Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding has returned to the mayoral desk after a short break, resuming council business with a focus on governance reform, Australia Day celebrations and major infrastructure milestones across the city.
Last week, Mayor Harding appeared at Queensland Parliament House as a witness at a parliamentary hearing examining proposed amendments to the Local Government Act. The changes form part of the Local Government (Empowering Councils and Other Legislation Amendment) Bill.
The mayor said she provided a personal submission based on years of community feedback, stressing the importance of integrity, accountability and restoring public confidence in local government.
“Residents expect strong leadership, especially during disasters, and they expect transparency and honesty from those elected to represent them,” Mayor Harding said.
“Some of these reforms have come about because of Ipswich’s history, and it’s important the legislation clearly defines responsibilities and strengthens integrity standards.”
Mayor Harding also raised concerns around candidate vetting and the re-election of councillors previously dismissed from office, arguing stronger disclosure requirements would help protect public trust. The bill is expected to progress through committee stages, with outcomes anticipated by Easter.
Attention now turns to Australia Day celebrations, with Ipswich set to mark the occasion with a long weekend of community activities. Mayor Harding said Australia Day was a time to reflect on the nation’s long First Nations history, as well as its democratic traditions.
The city’s Australia Day Awards will be announced on Wednesday night, recognising individuals and groups who make outstanding contributions to the community. Finalists for Citizen of the Year include long-serving Bremer State High School volunteer Yvonne Bell, rugby league champion Ali Brigginshaw, and Helen Youngbury from Goodna Street Life.
To help residents beat the heat, all Ipswich City Council-owned swim centres will offer free entry on Australia Day, including the Georgie Conway Leichhardt Community Swim Centre, Bundamba Swim Centre, Goodna Aquatic Centre and Rosewood Aquatic Centre.
Meanwhile, a major transformation is underway at North Ipswich Reserve, with demolition works officially commencing last week. The works mark the first stage in developing the North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct, including construction of a new Western Grandstand.
Mayor Harding said the project would deliver modern, NRL-compliant change rooms, media and broadcast facilities, function spaces and seating for more than 2,000 spectators.
“It’s the beginning of a new era for this much-loved sporting venue and an exciting step forward for Ipswich sport and events,” she said.
Mayor Harding is expected to provide further updates on council projects and Australia Day award winners in the coming week.
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