Ipswich City Council has approved a $20,000 community donation for the Rosewood Lions Club to assist with the installation and dismantling of the 2017 Christmas lights and decorations at Rosewood.
Arts and Social Development Committee Chairperson Cr Kylie Stoneman described it as an innovative and popular event on the festive season calendar.
“The donation is an example of the support Council provides local Christmas and New Year’s celebrations enjoyed by residents across our city,” she said.
Although the amount was outside Council policy of a maximum $15,000 in one year, it met the criteria of the community and citywide donations policy.
Division 10 Councillor David Pahlke said the Christmas lights and decorations at Rosewood were always one of the highlights of the year and attracted a wide audience.
“Rosewood is famous for its Christmas lights. People come from everywhere to see them,” he said.
“It is becoming a real tradition that we put Christmas decorations and lights up in the main street of Rosewood, including a Christmas tree outside my office.”
Cr Stoneman said ICON Community Incorporated had received $2500 from Council under the Community Development Grants Program to assist with sound and lighting for a New Year’s event at Robelle Domain, Springfield Central Parklands.
Division 1 Councillor David Morrison said the Springfield-based community organisation has run the free event at Robelle Domain since 2012. It regularly attracts a large crowd and includes performances by local artists, amusement rides, food stalls and a fireworks display.
Cr Morrison said the event, which costs ICON almost $50,000 to stage, was a great alternative to the large New Year events at Southbank Parklands and on the Gold Coast.
Council allocated $140,000 for its Community Development Grants program in 2017-18. For more information on how to apply, visit www.ipswich.qld.gov.au
