Moreton Border News - 27th February 2026

Moreton BorderNews

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Rosewood ramblers

WHEN cadet reporter Jess Leis went to Rosewood and asked people what they’d like to see developed, the answers were surprising.

They painted a picture of promise, tempered with practical suggestions. It’s a town worth exploring, was a common theme.

South Ripley resident Robert Lopez (pictured) was in town for a day out.

“We’re here to explore and have fun,” he said.

“We’re always looking for new places to explore that are closer to home.”

Read more about what Robert and others had to say on page 6 (Jess Leis: 536345)

Vollie grants available NEWS

LOCAL community groups and sporting clubs are being encouraged by Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, to apply for funding through the $10 million Volunteer Grants program.

Expressions of Interest for the Federal Government’s 2025-26 Volunteer Grants Round are now open and close on Tuesday, April 7.

Through the grants program, eligible not-for-profit groups can apply for one-off individual grants worth between $1,000 and $5,000 are available.

“Total funding of up to $66,000 is available for the Blair electorate,” Mr Neumann said.

“Volunteer grants support the work of community organisations that rely on volunteers by removing barriers to volunteering and promoting awareness of volunteering opportunities.”

Under the grant guidelines, grants can be used for things like IT and other equipment or training for volunteers, background screening checks, insurance premiums and sporting equipment to train junior sports teams.

Mr Neumann said the grants were a great opportunity for eligible organization to boost their capacity.

“Funding is limited, so I encourage groups to get in early.”

“If you are interested, go to my website to read the grant guidelines and check your organisation’s eligibility, and then submit a short online Expression of Interest form.”

Groups which are chosen to take the next step in the process, will be invited by the Department of Social Services to submit

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann called into Rosewood Little Athletics to tell members about the opportunity offered by theVolunteerGrantsprogram.

a full application in May

“In the last funding round, 26 local organisations in Blair received more than $62,000 in grants,” Mr Neumann said.

“Previously, the Volunteer Grant program focused on supporting young volunteers, however this has now been expanded.”

The focus has now includes:

• First Nations people

• Newly arrived migrants

• People with disability

• Unemployed people who are volunteering to improve their skills

• Veterans and Australian Defence Force members

• Women experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, genderbased violence or isolation

• Women experiencing genderbased discrimination or disadvantage

• Eliminating racial discrimination and promoting understanding, tolerance and friendships among racial or ethnic groups.

THIS week, we report the enthusiasm we’ve found amongvisitorstoourregion. It’s everywhere in our latest voxpop on page 6.

Jess Leis reports on a gathering of women for the inaugural Ladies Lunch in the dining room of the Grandchester Hotel.

The lunch is a new monthly initiative designed to bring local women together.

Wendy Creighton writes about plans to turn 50 hectares of rural land at Thagoona into an urban centre with housing types that include five storey apartment blocks.

In that time, the initial 18 development application documents outlining the ‘Thagoona Village’ proposal have increased to 309.

Many are residents’ concerns that include inconsistencies between documents, flooding issues, loss of koala habitat, lack of detail and over-development.

In sport, the Ipswich Jets had a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’ on Sunday, playing in front of at least 10,000 people in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.

Happy reading -

Lara Hart

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Rhyley ban brings bus company apologies

WALLOON resident Will Milligan has contacted Moreton Border News about a recent incident where a young man named Rhyley Schultz - who lives with a rare genetic condition - was denied service by a bus driver at Willowbank.

Mr Milligan has worked as a bus and coach trainer and a driver, and been an assessor and auditor in the industry.

He also knows the Schultz family personally.

The MBN also received an email from Ipswich West MP Wendy Bourne who explained what happened and said she was taking the matter up with the Queensland Transport Minister, Brent Mickelberg.

“Rhyley, accompanied by his social worker, caught bus route 515 at 1:33pm on Wednesday 18 February 2026,” Ms Bourne explained.

“The service terminated at Willowbank, and everyone was required to get on a new bus.

“It is at this point that the new bus driver denied service to Rhyley.

“Rhyley, who has a very rare genetic condition called CoffinLowry Syndrome (19 registered cases nationally), is in a wheelchair and requires the bus ramp to be drawn. Instead, he was left in the heat at Willowbank, which is completely unacceptable,” Ms Bourne said.

Mr Milligan wrote:

‘I have got to know Rhyley, a young, 22-year-old gentleman who was born enduring undue life threatening issues, including being unable to regulate his own body temperature or even con-

sume food.

“He also has a reduced level of ability to master his necessary life skills, personal hygiene and mobility challenges, all that require a network of supporters to enable him to survive his ordinary day to day activities.

“Rhyley never complains and he is the easiest person on this planet to get on with.

“He loves to travel, and to get Rhyley somewhere, a ute load of mobility aids are needed too, so it is probably easier to transport him on public transport.

‘Luckily he loves public transport, so if you want to make his day, just say “G’Day” when you see him next because public transport is his happy place.

‘His return adventure from Willowbank to Ipswich was scheduled for 1:33 pm, and the driver was informed that there was a wheelchair passenger requiring a ramp to be secured into a specific position.

“This also required the driver to move the bus forward to safely facilitate the transfer.

