Rachel’s presentation was one of the evening’s most impactful moments. Her courage in addressing such a deeply personal topic resonated strongly with attendees and sparked meaningful conversations throughout the room. Many described her message as honest, raw, and incredibly important for the Ipswich community.

Standing with Rachel were several remarkable advocates and supporters:

• Vanessa from The Allison Baden-Clay Foundation, whose encouragement meant the world to Rachel. Vanessa’s presence and advocacy continue to inspire her journey.

• Priscilla Dickie, who generously spent the evening with Rachel’s mum, ensuring she felt supported and connected — a gesture Rachel deeply appreciated.

• Amanda Dalton from Protea Place Women’s Support Centre, who spoke alongside Rachel and shared valuable information about the essential services Protea Place provides for women in need.

Radio Springfield City was there to capture the night, documenting Rachel’s presentation and the community’s response through a series of powerful photos. These images reflect the emotion, connection, and strength that defined the evening.

Rachel described the event as “one I’ll always cherish,” waking this morning with a smile she “couldn’t wipe away” thanks to the overwhelming support and unity shown by everyone present.

It was a night that highlighted Rachel’s bravery, amplified important voices, and brought the Ipswich community together in a shared commitment to ending domestic violence.

Springfield Community 5K Your Way Event

This summer, the Greater Springfield community will be treated to a vibrant celebration of art, creativity, and local connection. The Creative Hearts of Greater Springfield pop-up art gallery and creativity hub, brought to life by Creative Hearts Co. and proudly sponsored by Springfield City Group, will showcase a diverse range of artworks by local artists, community-driven creative workshops, and hands-on activities for all ages and interests. A portion of the proceeds from artwork sales will support Westside Community Care, benefiting local families in need.

Creative Hearts Co. was founded by Greater Springfield residents Hue Kedge, Sean Ferguson, and Marie Ferguson. Their shared passion for the arts, business, education, and community has led them to create a unique space where activity can flourish. Through their combined experience, they bring a refreshing, inclusive atmosphere to the gallery, inviting everyone—from seasoned artists to curious newcomers—to engage with the arts in meaningful ways.

·      Hue Kedge, a marketing photographer and self-confessed creative entrepreneur says "Creativity isn't just for the arts—it's the lifeblood of innovation in every industry. By embedding creative thinking into business and community culture, we can transform the way we work, connect, and communicate."

·      Sean Ferguson, the creator behind Project Zen, offers preserved moss installations that bring natural, calming energy to interior spaces. “Art has the power to lift the spirit of a space,” Sean explains. “Bringing nature indoors through art transforms how people feel and interact within these environments.”

·      Marie Ferguson, an experienced educator, champions youth creativity and resilience through art. “Our young people need spaces to express themselves, whether through visual arts, dance, music, writing, acting or digital media,” Marie says. She will be leading youth-focused workshops to encourage creative exploration across different disciplines.

The gallery will showcase a rich and diverse collection of works by talented local artists and creatives. Highlights include Kylie Hill, an Indigenous artist celebrated for her culturally significant visual art; Magenta Quinn, known for her bold and dynamic contributions to the Springfield art scene; and Trevor Fourmile, a respected Indigenous artist, author, and speaker. Anne Reardon’s stunning wildlife photography captures the beauty of local fauna, while Sue Roger’s serene landscape portraits and Charlene Attwell’s vibrant animal paintings add depth and variety. The collection also features the works of Kathrin Riemer from Bellbird Arts Centre and Paulette Jackson, whose pottery and ceramics celebrate the tactile beauty of clay. Together with many other incredible talents, this exhibition promises an inspiring display of local artistry.

Springfield City Group has thrown its support behind the initiative. Dr Richard Eden PSM, Executive General Manager, Springfield City Group, emphasised its importance: “We are delighted to support and nurture this new partnership - Creative Hearts Co - to showcase and activate the local arts community, by locals.”

The gallery and workshops will provide a rich schedule of creative activities perfect for the school holiday season. Phil Cutcliffe from Westside Community Care shares his enthusiasm: “Supporting the community through art is a beautiful concept. It’s wonderful to see creativity bringing people together.”

Event Details:

·      What: The Creative Hearts of Greater Springfield Pop-Up Art Gallery & Creativity Hub

·      When: 7^th December 2024 – mid January 2025

·      Where: Orion Springfield Central

By Morgan Reardon

8th Nov 2024

Credit: URBAN LIST 

At over a century old (nope that’s not a typo), this old gal is steeped in Ispwich’s history, and is an absolute must-visit. A true icon amongst locals and visitors alike, the beloved watering hole’s recent upgrade has seen it transform into a modern gastro pub that now includes a top notch menu curated by a renowned chef, a boutique bar, plus intimate function spaces and a vibing live music roster. 

Nestled in the bustling Nicholas St Precinct, every inch of the old railway pub has been thoughtfully modernised, ensuring the institution's legacy remains. On the first floor you’ll find a sleek lounge with its own private bar. This chic space can be hired out for private functions too—think: milestone birthdays, anniversaries, hens, or work bashes. 

