Ipswich Division 3 Councillor Andrew Antoniolli has welcomed a wave of major developments across the city, including the landmark announcement of a Hilton-branded hotel for the CBD.
Speaking on West Bremer Radio, Cr Antoniolli described the proposed 160-room Hilton Garden Inn as a “red-letter day” for Ipswich, noting the $53 million investment would be built on council-owned land on Ellenborough Street near Timothy Moloney Park and the heritage-listed St Mary’s Church.
He said the globally recognised hotel brand choosing Ipswich signalled strong confidence in the city’s future and ongoing redevelopment of the CBD.
The project is expected to employ about 150 construction workers and create around 50 permanent jobs once operational, providing a boost for local businesses and tourism ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Athletics Access Path Nearing Completion
Cr Antoniolli also provided an update on improvements at Bill Paterson Oval in Limestone Park, home to the Ipswich District Athletics Club and local Little Athletics programs.
A new footpath is currently being constructed to improve accessibility from the car park to the athletics centre, particularly for people with mobility challenges and disabilities.
The project was delivered through council’s Provisional Projects Program, following advocacy from athletics officials including respected coach Vic Pascoe.
Cr Antoniolli said the upgrade would support athletes of all abilities and inspire future competitors in the lead-up to the 2032 Games.
“Anything we can do to promote athletics and sport through simple infrastructure items like this is important,” he said.
Upgrades Planned for Ipswich Nature Centre
Meanwhile, visitors to the popular Ipswich Nature Centre can expect improvements, with council planning upgrades to ageing boardwalk sections and new back-of-house facilities for animal care.
The works will involve replacing sections of the boardwalk with more durable composite materials and constructing improved veterinary and biosecurity spaces to better care for sick and injured animals.
Cr Antoniolli said the Nature Centre remains one of the city’s most popular free attractions, showcasing native wildlife including dingoes, rock wallabies, emus and a variety of bird species.
“It’s essentially our free Australia Zoo right in the city,” he said.
Residents are being advised that some sections may temporarily close during construction, but the long-term improvements will enhance the visitor experience and animal welfare.
Busy Start to the Year
Cr Antoniolli also noted a busy start to the year attending school leadership inductions across Division 3, wishing senior students well in their final year of study.
With major projects, sporting infrastructure and tourism developments underway, he said 2026 was shaping up to be a significant year for Ipswich.
“Our growing city needs these types of investments and upgrades, and it’s great to see confidence in Ipswich continuing to build,” he said.
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