The Member for Jordan, Charis Mullen, has raised concerns about rising copper theft across Ipswich and Logan, warning the crimes are creating safety risks for motorists and communities.
Speaking during a radio interview, Ms Mullen said she had received numerous complaints from residents about street lights being knocked out along major roads including the Ipswich Motorway and Centenary Motorway due to copper being stolen from electrical infrastructure.
“These crimes are not just inconvenient — they can be a real safety risk for drivers and pedestrians,” she said.
The thefts have also targeted lighting at local sporting facilities, leaving clubs with costly repairs.
Ms Mullen said Ipswich MPs had written to the Police Minister requesting a targeted police operation in the region similar to one recently launched in Townsville.
Energy provider Energex has also begun replacing copper wiring with aluminium in some areas to make infrastructure less attractive to thieves.
School Bus Capacity Concerns
Ms Mullen also raised concerns about school bus capacity after reports that some students were left behind at bus stops due to overcrowded services.
The issue has been raised with TransLink and the state’s Transport and Main Roads Minister.
Parents have reported buses arriving already full, with students forced to stand in aisles or, in some cases, unable to board.
“We’re only a month into the school year and families are already reporting serious issues,” Ms Mullen said.
She has called for an urgent review of affected school routes to examine capacity, route adjustments and timetable changes, noting the region’s rapid population growth.
Community Turns Pink for Women’s Health
Meanwhile, the Ipswich and Springfield community turned out in force for the Mater International Women’s Day Fun Run held at Robelle Domain.
About 1,500 participants dressed in pink to run or walk the five-kilometre course, raising more than $91,000 for the Mater Foundation to support women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Ms Mullen said the event showed strong community spirit, with volunteers, local businesses and elected representatives all taking part.
Organisers are hoping to grow the event further, with a target of attracting 2,000 participants next year.
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