Ipswich in Winter 2025

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

Ipswich.qld.gov.au

FANTASTIC FORMS A BUNDANON TOURING EXHIBITION 14 JUNE – 7 SEPTEMBER 2025

‘The first impulse of the maker of hand pottery is to obtain pleasure in making and decorating an article, and making that pleasure intelligible to others…’ – Merric Boyd, 1930 Fantastic Forms captures the energy, movement and colour in the expansive creative practice of Merric Boyd (1888-1959). Featuring over 200 drawings and ceramics from the Bundanon Collection, in dialogue with contemporary works by Rubyrose Bancroft, Stephen Benwell and Nabilah Nordin, this exhibition celebrates the endless creativity of the human imagination. Image: Nabilah Nordin , Pavilion 2023. Timber, white rags, beeswax, pigment, acrylic paint, spray paint, mouldable plastic, epoxy modelling compound, cotton rope & ecrylimer. MIIA Foundation Collection. Photo: Simon Strong.

JUGUN – SENSE OF PLACE CHARMAINE DAVIS AND

CHENAYA BANCROFT-DAVIES 14 JUNE – 21 SEPTEMBER 2025 Charmaine Davis and Chenaya Bancroft- Davies are proud Goori women descended from the Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung Nations. As mother and daughter, they have shared knowledge and sensitivities about art, culture, and place. Charmaine and Chenaya have created 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.

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

WHAT’S ON Ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au

Front cover image: Winter is a great time to get out and explore Ipswich’s parks and nature reserves. If you have any feedback regarding the Winter 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 There will also be no shortage of action at Queensland Raceway with fast and furious racing for the popular 2 Days of Thunder event, further proof that there really is plenty of excitement for the whole family right throughout June. While winter is known in many places of the world as the time to stay close to home, winter in Ipswich is for fast-paced adrenaline junkies and for The Festival of Horsepower will be back throughout June, with another month-long program packed full of excitement – sure to keep you warm in the cooler temperatures. The annual festival features a number of signature home-grown and national racing and motorsport events, from the glitz and glamour of the TAB Ipswich Cup to the raw and adrenaline- fuelled action of the Gulf Western Oil Winternationals. Message from Ipswich Mayor, Teresa Harding celebrating our vibrant arts and culture scene.

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. Ipswich’s conservation estates or stroll through our beautiful parks, and there are plenty of events and attractions at the Ipswich Civic Centre, Studio 188 , Ipswich Art Gallery and more to round out a jam-packed festival program. I hope you’ll join me in braving the cooler temps and enjoying a wonderful winter in Ipswich. Then in July, SPARK Ipswich is back for another year offering 10 days of arts and cultural events, live entertainment and more, running from 11–20 July. This year’s program is extra special as we mark 50 years of the Ipswich Civic Centre – a place that has hosted generations of performances, events and memories. Embracing winter’s earlier setting sun, deLight will once again light up the night’s sky in Nicholas Street Precinct for the annual SPARK Ipswich festival, and our city’s signature children’s music and arts event Little Day Out will be anything but small when it returns on 20 July. Of course, there’s nothing like a fresh winter’s day for a hike in one of

White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate

Winter activities the whole family will love Make the most of our crisp, clear days and endless blue skies this winter. With so many exciting places to explore, there’s no need to travel far for a great family day out.

Explore your inner farmer Spend a weekend exploring farms, tasting fresh produce and meeting new animals. Learn all about farm life and then unwind in a rural retreat with gorgeous country views. It’s the kind of weekend that leaves you feeling totally refreshed.

Have a picnic Pack the esky, bring a rug and get ready to soak up some sun. There are some amazing places to have a picnic in Ipswich. Whether you want someone to take care of all the hard work for you, or just visit one of the fantastic parks around, we have a few ideas the whole family will love.

The Soul Nook Collective

Hardcore Blasters

Try an adrenaline fuelled adventure Whether you love escape rooms, motorsport or want to try axe throwing, there are a few ways to get the blood pumping in Ipswich. Try your hand at gel blasters or take to the skies in a hot air balloon. Taste comforting dishes When it starts to get cool, there’s nothing better than a warming hearty meal. Ipswich restaurants are embracing the cooler months by changing up their menus with some seasonal produce, find out what’s on offer. Get outdoors When the days feel this good, staying inside just isn’t an option. Explore Ipswich’s natural beauty by hiking, biking or walking around the 8,500ha of parks and conservation estates.

Bakehouse Steakhouse

FIND OUT MORE

EWE Nique Hobby Farm

Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Cr Jim Madden recently inspected the hundreds of solar panels installed on the roof of the Ipswich Central Library.