“Apparently, words were exchanged and the new driver refused to move the bus or put a ramp in place, and refused Rhyley’s and his carer’s entry.

The pair were made to wait an hour for the next service, and that put Rhyley at high risk of sun exposure and heat stress. This could have led to a life-threatening event had it not been for the

work ethic of his carer, because it was 36°C day.”

Ms Bourne said she understood the bus company facilitated a general induction for its drivers but no specialised training.

“I have today spoken to disability advocates who say that disability awareness training is critically needed,” she said.

“[Rhyley’s mum] does not believe the response from Translink and Westside Bus Company is good enough or will fix the systemic issues people with disabilities face,” she said.

“I note that Rhyley loves travelling on the bus and has since gone around to each of the bus stops on the route and put up a sign which says ‘we will not tolerate discrimination against the vulnerable. Equal access is a human right’.”

In a response to Ms Shultz, a Translink spokesperson apologised.

“Being refused service especially in the way you described is completely unacceptable and falls far below the standards we expect from any operator across our network,” the spokesperson said.

“I’m truly sorry that you and your client were put in this situation.”

ThespokespersonsaidaWestside Bus Company manager reviewed on-board CCTV footage.

“Westside has advised that the driver has been coached and counselled regarding this serious breach, and corrective action is being taken to ensure this does not happen again. They have also asked that we pass on their sincere apologies.”

Strong turnout at Corridor Alliance meeting

THERE was strong community interest at the inaugural meeting of the Western Corridor Community Alliance.

The meeting drew a large crowd to the Uniting Church Hall in Rosewood.

“They were keen to better understand the rapid pace of development across the region, with presentations from Ipswich City Council staff and WCCA members sparking lively conversation,” reported WCCA member Lawrence Wray.

Attendees heard detailed presentations on the role and purpose of the newly formed group, how planning and development processes operate under Queensland state legislation and were updated on the Ipswich City Council Western Corridor Growth Strategy.

“Council staff provided a detailed presentation on how development works in

Queensland,” Mr Wray said.

“Many residents were unaware of the extent to which state government legislation drives housing development and infrastructure provision.”

Issues raised by resident included:

Small lot sizes in major developments at Walloon and proposed developments in Thagoona.

The capacity of existing sewerage systems to manage thousands of new homes.

The health of local waterways along the Bremer River.

- Future water supply and the sustainability of regional resources.

The condition of local roads and the urgent need for upgrades to handle increasing traffic.

The increasing safety risks at the Cunningham and Warrego Highway entry and exit points.

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“Residents were also concerned about the impact of old mines in the region and the accuracy of existing maps showing [underground] mining areas,” Mr Wray said.

Council staff confirmed that both underground and opencut mining data were considered in planning processes, with overlays and constraints applied where appropriate.

Residents also raised the strain of rapid population growth places on essential services — including schools, ambulance, police, and emergency services.

“Relevant government departments will be invited to future meetings to discuss these concerns directly,” Mr Wray said.

A summary of the Western Corridor Growth Strategy outlined five key opportunities identified in its first phase:

Fix transport and road in-

frastructure early

Deliver infrastructure before development

Maintain larger lots and protect rural identity

Build walkable, connected, and inclusive communities

Protect environmental values through better planning

“Interestingly, initial resident engagement shows the community is not opposed to growth,” he said.

“But people want it to be well-planned, infrastructureled, and respectful of local character.”

“The engagement findings indicate a clear social license for growth, provided development is infrastructure-led, flood-resilient, environmentally sensitive, low-density, and designed in partnership with the community.”

Ipswich region creatives in Ben Lee summit

IPSWICH creatives will share the stage with Australian indiepop legend Ben Lee as Creators’ Summit-Ipswich returns on 7 March 2026.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the Creators’ Summit has a strong legacy of helping emerging artists find their way into their craft and this year would be no different.

“The Creators’ Summit brings the burgeoning creative community from Ipswich and beyond together for a celebration of ideas, art and connection,” Mayor Harding said.

“Past summits have inspired local creatives to step out and achieve amazing results. Multidisciplinary visual artist Andrea Baumert-Howard attended the summit in 2023 – afterwards, she and a group of others established an arts organisation for advocacy, and enabled local artists to share, create and sell

art. This year, Andrea is back at the summit – as a speaker now

The Creators’ Summit brings the burgeoning creative community from Ipswich and beyond together for a celebration of ideas, art and connection,” Mayor Harding said. (Supplied)

hoping to inspire others.”

“The Creators’ Summit is a wonderful event of collaboration, networking and sharing of ideas between emerging and experienced artists – which has the ability to transform artists and take them to the next level.”

