7 September 2009

INTEREST in Ipswich by property investors and developers remains very high, if the attendance at the Property Council of Australia forum held last Friday was any indication. More than 200 people attended the function at the Metro Hotel Ipswich International. Guest speakers included transport minister and Member for Ipswich Rachel Nolan, Andrew Borger of Leighton Properties, Peter Hyland of Urbis and renowned architect Michael Rayner. These industry and community leaders spoke about the exciting future for our city centre as an entertainment, retail and residential precinct. It was also an opportunity for me to bring the audience up to date on the latest developments and possible options for Ipswich City Square. Since Council, through Ipswich City Properties Pty Ltd took ownership of Ipswich City Square, a large amount of work has been underway in preparation for the calling of expressions of interest from the private sector later this year for the redevelopment of this key parcel of land. In the meantime interest from retailers in the existing space has also been very encouraging. A number of successful retail promotions have also been held and attracted large crowds of shoppers to the Mall.

Overnight rain cleared to a fine day on Saturday for the Rosewood Festival. It was great to join the many locals and visitors enjoying the activities, including the fete at Rosewood State School. I’m sure everyone will agree it was a well organised inaugural Rosewood Festival with something on the program for all ages. Congratulations to local councillor David Pahlke and the committee of dedicated volunteers for bringing together such a diverse program of events. The festival has a bright future given the tremendous support of sponsors and the community.

Habitat for Humanity has built nearly 300,000 houses around the world creating affordable housing. One of the aims of Habitat is to help people get out of the rent trap. In Ipswich on Saturday a completed house was officially opened and dedicated. It was wonderful to meet Jamie and Donna and to congratulate John Walker and the local Habitat team for their wonderful work in the Ipswich community.

The Zonta Club of West Moreton celebrated 30 years with a high tea on Saturday. Zonta has been quietly serving the Ipswich community with fund raising and assistance for many community groups and organisations.