Ipswich City Council’s largest rooftop solar system has been installed on Ipswich Central Library, providing a huge reduction in costs and emissions. The construction of a 200-kilowatt system on the Nicholas Street Precinct building is a landmark moment for Ipswich as the city responds to climate change. Significant rooftop solar power systems have previously been installed on council’s main administrative building at 1 Nicholas Street, as well as the Rosewood Library, however this is the biggest so far. About 400 solar panels now sit atop Ipswich Central Library and will soon harness the sun’s power to produce more than 270 megawatts of energy per year, reducing council’s carbon footprint by an estimated 230 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. COUNCIL’S BIGGEST ROOFTOP SOLAR PROJECT ON THE BOOKS

Sustainability remains a focus for council as Ipswich’s population rapidly grows, with initiatives outlined in the Sustainability Strategy aiming to ensure Ipswich remains a great place to live for future generations. Solar panels on the 1 Nicholas Street building are preventing 77 tonnes of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere per year while providing an $11,000 saving on council’s power bill. Meanwhile more than 29,000 streetlights are wind-powered thanks to an agreement with local company CleanCo. View the Ipswich City Council Sustainability Strategy at Ipswich.qld.gov.au/sustainabilitystrategy

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Pay online at Ipswich.qld.gov.au/dogrego or call (07) 3810 6666

Have your say about local matters important to you. Shapeyouripswich.com.au

A MONTH-LONG PROGRAM PACKED FULL OF ADRENALINE AND EXCITEMENT

IPSWICH | JUNE

HORSEPOWERFESTIVAL.COM.AU

WHAT’S ON IN 2025 WINTERNATIONALS WARM UP Saturday 31 May to Sunday 1 June Get a sneak peek of your favourite competitors as they warm up their engines and shred some rubber ahead of the biggest weekend of drag racing! GULF WESTERN OIL WINTERNATIONALS Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 June It’s loud and it’s proud – it’s Australia’s largest drag racing event! See the amazing flame-throwing Top Fuel Dragsters and Nitro Funny Cars along with over 400 cars and motorcycles competing for the National

TAB IPSWICH CUP Saturday 21 June

Ipswich’s social event of the year! Established in 1866, the Ipswich Cup attracts 13,000 racegoers to a day of entertainment, horses, fashions, socialising and infield festive fun. WESTERN STAR FAMILY RACE DAY Sunday 22 June There’s nothing quite like a family day out at the trots! Experience all the racing excitement up close and personal at one of the last remaining harness racing courses in Queensland. 2 DAYS OF THUNDER Saturday 28 to Sunday 29 June Get ready for a massive weekend of Super Series racing filled with thrilling on track action, a diverse car line up, motorsport legends, trade stands and plenty of entertainment.

Championship honours. CRUISE THE NIGHT Saturday 14 June

Rev your engines for an epic night at the racetrack with mates, followed by a social circuit cruise. With food trucks, trade stalls and kid-friendly activities, it’s one big festival of car culture.

TRACKSIDE TO TABLESIDE Take a break from the adrenaline to explore city-wide foodie delights and refuel during Festival of Horsepower.

ALL GM DAY Sunday 15 June

Celebrate all things General Motors in a day full of action, both on and off the track. Bring your GM vehicle and enjoy thrash sessions, roll racing, parade laps and much more! TAB IPSWICH CUP CALCUTTA Thursday 19 June Draw a TAB Ipswich Cup runner or be there to ‘buy’ the Cup winner at this year’s TAB Ipswich Cup Calcutta.

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GULF WESTERN OIL WINTERNATIONALS

Thursday 5 June to Sunday 8 June Willowbank Raceway The biggest drag racing event of the year is back! From the amazing professional brackets Top Fuel Dragsters and Nitro Funny Cars through to Junior Dragsters, every bracket that competes for professional NDRC championship honours will be represented. With more than 400 cars and motorcycles from all over the country expected to be on track over four big days of racing, there’s non-stop action every day, both on and off the track. Don’t miss the thrilling racing action, complemented by a wide range of activities including onsite camping – and all conducted in a festive atmosphere for the whole family.

WINTERNATIONALS WARM UP Saturday 31 May to Sunday 1 June

It’s the biggest weekend before the biggest weekend of drag racing! See your favourites warm up against the clock in their last opportunity to shred some rubber before the main event.