“This year’s theme is The Future Belongs to the Weird, and we

Community Catch Up

Tell us what matters to you in Division 4

Wednesday 4 March | 9.00 am – 11.00 am

Walloon CWA Hall, 34 Karrabin Rosewood Road, Walloon

Join us at the RADSc Walloon Community Pop Up Hub

Friday 6 March | 8.00 am – 10.00 am Karalee Chapters Bookshop, Café and Wine Bar, Karalee Shopping Centre, Junction Road, Karalee

Monday 9 March | 9.00 am – 11.00 am Rosewood Library, Event Space, Level 1, 15 Railway Street, Rosewood

Wednesday 11 March | 9.00 am – 11.00 am Marburg Community Centre, 110 Queen Street, Marburg Join us at the RADSc Marburg Community Pop Up Hub

Wednesday 18 March 9.00 am – 11.00 am Yamanto Coffee Club, Yamanto Central Shopping Centre, 488 Warwick Road, Yamanto

Wednesday 25 March 9.00 am – 11.00 am Funkibuds (near Aldi), Brassall Shopping Centre, 68 Hunter Street, Brassall

Councillor Jim Madden

Division 4

Phone: (07) 3810 7879

Email: jim.madden@ipswich.qld.gov.au

are fortunate to have an incredible lineup of artists sharing their experience including singersongwriter Ben Lee.

“In addition to Andrea, there is a lineup of Ipswich’s very own creative stars, such as musician Tim McCallum, fine art and design practitioner Benitta, country and folk musician Damien J Johnson, multimedia artist Glen Smith and the Ipswich Arts Advisory Group.”

EconomicandCulturalDevelopment Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the summit is a much-anticipated eventintheIpswichartscalendar.

“Arts and culture is a driving force in our vibrant and growing city, bringing our community closer together as well as delivering social and economic benefits,” Cr Augustine said.

“The Creators’ Summit is a showcase of Ipswich’s talent in the arts, rubbing shoulders with some of the best artists and creatives in the country.

“This year, attendees can expect inspiring talks, hands-on workshops and shared experiences designed to spark curiosity and fuel creative momentum.

“Council recently endorsed a 10-year vision called Our Creative Future 2025-2035 – which outlines our vision for Ipswich to be a nationally recognised creative city, shaped by its people, powered by its spirit and grounded in its history.

Award-winning multidisciplinary visual artist Andrea Baumert-Howard is particularly excited for this year’s summit.

“It’s a full circle moment for me – a group of Ipswich artists including myself attended the Ipswich Creators’ Summit 2023,” Mrs Baumert-Howard said.

“I hope the line-up of speakers at this year’s summit will inspire emerging artists, just as it inspired me.”

visit Shapeyouripswich.com. au/creators-summit-2026

Visitors voice hopes for Rosewood’s future

By JESS LEIS

WITH steady growth shaping the fringes of Ipswich and beyond, the Moreton Border News took to the streets of Rosewood over the weekend to ask a simple question: What would you like to see developed here in Rosewood?

Interestingly, those strolling through town were not long time locals, but visitors drawn by the character of the historic township. Their answers painted a picture of promise, tempered with practical suggestions.

A town worth exploring

South Ripley resident Robert Lopez was in town for a day out.

“We’re here to explore and have fun,” he said.

When reflecting on how the town could improve, he added:

“More opportunities for visitors. Investing in town (tourism opportunities).”

“Develop local areas so that it’s more accessible.”

“We’re always looking for new places to explore that are closer to home.”

His comments echo a growing appetite among nearby residents for regional destinations that feel both welcoming and easy to navigate.

Protecting character while encouraging growth

Jeff and Janice Turner, visiting from Jimboomba, had settled in for lunch in the park. For them, the balance between progress and preservation was critical.

“We don’t want to see the integrity of the town lost, we don’t want to see it die.”

We need little arty farty shops (art and craft knick knack stores). People from the area could sell handmade goods. When towns get knocked down, you lose the history.”

“There’s alot of people who have moved out here from the city. There’s no coffee shops open on a Sunday.”

“Council provided amenities need to be a bit cleaner. Reduce the population of the bats.”

“Utelise the showgrounds

more. Needs a signature event that defines the area. Rosewood is on the road through-it’s a bit sad.”

Their wish list blends commerce, cleanliness and culture, with a strong emphasis on identity. A signature event and better use of the showgrounds, they suggest, could help the town step out from being merely a stop along the way.

Competing with neighbouring towns

At the Rosewood Hotel, Publican Lynnette Chalmers believes presentation plays a significant role.

“I’d love to see some streetscape. Some trees, some beautification. Some renovation.

Rosewood is a beautiful town, but needs a facelift to compete with other towns, like Laidley and Forest Hill.”

Her comparison to Laidley and Forest Hill highlights the quiet competition between small towns vying for weekend visitors

and passing trade.

Lisa and Gavin McConkey, from Mt Crosby, also stopped at the Rosewood Hotel for lunch. Their focus was firmly on weekend vibrancy.

“Needs more Sunday markets. Need more cafes open on the weekend. More live music events. They’ve got the advantage of the train line-just need to uteslise it.”

For them, Rosewood’s rail connection was an untapped asset, a ready made artery linking the town to the broader south east Queensland population. Keeping the story alive

Among those enjoying lunch at the hotel were members of the Darktown River Band, who see country towns as both inspiration and responsibility.

“I’ve always loved going out to a country pub. It’s laid back, old fashioned. The characters in our songs are all based on places like this,” said Rikki Chaplin, whilst on the piano.

“More open mic opportunities,” added Tony Noddin, from St John, New Brunswick, Canada.

SingerBrendanHogansaidlocal people in SEQ should support regional areas. “There’s beautiful places. Need to keep the story of the town going,” he said.

