Bundamba MP Lance McCallum has called for greater investment in Ipswich ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, arguing the city is being left behind while billions of dollars are committed elsewhere.
Speaking on West Bremer Radio’s State of Play, Mr McCallum said that while he welcomed Queensland hosting the Games, he was frustrated by the lack of confirmed events and major infrastructure investment for Ipswich.
“We don’t have one confirmed Olympic sport,” Mr McCallum said.
He said modern pentathlon had been discussed for Brighton Homes Arena at Springfield, but remained only a possibility.
Mr McCallum pointed to major Games-related investments planned for Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Redlands, Moreton Bay, Logan and the Sunshine Coast, saying Ipswich also deserved its share.
“We’ve got a government that is backing that in, and what I’m really disappointed about is that the government isn’t backing our city,” he said.
He also renewed calls for major transport investment, including the proposed rail connection through the growing Springfield and Ripley corridor.
Swanbank access dispute
In his role as Shadow Energy Minister, Mr McCallum also criticised the State Government over what he says is a year-long effort to gain access to Swanbank Power Station in his own electorate.
Mr McCallum said he had repeatedly requested a visit to speak with workers and receive a briefing, with one planned visit cancelled only hours before it was due to take place.
He said he would continue seeking access to the facility.
New White Rock school planned for 2028
There was better news for families in Ipswich’s growing southern suburbs, with Mr McCallum providing an update on the planned new school at White Rock.
The new primary school will be located on Northridge Road, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026.
Mr McCallum said the school was expected to welcome its first students in Term One, 2028.
Ripley Valley Car Show returns
Meanwhile, car enthusiasts are being encouraged to head to the Ripley Valley State Secondary College this Sunday for the annual Ripley Valley Car Show.
The event, organised by the school’s P&C, is expected to feature hundreds of vehicles on display and will run from around 8am until 11am.
Mr McCallum encouraged residents to head along, enjoy the cars and support the local school community.
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