Christmas cheer is in full swing across Ipswich, with Mayor Teresa Harding announcing the city’s annual festive events — and welcoming key reforms that restore mayoral leadership in local disaster management.
Speaking on West Bremer Radio, Mayor Harding said entries are now open for the Mayor’s Christmas Card Competition, with hundreds of colourful designs already submitted by local students.
“Each year the entries get better and better,” she said. “I choose two winners — one junior and one senior — whose designs become my official Christmas cards that I send across Ipswich and beyond.”
She also encouraged residents to get creative for the City of Ipswich Christmas Lights Competition, open until November 28. With $8,000 in prizes and five major categories — including Best Residential, Best Business, and People’s Choice — the event remains a highlight of the city’s festive season.
“Every year we see some of the most unique and awe-inspiring displays in South East Queensland,” Harding said. “Families love touring the city to see them.”
Residents can visit christmasinipswich.com.au for a full list of events and to submit community celebrations for council promotion.
Mayor Harding also reflected on recent developments from Council’s Ordinary Meeting, including the decision to make the Multicultural Advisory Committee permanent, and to investigate better sponsorship options for local sporting clubs.
In a major governance update, the Queensland Government has confirmed that mayors will once again chair Local Disaster Management Groups — reversing a controversial 2023 council decision that removed Harding from the role.
“It’s a win for community safety,” she said. “During disasters, the mayor must have direct access to information and authority to coordinate response efforts.”
Mayor Harding said she has directed the council’s CEO to ensure she receives all disaster-related briefings while the new regulation is formalised, expected later this month.
“We just need to take the politics out of it — everything should be about protecting our community,” she said.
With Christmas events underway and storm season approaching, the Mayor said Ipswich is ready to celebrate — and prepared for whatever comes its way.
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