Chris Paterson called for “embracing and utilizing the heritage of the area”

A town at a crossroads

From cleaner amenities and Sunday cafes to markets, music and meaningful heritage preservation, the recurring theme was not reinvention, but refinement.

Rosewood’s visitors see potential rather than deficiency. They are drawn by its history, its railway, its pubs and its slower rhythm. What they are asking for is simple: polish the edges, programme the spaces, celebrate the past, and give people one more reason to stay a little longer rather than simply passing through.

Five storey apartment blocks in Thagoona

By WENDY CREIGHTON

PLANS to turn 50 hectares of rural land at Thagoona into an urban centre with housing types including five-storey apartment blocks were lodged with the Ipswich City Council more than two years ago.

In that time, the initial 18 development application documents outlining the ‘Thagoona Village’ proposal have increased to 309.

Almost 200 of those are submissions from residents generally protesting the scope of the proposal and raising concerns about inconsistencies between documents, flooding issues, loss of koala habitat, lack of detail and over-development.

And the original Thagoona Village proposal has been reshaped and reconfigured since the application was submitted in December 2023, due to a minor change application from the developer and amendments made following issues raised by the council planners and state government departments such as Transport and Main Roads and Environment.

To start at the beginning, the developer is Syz Development Land 2 Pty Ltd, one of the two companies which own the six rural properties making up the proposed Thagoona Village development.

Yu Sui is listed as the sole director and secretary of the two companies.

In brief, the developer hopes to gain preliminary approval for a master planned community across 50 of the 65 hectares.

The six rural properties which

One of the documents lodged by Sargeant Planning for the developer, shows the proposed breakup of the six properties under the master plan. The green shaded areas (36.5ha) represent land set aside for open space, parkland and stormwater retention. Pale pink (0.5ha) denotes low density residential – 15 to 25 dwellings per hectare. Orange (21.7ha) denotes low to medium density residential – 30 to 50 dwellings per hectare. Deep pink (1.4ha) denotes medium density residential – 50 to 75 dwellings per hectare.

make up the total land area have frontage to Karrabin Rosewood Road, Thagoona Haigslea Road, Rosewood Thagoona Road, Lode Road and Stirling Road.

Five of the properties are on the south eastern side of the Rosewood Karrabin Road and the sixth is separated from the group by the road and another large allotment.

That allotment is currently the subject of a development application for a shopping centre and a state school and has been acquired by the Thagoona Village developer, Syz Development Land 2 Pty Ltd.

All the properties are mapped

in the Ipswich City Council’s planning scheme as an urban development area and zoned future urban.

The proposed Thagoona Village master plan sets aside areas for residential housing as well as land for stormwater retention, parkland and open space.

The residential lot yield is estimated to be from 700 to 1,100 allotments. Those numbers will go beyond estimates if council approves the master plan and the developer begins applying for urban subdivisions.

Lot yield is defined by the land available and the housing density allowed by council under the pre-

liminary approval in each of the proposed residential land blocks.

The housing yield will be much greater due to the proposed high rise apartments, multiple dwellings (town houses) and semi-detached housing in addition to the detached housing across the development.

Documents uploaded as part of the application indicate that the higher density housing (multi-storey apartments) will be on land nearest the Thagoona Railway Station with the density gradually reducing to the west across the sites.

Under the proposal, the developer also hopes to gain approval to remove 739 koala habitat trees while retaining similar trees growing in the green space blocks, particularly along the banks of O’Shea’s Gully.

In a Koala Plan of Management report, town planning agents for the developer have estimated the developer’s offset contribution for the tree clearing would be in the vicinity of $432,000.

“This is in addition to the site works and approximately 20ha of revegetation works and supplementary plantings within the 7.22ha of retained vegetation,” the agents noted.

Currently, the application has reached the decision making phase however the developer has asked for an extension of time to address the conditions the state government departments want set on any approval.

And the council is still awaiting information from the developer in relation to questions raised in July, last year.

Back to School

With kids back at school for 2026, the new Queensland Government is delivering back to school relief for families.

Queensland kids now have the right tools to help them on their education journey, and every parent and carer is getting the backing they need through a range of initiatives and programs designed to make the school year easier.

The new Queensland Government is doing its bit to ease cost-of-living pressures on Queensland families with the Back to School Boost providing $100 for every primary school student to assist with school-related costs.

The $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers are also supporting families while helping kids aged five to 17 get active and play their favourite sport.

Safer classrooms are giving students the best opportunity to learn. The successful Behaviour Boost program is backed by teachers and principals, with permanent funding to improve behaviour and better support school staff in Queensland schools.

Free Kindy gives kids the chance to explore, play and learn while laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

With 15 new schools, and upgrades across the state, Queenslanders can be confident their kids will receive a world-class education.

Back to School Boost for Queensland families

The new Queensland Government has helped ease cost-of-living pressures for families, with the Back to School Boost.

Every primary-school-aged child across Queensland’s state, Catholic, and independent schools receives a $100 credit to help ease costs for families.

Parents can choose to use it on the cost of items or activities offered by the school, such as camps, excursions, incursions and extracurricular activities, stationery, uniforms or excellence programs.