HORSEPOWERFESTIVAL.COM.AU

TAB IPSWICH CUP Saturday 21 June Ipswich Turf Club

TAB IPSWICH CUP CALCUTTA Thursday 19 June Don’t miss your chance to draw one of the TAB Ipswich Cup runners before the official auction starts! Be there to ‘buy’ the Cup winner at this year’s TAB Ipswich Cup Calcutta.

The TAB Ipswich Cup is undoubtedly a highlight on the racing calendar. More than just a horse race, it’s the social event of the year for the Ipswich region and beyond. The Cup attracts about 13,000 racegoers who converge on the Ipswich Turf Club to enjoy the day’s entertainment. Something the community has been doing since 1866!

HORSEPOWERFESTIVAL.COM.AU

QUEENSLAND RACEWAY 2 DAYS OF THUNDER

CRUISE THE NIGHT Saturday 14 June

Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June Get ready for the adrenaline-pumping 2 Days of Thunder as part of the Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. This national racing car championship features TA2 Muscle Cars, V8 Classic Touring Cars, Formula RX8, Australian Excel Series, Formula Vee Australian Super TT, Legend Cars Australia, Replica Tourers and more.

Find out firsthand what it’s like to drive under the bright lights on the other side of the pitwall. Cruise the national circuit with your mates, show off your vehicle in the Show ‘n Shine competition, enjoy food trucks, trade stands and kids’ entertainment, in an epic night out at the racetrack for the whole family.

HORSEPOWERFESTIVAL.COM.AU

ALL GM DAY Sunday 15 June Queensland Raceway Calling all General Motors (GM) enthusiasts! Bring your car out for an amazing day of fun on and off track! Whether it’s a Chevrolet, Holden, HSV, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, Isuzu, Vauxhall or Opel, all are welcome at the All GM Day. Unleash your inner speed demon with a dedicated thrash session, heart pumping roll racing and all the GM action and fun at Queensland Raceway.

WESTERN STAR FAMILY RACE DAY Sunday 22 June Marburg Pacing Association Bring the whole family for a day of racing at the Marburg Showgrounds and experience all the excitement with plenty of delicious food and drinks, mini-trot races, entertainment for the kids and the opportunity to bet on a winner. It’s easy to see that this is country style racing at its best.

HORSEPOWERFESTIVAL.COM.AU

NORTH IPSWICH SPORT AND ENTERTAINMENT PRECINCT TAKES NEXT BIG STEP

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, Cr Jacob Madsen, Cr David Martin, Ipswich Jets Board Chair Steven Johnson, and Cr Pye Augustine share the designs for the new 2,000-seat western grandstand, as part of next steps in the North Ipswich Reserve’s transition to become the North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct.

Ipswich’s sport and entertainment future is looking bright with plans released for upgrading the home of rugby league in Ipswich. Stage 1 of the North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct project is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments with Ipswich City Council and is set to be complete by late 2027. It involves construction of a new, 2,000-seat capacity western grandstand, including male and female dressing rooms with toilets and showers for home and away teams, upgraded public amenities and public spaces, as well as a media room and function room for at least 130 guests.

Future stages will include a northern grandstand, improvements to the eastern and southern embankments, improvements to Len Johnson Oval and better access to the city centre. A national-standard sport and entertainment precinct anchored around a boutique rectangular stadium will revolutionise sport and entertainment in our region. The North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct will be an economic and lifestyle asset for Ipswich’s future half a million residents and address an acute social infrastructure shortfall.

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WINTER School Holiday Fun

ACTIVE KIDS Fly into school holiday mode with FREE and low-cost Active Kids activities! Explore a variety of sports and pick up a new skill along the way. Keep the kids entertained and active with exciting, high-energy sports that will make these holidays unforgettable. For more details visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/activekids Set the scene, strike a pose and let your creature’s personality shine. Snap a pic and take your clay creature home to keep the fun going! For more details visit Ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au IPSWICH ART GALLERY Clay – Creature Feature 31 May – 31 August Knead it, roll it, shape it, name it! Get hands-on and bring your very own Clay Creature to life. Will it be a tiny, bug-eyed monster with seven feet? A wobbly alien with spaghetti arms? A dragon with wings made for dancing? Once you’ve brought your creature to life, it’s time to pose your character in the Creature Feature studio!

IPSWICH LIBRARIES Move and Groove!

