various industrial activities impact air quality By measuring pollutants and observing weather patterns the department gains insights into air quality trends and emission sources The department monitors air quality and weather at various locations in Queensland with a specific program focusing on industrial areas at Swanbank and New Chum in Ipswich the monitoring equipment was upgraded to address community odour concerns and improve understanding of local weather patterns and odorous compounds like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) additional weather monitoring stations and close to real-time air quality monitors were added in nearby communities and the Swanbank industrial area based on recommendations from independent experts The Swanbank air monitoring program is a scalable weather and air quality monitoring network that can be adapted as needed providing a constant stream of close to real-time monitoring data which can be analysed in conjunction with community reports about odour being experienced This allows for a more efficient and targeted compliance response for those industrial operations that are regulated by the department The information can also be used to help inform actions of other agencies such as local government and Queensland Health View more information about potential health impacts associated with odour Several stations are collecting weather monitoring data which is analysed in conjunction with air quality monitoring data H2S is a colourless gas with a “rotten egg” smell It is part of a group of chemicals called Total Reduced Sulfur (TRS) TRS includes other odorous sulfur compounds like mercaptans and sulfides H2S is used as an indicator for odour as it forms the highest proportion of TRS from these areas H2S monitors are co-located with wind and weather monitoring stations While common air emission sources of VOCs and NH3 are through vehicle emissions and industrial processes they are also naturally released during the aerobic decomposition of organic material such as plant debris These compounds are known to be odorous and can be more noticeable during summer and spring Specialised equipment are used for monitoring VOCs and NH3 concentrations as there are several facilities within the Swanbank industrial area that handle organic waste including landfill and composting operation Monitoring equipment has been placed both within potentially affected communities and near industrial sites Air monitoring stations collect weather and air quality data which provide an indication of air conditions in the region You can access this data by using our interactive data map by clicking the link below Note: The data presented has not been validated and is given in close to real-time for informational and indicative purposes only Any utilisation or interpretation of this data should be in consultation with the Department of the Environment The data presented is directly sourced from the monitoring network (operated and managed by an external provider – Envirosuite) and has not undergone a quality assurance review The interactive data map   shows the location of all monitoring stations and data as it is being collected in close to real-time (updated every 5 minutes) Data is shown in Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) The map shows the current data and time by default (in the top right corner) and will indicate that live data is being shown by a pulsing green dot Note: You may only view historical data from when the station was commissioned If no data is showing on the map for a station it could indicate a fault in the equipment or transfer of data Any errors or faults are investigated and rectified as soon as possible Wind speed and direction are monitored by wind and weather monitoring stations Some monitoring stations may also collect air quality data such as H2S You can view a number of parameters measured by the stations Air monitoring stations are represented by pink dots (as shown in image 2 below) The number in the centre represents the real-time measurement of the parameter that is currently selected (in the top right-hand corner drop-down) Odour emissions are shown in parts per billion (ppb) at various time weighted averages (average emissions in ppb for a given timeframe) which are used as threshold indicators for potential nuisance or health impacts The time weighted average used varies based on the parameter we are measuring The below table shows some of the concentrations that are used as indicators to help inform investigations These levels take into account various references including the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2019 national and international standards and guidance Exceeding one of the concentrations listed in the table indicates that there is a potential for the community to be experiencing impacts and does not necessarily mean a health impact or that a nuisance is occurring the department verifies the data's accuracy and reviews meteorological information to identify any potential source(s) Reports from the community of odour nuisance occurring at that time may also be reviewed the department may contact any operator(s) identified as a possible source and take appropriate further investigations If a health-related threshold indicator is exceeded Queensland Health will be notified and the department will collaborate with them to ensure an appropriate response The community will be kept informed of any significant developments or actions taken It is also important to understand that emissions are more concentrated if a station located near a compost or landfill operator is showing concentrations above nuisance indicator levels this means that there is a potential for nuisance within the community and the department will respond with further enquiries The reports we receive from the community help us to understand whether a nuisance or other impact is occurring They can help to substantiate when impacts are occurring and assist our subsequent enquires If you are experiencing odour that is causing you a nuisance, please report it You can also stay up to date on any significant developments by signing up to our newsletter If you have any questions or difficulty accessing the data map or if you would like to report a fault, please contact swanbank@des.qld.gov.au The map below shows the locations where samples have been collected using canisters in the community Air quality monitoring is conducted at a range of locations in the local community This includes air monitoring (canisters) undertaken by households The table below shows only those analytes that were detected by the laboratory in the canister samples 13 QGOV (13 74 68) Help us improve the content on our website or tell us what is working really well Please contact us. with Stage 3 of the major upgrade officially open to motorists before Christmas Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the final section of the Redbank Plains Road upgrade is now complete with four newly constructed lanes in a divided carriageway open from Keidges Road to Kruger Parade “I am thrilled that road works have progressed on schedule with the majority of the works wrapped up along Redbank Plains Road and Stage 3 of the huge upgrade completed in time for the holiday season,” Mayor Harding said “This has been one of council’s major road projects Redbank Plains Road is a crucial connection from eastern suburbs to Ipswich Central with thousands of motorists using the road each day to drop kids off to school travel to surrounding suburbs and access motorways “Redbank Plains has consistently been one of Ipswich’s fastest growing suburbs with more and more people relying on this key stretch of road daily “This milestone is a gamechanger for the Redbank Plains community and all those who use the road I look forward to seeing many motorists benefit from this important project.” Planning and Assets Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Antoniolli said council took over works from Allroads in March 2024 “Council engaged Dinmore-based contractor NARIC Civil to complete this stage of the project and they have done a great job to ensure the project was completed on time with one part opening ahead of schedule,” Cr Antoniolli said Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the City of Ipswich Transport Plan (iGO) outlined the need to upgrade Redbank Plains Road to serve all users “The upgrade is a win for the entire community It’s wonderful to see the installation of a three-metre shared footpath and a signalised pedestrian crossing providing safer travels to pedestrians and other users,” Deputy Mayor Jonic said Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said the upgrade was much needed with the surrounding suburbs facing an incredible amount of growth have seen unprecedented growth in recent years This new infrastructure ensures that the road is futureproofed to cope with the increasing demand for infrastructure,” Cr Tully said Division 1 Councillor Pye Augustine said council thanked residents and motorists for their patience during road closures “We know road works are frustrating at times but the end result we see was well worth it This upgrade will benefit thousands of users on their daily travels,” Cr Augustine said Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said this opening concludes Stage 3 of the road upgrade “Stage 4 will see the section of Redbank Plains Road between Collingwood Drive and the Cunningham Highway upgraded to a four-lane urban standard road in coming years,” Cr Madsen said The project was jointly funded by council and the Queensland Department of Main Roads (TMR) Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS) Read more about the upgrade here >> Council closures over Christmas and New Year >> Beloved Colleges Crossing Recreation Reserve reopens >> Ipswich to welcome the New Year with a bang What about a sign warning to look out for Koalas followed by acres of cleared bushland Presumably the cleared land was Koala habitat I see the councillors and Mayor taking all the credit for these upgrades