“The Back to School Boost is a welcome relief for our family,” said Kristy Talbot, mum of a nine-year-old daughter attending a state school. “Knowing we can use the $100 credit for school essentials like uniforms and excursions makes a big difference to our budget.”

For state school students, a $100 credit is applied to the student’s school account. The non-state school sector is responsible for the administration of the $100, including how it can be

applied to reduce fees or other related school costs.

The Back to School Boost is provided once per year. All students in primary school (Prep-Year 6) are eligible, including children who attend a special school or children enrolled in home education.

It’s just one of the ways the new Queensland Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, with the $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers also helping ease cost-of-living pressures on Queensland families.

World-class education facilities for Queensland kids

The new Queensland Government is ensuring Queensland kids have access to world-class education facilities, with projects being delivered across Queensland inside and outside of the classroom.

The Government is investing $1 billion this financial year in South East Queensland schools for new classrooms, specialist learning areas,

multi-purpose halls, sporting facilities, and outdoor learning and play areas. Projects include new learning spaces at Coomera State Special School with 14 new classrooms and ancillary spaces to support the growing school community.

A new campus for Prep and Year 1 students at Pallara State School including 22 new classrooms, an administration building, a tuckshop

Back

with covered area, an amenities building, refurbishment of the existing resource centre and sports hall, a facilities maintenance building, staff car park and parent car park.

Projects at Bremer State High School, Haigslea State School and Claremont Special School will deliver new classrooms, playgrounds and specialist technology areas.

Round 2 of Play On!

Sports Vouchers is providing ongoing cost-of-living relief for Queensland families while encouraging children to participate in their favourite sports.

Families with children aged five to 17 can apply for $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers, which can be used to cover the costs of memberships, registration, or participation fees, making it more affordable for Queensland kids to get involved in sports. Activity providers and sports clubs can also register to be part of the program.

Game changing sports vouchers Behaviour Boost delivering safer classrooms

The new Queensland Government’s Behaviour Boost initiative for state schools is delivering safer classrooms to give all students the best opportunity to learn.

Behaviour Boost, which provides $45 million annually to support behaviour management strategies in state schools, has been widely supported by principals and teachers, and is now a permanent feature of Queensland’s education system.

Schools have the flexibility to use their funding to engage behaviour specialists, implement tailored strategies, and build staff capability to address behavioural challenges quickly and effectively.

There’s a dedicated allocation for children living with a disability and for kids living in regional and remote areas to even the playing field. Regional and remote Queenslanders will get their share of vouchers, reducing barriers and growing opportunities for children and young people living with a disability.

Free Kindy giving kids the chance to explore, play and learn

The new Queensland Government is delivering Free Kindy, giving kids the chance to explore, play and learn while laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Designed for the year before starting school, kindy helps children develop important early learning skills, build confidence, and enhance their overall wellbeing. It also develops a love of learning, fosters confidence, and builds social skills, preparing children for a smooth transition to school.

To further strengthen Behaviour Boost, an additional $2.5 million has been allocated to fund professional development grants of up to $2000 for school staff specialising in behaviour management.

Supported by the new Queensland Government’s $21.9 billion Education Budget, Queensland schools are being equipped to deliver safer, more focused learning environments for all students, teachers, and staff.

Leichhardt State School used the funding to build staff capacity and strengthen relationships across the school community and has seen significant improvements in behaviour, with incidents down by more than 45 per cent.

Free Kindy gives eligible children 15 hours per week for up to 40 weeks per year in a program approved by the Queensland Government ensuring cost is not a barrier to kindy access, and relieving cost-of-living pressures for families. To be eligible for Free Kindy, children need to be at least four years old by 30 June in the year before they start Prep.

Since the program’s introduction, kindy enrolments around Queensland have risen by almost 10 per cent. All Free Kindy programs are Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority accredited and delivered by qualified early childhood teachers.

Rambling Andy’s crown jewels are exposed

By LARA HART

REACHING rock bottom seems different when you are royalty.

Just look at Andy, the late queen of England’s favourite son (reportedly) and a man who has courted danger as vigorously as he has skirts.

Off went his title but not his head, and he was banished from the Windsor Estate to the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, UK.

Rock bottom for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was to live in a home most commoners wouldconsiderthedomainofthe wealthy and privileged.

Yet while Andrew’s explicit escapades have made him press fodder, he is able to lick his wounds in the comfortable surrounds of luxurious living.

There are spare heirs, and then there is Andrew, a man who has done more for the phrase ‘this meeting could have been an email’ than anyone in recorded aristocratic history.

For years he occupied that comfortable royal middle-management tier: not the monarch, not the future monarch, just sort of… monarch-adjacent.

The human equivalent of a decorative fountain in a palace courtyard.

Expensive, unnecessary, but technically historic.

Then came his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, which aged about as well as unrefrigerated prawn cocktail.

At first, it was described as a casual association.

Unfortunately, it was the kind of ‘casual’ that kept reappearing in photographs you very much wish were casual in a different postcode.

The situation escalated from awkward headline to international legal saga when Virginia Giuffre filed a civil lawsuit in the United States.

Nothing says ‘quiet life of ribbon-cutting’ like transatlantic litigation.

It’s also hard to focus on opening a community centre when your diary also includes ‘consult

barristers’.

Within days, titles began quietly evaporating.

