Ipswich MP Jennifer Howard is demanding urgent action and an independent review into greyhound racing in Queensland, following 11 dog deaths and multiple injuries since the opening of the $85 million Q greyhound racing complex at Yamanto.
Launched in late March with promises of being “the safest track in Queensland, if not Australia,” the facility is now under intense scrutiny after serious welfare concerns forced the postponement of the Brisbane Cup due to alleged track safety issues.
“This is exactly what we were concerned about,” said Ms Howard.
“It’s incredibly distressing to see such a high number of dog deaths just months into operation. This is not just disappointing—it’s completely unacceptable.”
Ms Howard has written to the Minister for Racing calling for:
- An immediate safety review of the new track
- The establishment of an independent racing regulator
She also pointed to international trends, with greyhound racing tracks closing across the US—just two remain out of over 70 a decade ago—as evidence that the industry’s future is under serious question.
🚆 Farewell to a Rail Icon: Electric Trains Retired After 40+ Years
Queensland Rail’s Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), in service since 1979, have officially been retired. A total of 88 EMUs revolutionised Brisbane’s suburban network and collectively clocked over 12 million kilometres each during their service. Ipswich played a significant role in their history, with the Darra to Ipswich suburban electrification among the state’s most vital expansions.
🏥 Health Concerns: Nurses Push Back on Wage Offer
Queensland nurses and midwives have commenced Stage 2 of industrial action after rejecting a pay rise offer of 11% over three years, falling short of their request for 13%.
“These are some of the most respected people in our community,” Ms Howard said.
“They’re not walking off the job, but they are making their voices heard.”
Despite the protest, all actions are designed not to endanger patients, according to the Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union.
🏥 Ipswich Hospital Expansion Urged
Meanwhile, Ipswich continues to feel the strain of emergency department demand, which has risen by 10%. MP Howard reiterated support for the promised 200-bed Ipswich Hospital expansion, urging the state government to deliver “at record speed.”
💰 $198,000 for Ipswich Community Groups
Ipswich not-for-profits received nearly $200,000 in funding under the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. Recipients include the City of Ipswich Pipe Band, which was granted $33,000 for solar panels to reduce operational costs. Applications for the super round—offering up to $100,000—close this Friday.
🎉 Civic Centre Turns 50 During Spark Festival
The Ipswich Civic Centre marked its 50th anniversary with a series of car park parties as part of the Spark Festival. Opened by Gough Whitlam in 1975, the centre remains an architectural and cultural icon.
“It’s retro, it’s unique, and it holds so many memories for locals,” said Ms Howard.
“Whether it’s your child’s school recital or a world-class production, it’s part of Ipswich’s identity.”
🖤 NAIDOC Week Celebrations Honour First Nations Legacy
Ms Howard also praised the success of NAIDOC Week 2025 celebrations in Ipswich, which honoured 50 years of the national movement. Themed “Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy,” events reflected on the historical legacy of the 1938 Day of Mourning while looking forward to the leadership of First Nations youth.
For more updates, visit westbremerradio.com.au or contact your local MP’s office.
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