Ipswich is gearing up for a busy few weeks, with ANZAC Day services, record population growth, and the federal election all front of mind, according to Mayor Teresa Harding on this week’s State of Play segment on West Bremer Radio.
With ANZAC Day this Thursday, Harding highlighted the city’s strong ties to the military, particularly with RAAF Base Amberley nearby. “There are around 20 commemorations and 10 marches across Ipswich, with thousands expected to pay their respects,” she said. The main parade begins at 10:45am from Brisbane and Waghorn streets and finishes in Tulmur Place, with road closures in effect. Dawn services will also take place in Brassall, Bundamba, Goodna, Rosewood and more.
Ipswich’s population boom continues, with new ABS data showing Ripley as one of Australia’s fastest-growing suburbs. The area added 2,700 new residents in the past year, most relocating from elsewhere in Queensland. “Ipswich was ranked as the fastest-growing local government area from 2025 to 2035 in Bernard Salt’s report,” Harding said. Redbank Plains also saw strong growth, largely from natural population increases.
With that growth comes the need for urgent infrastructure funding. Harding reinforced the “Don’t Leave Us in the ‘70s” campaign, calling on state and federal governments to match investment with Ipswich’s rapid expansion.
Meanwhile, early voting opened this week ahead of the May 3 federal election, coinciding with the Planes, Trains and Autos Festival. Harding encouraged residents to vote early if they plan to travel during the long weekend.
In cultural news, the 130th Queensland Eisteddfod was celebrated in Ipswich over Easter, with stunning performances from local choirs including Ipswich Orpheus Chorale and Blackstone Ipswich Cambrian Choir.
“It’s been a beautiful celebration of heritage, growth and community,” Harding said.
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