like colleges crossing what about all the hard work the real workers put in Let’s all forget how the 1st contractor went belly up mid project and left an absolute mess for months Its nice to see them able to announce something sorted before Christmas I gather the traffic lights will be operational sometime in the New Year Politics is a funny game……… Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Magistrate yet to decide if teenager will stand trial for murder after White died during an alleged carjacking outside a shopping centre at Redbank Plains A teenage boy accused of murdering a grandmother during a carjacking west of Brisbane will remain in custody for several months before a magistrate decides if he will stand trial Vyleen Joan White died after being stabbed in the chest outside a shopping centre at Redbank Plains on 3 February Police alleged White was killed during the theft of her 2009 model Hyundai Getz hatchback A 16-year-old boy from a nearby suburb was charged with one count each of murder and unlawful use of a motor vehicle The youth’s charges had a committal mention in Ipswich children’s court on Tuesday but he was not required to appear in person or via video link from custody Crown prosecutor Chris Cook told magistrate Melanie Ho that he had discussed potential dates for a committal hearing with the youth’s solicitors at Hannay Lawyers Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email “[Brief of evidence] disclosures have been made. The only item of substance outstanding is a statement on one of the issues with DNA. The Crown is content, if necessary, to proceed with a committal without that,” Cook said. Hannay Lawyers law clerk Jodie Layzell told Ho she consented to the dates suggested by the prosecution. Ho asked Cook if the committal hearing would last just one day. “I would be surprised if it ran longer,” Cook said. Free newsletterGet the most important news as it breaks Read moreHe confirmed to Ho that he was still unsure of the exact number of witnesses who would give evidence at the committal. Ho ordered that the youth face a committal hearing on 14 March and he would be required to appear in court. Ho told Layzell she would need to file an application if the defence wished to cross-examine any witnesses. White’s death prompted changes to Queensland’s juvenile justice laws and was mentioned by then LNP opposition leader David Crisafulli in a debate with then-premier Steven Miles over youth crime before Labor’s defeat at the 26 October state election. That legislation is due to be introduced into the Queensland parliament this week. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) A high school west of Brisbane was placed in lockdown on Monday after reports of a fight on the grounds Please call us on 1800 070 535 and we’ll help resolve the issue or try again later Any Questions? Please call 1800 070 535 Saturday & Sunday 7:00am – 11:30am (AEST) A development application has been lodged for a Service Station and Fast Food located at Mount Juillerat Road and School Road The planners at Saunders Havill Group “state that “The design and layout of the development promotes an integrated development outcome that incorporates efficient transport linkages and connections to infrastructure without compromising existing and future development on adjoining land within the designated centre” “These residential developments will require commercial retail and community facilities to service their needs and requirements The proposed service station and other tenancies will provide a necessary service to this future residential area” We encourage you to like the Your Neighbourhood Facebook page to be updated on other projects or development News articles are presented in an unbiased manner from information publicly accessible that includes referenced links for the reader to obtain any further information The facts of the proposed government projects school upgrades and development applications are based on the available information at the time of the published date with information sourced directly from company websites media releases and development application material We reference all our information at the end of the articles and promote the creators with website backlinks Contact us: mail@yourneighbourhood.com.au Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time A teenager accused of killing a Queensland grandmother has been committed to stand trial as his lawyer claimed he was “absolutely remorseful” was stabbed in the chest during the alleged theft of her car from a shopping centre car park at Redbank Plains Her death sparked community outrage and prompted the then-Labor state government to change bail laws for juveniles The Ipswich grandmother was fatally stabbed in February 2024 was charged with offences including murder unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing During a committal hearing in the Ipswich Childrens Court on Friday Sitting quietly in a blue shirt and black shorts he was asked by magistrate Dennis Kinsella if he understood his charges The family of Vyleen White continue to advocate for stronger protections for Queenslanders.Credit: Nine News told the court his client’s parents were not present for the hearing because of safety concerns Sarabi conceded there was a prima facie case against his client and therefore the case would proceed to a higher court The court heard about 120 statements had been submitted as part of the proceeding Kinsella committed the teenager to trial in the Supreme Court at a later date Sarabi said his client was “absolutely remorseful of course [my client] knows the gravity of the situation.” When asked about why the teenager’s parents were not present we didn’t feel comfortable having them here just because of the fact they are innocent people as well any threats against their lives based on that decision.” He said his client was yet to enter a plea which could be done once it reached the higher court but he hoped the teenager would “make the right decision” White’s daughter Cindy Micallef said her family was struggling without her mother what you see is not what you see behind closed doors Cindy Micallef outside court in Ipswich.Credit: Cloe Read / Brisbane Times “There’s a lot of stuff going on for all of us .. We’ve had a week of family birthdays for both my sisters and my young niece tomorrow Any family occasion just isn’t the same without mum.” The accused teenager allegedly stole soft drinks and chocolate from a 7-Eleven and alcohol from a Liquorland store before White’s death He was remanded in custody until his next court date Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. A teenager accused of killing a Queensland grandmother has been committed to stand trial, as his lawyer claimed he was \\u201Cabsolutely remorseful\\u201D. Vyleen Joan White, 70, was stabbed in the chest during the alleged theft of her car from a shopping centre car park at Redbank Plains, west of Brisbane, last year. Her death sparked community outrage and prompted the then-Labor state government to change bail laws for juveniles. A teenage boy, now aged 17, from the nearby suburb of Bellbird Park, was charged with offences including murder, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing. During a committal hearing in the Ipswich Childrens Court on Friday, the teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared via video link. Sitting quietly in a blue shirt and black shorts, he was asked by magistrate Dennis Kinsella if he understood his charges. \\u201CYeah, I understand,\\u201D he replied. His lawyer, Farshad Sarabi, told the court his client\\u2019s parents were not present for the hearing because of safety concerns. Sarabi conceded there was a prima facie case against his client, and therefore the case would proceed to a higher court. The court heard about 120 statements had been submitted as part of the proceeding. Kinsella committed the teenager to trial in the Supreme Court at a later date. Outside court, Sarabi said his client was \\u201Cabsolutely remorseful, absolutely\\u201D. \\u201CHe regrets this,\\u201D the lawyer said. \\u201CIt\\u2019s just really sad for everyone, and I especially feel for the families ... of course [my client] knows the gravity of the situation.\\u201D When asked about why the teenager\\u2019s parents were not present, Sarabi answered: \\u201COf course, because it\\u2019s of such a community interest, we didn\\u2019t feel comfortable having them here just because of the fact they are innocent people as well. \\u201CThey don\\u2019t have a connection to this, and it would have been unfair potentially, any threats against their lives based on that decision.\\u201D He said his client was yet to enter a plea, which could be done once it reached the higher court, but he hoped the teenager would \\u201Cmake the right decision\\u201D. Outside court, White\\u2019s daughter Cindy Micallef said her family was struggling without her mother. \\u201CHonestly, what you see is not what you see behind closed doors. We all fall apart. \\u201CYou know, it\\u2019s a case of someone\\u2019s got to do it, and we\\u2019ve got to fight,\\u201D she said. \\u201CThere\\u2019s a lot of stuff going on for all of us ... We\\u2019ve had a week of family birthdays for both my sisters and my young niece tomorrow. Birthdays aren\\u2019t the same. \\u201CLife events aren\\u2019t the same. Any family occasion just isn\\u2019t the same without mum.