Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding has officially opened nominations for the 2025 Ipswich Sports Awards, encouraging locals to shine a light on the athletes, coaches, volunteers and sporting clubs that help drive the city’s sporting success.
With eight award categories and $2,000 in prize money for each winner, the awards aim to recognise the behind-the-scenes efforts of the city’s grassroots sporting community, alongside its elite performers.
“We punch well above our weight when it comes to sport,” Mayor Harding said. “These awards are a great way to acknowledge those who give their time and talent to support clubs, teams and young athletes.”
Nominations are open until Sunday, August 10, with the winners to be announced at a gala event in October. Award categories include:
- Senior, Junior and Masters Sportsperson of the Year
- Team of the Year
- Coach of the Year
- Volunteer and Official of the Year
- Sporting Organisation of the Year
🔗 More info: ipswich.qld.gov.au/sportsawards
🐨 Ipswich Signs First-Ever Conservation Covenant to Protect Wildlife
Mayor Harding also revealed the city has entered its first-ever Voluntary Conservation Covenant — a landmark agreement that protects wildlife habitat in perpetuity on private land in Purga.
The agreement ensures that ecologically significant land will be preserved for generations, protecting habitats for koalas and other native wildlife. Council will assist the landholders with tree planting, weed control, and land rehabilitation.
“This is a game-changer for environmental protection in Ipswich,” Harding said. “We’re proud to partner with passionate residents like Sam and her husband who are committed to conservation.”
Landowners can find out more or apply for similar support through the council’s website.
🎉 Civic Centre Turns 50 with Week-Long SPARK Festival Celebration
It’s party time at the Ipswich Civic Centre, as the iconic venue celebrates 50 years since opening its doors in 1975. Originally launched by then-Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, the Civic Centre has been a hub of arts and performance for five decades.
The milestone coincides with SPARK Ipswich 2025, the city’s flagship arts and culture festival, with car park parties, live performances, and even beatboxing by local talent Tom Thum featured throughout the week.
“It’s amazing to think how many generations have walked through those doors,” said Harding. “From musicals like Cats to school formals — the Civic Centre holds a special place in many hearts.”
Local comedian Mel Buttle also returns for a homecoming comedy performance on Friday night, while community activations such as musical installations in Tulmur Place continue to draw in families and kids.
🎉 Events run until Saturday, July 20. Full program: ipswichfestivals.com.au
From sporting excellence to environmental leadership and artistic celebration, it’s a big season for Ipswich as the city continues to grow, connect and reflect on its past, present and future.
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