20 July 2009

THE future growth and development of Ipswich has been assured with the announcement last week of an Aerospace and Defence Support Centre at Amberley. The proposed hi-tech development will eventually be home to 3000 jobs and was announced by Queensland Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Stirling Hinchliffe. When approved the development will allow for a 183 hectare defence and aerospace hub on land adjoining the RAAF Base at Amberley. This is tremendous news for our city, given that we are already working hard to beat the world economic crises and creating new jobs. All partners working on this project are optimistic early construction works could begin as soon as 2011.

Last Saturday Goodna Rugby League Club honoured former Ipswich mayor John Nugent by naming the club building extensions the John Nugent Room. He continues to live in the Goodna area and has been a strong supporter of rugby league for many years. This is a fitting tribute to John and well deserved.

The Mayor’s Community Fund has allocated $12,000 this year to families who have suffered tragedy and have needed urgent assistance. Fundraising received another boost last Friday night following a gala function held at Brookwater Golf Club and organised by Springfield Land Corporation. Thank you

John Holland Constructions is currently doing a lot of work in the western corridor, including major projects at RAAF Base Amberley. The company is also a great corporate citizen and supports the wonderful work of the Endeavour Foundation in our region.

Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School has been operating since 1892 and is one of eight original Queensland Grammar Schools. Last week I visited the school to meet with students and joined in a discussion on leadership. Special thanks to Principal Flo Kearney and the team of dedicated teachers for providing the students with such a forum in which to learn and grow as future leaders in our community.