\\u201D The accused teenager allegedly stole soft drinks and chocolate from a 7-Eleven, food from McDonald\\u2019s, and alcohol from a Liquorland store before White\\u2019s death. He was remanded in custody until his next court date. Start the day with a summary of the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. . A teenage boy accused of murdering a grandmother during a carjacking has been granted a court order for prosecutors to disclose all evidence in the case died after being stabbed in the chest outside a shopping centre at Redbank Plains Police said White was killed during the theft of her 2009 model Hyundai Getz hatchback Ipswich grandmother Vyleen White was fatally stabbed at a shopping centre.Credit: Nine News A 16-year-old boy from the nearby suburb of Bellbird Park was arrested two days later and charged with one count each of murder and unlawful use of a motor vehicle The youth’s charges were mentioned in Ipswich Children’s Court on Tuesday but he was not required to appear in person or via videolink from custody said outside court that the case was “sad for everyone” “There are no winners in this situation,” he said The White family told Nine News she was “the most loving compassionate and caring person you could ever meet”.Credit: Nine News Prosecutor Andy Iordache told acting magistrate Paul Byrne she could have a complete brief of evidence ready within three weeks “The brief will be disclosed in pieces as we go There are a few officers’ statements outstanding and a pathologist’s statement Those are the only items outstanding,” Iordache said Sarabi asked Byrne for an order for prosecutors to produce the last items of evidence “This is the fifth [court] mention for disclosure and we were promised on the last occasion that it would be made,” Sarabi said Byrne ordered the prosecution to disclose the last items of evidence by November 5 and adjourned the matter until November 26 When asked about the time it had taken for evidence to be disclosed Sarabi said: “I think everyone is frustrated by the delays” the Queensland government changed laws to make it easier to deny bail to juvenile defendants and granted accredited media outlets greater access to Children’s Court hearings Youth crime has been a central issue in the Queensland state election campaign before the October 26 poll The youth\\u2019s charges were mentioned in Ipswich Children\\u2019s Court on Tuesday but he was not required to appear in person or via videolink from custody said outside court that the case was \\u201Csad for everyone\\u201D \\u201CThere are no winners in this situation,\\u201D he said \\u201CThe brief will be disclosed in pieces as we go There are a few officers\\u2019 statements outstanding and a pathologist\\u2019s statement Those are the only items outstanding,\\u201D Iordache said \\u201CThis is the fifth [court] mention for disclosure and we were promised on the last occasion that it would be made,\\u201D Sarabi said Sarabi said: \\u201CI think everyone is frustrated by the delays\\u201D the Queensland government changed laws to make it easier to deny bail to juvenile defendants and granted accredited media outlets greater access to Children\\u2019s Court hearings Brothers Ipswich took home the premiership 'grand slam' on Sunday after the top grade side held off a charging Redbank Plains Bears to claim to Ipswich Jets A Grade Cup in a seesawing match 40-24 camping themselves near the Brothers' try line and they broke through in the 6th minute through winger Alec Leota which Khan Towler converted to make it 6-0 The Brethren found their composure and took advantage of their first real chance in the Bears' half through a high kick from 40m out that was allowed to bounce was regathered by the chasers and eventually found centre Tyrone Opelu in support to extend out his arm to plant the ball on the line in the 11th minute Brothers then gained the momentum as ill-discipline crept in from the opposition and crossed again in the 16th minute when halfback Taj Hinton slipped a sneaky short pass to fullback Deijion Leugaimafa for him to stretch out and score in a carbon copy of Opelu's finish minutes earlier Redbank Plains fans were up a few minutes later when it a cutout from skipper Ono Sooialo appeared to have put Leota over for his second Redbank Plains looked set to go ahead when second rower Misi Sikei found open space and attempted a flick pass offload which Brothers centre Harry Douglas snared before running away 50 metres downfield Three tackles later they were right on the Bears line and a show-and-go was all it took for Taj Hinton to slide through in the 33rd minute for a try of his own which he converted from right in front to make it 14-6 It got even better for the Brethren just before half-time when off a scrum following a rare Sooialo error 40 metres out from his own line Hinton swung around on a run-around play and passed off to Opelu who broke through two tackles and carried one would-be defender over to score The 18-6 half-time scoreline didn't stay that way for long on the resumption The Bears managed to secure the ball with a surprise short kick-off and Sooialo was tackled just short of the try line before a few plays later hooker Jayden Elder found Teejay Siakisini to score and the conversion brought it back to a six-point margin Sam Sauaso crashed over under the sticks and the game was all square with 35 minutes remaining Redbank Plains was simply all over Brothers earning another penalty coming out of yardage and they appeared to score soon after through City selection Bessie Aufaga-Toomaga It proved a sliding doors moment as the Brethren marched up the other end and crossed through winger Eli Teariki in the 48th minute; Hinton - having seemingly snuck in goalkicking practice at half time - converting from the sideline The Bears were back in the 59th minute when hulking second rower James Atonio strolled over adjacent the posts allowing Towler to lock it up again with the conversion The to-and-fro continued in the 69th minute when Teariki had his second diving on a grubber from five-eighth Zane Kaatz to score Once again Hinton put it through the posts for a crucial six-point lead Bears skipper Sooialo put the kick-off over the sideline on the full to hand Brothers attacking field position and they took it with both hands when Kaatz orchestrated a play to send left centre Harry Douglas over the line; Hinton converting to make it a 12-point lead with six minutes to play It paved the way for a just-about-fairytale finish in more ways than one for a couple of old heads - hooker Shane Gibson icing it for the Brethren with a try under the black dot Beloved prop Matthew Bell was given the kick at goal - his toe poke effort went dribbling along the ground The retiring stalwart - who was "roped in for one more year" in 2024 - laughed off the gaffe post-game simply proud of his side for hanging tough and getting it done 28 years and to go out an A grade premiership winner is a kid's dream," Bell said played for each other and that's what the club is all about "We spoke about it before the game we had to stay in the grind and that's what we did to their credit the boys stood up and the Redbank boys just kept coming." The half-time instructions to stay calm and patient worked to settle the side after the Bears onslaught to level the scores they'll take a mile and you've got to stop it It comes as no surprise he will put his hand up to support the club in any capacity next year especially on the back of being highlighted for his off-field exploits with the Outstanding Contribution to Rugby League in Ipswich award this year were the driving force of gaining local business and community support fundraising for the club's Mental Health Awareness Round this year - the big man particularly pushing raffle ticket sales among the playing group in the lead-up a mental health counselling service for blue-collar workers "If you don't put in and help out like that One player taking inspiration from the likes of Bell and Gibson this year - who have established the longstanding culture at Brothers - was player of the match Deijion Leugaimafa It has been a whirlwind 12 months for the young fullback who ended a stint with the South Sydney Rabbitohs pathways teams last year not intending to play footy again Leugaimafa got itchy feet when he heard about a pre-season touch tournament at the club and when he got there he "loved the group as soon as I met them" The 22-year-old has gone on to win the premiership represent Ipswich Diggers and gain selection in the City team for the XXXX City v Country at Kayo Stadium on Sunday first ever grand final together and I'll hold that with me forever," he said "Belly and Gibson played their last games today so it was obviously an emotional one for the club as a whole and it was real good to get the win for them I didn't expect to get the rewards I'm reaping now." After surviving a "very physical game" he said he was looking forward to joining forces with Bears danger man and Diggers teammates Ono Sooialo once again for City Not many opportunities like that come around so I'm just going to take it and go forward with it," Leugaimafa said Brothers' reserve grade team skipped away late to record a 24-18 win to the cheers of the southern hill while Brothers also took out the Volunteers Cup C grade premiership 16-8 over Springfield Panthers The club also took out the premiership in under 18s last Sunday Secure your seat to catch Leugaimafa Sooialo and Bears centre Bessie Aufaga-Toomaga in action at Kayo Stadium this Sunday for the XXXX City v Country matches as part of QRL Grand Final Day Main image: Matthew Bell holds the trophy as Brothers celebrate their Ipswich Jets A Grade Cup title Wynnum Manly Juniors 24 def West Brisbane Panthers 20 Brothers Ipswich 40 def Redbank Plains Bears 24 Semi-Finals: Weekend Preview - Mal Meninga Cup Mackay and Cairns women eager to dethrone favourites Townsville in Foley Shield Everything you need to know: XXXX Foley Shield 2025 This is probably not the page you’re looking for We recognize our responsibility to use data and technology for good We may use or share your data with our data vendors The Weather Channel is the world's most accurate forecaster according to ForecastWatch, Global and Regional Weather Forecast Accuracy Overview Families are forking out thousands of dollars more to secure a dream home in Queensland’s baby boom suburbs where intense competition is driving up property prices An analysis by KPMG reveals a demographic divide is reshaping the real estate market with the nappy valley city fringe suburbs thriving as births outnumber deaths by a staggering ratio of 14 to one while the tombstone towns of the older coastal and regional areas