Upstairs in the main pub area you’ll be wowed by the high ceilings, exposed brick walls, rich timber flooring, jewel green accents and plush seating that feel equal measures bright and cosy. There’s even a private dining space for spesh occasions. 

Outside is where you’ll find us during the summer with a huge open-air bar, lush hanging greenery and plenty of seating for big groups to catch up over an ice cold craft beer or cheeky cocktail.

Devour Pub Classics And Inventive Desserts

Food can be devoured anywhere in the pub and trust us, you’ll want to arrive hungry. Head chef Rick Dyson (previously head chef of the Cannery Restaurant and The Lost Captain in Tasmania) brings 20 years of experience to the kitchen with a focus on classic pub fare with modern twists. 

Small plates include fried potato scallops with curry mayo and chicken pate on melba toast with plum ketchup. There are drool-worthy mains like braised lamb shoulder with spring greens and minted lamb sauce; smoked cod and prawn risotto and a 450g tomahawk chop with cowboy butter and braised chickpeas. 

And you can’t come here without trying Dyson’s classic chicken parmi and corned beef hash. There’s also pizzas, steak and salad—plus a tasty kid’s menu and loads of plant-based options so everyone is catered for. Just make sure you save some room for dessert—the ANZAC biscuit ice cream sandwich with banana caramel and roasted banana parfait is an absolute game-changer. 

Bust A Move With Your Crew

And what’s a pub without some cracking live tunes? Settle in for a beautiful sunset with beats from local musos on Fridays and Saturdays while jazz musicians will take to the stage on Sunday arvo. Your weekends are now officially sorted. 

If you were a fan of the OG pub, don’t fret, the new owners have worked tirelessly alongside the previous owners to ensure the heart of the Commonwealth remains the same —with a community focus at its core. There’s still warm smiles behind the bar pouring the frothies you know and love, now with the addition of modern luxuries to unwind in. 

For more deets on your new and improved fave watering hole, head here.

6fdd32268820230a73103437990335b567ab03e1 The generosity of Mater supporters across Queensland is catalysing a remarkable transformation in healthcare at Mater Private Hospital Springfield, with nearly $1 million worth of cutting-edge medical equipment being delivered this year, thanks to community donations to the Mater Foundation.

This influx of advanced technology includes a state-of-the-art robotic surgery system for knee replacements and sophisticated imaging systems designed to enhance the precision of breast cancer surgeries and orthopaedic procedures.

As Mater prepares for its upcoming Mater Giving Day on June 26, the hospital is calling on the community to once again demonstrate their support. 

On this day, every donation made to the Mater Foundation will be tripled by matched donors, amplifying the impact of each contribution.

Mater Foundation’s next goal is to fund the recruitment of a specialist Breast Care Nurse, dedicated to supporting women undergoing treatment at Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

“Medical technology is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial for our patients that we integrate this technology into our operating theatres and wards,” Mater Private Hospital Springfield general manager Suzanne Hawksley said.

“Our doctors and medical teams play a key role in selecting devices and systems to ensure every dollar donated delivers maximum benefit to our patients.”

The newly funded equipment includes:

• Velys Orthopaedic Robot: Utilising an advanced infra-red optical tracking system, this robot assists surgeons in making high-precision, guided cuts during knee replacements, leading to better outcomes and faster recovery times for patients.

• C-Arm Scanner: A mobile imaging system that provides high-quality images during orthopaedic surgeries, enhancing surgical accuracy.

• Faxitron Radiography System: This system offers breast cancer surgeons high-quality in-theatre X-rays, ensuring greater certainty in the removal of cancerous tissue and reducing the need for additional procedures.

Mater is Queensland’s largest not-for-profit healthcare provider, managing a network of 11 public and private hospitals across the state. 

In partnership with the Queensland Government, Mater is also constructing the new Mater Public Hospital Springfield, which will add 174 beds, an emergency department, an intensive care unit, and maternity services when it opens in 2026.

Chief Executive of Mater Foundation Andrew Thomas emphasised the significance of community fundraising in improving patient care. 

“Mater Giving Day is a day for the community to come together to make a positive impact,” Andrew said. 

“This special day unites Mater staff, patients, loved ones, and supporters to help deliver life-saving medical equipment, research, education, and healthcare.”

Andrew also highlighted the planned recruitment of a specialist Breast Care Nurse following Giving Day 2024. 

“The great news this year is that Mater’s generous Matched Givers have pledged to triple every dollar raised by the community in Springfield and across Queensland, making a truly incredible difference for Mater patients,” he said.

For more information on how to support Mater Giving Day, visit materfoundation.org.au.

Stingers President Shelleigh Lole is excited about the future of the club and the wider community.

“We are super excited and very grateful to be able to call this amazing new facility our home,” she said.

“It has a great community feel about it and offers so much for local residents and it was awesome to see so many locals doing laps around the fields with their kids and dogs and families out playing in the park while our games are on.”