Military affiliations ... gone.

Patronages ... rehomed.

And public duties were reduced to the occasional appearance so low-key it could qualify as witness protection.

In fairy tales, princes slay dragons.

In modern Britain, they sometimes create them and then go on television to explain that the dragon wasn’t really a dragon, just a misunderstanding involving travel schedules.

The torturously slow release of the Epstein files led to Andrew being arrested by the UK’s Metropolitan Police and his former Windsor home was searched in connection with that arrest.

It is understood the arrest was related to suspicion of misconduct in public office and he has not yet been charged.

He was released from custody and returned to his Norfolk mansion, poor bugger.

Imagine being a copper assigned to the case.

You just know the English police would be so polite.

“Excuse us, sir, terribly sorry, but we do need you to step into the carriage.”

Even the handcuffs would be velvet.

And he’d be like, “Do you know who I am?”

And the officer would go, “Yes, sir, that’s sort of the issue.”

But here’s the wild part: in most jobs, if you have a scandal, you get fired.

If you’re a royal you get stepped back from public duties.

That’s the fanciest way of saying, ‘go sit in the corner and think about what you’ve done’.

Regular people don’t get that option ... “sorry I embezzled, boss, I’m stepping back from my Excel responsibilities’.

And the royal family’s solution to everything is the same.

‘We will handle this privately’.

If Andrew was a character in Game of Thrones, he’d be the one throwing people from the tower and frolicking with a concubine.

And when his title was lost, he’d be paraded down the cobblestoned town street naked while villagerstossedrottenfoodathim while shouting ‘shame! shame!

But we live in the real world where a few short centuries ago kings and princes had affairs, then executed their wives and mistresses.

A man of high status could live out all his sexual desires and

it was considered normal, even whenapartnerwasunderageand partaking under duress.

Henry VIII had numerous affairs and had his wives Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard legally executed.

He had six wives in total and they were divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded and survived.

There were many monarchs who had mistresses but did not execute their queens.

These include Charles II of England, Edward VII and George IV.

Princes who had affairs include Edward VIII and Albert Edward VII.

Because most royal marriages were political arrangements, mistresses were often tolerated.

People had shorter lifespans and it wasn’t uncommon for girls as young as 13 and 14 to be married off and start a family.

But those times are long past and there are consequences for bad behaviour.

Well, perhaps not that long past because when Andrew was cavorting with Epstein a few short decades ago.

Yes, hitting rock bottom sure feels different when you’re wealthy.

Ipswich got Ed, so here’s our (AI) Sheeran

By LARA HART

ONE of the world’s favourite gingers visited Ipswich last week after a sustained campaign by three radio stations and Ipswich City Council.

The superstar, Ed Sheeran is a native of Ipswich in the United Kingdom, and this sentimental kicker got the campaign started.

It all kicked off in May 2025. Local businesses, the media and community members all have had parts to play. It went so far as to see the Mayor on a personal visit to Ed’s hometown.

In September, the mural located between the Hotel Commonwealth and 1 Nicholas Street was unveiled.

FundedbyWarnerMusicAustralia, it was painted by Brisbanebased artist Duncan Mattocks.

Since the Walloon State School posted an AI Ed eating a tuckshop burger, here’s our AI Ed in a Marburg T shirt.

The billboard was brought to life over six days, using 12 different colors and 10 litres of paint.

And it did the trick.

Mayor Teresa Harding was tickled pink when he dropped

by to say ‘g’day’. She made him an honorary co-mayor and let him wear her mayoral chains of office.

“I think it suits me,” he said, with the chains strung over his shoulders.

He came, he saw ... and autographed the Ed mural, which council workers were quick to cover in sealant to ensure it doesn’t degrade over time.

Two council security guards were tasked with protecting the words from nefarious trouble makers overnight while the sealant was curing.

He didn’t visit Rosewood, Thagoona or Marburg but Walloon State School had a bit of fun on social media when they uploaded an AI generated photograph of Ed eating a chicken burger in their canteen.

Photo: AI generated image

Supporters at Ladies’ Day in Grandchester

By JESS LEIS

THE dining room of the Grandchester Hotel rang with conversation, laughter and the clink of cutlery on Monday, 23 February, as 33 women gathered for the inaugural Ladies Lunch, a new monthly initiative designed to bring local women together.

For many across the district, particularly in smaller rural pockets, opportunities for regular social connection can be few and far between. Recognising that gap, co organisers Noela Blake and Narelle Johnson created a welcoming space for women seeking companionship, conversation and community.

The response exceeded all expectations.

“Holy moly!” Ms Blake said of the turnout. “I was blown away.”

A total of 33 women attended the first luncheon, travelling from Boonah, Laidley, Ipswich, Brightview, Hatton Vale, Mount Mort, Rosewood, Bundamba and surrounding areas.

“They’ve travelled a long way,” Ms Johnson said.

The event, held at 11am, offered more than just a meal. It

provided a relaxed and friendly setting for women to share stories, exchange ideas and form new friendships. The venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring the gathering remains open and inclusive, and purchasing a meal was optional-but one that many of the participants indulged in.

Ms Johnson circulated a feedback book during the afternoon, inviting suggestions and ideas from participants. The gesture signalled that the group is not only about social connection, but about shaping something that genuinely reflects the needs and wishes of its members.