lose nearly one resident every day Extraordinary growth in Ipswich’s emerging communities was led by Ripley where there were 367 births compared to just 26 deaths last year creating surging demand for family-sized homes Springfield Lakes and Redbank Plains also recorded strong ratios of 7:1 with Coomera on the Gold Coast (6.5:1) and Burdell-Mount Low outside Townsville (6.35:1) following closely Younger homebuyers flocked to these greenfield growth areas for their affordable house-and-land packages and family-focused amenities pushing up property values and intensifying demand for infrastructure PropTrack data shows house prices in Ripley have surged 13.6 per cent over the past year to a median of $718,000 meaning families are paying nearly $86,000 more than last year to secure a home Property expert and JLF Group CEO John Fitzgerald said Ripley’s population was expected to grow substantially in the coming decade JLF Group owners James (left) and John (right) Fitzgerald for QBW “With $21m committed by the State Government to unlock more land through road infrastructure these areas offer the perfect mix of affordability and job opportunities,” Mr Fitzgerald said Queensland’s older coastal and regional suburbs are grappling with stark reversals raising questions about long-term growth and housing demand Bribie Island recorded 303 deaths last year compared to just 84 births Other suburbs in decline include Rothwell-Kippa-Ring (300 deaths Experts warn these ageing communities risk stagnation unless targeted reinvestment revitalises infrastructure and amenities to attract younger buyers or cater to retirees Retirement Living Council director Daniel Gannon said the state faced a “sobering outlook” as its aged population increases the number of Queenslanders aged over 75 is set to surge by more than 83 per cent “This silver tsunami will redefine the Sunshine State forever,” Mr Gannon said the housing crisis will remain in logjam if rightsizing options aren’t available for older Queenslanders which also has downstream impacts on younger homebuyers desperate to get into the market or buy a bigger home “This issue is exacerbated in smaller communities.” Retirement Living Council executive director Daniel Gannon Vacancy rates for retirement villages outside Brisbane were at four per cent representing a market effectively operating at full capacity “Southeast Queensland in particular remains one of the fastest-growing destinations for retirees which means we’re expecting incresaed strain on the sector,” Mr Gannon said but we need to see reduced red tape when it comes to planning and regulation allowing developers to appropriately fast-track new builds.” KPMG urban economist Terry Rawnsley said suburbs where deaths outpaced births mostly fell into three categories which have a concentration of aged-care facilities have a higher number of registered deaths than registered births,” Mr Rawnsley said “Then there are coastal locations popular with retirees “In locations like Caloundra-Kings Beach and Sandgate-Shorncliffe limited housing development has prevented younger people from entering the housing market resulting in fewer babies being born in these areas.” Falling property values reflect these shifts Sign RBA is creating ticking time bomb The most popular reno jobs this Christmas Where to find Australia’s cheapest homes PropTrack data shows house prices in Bribie Island fell 16.4 per cent over the past year to a median of $700,000 Bribie Island agency principal Claire Uttley said the region was ripe for generational change with families increasingly drawn to the same attributes that have long attracted retirees “Bribie has the most incredible community spirit It’s kind of like a country town in terms of safety and has a more chilled-out lifestyle It’s the kind of place where kids can just go out She noted an influx of Melbourne buyers in recent months seeking family homes priced between $750,000 and $1m as well as luxury builds topping $2m in Banksia Beach Jordan Strudwick with his partner Jana and son Noah at their home in Ripley STRUD Property managing director Jordan Strudwick said Ipswich’s “affordability advantage” had underpinned its growth with young families and owner-occupiers comprising about 80 per cent of buyers with its new builds and some rare quarter-acre blocks “Many young families are relocating from Brisbane probably even more than interstate buyers — a segment that was pumping for a while,” Mr Strudwick said “If you are a couple making $150,000 or $200,000 a year Ipswich is arguably one of the few places in southeast Queensland where you can still afford to get a nice home for $800,000 to $900,000.” Bribie Island real estate agent Claire Uttley Although competition had eased since the pandemic boom “We’ve had properties with an $850,000 price guide sell for $900,000 Buyers need to accept that Ipswich has become very desirable While baby boom suburbs show continued resilience ageing areas like Bribie Island could benefit from reinvestment to attract a broader mix of buyers and ensure long-term viability “When you get a different influx of people you have a fresh set of eyes and excitement about new opportunities,” Ms Uttley said third parties have written and supplied the content and we are not responsible for it completeness or reliability of the information nor do we accept any liability or responsibility arising in any way from omissions or errors contained in the content We do not recommend sponsored lenders or loan products and we cannot introduce you to sponsored lenders We strongly recommend that you obtain independent advice before you act on the content realestate.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd. 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Planning and Assets Committee Chairperson Cr Andrew Antoniolli said the closure of one lane to allow otherwise drawn-out works to happen in one hit would ultimately benefit motorists “Regular users of Redbank Plains Road would know that council took the decision to remove the Redbank Plains Road Stage 3 upgrade project from former contractor Allroads when it became clear they were not able to complete the work,” Cr Antoniolli said “Council has taken over the project directly working with Dinmore-based contractor NARIC Civil to complete the next stages of work.” Cr Antoniolli said council officers had advised they would close Redbank Plains Road from Highbury Drive to Shannon Street 2024 and would help advance construction of the whole project “I am advised that one lane will remain open at all times over the weekend,” Cr Antoniolli said “The shutdown will effectively ‘tidy up’ parts of the project that were left when council assumed control allowing further work to progress in a less disruptive way for motorists and over school holidays – has been chosen to minimise disruption to residents and businesses Barry Drive intersection works will be completed and two northbound lanes of Barry Drive between Highbury Drive and Shannon Street will be asphalted “This will allow the two lanes from Highbury Drive to Shannon Street to reopen on Monday 1 July and help keep the project on track for its December 2024 completion date.” Division 1 Councillor Pye Augustine welcomed the move as a sensible approach to minimise disruption and keep the project on track it was clear that residents were tired of delays,” Cr Augustine said “Construction fatigue is a very real thing – it’s frustrating to business and residents we have been working with NARIC Civil to progress road the work in this weekend shutdown will be a clearly visible sign of progress.” Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said works had been planned to both minimise disruption and ensure safety “Fully diverting traffic away from the construction site will be the safest option,” Cr Madsen said “It will also deliver a time saving of at least four weeks and a cost saving of $258,000 in things like traffic control and penalty rates “The work will also bundle lane closure works with other future activities that would require their own night shift This includes Energex works at the same intersection Drive and kerb work in the vicinity of the works will also be completed during the closure.” Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said the removal of the ‘hump’ at the Barry Street intersection would be welcomed by residents and businesses even with the limits in place due to construction,” Cr Tully said “The work will allow traffic to be switched to the western lanes allowing construction access to eastern lanes if the end result of this is keeping the project on track for completion in December I’m sure residents will be prepared to weather it “I want to thank motorists for their patience and urge them to drive to the speed limit and obey directions from traffic controllers.” Details of traffic arrangements will be as follows: Council has allowed for a potential second weekend shutdown in case of unforeseen delays This would run from 7pm on Friday 5 July until 5am on Monday Local traffic arrangements and traffic control will be in place, and are available from the Redbank Plains Road Stage 3 upgrade page >> Exploring options for River Heart Parklands resilience >> It’s time to ignite your passion for SPARK Ipswich >> Council shifting to renewable energy for a sustainable Ipswich Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); A vocal crowd rocked up to North Ipswich Reserve to cheer for their teams on Rugby League Ipswich grand final day. Brothers won all three grades contested on the day. 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26.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIpswich mayor Teresa Harding said the line was needed to drive more housing in the area as demand rose along with Ipswich’s population a dramatic increase on the 251,000 population of 2023.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Ipswich is now forecast to grow at a faster rate than any other council in Queensland over the next 20 years with our population set to more than double in this time,” Harding said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Seventy per cent of the growth in Ipswich is occurring along this critical corridor yet most of these booming suburbs are serviced by hourly bus services or not at all.