For the Springfield Stingers, the move to this new location symbolised a fresh start and a chance to revitalise touch football within the community.

“We can have 24 teams playing so are confident that the new facility will help us grow and get back to running at full speed again,” Shelleigh said.

As the night unfolded, teams engaged in spirited grading games, showcasing their skills and determination. Among the crowd, there was a palpable sense of anticipation for the season ahead.

The season started off with grading games, allowing new and returning teams to be entered into their correct divisions.

“It was great to see so many new and returning players utilising our new space,” said Shelleigh.

“We have also appointed a new Junior Coordinator and we are excited about the skills and experience he brings.”

The Stingers are also looking for referees for the upcoming season and future competitions.

“Being a referee is a great opportunity to expand your touch knowledge and gain experience across a different function of our great game, as well as getting paid to get fit,” she said.

If you are interested in sitting the Level 1 Referee course, message the Springfield Stingers page on Facebook or email admin@springfieldstingers.com

Teams participating in the current season are encouraged to nominate a player to attend the course to avoid shortages throughout the season.

Minister for Training and Skills Di Farmer MP announced today that Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing courses in Springfield, South Brisbane and Townsville will be included in the State Government’s 2024 Fee-Free TAFE initiative.

The news means students enrolling for Mater Education’s January 2024 intake in Springfield will qualify as Enrolled Nurses in just 18 months – and with zero student debt.

The Mater Education Diploma of Nursing program was launched at the new Mater Health Hub, Springfield last month to help meet the region’s demand for nurses, which is set to soar with the Stage 2 expansion of Mater Private Hospital Springfield.

Mater Group Chief Operating Officer Angi Bissell said educators are expecting an increase in applications from Ipswich and Springfield students following today’s announcement.

“This is fantastic news for students, hospitals and patients,” Ms Bissell said.

“Queensland urgently needs to expand its nursing workforce and fee-free training is a huge incentive to those thinking about a career in healthcare.

“This is a great opportunity for people who are leaving school, want to switch careers or get back into the workforce after having children.

“We also encourage people to apply who have been part of the unpaid care workforce with home-based care responsibilities, who want to use that experience to jump start a new career.

“If you’re thinking about becoming a nurse, get in touch now – there has never been a better time to start a career in health.”

Mater is Queensland’s largest not-for-profit healthcare provider and manages 11 private and public hospitals across the state. It has been training nurses and other health professionals since 1906.

Mater Education Diploma of Nursing Lead Educator Tara Walton said Mater provided its students with a unique training experience. 

“Mater Education is the largest non-government nurse training organisation in Queensland and our connection to Mater Private Hospital Springfield is highly valuable for our students,” Ms Walton said. 

“We connect the hospital and classroom environments to ensure our students learn through immersive, real-world experience. 

“Our accelerated 18-month Diploma of Nursing qualification allows students to learn and earn quickly.” 

Mater’s expanded Springfield hospital will employ more than 1,100 people, creating an exciting range of new opportunities for students and those looking for a career change.

The first intake of Mater Education Diploma of Nursing students are being taught at  the purpose-built education centre at Mater Health Hub, Springfield on Southern Cross Circuit.

Applicants for the Fee-Free TAFE initiative must live in Queensland and be Australian citizens or permanent residents to be eligible for a fee-free Diploma of Nursing.  

To find out more, contact Mater Education student services at 1300 070350 or go tomatereducation.qld.edu.au.

The SEQ Liveability Fund is a pool of $285.8 million committed by all three levels of government under the newly outlined SEQ City Deal.

The earmarked funds will help deliver new and upgraded infrastructure and amenities to the wider SEQ region, including Springfield and surrounds.

Jordan MP Charis Mullen is seeking input from members of the Springfield community via a brief survey, linked below.

“This is a really important opportunity for our communities to see tangible improvements to local parks, sporting club-houses, and environmental spaces,” Ms Mullen said.

The survey will remain open until Tuesday, August 8.

Ipswich City Council will then liaise with Ms Mullen and other state representatives in the nominations process, according to the City Deal.

Story courtesy of the Greater Springfield times

Luke has set a bold fundraising target of $50,000 – to be donated to the Movember Foundation.

A monumental 386-kilometre journey along the Pacific Highway, “Luke’s Long Walk” will begin on the morning of Sunday, September 24, in Grafton, New South Wales.

It is scheduled to end two weeks later on Saturday, October 7, in Brisbane city.

“The plan is to start in Grafton, and walk up from there,” Luke said.

“Every day, I’ll be putting out at least one video. I’ll be doing a live video as well.

“I’ll be promoting the sponsors when I stop at towns like Broadwater and Surfers Paradise.”

Luke is still looking for additional partners and sponsorship opportunities – particularly in Logan, the Gold Coast, and anywhere south of the border – particularly in places along or near the highway where he can visit on the way to Brisbane.

Story courtesy of the Greater Springfield times