Check out the incredible range of FREE programs and events on offer at Ipswich Libraries – there’s something for every age. Breakdance Versus 90’s Dance Workshop Busy Builder’s Lego Drop-In Dance On Drop-In First 5 Forever Trail Launch and Kids Fun Day

Magic Glen’s Bubble Show Road Test a Robot Drop-In Silent Disco Winter Reading Challenge YouTube Creators Workshop Bookings open Friday 6 June For more information visit Ipswichlibraries.com.au

QUEENS PARK ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTRE Draw inspiration from the natural world at our FREE, drop-in art activity at Queens Park Environmental Education Centre. Explore a variety of art supplies, be inspired by the natural objects around you and bring your unique artwork to life. Perfect for all ages and skill levels – everyone is welcome! Open Tuesday to Saturday 9.00 am – 2.00 pm Queens Park Environmental Education Centre, Merle Finimore Ave, Ipswich For more great events visit Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com

IPSWICH CIVIC CENTRE PROUDFOOT + FRIENDS BLOWIN’ IN THE BREEZE | 13 July Get ready for a toe-tapping, laugh-out- loud musical adventure with Proudfoot + Friends! Award-winning children’s entertainer Lucas Proudfoot brings Pelican Bay to life with his guitar, stomp box, didgeridoo and a cast of colourful characters. Meet wise Aunty May, cheeky pals Ned and Sis’ and magical animal friends like Ruby the Frog and Hopa- tee-woo Kangaroo. But beware of the mischievous Cane Toad Bill and Fruit Bat Charlie! Designed for 3–7 year olds, this interactive show blends live music, animated projections and digital puppetry.

FREE LANTERN-MAKING WORKSHOPS | 13 July Come along for a fun and creative session where you’ll add your own colours and designs to a glowing pyramid lantern, which you can take home. The workshop is facilitated by some of the skilled lantern artists from Light’n’Up who create the amazing lanterns for the Lismore Lantern Parade and Woodford Folk Festival. For more information visit Ipswichciviccentre.com.au/whats-on

NICHOLAS STREET PRECINCT – TULMUR PLACE PLAY ON | 30 June – 4 July

Run, kick and jump! Be a sports star for a day and join in the fun at Play On. Unleash the school-holiday energy and have a go at a range of sports and activities – there’s something for everyone to try! This FREE event is the perfect way to get active, try something new and enjoy a fun day with the whole family. For daily schedules, visit Nicholasst.com.au/events

Mark your calendars for the Ipswich art event of the year!

ENTRIES OPEN 1–31 August EXHIBITION 8–15 November

Creatorsofipswich.com.au Find out more

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IPSWICH CIVIC CENTRE

MIXTAPE SESSIONS JK-47 W/ DENZEL KENNEDY 5 JUNE STUDIO 188

CROSSING THE DIVIDE 4 JUNE

JIMEOIN 6 JUNE

THE JOE COCKER EXPRESS 7 JUNE

REGIONAL SCREENING OF BALLET PRELJOCAJ’S SWAN LAKE 14 JUNE STUDIO 188

THE WESTSIDE SCRAMBLE 26 JUNE STUDIO 188

COMEDY @ STUDIO 188 20 JUNE

THE LIFE & TIMES OF LED ZEPPELIN 28 JUNE

HATCHERY 4305: PERMISSION

GRANTED 9–10 JULY STUDIO 188

CIRQUE NOUVELLE 5 JULY

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF ARTS, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY Since 1975, Ipswich Civic Centre has been a vibrant cultural hub, bringing the community together through unforgettable performances and events. Made possible by passionate locals, Ipswich Civic Centre has hosted everything from local theatre to international acts over the past 50 years. This milestone celebrates our enthusiastic team – from front-of-house to behind the curtain – whose dedication drives it all.

Join us 11–19 July for a week of live music, great food and fun for all ages as we celebrate turning 50!

11 JULY

GROOVE TERMINATOR

VOiiiD Collective CAR Caro Francis CAR B33fcake

FREE

DAFT PUNK TRIBUTE

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

12 JULY

Circus Ipswich CAR Stelle CAR The Emmavilles CAR gregory CAR Paulina

FREE

13 JULY

CAR Misteria Towler CAR Lossi CAR SOLCHLD Denzel Kennedy

FREE

15 JULY

17 JULY

DAMIEN CAR Ode2Joy CAR Buttercats CAR Corporate Services DJs

FREE

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

18 JULY

Ipswich Has Comic Talent CAR Stitch in the ‘swich CAR Franky Smart

FREE

SUPPORTED BY

19 JULY

Steve Mondel CAR Red Hill CAR Sherman & Field

FREE

19 JULY

A one-night-only birthday bash starring Ipswich’s best.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

THE FINNS TRIBUTE BAND 8 AUGUST

THE AUSTRALIAN BEE GEES SHOW 7 AUGUST

THE ROBERTSON BROTHERS 29 AUGUST

BEST OF QLD COMEDY SHOWCASE 30 AUGUST

13–21 SEPTEMBER

Ipswichciviccentre.com.au/whats-on (07) 3810 6100 BOOK NOW

P ay

A thrilling interactive game that combines the digital world with the natural environment around you!

