Division 1 has wrapped up 2025 on a high, with a string of major achievements across the arts, sport, and festive community events, Councillor Pye Augustine told West Bremer Radio during her final council update for the year.
Ipswich’s creative talent stole the spotlight at the Queensland Regional Arts Awards, with local artists Sharon Mackenzie, Katherine Nielsen, and Charmaine Davis winning three of eight major categories. Ipswich artist Chris Bentley was also named a finalist in the Emerging Artist category.
“Our artists are punching above their weight,” Augustine said. “They’re flying the flag for Ipswich, and these results prove the strength of our creative community.”
The wins come as council has formally endorsed a 10-year creative industries vision, setting long-term foundations for supporting artists, galleries, and cultural programs across the city.
New Sporting Dugouts Score Big for Redbank Plains
It’s also “game on” for Division 1 sports clubs, with council approving funding for two new dugouts—one for the Westminster Warriors Soccer Club and another for the Collingwood Park Power AFL Club.
The upgrades were delivered through Division 1’s discretionary provisional projects fund, which Augustine and Cr Madsen accumulated over two years to support high-impact community projects.
“The clubs are over the moon,” Augustine said. “This is an early Christmas present for them, and it shows our commitment to supporting the huge growth in local sport.”
Christmas Lights, Carols and Festivities Spark Joy
With Christmas just days away, Division 1 is “buzzing with merriment,” Augustine said.
Local carols events have already delighted residents, with Whitehill Church Carols set for this Sunday, featuring entertainment and fireworks. Families are also flocking to the area’s dazzling Christmas Lights Trail, which includes several standout homes—one Raceview display even synchronises lights to music.
“I truly credit our community for their incredible effort,” Augustine said. “The lights this year are spectacular.”
Residents are also expected to descend on the city’s showpiece St Nicholas Precinct, opening tonight and running until 21 December.
Councillor Augustine finished with a festive message for listeners:
“Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a fantastic 2026.”
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