New First Nations Healing Space Planned for Queens Park as Council Focuses on Community, Cleanup, and Celebration

Ipswich’s Queens Park will soon feature a new ceremonial healing and remembrance space to honour First Nations men and women, providing a place for reflection, education, and reconciliation.

Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle told West Bremer Radio the project forms part of Council’s Indigenous Accord (2020–2025) and has been developed through years of engagement with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“It acknowledges the history and cultural significance of this area and provides a dedicated space for reflection and learning,” Cr Doyle said.

The design will include a circular performance space and other culturally significant features, marking a major step forward in the city’s reconciliation journey.

Cr Doyle also announced funding for one of the city’s largest community groups, with the Ipswich Show Society receiving $5,000 from Council’s latest round of community events grants. The funding will help host the Circle L Australia 2025 National Finals Rodeo on 21–22 November next year.

“It’s a major coup for Ipswich and something our community is really looking forward to,” she said.

Residents can also look forward to the Ipswich Plant and Lifestyle Fair this Saturday from 9am to 1pm in the Nicholas Street Precinct. The event celebrates green living, wellness, and home design and will feature food vans, plant stalls, and Cr Doyle’s mobile office for residents to raise local issues.

Cr Doyle reminded residents that free green waste disposal remains available until Sunday, November 2, at the Riverview and Rosewood Resource Recovery Centres, following recent storm damage.

“It’s the perfect time to clean gutters, trim trees, and get ready for storm season,” she said.

The Councillor also praised the community turnout at recent Halloween markets, where locals of all ages joined in the fun.

“It was fantastic to see everyone dressed up — though I’ll make sure to bring more candy next time!”

For more information on Council services, including the Snap Send Solve app for reporting local issues, visit ipswich.qld.gov.au.