DOWNLOAD AND PLAY THE MISSI N NOW

Strengthening Ipswich Communities Plan

20-YEAR PLAN TO STRENGTHEN IPSWICH COMMUNITIES

Ipswich City Council has backed a 20-year plan which aims to understand the needs of the city and strategically guide council investment, programming and advocacy for community facilities and services. The future-focused Strengthening Ipswich Communities Plan uses an evidence-based approach to planning and providing social infrastructure for the city, identifying what Ipswich needs, where and when. The plan earmarks future community facilities at Ripley Valley, Springfield Central, Bundamba, Yamanto, Walloon and Rosewood, considering the increasing demand as the city grows to promote social connection and enhance liveability. Ipswich’s vision, developed in collaboration with the community, is a city of centres with activated places and spaces where

everyone can enjoy creative pursuits and active recreation or relaxing time with our families or loved ones. This plan aims to help make this vision a reality. Through a community hubs model, council aims to better plan for accessible and affordable community facilities, ultimately shaping better neighbourhoods and places. As Ipswich grows, council must work to find ways to make funds stretch further to get the best outcomes for the city, ensuring efficient use of land and enhancing accessibility for Ipswich communities. View the 20-year plan for Ipswich’s future at ShapeYourIpswich.com.au

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Ipswich is moving to THREE BINS From July 2025, Ipswich will move to a three-bin waste collection system, adding a green lid Garden Organics (GO) bin. GO bins will be delivered to all eligible households that currently don’t have a GO bin from June, with service starting from July 2025. Collection will be fortnightly, alternating with your yellow lid recycling bin.

For more information, including how to use your GO bin, scan the QR code or visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/organics

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

NEWROADMAP TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE IPSWICH’S HERITAGE

White Rock

Ipswich heritage sites will be better protected and celebrated under a new coordinated approach by Ipswich City Council. The new, five-year Ipswich Heritage Plan provides the city with a strategic direction for proactive heritage management as well as greater protection of significant sites, and identifies council’s role in preserving, enhancing and celebrating Ipswich’s cultural and historical legacy. As just the second heritage plan to be developed by a local council in Queensland, the Ipswich Heritage Plan underscores the city’s commitment to protecting and celebrating Ipswich’s rich and proud history that spans millennia. Ipswich is home to a trove of stunning and significant heritage treasures,

including more than 7,000 protected places from character buildings standing prominently throughout the city suburbs to sacred Indigenous sites such as White Rock. The plan includes comprehensively updating council’s record of heritage assets located across Ipswich and identifies the need to engage and work with the community to ensure heritage structures do not fall victim to disrepair. Heritage management becomes increasingly important as Ipswich continues to grow at a rapid rate. The plan provides a clear path forward as the city’s population doubles in size over the next two decades.

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Welcome to SPARK Ipswich 2025! It’s that time of year again when our city comes alive with colour, creativity and connection. SPARK Ipswich is more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of everything that makes our city great: our people, our culture and our unstoppable community spirit. This year is extra special as we mark 50 years of the Ipswich Civic Centre – a place that has hosted generations of performances, events, and memories. To celebrate this incredible milestone, we’re inviting the whole community to be part of a special community production, showcasing the talents of local artists and performers. And, of course, we’re throwing a Carpark Party, bringing live music and big festival vibes right into the heart of Ipswich. Alongside these milestone events, SPARK Ipswich 2025 is packed with exciting performances, thought-provoking art and family-friendly experiences that will inspire and entertain. Whether you’re dancing in the streets, exploring the latest exhibitions, or enjoying a showwith friends and family, this is your time to experience the magic of our creative city. WELC ME

Mayor Teresa Harding City of Ipswich

Councillor Pye Augustine Chair, Economic and Cultural Development Committee

Ipswich City Council 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.

BRANDING ARTIST KIANA GOOD

Kiana Good, an emerging local artist, was commissioned in 2025 to create the SPARK Ipswich branding artwork. Kiana works with various mediums, including oil and digital platforms, to bring her creative visions to life. Her work highlights Ipswich’s architectural elements, seamlessly blending them to spark curiosity and reflect the harmony between people and place. The process

begins with in-depth research, carefully selecting and then positioning each element. This artwork represents just one of Kiana’s many artistic styles, which can be explored on her Instagram @three.yeets. She invites viewers to take a closer look and discover all nine Ipswich-inspired elements hidden within the piece.