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHarding and other councillors believe the I2S would boost the delivery of 20,000 more homes in the area.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe proposal for the I2S includes nine stations connecting Ripley Redbank Plains and Yamanto with Ipswich and Brisbane.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSwanbank Harding said.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“While Ipswich’s population continues to grow rapidly there is no current commitment on the table to continue this project beyond planning and design and into the construction phase,” Harding said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“There is a real risk that the planning for this critical piece of transport infrastructure will sit on the shelf until 2032 and beyond despite the project already having the support of all levels of government.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWithout the I2S and alleviate regional road congestion.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHarding said that Ipswich had consistently received less than its share of funding which was made clear by the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP)’s figures.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“QTRIP spells out what local governments across the state will be getting over the next four financial years—between now and 2027-28,” Harding said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“In that period the QTRIP allocation for Ipswich is just $198 million.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“This is despite our city being the epicentre of Queensland’s population explosion.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“In comparison Logan next door will receive more than $1 billion \",\"alt\":\"Ipswich Council wants a railway line between Ipswich and Springfield called the I2S \",\"imageDesc\":\"Ipswich Council wants a railway line between Ipswich and Springfield called the I2S Lendlease’s third residential building in the Collins Wharf precinct of Victoria Harbour.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 28-storey building at 971 Collins Street in Melbourne’s Docklands will deliver 312 homes in a mix of one two and three-bedroom apartments as well as townhouses and penthouses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to Lendlease the project has already secured more than 50 per cent in presales.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHickory is the construction contractor—it completed the precinct’s first development in 2019 and is also working on LendLease’s second tower Regatta.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor Ancora Hickory is implementing several technical construction methods including various piling techniques and precast concrete solutions that enable a parallel-track construction program.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe building’s facade designed by architect Warren and Mahoney uses a three-stage design incorporating double-glazed glass and textured precast concrete with Reckli and brick finishes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe structural design transitions from a solid podium base to lighter upper levels “reflecting a maritime theme” aligned with the Collins Wharf design objectives.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAncora will connect to the neighbouring Regatta development via a podium allowing resident access to shared amenities.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned as an all-electric building that includes electric vehicle infrastructure the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star certification Completion is expected in 2027.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRegatta including build-to-rent and build-to-sell units.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtensive wharf works including remediation of pre-existing wharf piles installation of raker piles and construction of the extension to Australia Walk are also part of the project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTechnical challenges include constructing on the finger wharf and co-ordinating extensive above-wharf road reserve and public parkland works.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Collins Wharf precinct will ultimately comprise six residential buildings of more than 1800 homes surrounded by over 5000sq m of parks and community space.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease is developing the parkland concurrently with the residential components including the extension of Australian Walk that forms part of the City of Melbourne’s Greenline project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease executive director of development Adam Williams said Collins Wharf “is fast becoming a sought-after address .. which took just a handful of hours to emerge on Saturday night the Coalition’s failure to sway voters has come under intense scrutiny.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIts lack of policies around property that resonated with voters has been a large part of that criticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong those policies was a $5-billion infrastructure program to unlock up to 500,000 new homes was greeted with no small amount of scepticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Coalition also campaigned on its previously revealed plan to allow first home buyers to draw down on their superannuation giving access to up to $50,000 to help fund mortgage deposits.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile that proposal had won some support it got the thumbs down from many of Australia’s top economists who said the measure could prove highly inflationary among other issues.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimilarly its plan to allow mortgage interest for first home buyers to be tax-deductible was roundly criticised for its likely inflationary and regressive effects.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt has also been pointed out that the Coalition’s rejection of the Green’s policies around housing supply affordable housing and help for renters did it no favours.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe ALP went to the polls spruiking an extension of schemes introduced during its previous term including a $10-billion promise for its first-home buyers’ scheme to encourage 100,000 more homes.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt also had its Help to Buy shared equity scheme under which the Government pays up to 40 per cent of the house price to point to.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf it was these policies per se or the lack of detail and depth to the Coalition’s the nation's ready for the Albanese government to act.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is clear been endorsed to follow through on its policies and fix the crisis that is crippling the Australian property sector.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs Urban Taskforce Australia chief executive\u0026nbsp;Tom\u0026nbsp;Forrest has pointed out it is time for the Federal Government to get back to work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Housing affordability and housing supply featured large during the campaign,” Forrest said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“The key now is for the Government to strike while the iron’s hot.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“If legislation is needed to support the delivery of Labor’s $10-billion 100,000 new homes commitment—then pass it through the parliament now and get on with it.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe states have made many changes to how they enable home development The Federal Government’s support of that is crucial to its success material supply assistance or any other factor that affects getting homes out of the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis has been a pivotal election Then Cities for Total Fan Immersion\",\"slug\":\"billionaire-arsenal-rams-denver-nuggets-sports-anchored-precincts\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-04-30T00:00+10:00\",\"tags\":[],\"summary\":\"Why your next home might be stadium-adjacent; sports are the hook The Ipswich City Council has renewed calls for a 25km line between the city and Springfield Central This year the council launched a campaign called We Can’t Wait in the run-up to the state election in Queensland Ipswich mayor Teresa Harding said the line was needed to drive more housing in the area as demand rose along with Ipswich’s population a dramatic increase on the 251,000 population of 2023 “Ipswich is now forecast to grow at a faster rate than any other council in Queensland over the next 20 years with our population set to more than double in this time,” Harding said “Seventy per cent of the growth in Ipswich is occurring along this critical corridor yet most of these booming suburbs are serviced by hourly bus services or not at all.” Harding and other councillors believe the I2S would boost the delivery of 20,000 more homes in the area The proposal for the I2S includes nine stations connecting Ripley Redbank Plains and Yamanto with Ipswich and Brisbane Springfield Central and the University of Queensland are the other proposed stations A temporary train station at Ripley Town Centre has been built by the Ipswich city councillors as part of the campaign The council said the I2S would be an alternative to cars for more than 200,000 people and take more than 68,000 cars off the road The Ipswich council secured up to $10 million through the South-East Queensland City Deal to carry out the preliminary evaluation and business case for the project There was no commitment to fund the construction of I2S at its estimated cost of $2 