For Ms Blake, the event marked her first major outing since undergoing pacemaker surgery. Despite recent health challenges, she was energetic and warmly welcoming. Ms Johnson has survived serious complications from diverticulitis on two occasions. Their shared resilience has helped shape the spirit of the group, one grounded in encouragement, understanding and positivity.

The staff at the Grandchester Hotel embraced the occasion. Publican Sonya Roberts praised herteam’seffortsinmanagingthe busy service.

“The apprentice chef took care of the meals, keeping up with the demand,” she said. The back room of the Grandchester Hotel, where the ladies lunch was held, echoed with strong applause for the staff.

Behind the scenes, Narelle’s husband, Cliff Johnson, assisted with administrative preparations and helped promote the event across social media platforms. His efforts proved instrumental.

The Ladies Lunch will now be held on the last Monday of each month at 11am at the Grandchester Hotel. Judging by the enthusiasm of those in attendance, many are already looking forward to next month.

Mt Marrow residential lots need a developer

AS the city of Ipswich officially passes a population of 270,000 residents, Ray White special projects Queensland has announced the listing of a 33.45-hectare land subdivision site at 433 Thagoona Haigslea Road and 116-130 Caledonian Road, Mount Marrow.

Positioned within the newly adopted Ipswich City Plan 2025, the site represents a critical opportunity to address the urgent housing demand in one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions.

The property consists of two adjoining parcels and features a concept plan for 326 residential lots with an average size of 393sqm. Benefiting from an elevated position with minimal vegetation overlays, the site offers significant cost efficiencies for incoming developers.

Its location within the Western Growth Corridor, an area earmarked by the State Government to accommodate more than 60,000 new residents over the next two decades, places it at the forefront of Southeast Queensland’s urban expansion.

Ray White Special Projects’ Mark Creevey said the timing of the release is impeccable given the structural undersupply of residential land in the region.

The region’s appeal is underpinned by a younger-than-average median age of 33 and a high proportion of family households.

“Ipswich is no longer just a satellite city; it is a primary engine of growth for Southeast Queensland,” Mr Creevey said. “With the population projected to reach 480,000 by 2046, we are seeing a massive requirement for roughly 100,000 new homes over the next 20 years. This site provides the scale and the strategic location necessary to help meet that target, especially within the Western Growth Corridor where infrastructure and community planning are already well underway.”

The region’s appeal is underpinned by a younger-thanaverage median age of 33 and a high proportion of family households. This demographic profile

is driven by Ipswich’s relative affordability compared to Brisbane and the Gold Coast, alongside its proximity to major employment hubs like the RAAF Amberley base, which is located just 15 minutes from the property.

Matthew Fritzsche said that the site’s physical attributes make it a standout for developers with only very minor vegetation to manage.

“Finding a site of this scale that is majority cleared and flat is becoming increasingly rare,” Mr Fritzsche said.

“The cost efficiencies here are a major drawcard. When you combine that with the easy access to the Warrego Highway

and the Ipswich Motorway, you have a project that is perfectly positioned to serve commuters heading into the Ipswich CBD, Brisbane, or west to Toowoomba. It offers that rare balance of a relaxed, semi-rural lifestyle with immediate proximity to essential services.”

The local real estate market continues to show remarkable resilience and growth. Median house prices in the Ipswich region have surged nearly 80 per cent over the last five years, yet the area remains a beacon for young families and investors.

Tony Williams emphasised that the structured transaction options available for the site make it an attractive proposition in the current market.

“The market dynamics in Ipswich are incredibly tight, with a vacancy rate well below the 2-3 per cent range considered healthy,” Mr Williams said. “This indicates a deep, unsatisfied demand for housing. We are anticipating strong interest from groups who recognise that the Western Growth Corridor is the next major chapter in the Southeast Queensland story.”

The property is being offered via EOIs closing 24 March 2026.

Marburg: established home on new estate

A home in the new Marburg Hills Estate sold late last year for $1,075,000.

Located on a 4,003sqm block, the four bedroom, two bathroom brick home takes advantage of the rural views and proximity to the town’s amenities.

The master bedroom features an ensuite and a large walk-in wardrobe.

The remaining bedrooms are serviced by a central family bathroom.

Outdoors there is a three bay shed with enough room to park three cars as well as have space for a workshop or storage.

The Marburg Hills Estate was developed on land which sold in 2023 for $2.3 million.

Saddle time mounts up for Mark Du Plessis

By PETER FOLEY

MARK Du Plessis is a nice guy but he’s also a tough bugger. He doesn’t just talk, he acts. And his actions have deeply personal motivation.

Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, in 1975, Mark’s apprenticeship started in 1991 and in the 19941995 season, he was champion apprentice jockey.

In 1998, he moved to New Zealand to ride. Since then, he has ridden in many countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, and Dubai.

Injuries, the constant in any jockey’s life, have punctuated his career.

Last July, Mark suffered three fractured vertebrae and a broken rib in a four-horse fall at Ipswich. One of the horses, Fast Fun, had to be euthanased.

Mark did what any jockey would do to get back in the saddle – he got treatment and he rehabbed. But he had a higher purpose. His son Cruze.