EVENT PARTNERS

SUPPORT PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

PROGRAMMING PARTNERS ARTS CONNECT ARTTIME GALLERY AND FINE ART SUPPLIES

BANSHEES BAR AND ART SPACE BOOVAL FAIR CREATIVE HEARTS CO IPSWICH ART GALLERY IPSWICH CIVIC CENTRE IPSWICH LIBRARIES IPSWICHWASTE SERVICES QUEENSLAND MUSEUM RAILWORKSHOPS STONY CREEK BREWING ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH YAMANTO CENTRAL

EXPERI ENCE SPARK AFTER DARK

deLIGHT

Friday 11 – Sunday 20 July 5.30 pm – 8.30 pm 1 Nicholas Street Free

deLIGHT ignites Nicholas Street with a dazzling fusion of art and light. Artistic talents join forces with projection wizard James Muller to animate their creations in vivid motion. Each night unveils a new artist, celebrating creativity under the stars. Artists include: Chloe Adams, Andrew Kimberley, Rushanthi Herath, Kym Tabulo, Brandon Huges, Sean Williams, Jordache Guage, David Pearce and YEAHYEAHCHLOE. Presented by Ipswich Festivals

NEON: PLAYTHE MUSIC

Neon: Play The Music lights up the night with glowing instruments and a mic for you to perform. Snap a pic, share the fun #IpswichFestivals #SPARKIPSWICH

Presented by Ipswich Festivals, produced by Volter International

Friday 11 – Sunday 20 July 4.30 pm – 8.30 pm d’Arcy Doyle Place Free

HEXADECA

HEXADECA, created by Pulsing Heart, is an interactive, music- making playground that invites people of all ages, abilities and cultures to engage in playful, tactile art. Architecturally

designed for immersive sound experiences, participants sit and spin to create soundscapes featuring music by artists including Aurora x Keira Simmons, Tim Koch, Belinda Gehlert, Kiah Gossner, Lewis But-Husaim, Rob Edwards, Adam Page and Tom Thum. Presented by Ipswich Festivals, produced by Pulsing Heart

Friday 11 – Sunday 20 July Various Nicholas Street Precinct Free

THE BUBBLE CANTEEN

Experience The Bubble Canteen, a magical installation featuring 20,000 bubbles per minute – from delicate bubbles to giant, shimmering orbs. This enchanting spectacle delights and connects audiences through joy, laughter, and wonder.

Presented by Ipswich Festivals, produced by The Mask Family, and originally commissioned by Brisbane Festival

Friday 11 – Sunday 13 July and Friday 18 – Sunday 20 July 4.30 pm and 6.15 pm Nicholas Street Precinct Free

Ipswich Civic Centre's carpark will be transformed for six action-packed nights of entertainment to celebrate 50 years of Ipswich Civic Centre. Featuring captivating performances by local Tulmur and Meanjin artists across multiple artforms, engaging

Friday 11 – Sunday 13 July and Thursday 17 – Saturday 19 July Various Ipswich Civic Centre Free

workshops, bespoke roving entertainment and more!

Ipswich’s signature world music event returns to Springfield with music, workshops, food and crafts from across the globe. With a jam-packed lineup, WOMI is a one-day world music festival showcasing and celebrating the vibrancy of Ipswich and South East Queensland’s culturally and linguistically diverse community. Bursting with life, light and colour, WOMI is a wonderful day out! WORLDOFMUSIC IPSWICH– WOMI

Sunday 13 July 9.00 am – 4.00 pm Main Street, Orion Springfield Central Free

Little by name, BIG on fun.

With a focus on sustainability, Little Day Out is bursting with music, hands-on art experiences, food trucks and roving entertainment. Gather your festival crew to sing, dance, create and play. Community Kaleidoscope, building cubbies and fairy villages, seedpod painting, nature jewellery, build a bee, a silent disco with haptic vests and straps are all part of the Little Day Out experience. Join us for ‘dirtgirl’s Garden Party’ musical eco-adventure with a female hearted, four-piece band set to bring a fresh and vibrant sound and ‘poptomistic’ tunes to this year’s event! Little Day Out programming is focused on children aged 10 and under.