billion to $3 billion “While Ipswich’s population continues to grow rapidly there is no current commitment on the table to continue this project beyond planning and design and into the construction phase,” Harding said “There is a real risk that the planning for this critical piece of transport infrastructure will sit on the shelf until 2032 and beyond despite the project already having the support of all levels of government.” the council estimates that the road network around Ipswich will fail by 2031 with average travel times increasing by 81 per cent It also estimates that the Ripley-to-Brisbane commute would increase to 2.5 hours by 2036 with more than $1 billion in lost productivity each year The campaign said the line would improve the national freight network Harding said that Ipswich had consistently received less than its share of funding which was made clear by the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP)’s figures “QTRIP spells out what local governments across the state will be getting over the next four financial years—between now and 2027-28,” Harding said the QTRIP allocation for Ipswich is just $198 million “This is despite our city being the epicentre of Queensland’s population explosion A house has had its roof collapsed after a fire broke out west of Brisbane Any Questions? Please call 1800 070 535. Monday to Friday 7:30am – 6:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 7:00am – 11:30am (AEST) Rugby League Ipswich under 15 and under 16 grand finals were held on Sunday, September 8 at North Ipswich Reserve. Springfield Panthers won both under 15 divisions, while Laidley Lions and Redbank Plains Bears won in under 16s. Here's the best of the action in the under 16 matches. Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the $663 million budget includes a significant investment of $203.6 million in the city’s capital works program – part of a $528 million capital works program over three years with investments in community infrastructure spread across our city’s suburbs,” Mayor Harding said Every dollar our council spends goes directly on the necessary services we need to support our rapidly growing population – roads upgrading and expanding our road network to keep our city moving “That investment focuses on our major road projects the Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial upgrade; expansion of Redbank Plains Road and now the upgrades of Fischer and Ripley roads “We must also maintain our sealed and gravel roads with $16.2 million going towards rehabilitation There is a further $2.6 million for kerb and channel work across the region.” Work underway duplicating Springfield Greenbank Arterial in June 2024 as part of council’s largest ever road upgrade Mayor Harding said council had allocated $89 million to asset rehabilitation including the city’s ongoing flood recovery from major weather events in 2022 and 2024 “Flood recovery includes $11.1 million towards the Voluntary Home Buy-Back Program We have seen 161 properties purchased with most already demolished or removed while community consultation will soon commence for the potential future use of the open green space,” Mayor Harding said “Work is nearing completion on the Nicholas Street Precinct with the opening later this year of the HOYTS Cinemas complex and Hotel Commonwealth with $22 million allocated towards the final push in construction and finalising tenants “We have allocated $5 million for resource recovery which includes $1.5 million for the Riverview Recycling and Refuse Centre upgrade $1 million to progress the Southern Resource Recovery and Recycling and Animal Management facilities at Redbank Plains and $500,000 for the Western Resource Recovery and Recovery Facility planning and design “There is $1.6 million set aside for waste truck replacement as we continue the process of switching to a more modern Mayor Harding said council’s libraries are a constant source of education entertainment and excitement for young and old and it was vital to invest every year to keep them revitalised and relevant “We have put $1 million into enhancements for our major libraries at Ipswich Central while we also refurbish the popular pod at Karalee and investigate setting up another at Ripley,” Mayor Harding said “Our Enviroplan has been a critical environmental asset for council for many years and the levy will increase $5 this year This council has shown it has strong environmental credentials as we continue to expand our conservation estates and is spending today to make a better future for Ipswich “Council is serious about protecting the city’s environment for future generations Our wonderful environment is a key part of why Ipswich is such a liveable and idyllic city and this Budget continues to deliver for our residents.” >> Council’s 2024-2025 Annual Plan and Budget forges path for future growth >> Cost of living pressures eased with budget measures >> Weekend work to kick-start Redbank Plains Road upgrade Council advised principal contractor Allroads on 1 March that it would be taking ownership of the project after a pause in on-site activity Ipswich City Council Chief Executive Officer Sonia Cooper said council then prepared to recommence upgrade work on Stage 3 of Redbank Plains Road “Council moved quickly to address the emerging issue with the principal contractor in the first instance issuing a show cause notice on Wednesday 21 February,” Ms Cooper said “The contractor Allroads did not respond within the seven-day response period and council immediately took action under the contract council finalised plans to recommence work on this critical road upgrade council crews have made the site safe and completed some water and service upgrades “Council has engaged contractor NARIC Civil to complete the next phase of works on site “Council teams will remain on-site with NARIC contractors to complete the project.” Ms Cooper said any increase in cost was not yet clear as council works through securing contractors “The 2023-2024 council budget allocated $11.3 million to Stage 3 of Redbank Plains Road council is assessing its options,” Ms Cooper said “It has been a major priority for council to quickly and efficiently resolve this contracting issue so work could resume as soon as possible “While this change has caused some unavoidable delays to delivery council expects Stage 3 will be completed by late 2024 “We understand this has been disruptive for the Redbank Plains and Bellbird Park communities in particular and we thank residents for their patience during this time.” Residents can continue to follow the project on council’s website or email [email protected] >> Behind the Screens: Expansion of Hotel Commonwealth nears the finish line >> Approval for Springview Village 2 and 3 Precinct Plan >> Ipswich City Council new term begins The critical final repairs to the bridge over the Cunningham Highway will allow it to re-open to two-way traffic next week for the first time since it was struck by a heavy vehicle in March Transport and Main Roads Metro Regional Director Patrick Dennehy said the repairs which were also set to close an outbound lane of Cunningham Highway were crucial in ensuring the overpass would return to normal operation “Due to the nature of the concreting works required the overpass will close to all traffic from 5pm Saturday (17 July) through to 5am Monday (19 July),” Mr Dennehy said “The Redbank Plains Road bridge will re-open to westbound traffic only on Monday before being re-opened to two-way traffic later in the week after final inspections are undertaken.” Mr Dennehy said traffic detours would be in place during the weekend closure “I would like to thank road users and the local community for their patience during these repairs and since the bridge was damaged in March,” he said “Traffic control and signs will be in place on the Cunningham Highway and Redbank Plains Road during the closure “Motorists are reminded to allow extra time when planning their journey.” the left lane of the Cunningham Highway under the bridge is planned to be closed for one week from 5am Thursday (15 July) For more information, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au and search ‘Conditions of Operations Database’, visit the QLD Traffic website www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au, email [email protected] or phone 3066 4338 during business hours >>> Redbank Plains Road Bridge repairs continuing A development application has been lodged for Multiple Dwellings and Park Designed by Red Door Architecture the proposal seeks one hundred and sixty two (162) townhouses with 3 bedrooms over six (6) stages The proposal seeks a low-medium density design made up of sixty four (64) residential building clusters and arranged in a mix of both duplexes and triplexes dwellings with a maximum building height 2 stories Development Details– 19,937sqm of total Gross Floor Area– 161 x 3-bedroom townhouses– 1 x 4-bedroom manager’s residence– Townhouses configured over 2 storeys– Vehicle access via a new crossover to Watercress Boulevard– New network of private internal roads– 352 car parking spaces– 8,482sqm of private open space– 1,963sqm of communal open space– Pool covered seating area and open space– Dedication of 2.915ha of linear parkland Stage 1– 13 clusters (32 dwellings)– 16 visitor car parking bays– All internal roads and park dedication; Stage 2– 10 clusters (25 dwellings)– 4 visitor car parking bays Stage 4– 8 clusters (21 dwellings)– 8 visitor car parking spaces The proposal provides 163 resident garaged car parking spaces 161 resident/visitor driveway car parking spaces and 28 communal visitor car parking spaces The car parking access will be from Watercress Boulevard The planners at Urban Strategies states “This report and accompanying consultant documentation has demonstrated that proposal is consistent with the relevant Assessment Benchmarks and furthers the purpose of the Planning Act 2016 The proposal allows for development of a form and density consistent with that which has occurred or is approved within surrounding lots whilst