The Booval Fair Shopping Centre is cementing its role as a vibrant community arts hub this month, with two major cultural highlights — the official book launch of local artist Don Hill’s A Sound Like Rain and a jam-packed Electric Spark night as part of SPARK Ipswich Festival.
Hosted at the ArtsConnect Community Gallery, the team from West Bremer Radio’s Get Your Arts Into Gear caught up with Don Hill ahead of his first solo show in two years, taking place on Saturday, July 26 at 12pm in the gallery’s newly relocated space.
“It’s not just an art show,” Hill explained. “It’s the launch of my new book, A Sound Like Rain, which pairs my paintings with the stories behind them — including one about the legend of Ulana, an Aboriginal princess linked to the beautiful but haunting Babinda Boulders in North Queensland.”
Don’s work combines personal experiences with local mythology, and while his humour kept co-hosts Glen Smith and Brad entertained, the stories in the book dive deep into Indigenous culture and regional folklore.
The launch event is free, with light refreshments.
⚡ Electric Spark Brings the Fun to Booval – July 17
Before Don’s big day, Booval Fair will also host “Electric Spark” on Thursday, July 17 from 5pm–9pm, a family-friendly evening of live music, food trucks, art activities and the official debut of Buddy the Kangaroo, the centre’s new community mascot.
Kids will receive a free book and colouring set (limited to the first 100), and the gallery will feature live art sessions, plus music from The Minor Chords and other local performers.
“This is about more than just retail,” said co-host Glen Smith. “Booval Fair is building real community spirit, and events like this bring people together from across Ipswich.”
The gallery is also in the process of moving to a larger new space, with its debut exhibition being Don Hill’s launch on July 26.
🖼️ Community-Driven, Artist-Focused
Booval Fair’s ArtsConnect Community Gallery continues to host local exhibitions, host monthly creative sessions, and offer a free quiet reading space and library. The team is committed to inclusivity and access, especially through events like the SPARK Festival and local artist showcases.
“Whether you’re coming for the art, the stories, or just a sandwich — this space is for everyone,” Glen said.
📅 Event Recap:
- Electric Spark – Thursday, July 17, 5pm–9pm, Booval Fair Carpark
- Don Hill’s A Sound Like Rain Book Launch – Saturday, July 26, 12pm, new gallery space at Booval Fair
- ArtsConnect Gallery Move – New space opens July 26
🎨 Stay tuned to West Bremer Radio and visit boovalfair.com.au for event updates.
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