Sunday 20 July Session 1: 9.00 am – 11.30 am Session 2: 1.00 pm – 3.30 pm Ripley Town Centre, Ripley $5 per entry – children with a purchased ticket receive a bucket hat

FOR THE KIDS

TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Come out to play with a morning full of fun picnic games, performances and an adventurous bear hunt! Bring your favourite bear and picnic rug to our annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Presented by Queensland Museum Rail Workshops Sat 12 July | Queensland Museum Rail Workshops | Entry fees apply

CLAY: CRAZY CRITTERS Knead it, roll it, shape it, name it! Get hands on with clay and create your own Crazy Critter to take home. Presented by Ipswich Art Gallery 31 May – 31 August 10.00 am – 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm – 4.00 pm Ipswich Art Gallery | Free | 0–13 Years + IPSWICH LIBRARIES STORYTIME, TODDLER TIME, BOOKS AND BLOCKS Join Ipswich Libraries for fun and engaging early literacy programs. Sessions bring stories to life with movement and interactive play. Perfect for little learners and their grown-ups! Presented by Ipswich Libraries Fri 11, Tue 15, Wed 16, Thu 17 and Fri 18 July Ipswich Children’s Library, Springfield Central Library, Redbank Plains Library | Free

PROUDFOOT + FRIENDS Get ready for the foot-stomping, rib-tickling, toe-tapping time of your life at the Proudfoot + Friends stage show spectacular! Catering to 3–7 year olds, proud First Nations performer Lucas leads a hilarious interactive sing-along adventure. Presented by Ipswich Civic Centre and Cluster Arts Sun 13 July | 2.00 pm Ipswich Civic Centre | $15

FIRST FIVE FOREVER STORY TIME, MESSY PLAY AND LIBRARY FUN Ipswich Libraries’ First 5 Forever program offers engaging sessions for children aged 0–5 years. Sessions spark creativity with songs, books, movement and play. Presented by Ipswich Libraries Mon 14 – Thu 17 July Winston Glades, Bundamba, Rosewood, Redbank Plains | Free

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FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

SECOND CHANCE – BOORRUMPAH GOUPONG ABORIGINAL CORPORATION Boorrumpah Goupong Aboriginal Corporation’s exhibition, Second Chance, showcases the group’s journey through life, culture and mental health education. Through art, the group tell their stories to provide a safe space for healing. 28 June – 27 July | 10.00 am – 3.00 pm Ipswich Community Gallery | Free

THE SALTY SIRENS PRESENTS The Salty Sirens are two sapphic sailors, ready to lead you on a musical journey through traditional and modern nautical folk song, tales of shipwork, daring adventure, defiance and debauchery on the high seas. Hoist the anchor and limber up those sealegs – these really aren’t your grandpa’s sea shanties! Presented by Banshees Bar & Artspace Fri 11 July | 7.00 pm Bar & Artspace | $15 – $20 | 18+

GROOVE TERMINATOR SUPPORTED BY DISCOVERY – DAFT PUNK TRIBUTE SHOW Simon 'Groove Terminator' Lewicki is a trailblazer in Australia’s music scene. His hit 'One More Time (The Sunshine Song)' earned international success, charting in Australia and France. Discovery is Australia’s leading Daft Punk tribute, offering high-energy remixes and mashups for an unforgettable party experience. Presented by Ipswich Civic Centre and TMRW Fri 11 July | 8.00 pm Ipswich Civic Centre | $35 | 18+

11–13 JULY

PETE MURRAY Australian singer-songwriter Pete Murray embarks on a 55-date solo acoustic tour across the country this May. Supported by Rachael Fahim and Brett Wood, it marks his first-ever solo tour on home soil. Armed with his acoustic guitar and a stunning back catalogue, Pete promises an unforgettable musical journey.

Presented by TEG Live Sat 12 July | 8.00 pm Ipswich Civic Centre | $84.90

GURU DUDU’S SILENT DISCO WALKING TOURS

Guru Dudu’s Silent Disco Walking Tours are a hilarious dancing, walking adventure for all ages. Wearing supplied headsets we groove our way through local streets, engaging passersby with our spontaneous flash-mob style dancing and antics. Presented by Ipswich Festivals Sat 12 July and Sat 19 July | 5.00 pm d’Arcy Doyle Place | $5

FANTASTIC FORMS Fantastic Forms showcases over 150 works by Merric Boyd, Australia’s father of pottery, alongside contemporary artists. The exhibition blends pottery, sculpture, and stop-motion, exploring Boyd’s unique vision and Australian landscapes. Fantastic Forms is a Bundanon Touring Exhibition. The exhibition is supported by the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, an Australian Government program aiming to improve access to the national collections for all Australians. 14 June – 7 September | 10.00 am – 5.00 pm Ipswich Art Gallery | Free