appropriately addressing site based constraints The development represents sensibly scaled greenfield development on an appropriately located site The site has good access to local services and will support the viability of a future rail line and station” “The proposal is considered to be in accordance with the intent of the relevant Codes and consequently this development application meets the relevant Assessment Benchmarks and Planning Regulations and should be approved subject to reasonable and relevant conditions” “A central principle of MG Homes’ projects in South East Queensland is for townhouses to sit in a well landscaped setting including various feature trees and turf along the internal driveway The landscaping is maintained to a high standard throughout the life of the project The treatment of hardstand and landscape areas are illustrated by Dunn Moran Landscape Architects.” A proposed allows for 19,937sqm of gross floor area approximately 20% site coverage of the overall 7.238 ha to be updated on other projects or developments [swt-fb-likebox url=”https://www.facebook.com/yourneighbourhood.com.au” width=”340″ height=”500″ tabs=”timeline,events,messages” hide_cover=”false” show_faces=”true” hide_call_action=”false” small_header=”false” adapt_container_width=”false”] Drawings and ImagesNews articles are presented in an unbiased manner from information publicly accessible that includes referenced links for the reader to obtain any further information South Sudanese community’s condemnation of attack prompts death threats as government toughens stance on youth crime One way out of Redbank Plains is via the prisons There are six of them built side-by side along the motorway back to Brisbane The two youth detention centres rarely have spare beds On Thursday at the African village centre at Redbank Plains women from the local community approach Beny Bol and ask to speak to him privately “They said: ‘God bless you, we want … to sit down with you to express our feelings about our children that we brought here hoping they will have a better future,’” says Bol, a South Sudanese refugee and the president of the Queensland African Communities Council. “They said: ‘They’re finishing somewhere between prison and death. We do not have light any more.’” Read moreA few hundred metres down the road who was stabbed and killed in the underground carpark last Saturday in front of her six-year-old granddaughter Police have charged five teenage boys from the area in relation to the incident including a 16-year-old who is accused of White’s murder Officers allege the motive was to steal White’s car The killing has exposed familiar sores in Queensland where youth crime has become a key election issue Some commentary has sought to draw attention to the African background of the accused boys The police union president and some rightwing politicians have called for serious young offenders who aren’t Australian citizens to be deported Bol says the African community has been “under siege” in recent days including reports of physical attacks and abuse you’re sort of in a bit of a spotlight now.” Debate about youth crime in Queensland has tended to escalate sharply following high-profile incidents; many recent situations involving young offenders have prompted punitive shifts from the Labor state government which last year twice introduced new laws that required an override of protections in the Human Rights Act Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup Combined with aggressive policing tactics – which have involved arrest-focused high-visibility operations particularly in regional areas – the response has filled youth detention centres where long lockdowns and solitary confinement have been common Children are routinely kept in police watch houses – in troubling conditions – waiting weeks for a detention bed to meet “community expectations” for consequences and punishment – has brought that system under further strain Beny Bol and Cindy Micallef at a media conference in Brisbane on Thursday Photograph: Seven NewsThe state opposition leader is seeking to remove the international law principle of “detention as a last resort” from the Youth Justice Act rebuffed such calls this week but sources within the government say they are concerned it could be placed on the table in an attempt to alleviate political pressure ahead of an election in October Several people spoke about general concerns about young school students “I obviously want more police presence up there,” says Tayla Jefferson who is campaigning for a permanent police beat “Everything I’m looking at is kind of as a preventative measure I know nothing’s ever going to eradicate the crime.” Some say things would be better if children faced tougher consequences who Guardian Australia has chosen not to name says the problem is immigrants with “no respect for the police or authority” who have failed to assimilate Sign up to Afternoon Update: Election 2025 Free daily newsletterOur Australian afternoon update breaks down the key election campaign stories of the day telling you what’s happening and why it matters Bol, who has worked with young people here for more than a decade, sees the problem differently. He says the young people from his community involved in criminal activity are almost invariably those raised predominantly in Australia. He has previously described those issues as “a failure within this country”. “The young people who are contributing to this, they only know Australia,” he says. “If you look at people who are doing well and contributing positively to Australia, these are people who came here when they were relatively older. “They know why they came, what happened. They appreciate the opportunity and the past. They work so hard to make sure they are contributing to this country.” The South Sudanese Community Association posted a “letter of condemnation” on Facebook about the attack, offering condolences to White’s family. The comments in response include death threats and calls for violence against the community. Prof Rob White, a criminologist at the University of Tasmania, says the trend is towards fewer crimes being committed by migrant and refugee communities. He says moral panics – especially those targeting visible minorities – can expose people to racist attacks and also generate “resentment and resistance on the part of those targeted”. “This is especially the case with young people, who may develop a chip on the shoulder and ‘push back’ accordingly,” Prof White says. “Rather than reaching for the holster, we need to consider how best to bolster. In other words, punitive policies and rhetoric directed against communities does great harm now and into the future, whereas community development and detached youth work go a long way to identifying underlying issues and providing potential immediate and longer-term solutions.” On Thursday, Micallef and Bol held a joint press conference to call for calm, which they say has already had made a considerable difference. The idea, which they discussed jointly, was to speak about issues in a way that deliberately excluded politicians and police: to put a focus on the real needs of the community in a way that couldn’t be co-opted. Micallef says her father, who is blind, was visited by Miles this week. She says the premier offered his condolences, but what the family really wanted was solutions. Miles is “a seat warmer”, she says. Bol’s frustrations are longstanding. He spent more than a decade working with young people for the charity Youth Off the Streets and says many community services and government programs were not designed or run to meet the needs of community members. Many people “did not trust” those services and risked becoming isolated from support. “When I was talking about these issues 10 years ago, young people who are now repeat offenders were clean. For many years I’ve been submitting proposal after proposal, model after model. I get so, so frustrated and disappointed that we as a community have taken responsibility … and no one is listening. “Then when an incident like this happens, then we’re on the front page.” Infrastructure and Waste Committee Chair Mayor Teresa Harding said Stage 3 of this catalyst project would transform the section from Kruger Parade to Keidges Road “This important upgrade is part of council’s 10-year Transport Infrastructure Plan and will ensure our city has increased capacity safety and accessibility,” Mayor Harding said “Ipswich is set to welcome another 330,000 residents to our community by 2041 and Redbank Plains is consistently one of the fastest growing suburbs The infrastructure needs to be in place to cater for that demand.” Deputy Mayor and Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said early works had been completed power poles and some changes to side streets “The first phase of major civil works to begin in August will be on the western side of Redbank Plains Road near Highbury Drive,” Cr Madsen said “The works will move systematically through the project footprint There will be traffic control in place to allow the works to happen safely while maintaining access for residents and businesses.” Infrastructure and Waste Committee Deputy Chairperson Councillor Paul Tully said the project would convert the 1.5km section into a four-lane carriageway with a shared use pathway on-road bicycle lanes and additional traffic signals “There has been $14.96 million committed this financial year for the ongoing project including a contribution from the State Government of $705,000,” Cr Tully said “The major road civil works are scheduled to start mid-August and may take 18 months to complete Concept design and works for Redbank Plains Road upgrade Stage 2 Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said one of the big changes would be removing the Kruger Parade roundabout and replacing it with traffic signals “Traffic modelling shows the roundabout will run out of capacity in coming years with the large increase in traffic volumes expected,” Cr Jonic said “Traffic signals will create a safer situation for pedestrians