Cruze Du Plessis is an accomplished show jumper and pony scurry competitor in New Zealand, where he lives with his mum Vicki Ridley.

New Zealand’s Pony Scurry Series is similar to pony racing in Australia, providing a competition for aspiring young jockeys.

“I’ve got a 12-year-old boy who wants to be an apprentice. So when he comes through, I’ll definitely be there for him,” Mark said.

“That’s why, after that crash I had here in July, he was the main reason I came back to riding; so that I didn’t send him the message that I retired because of a fall.

“Iwantedhimtoseemegetup and carry on. He watches all the races now and I think he’s pretty proud Dad’s still going.

“We still discuss races; he rings me every week. So that is the main reason I’m still going.

“I would love to ride with him, one day. I don’t know if I’ll get there.”

Mark Du Plessis is a good bloke. He flashes a modest grin at thementionofthat,buthealways has a smile, a friendly nod and a quiet word for up-and-comers.

“I love giving back,” he said. “I love it when apprentices come andseekadvice.Itjustmeansthat they want to learn.

“I find it hard when apprentices don’t ask, because then they think they know everything.”

Despite injuries, Mark also loves riding winners; the pleasure it gives him, the connection with the horse and the association with owners and trainers.

“Brisbane’s become a very hard place to ride now. There’s a lot of youngsters coming through, which is great. There’s a lot of riders have come from Victoria,” he said.

“I’m 50 years old now, so that puts a lot of people off. I believe now I’m winning a lot of races on experience.

“Experience is a big key. It makes you confident. Especially when you get on horses that can win.”

At Ipswich racetrack last Friday, Mark won the Seven News Handicap (2180m) on Whatjeudoin’, trained in Toowoomba by Matt Kropp.

“Given the right opportunities like today and last week, it gives me a great deal of joy to provide for those people that support me, like the Kropps, the Sears,” he said.

Trainers Tony and Maddysen Sears often use Mark and all parties have recently been rewarded with successful horses Nightline and The Pool Boy.

He has no plans to stop riding, but he already has plenty to be proud of in his career.

“I’m lucky enough to ride in 11 or 12 different countries. I’ve been riding about 36 years,” he said.

“I won a premiership in my hometown and then again in Singapore.

“I’ve won 19 Group 1 winners. I’d love to get to 20 and I’d love to get it here in Australia.

“I don’t know how long I’ll go for. I’m enjoying the success I’m getting at the moment and the support.

“Injuries obviously slow you down a bit. But I’ve got a good PT, and I keep myself very active so that all helps.”

Outside of riding and his kids, golf is his passion. When he was in Hong Kong, it was frowned on if a jockey didn’t play golf. Mark and Zac Purton played on Fridays.

He got a hole in one last March at Nudgee Golf Club but given the choice, he’d always take another Group 1.

Jets in PNG: Asaro warriors give a welcome

By CLANCY NUGENT

THE Ipswich Jets had a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’ on Saturday, playing in front of upwards of 10,000 people in the highlands of Papua New Guineu.

It was the Jets final trial match of the pre-season and they flew to Port Moresby on Friday before taking a domestic flight to Goroka,whichhasneverhosteda HostplusCupgamebefore,where they were welcomed like royalty.

The Goroka community held a traditional PNG ceremony when the players arrived.

Many of these fans do not get to see Hostplus Cup football on a regular basis as it is a six hour drive from Goroka to Port Moresby where the Hunters play their home games.

They love their Hunters, but they also show incredible passion and support to the travelling teams from Australia.

Although the Jets regularly make a trip to PNG in the Hostplus Cup season, this was the first time they had travelled to play a game outside the nation’s capital, introducing themselves to a new group of rugby league fans.

Head coach Tye Ingebrigtsen said he had never experienced a crowd like it.

“It was massive, that’s the biggest crowd I’ve ever coached in front of,” Ingebrigtsen said.

“Usually when you get a decent crowd in PNG for a regular season game but what we witnessedontheweekend,I’venever been in, involved in something like that before. It was so cool.

“They did a big ceremony whenwewalkedofftheplaneand

It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for many of the players.

just the whole way we were treatedfortheselastcoupleofdays,it’s been very special experience.

“The community out there love rugby league so much, it’s their number one sport so they really look up to the players and that’s their national team so they really get around the Hunters and they’re really respectful to the opposition that flies over.

“I know the Hunters were there for three days up in Goroka, getting out and doing things there, and for those fans to be able to be treated to a game like that was such a such a special experience,” he said.

It was a great opportunity for a number of the Jets players to bond in a completely different environment heading into the season.

They earned a 32 to 22 win and came away with no serious injuriesinaqualitygameoffooty.

“We had a lot of lot of changes throughout the course of the preseason with our roster so that time over the 48 hours that players got to spend together with no outside noise, from a team building aspect, I think I couldn’t have asked for any more,” Ingebrigtsen said.

“There were some really good performances with some guys really pushing their claims for round one,” he said.

The Jets have had a promising pre-season with two wins and are looking ready to go for round one.

While a number of players are lockedinforthefirstmatchofthe season, the makeup of the side

will be dependent on which players get sent back from the Gold Coast Titans to play Queensland Cup footy.