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FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

CRUISING WITH THE GRANDPARENT’S CLUB – A MUSICAL COMEDY

After a hit 2024 mini-tour, the team is back—this time at sea! Aboard the SS Grand Times, guest cruise director Jimmy Bigelow joins fun-loving grandparents who are ‘not old, just old-er.’ With family left onshore, they’re ready to cut loose and embrace the grand cruising life. Presented by Ipswich Civic Centre Tues 15 July | 6.00 pm Ipswich Civic Centre | $72.50

SHOWMEN Experience Showmen, a spectacular blend of magic, illusions, stunts, and comedy. This unforgettable live entertainment takes audiences to the golden age of magic for a fun, family-friendly night! Presented by Ipswich Civic Centre Thurs 17 July | 7.30 pm Ipswich Civic Centre | $50

8 BALL AITKEN BAND + TAYA CHANI SUPPORTED BY CAPTAIN MOONSHINE Two heavyweights of the Australian blues-rock-soul scene 8 Ball Aitken and Taya Chani have teamed up with a new Americana album project ‘Nightbird’. Presented by Banshees Bar & Artspace Fri 18 July | 7.00 pm Banshees Bar & Artspace | $40 | 18+

15–20 JULY MEL BUTTLE – TAKING MY SUNGLASSES OFF TO HEAR YOU BETTER Mel Buttle is a busy bee. From juggling a toddler to sold out shows across the country and keeping her millions of fans online happy, as the creator behind Australia’s favourite online mum character ‘Lyn’ – she needs a lie down. Lucky for you she’s very good at comedy too.

Presented by Token Fri 18 July | 7.30 pm Ipswich Civic Centre | $52

STREET ART JAM Street Art Jam returns for its second year, transforming urban spaces with vibrant public art. Immerse yourself in creative workshops and demonstrations, showcasing art, music and dance in an unforgettable experience! Presented by Queensland Museum Rail Workshops Sat 19 July | Queensland Museum Rail Workshops Entry fees apply

IGNITE: CELEBRATING CREATIVITY Musicians, performers, visual artists, writers, designers, filmmakers and cultural leaders – join us in celebrating the vibrancy and progress of our city’s creative scene at this special up-late event. Presented by Ipswich City Council Sat 19 July | 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm Ipswich Art Gallery | Free, bookings essential

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HOMEGROWN SPARK YOUTHFUL VISIONS – SPARKING CREATIVITY Explore an exhibition featuring youth art, celebrating young talent in Greater Springfield and Ipswich. Presented by Creative Hearts Co 1–19 July | Creative Hearts Co. Brookwater | $5

BANSHEES RAINBOWTAKEOVER Banshees celebrates LGBTQI+ voices during SPARK Ipswich opening weekend with Thursday night karaoke, The Salty Sirens, Christmas in July drag show, and a Rainbow Stitch ‘n’ Switch craft afternoon. Presented by Banshees Bar & Artspace 10–13 July Banshees Bar & Artspace | Various | 18+

GROWING TOGETHER BY JACOB SARRA

Growing Together by local Goreng Goreng artist Jacob Sarra explores the enduring bond between a father and his two daughters, capturing love, connection and shared journeys through evocative artworks.

Presented by Yamanto Central 11–20 July | 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Ground Level, Yamanto Central | Free

CONNECTED Local Ipswich artists were invited to create a piece of artwork that reflects Ipswich’s unique culture, heritage and environment. Through the artwork the artists celebrate their traditions, share their stories and preserve Ipswich’s history.

Presented by Arts Connect Ipswich 12–20 July | 10.00 am – 2.00 pm Booval Fair | Free

BIG BAND SPECTACULAR Featuring three Big Bands from Ipswich and surrounds playing music, you know and love, from the 1940s to today. Local professional and amateur musicians will thrill you with the sounds of trumpets, saxophones, trombones, and rhythm. Sat 12 July | 7.00 pm St Paul’s Anglican Church Hall | $25

HIPSWICH A one-night-only birthday bash starring Ipswich’s best. Presented by Ipswich Civic Centre

and Everybody Now Sat 19 July 7.30 pm Ipswich Civic Centre | $52

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SECOND CHANCE Image courtesy of Sloane Stallan, Ugarapul Creation Story, 2025. Acrylic on Canvas, 90 x 125 cm. and Rhan Hooper, Coolamon and Hunting Boomerang, 2025. Mulga hardwood. Image by Louis Lim.

CONNECTED Image courtesy of Carole. K GROWING TOGETHER Image courtesy of Jacob Sarra