1. Site secured for performing arts centre
Ipswich City Council has agreed to buy the old rail yard in Ellenborough Street for a future Ipswich Performing Arts Centre.
Council previously considered three potential locations, but the Ellenborough Street site makes the most sense because of its strong positioning within the CBD.
Securing the site will allow us to progress a business case which we plan to use to secure State Government funding for the project through demonstrating the need for and benefits of the centre.
2. Markers reveal history of Ipswich region
A bridge, a former foundry and Ipswich’s Masonic Hall are among eight sites set to receive cast brass information markers as part of an ongoing council project.
The latest additions will bring Ipswich City Council’s Historical Markers project, launched in 2000, to a total of 131 markers across the region.
The markers are a great way to unlock the region’s heritage, but can also be used in conjunction with council’s Heritage Trails to gain a greater appreciation of the history of our city.
3. Squash and equestrian sports in the money
Two Ipswich organisations will benefit after being awarded Sporting Event Sponsorship program funding.
Some of the best players in and around Ipswich will be taking part in the Ipswich Closed Squash Tournament in November.
Hundreds of equestrian competitors will be out in force for the Rosewood Campdraft and Ranch Sorting event at the Rosewood Showgrounds on 30 September.
4. Support for Indigenous rugby league players
Twenty-five Indigenous rugby league players will benefit from council’s Community Development Grants program.
The Purga Wagtails Aboriginal Corporation sent 25 rugby league players to the annual Queensland Murri Rugby League Carnival at Redcliffe this month.
This is a very worthwhile initiative and hopefully these young players will benefit from the experience.
5. Buildings added to Character Places list
Mid-century buildings and pre-1946 hotels, churches and school buildings are among the latest additions to the city’s Heritage Character Places list.
As Queensland’s oldest provincial city, Ipswich has always taken great pride in protecting and celebrating its heritage.
The Ipswich Planning Scheme recognises the historical significance of these buildings and will ensure that due consideration must be given before any major works are undertaken in the future.
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