Acting Mayor’s column | Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce monthly newsletter
October 2023
Lighting up Springfield traffic flow
Council’s largest ever road upgrade project has reached a major milestone with back-to-school traffic enjoying a new signalised intersection at Springfield Greenbank Arterial and Springfield Parkway. Six lanes of traffic travelling from three directions are now all navigating through the new intersection – the biggest in council’s road network – after extensive earthworks to upgrade the congested roundabout to traffic lights.
The upgrade of Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial in Springfield Central from two to four lanes is critical to meeting increased growth in the region, and Council appreciates the community’s understanding and patience while construction is undertaken on this major infrastructure project in the Springfield region.
Ipswich economy hits $12 billion for first time
Key economic data has revealed the Ipswich economy has smashed through the $12 billion mark for the first time. In the 12 months ending 30 June 2022, the Ipswich Gross Regional Product reached $12.183 billion, representing a growth of 5.31 per cent or $614 million on the previous year. The Gross Regional Product is the amount of region’s wealth which is generated by businesses, organisations and individuals working in the area. The Ipswich data compared favourably with other councils and the state, with only the Gold Coast recording a higher percentage rate of growth. Council’s Economic Development Strategy, which underpins growth and investment over the next five years, has identified defence, manufacturing, health, transport and logistics industries as key performers going forward. The Ipswich City Council Economic Development Strategy 2023-2027 can be viewed at Ipswich.qld.gov.au.
Still time to nominate an Ipswich legend
Do you know an extraordinary person living in greater Springfield who deserves recognition? It is not too late to nominate them for the 2024 Ipswich Australia Day Award. With nominations closing 5 November 2023, now is the time to consider those people in our community whose achievements and contributions are making a positive difference in Ipswich. There are six different award categories to choose from: 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. Council understands the important contribution our local heroes make and while they don’t do it for recognition, it’s important we celebrate those individuals and groups that are helping to build a better Ipswich. Nominate now at Ipswich Australia Day Awards.
Sustainability in the spotlight this October
Sustainable Ipswich Month is back to shine a light on the everyday actions that residents and businesses can take to contribute to a liveable and sustainable city. There are many ways the community can get involved, with a huge program of free and low-cost events throughout October. The Sustainable Open Garden Trail kicks off the celebrations this Saturday 7 October, where beginner and experienced green thumbs alike can wander through urban gardens and be inspired to create beautiful, native backyards that are wildlife friendly. A major highlight is the inaugural Ipswich Sustainable Living Festival, taking over Tulmur Place in Nicholas Street Precinct on Saturday 21 October. Celebrating its first year in the Sustainable Ipswich program, the festival is set to be a one-stop-shop for living sustainably in our city with practical demonstrations, live family entertainment, food stalls, upcycled artisans, workshops, council’s mobile nursery and more. For a full program of events and activities throughout October, visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/sustainability
Welcoming Ipswich’s 250,000th resident
Ipswich has reached a major milestone with Dave and Philisha Riddell receiving the keys to their newly built home at Walloon, pushing the city’s population up to 250,000. The Riddells were identified as the landmark residents by council’s innovative Ipswich Population Modeller which tracks the number of wheelie bins issued to new residents. This latest milestone reaffirms Ipswich’s status as Queensland’s fastest growing city, with six new homes being added on average per day and more than 6,200 new residents choosing to call Ipswich home in the 12 months to 30 June. Importantly, it underscores why our city needs ongoing and increased cooperation and investment from the state and federal governments to provide funding for important infrastructure such as public transport. Council is committed to supporting the anticipated growth in a way that preserves the city’s enviable lifestyle and affordability but also provides choice and diversity for existing and future residents. Stay up to date on the development of council’s new planning scheme, Ipswich Plan 2024, at Shape Your Ipswich.