14 September 2009

TWO of Ipswich’s best loved champions of the environment were farewelled last week. Rick Nattrass and Lloyd Bird have left lasting legacies of their time on earth. Family, friends, colleagues and supporters gathered to farewell Lloyd at St Paul’s while a private service was held for Rick. The natural environment of our city is in better shape because of the passion and dedication of both men.

National Bilby Day was marked by the naming yesterday of the recently opened enclosure at the Ipswich Nature Centre as the Frank Manthey Bilby Burrow. This is a fitting tribute to his invaluable contribution to the survival of a rare marsupial. Frank’s dedication to bilby conservation is legendary. He has worked in partnership with Council and others including Dawn Fraser to ensure that our bilby enclosure is world class. It is only fitting that it should carry his name.

The state launch of Disability Action Week was held yesterday in East Ipswich. It was a wonderful day for families and included free entertainment featuring Bananas in Pyjamas. It was an opportunity for the community to learn more about local disability services and support available. Thank you to Minister for Disability Services and Multicultural Affairs Annastacia Palaszczuk for coming to Ipswich to help celebrate this special day. More than 15 different groups were represented with stands at the information expo. Last Friday the Moreton Schools Transition Expo was held at Glebe Road Uniting Church and gave young people a host of ideas for career options. This event was also part of Disability Action Week.

Ipswich Civic Hall welcomed Australian music legends Doug Parkinson, Glenn Shorrock and Wendy Matthews last week. It was an honour to introduce the Cool Change Tour show where every song was a classic hit. Many Little River Band hits had the audience singing along, while Doug Parkinson and Wendy Matthews added to an unforgettable night.