way, South Ripley Ticketed event – bookings essential Gather your team, enjoy a fun-filled evening of fascinating facts, local legends and historical surprises. Prizes, laughs and bragging rights await! Botanist Professor Rod Fensham will share his fascinating insight into the life and character of German explorer Ludwig Leichhardt. Presented by Ipswich Libraries CHASING OUR PAST – LOOKING FOR LEICHHARDT 9 Sep | 6.00 pm – 7.30 pm Event Space 3, 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich Free event – bookings essential

GRANDCHESTER LIVE MODEL STEAM RUNNING DAY AND DISPLAY DAY 7 Sep – Running Day 11 Sep – Static Display Day 10.00 am – 2.00 pm 2 Ipswich Street, Grandchester Tickets available onsite, cash only Enjoy a family day in the country riding the scaled down versions of actual coal burning steam engines. Enclosed shoes required. Food and refreshments available onsite or bring your own picnic. Presented by Grandchester Live Model Steam Group

Presented by Providence Stockland and Ripley Valley Community Inc.

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Ipswich Central Discovery Trail

There’s more to Ipswich Central than meets the eye – way more. Go beyond the shops and streets you know and uncover hidden art, epic stories and quirky history on the self-guided Ipswich Central Discovery Trail, only on the new Ipswich Trails app.

Download the Ipswich Trails app or walk the trail on your phone’s browser.