Division 2 2022-2023 Budget highlights:On the move with a focus on road and park upgrades Division 1 Councillor Sheila Ireland said council would continue to engage with residents and businesses within the construction footprint “Major works such as these can cause disruptions and we thank people for their patience during this significant transformation,” Cr Ireland said “Redbank Plains is a growing and dynamic area and the continuation of this major upgrade will bring long-term benefits to the area and the city of Ipswich.” Division 1 2022-2023 Budget highlights:Urban and rural areas reap benefits Stage 3 of Redbank Plains Road upgrade has been funded by the Queensland Government through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS) and Ipswich City Council For more information about the city’s key road projects in the 2022-2023 financial year, click here There are hundreds of projects on the go each year, large and small. You can learn about council’s capital works program by exploring the interactive maps at maps.ipswich.qld.gov.au/civicprojects >>> Block party building a better Ipswich Central A development application has been lodged for Multiple Dwellings and Reconfiguration of a Lot (Stage 2 – the Junction) Designed by Veris this proposal is for sixty-six (66) residential lots The proposed will remove the existing single dwelling to facilitate the development with proposed Lot 800 positioned beside the existing community centre as it will form a future childcare centre proposal The proposed development (Stage 2) is surrounded by completed residential subdivisions The proposal seeks to produce lots ranging from 350sqm to 2,500sqm within a subdivision layout consisting of small The proposal includes local road connections cul-de-sac and laneway vehicle access for the proposed lots across the site The proposal includes street connections to School Road The planers at Veris state “the proposed community delivers a greater range of lot sizes diversity of housing choice and ultimately a more diverse socio-economic community This application demonstrates that quality built form can be achieved through an integrated approach to master planning park and balance lot on the 4.133ha development site to be updated on other projects or developments in Brisbane or surrounds Minister for HousingThe Honourable Meaghan Scanlon the Palaszczuk Government has contracted Queensland-based Nileport Projects to build a $5.8 million complex of 18 including two fully accessible homes suitable for people who mobilise in a wheelchair Construction of this project started is scheduled for completion in December this year is also scheduled for completion in December The Palaszczuk Government’s construction arm QBuild is building another seven Quotes attributable to Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum: “These 18 apartments are in addition to another new social housing complex that is nearing completion in our local community at Goodna,” Mr McCallum said “The Redbank Plains complex is conveniently located close to a major retail precinct with GP and the area is well supported by our local bus network “We are delivering on our commitment to help ease housing pressures by getting more people into secure and affordable accommodation as quickly as possible.” Quotes attributable to Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon: “These apartments are a great example of the work that’s being done as part of our record $5 billion Big Social Housing Build and it won’t be long now before people will be able to move in “This year’s Budget includes an additional $1.1 billion to build thousands of homes across Queensland as well as buy and lease emergency accommodation high-quality social housing projects will provide long-term stable rental housing—a place to call home – for some of Queensland’s most vulnerable “And I’m excited that some of these under construction today will have tenants moving in soon because this is what we are doing providing homes for Queenslanders when they need it most.” Through the Palaszczuk Government’s QuickStarts Qld we will see 166 new social homes commenced in Ipswich by 30 June 2025 through a planned investment of $43.7 million supporting more than 138 full-time equivalent jobs This is in addition to the 253 new social homes that are already commenced under the First Action Plan of the Queensland Housing Strategy 2017–2027 Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078 Please use our complaints and compliments form. and 523 new lots were created across Ipswich Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Quarterly Report from 1 October to 31 December 2023 released this week provides a snapshot of population growth and development activity across the city A further 2,387 residents also call the city home taking the city’s population to 253,093 – a rise of 1 per cent on the previous quarter as the city continues to grow Collingwood Park (155) and White Rock (141) were the city’s top five fastest growing suburbs Business activity also increased as 97 new food business licences were lodged or approved over the quarter Council received 3,792 customer service requests – down 9 per cent on the previous quarter – with 392 reports of illegal dumping 283 reports of illegal parking on footpaths and 278 reports of unregistered dogs as part of 1,373 animal management and biodiversity service requests made to council from October to December There were 2,436 parking infringements issued across the quarter The full Planning and Regulatory Services Quarterly Report can be read at News and Events – Planning & Development (ipswichplanning.com.au) Ipswich City Council is operating under caretaker provisions in accordance with Chapter 3 Media communications by the Mayor and Councillors as ICC spokespeople during this time are limited to ensure compliance with legislation and equity and transparency between existing Mayor Councillors and candidates regarding access to Council resources >> Meet your 2024 Ipswich Australia Day Award winners >> Construction to begin at Colleges Crossing Reserve >> Ipswich Plan 2024 proceeds to final review Vyleen White was stabbed to death in Redbank Plains car park in front of her six-year-old granddaughter A family has rallied around a “very traumatised” girl after the six-year-old’s grandmother was fatally stabbed in front of her outside a Queensland shopping centre A 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder after 70-year-old Vyleen White died following a suspected carjacking on Saturday A family friend said White had only recently begun driving again after overcoming an injury and had taken her granddaughter out grocery shopping at Redbank Plains west of Brisbane The child is believed to have raised the alarm after White was stabbed in the chest at the shopping centre’s car park before her vehicle was allegedly stolen White died at the scene a short time later “Children process grief differently but the little one is obviously very traumatised,” family friend Katherine Lameree said “We are endeavouring to get her all the help that she needs.” Lameree said White’s family were too traumatised to go to a store and had accepted food donations “The mother of the child is very concerned about community safety.” the family have been overwhelmed by the local community response to the tragedy Donations have begun arriving and more than $19,000 had been raised for the family by Tuesday afternoon on a GoFundMe page organised by Lameree “I am not sure if they will ever be able to move forward,” Lameree said “But at least these donated funds will assist in some way ensure they won’t have to worry about some expenses and just let them grieve properly.” Lameree said the money raised would also go toward the little girl’s future We don’t know the extent or how long this is going to affect her,” she said “It is a stepping stone in the path to healing.” Lameree described White as a “loving woman of faith generous and very much loved by her family” Five boys have been charged since the stabbing The 16-year-old boy charged with murder had a closed hearing in Ipswich childrens court on Tuesday Acting Magistrate Robert Turra refused the media’s application to be present at the boy’s first court hearing saying it would be “prejudicial to the child” He was also charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing after being arrested at a Bellbird Park unit complex near Redbank Plains on Monday afternoon Three other boys were arrested on Monday – a 15-year-old and two aged 16 They were all charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and were set to appear in court on Tuesday Another 15-year-old was charged with the unlawful use of a motor vehicle and faced the Ipswich court in a closed hearing on Monday Det Acting Supt Heath McQueen told reporters on Tuesday that some of the young people charged had attended police stations with their parents “They [the parents] condemned the behaviour and what’s occurred here,” he said McQueen said the investigation was ongoing “For anyone out there that thinks the matter is solved … we’re still looking extensively,” he said “Whilst we’ve commenced proceedings against five persons so far I won’t rule out further persons being charged We’ll continue to conduct inquiries and investigate and if we identify any other persons who may have been involved in this matter .. we’ll put them before the judicial system.” Five boys have been charged over the alleged unlawful use of Vyleen White’s car with one of the boys also charged with her murder Photograph: Queensland policeThe alleged offenders cannot be named for legal reasons Detectives have released CCTV footage of four youths in a vehicle allegedly stolen from White “Sadly the [alleged] motive was to steal a Hyundai Getz,” Det McQueen said on Monday said on Monday that more than 40 detectives had been assigned to investigate the alleged attack “I’m extraordinarily confident in the resources that have been allocated to this and we will be relentless in pursuing the offenders to make sure that we bring them to justice,” she said