The question was always going to be – how do you choose just one?
To celebrate the city’s 166th birthday, Ipswich residents are being asked to cast their vote for one of our landmark public buildings in the Icons of Ipswich competition.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the competition marks the city becoming a municipality on 3 March, 1860, as well as celebrates our built heritage.
“As a community we are so proud of our incredible built environment,” Mayor Harding said.
“From today, for the next nine days, you can cast your vote for one of four much‑loved places that represent each of our city’s divisions – from our rich heritage to our vibrant modern identity.
“You can choose from:
- the pioneering Grandchester Railway Station
- the old Ipswich Town Hall and Clock Tower
- the Queensland Museum Rail Workshops, at the heart of the state’s rail heritage
- or Brighton Homes Arena, headquarters of the mighty Brisbane Lions.
“The winning icon will be announced during a special outdoor broadcast with River 949, our competition partners, on Tuesday 3 March to mark the city’s 166th birthday.
“Community members are being asked to choose their favourite from the four locations and vote at the River 949 website. One winning voter will receive four stunning framed photos of the shortlisted icons.”
Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the shortlisted icons each showcase a different chapter of the city’s story.
“As Queensland’s oldest provincial city, we’re proud of the way our heritage and modern growth sit side by side, and this competition is a chance to celebrate both,” Cr Augustine said.
“These places tell the stories of our community and continue to inspire pride in our past, our present and our fast-growing future.”
Ipswich City Council City Architect Mark Tendys said the four shortlisted icons hold significant cultural and architectural value that has shaped the city’s identity.
“Grandchester Railway Station may be modest in stature, but this beautiful country station is a giant for rail as Queensland’s first railway,” Mr Tendys said.
“Brighton Homes Arena is a modern community landmark that uplifts and inspires the community every day, especially every game day, bringing energy and sporting pride to the city.
“The Old Ipswich Town Hall and Clock Tower is a unique heritage building that reflects the city’s cultural and civic journey, from early settlement through to being part of our truly wonderful Ipswich Art Gallery today.
“The Queensland Museum Rail Workshops are a world-class complex of heritage buildings still operated by Queensland Rail – home to the unique rail workshop museum, crowned by the imposing power station and water tank tower.”
The winning icon and the winning voter will be announced on Ipswich’s 166th birthday on 3 March 2026. For more details and to cast your vote, visit the River 949 website.
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