Melbourne Cup at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

2015 Ipswich Melbourne Cup Event

• Melbourne Cup at Harvest Restaurant and Bar (Metro Hotel Ipswich International)
• $15.00 per person offering featuring finger food and a drink on arrival
• 12 noon to 2.30pm

Mary Poppins The Broadway Musical showing at Ipswich Civic Centre - Sept 2015

Ipswich Musical Theatre Company - who staged The Phantom of the Opera in 2014 - now take great pleasure in presenting “in the most delightful way” MARY POPPINS The Broadway Musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film!

Exhilarating dance numbers, astonishing stagecraft, and a little bit of magic helps this musical soar high above the rest.

Including best loved songs from the film; Chim Chim Cher-Ee, A Spoonful of Sugar, Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Feed the Birds, Let’s Go Fly a Kite & of course Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

Believe in the magic of Mary Poppins and discover a world where anything can happen if you let it!

Starring:

Mary Poppins	Lauren Roche
Bert	Simon Drew
Jane	Jessica Parcell
	Hannah Ross
Michael	Noah Bertram
	Jayden McGinlay
George Banks	Ian Schubert
Winifred Banks	Simone Behrendorff
Mrs Brill	Susan Glosko

Dates & Pricing:

	Sat, 12 Sep 2015 - 7.30 PM Sun, 13 Sep 2015 - 1:30 PM Fri, 18 Sep 2015 - 7:30 PM Sat, 19 Sep 2015 - 7:30 PM Sun, 20 Sep 2015 - 1:30 PM
	Adult $50.00 Concession/Student $45.00 Primary School Child $25.00 Family Pass (2A & 2 PSC) $135.00 Group 6+ $45.00 Group 10+ $40.00

Location: Ipswich Civic Centre - Corner of Limestone & Nicholas Streets, Ipswich QLD Australia

Buy Online Tickets: www.ipswichciviccentre.com.au/mary-poppins

Orion Lagoon Opening - Robelle Domain at Springfield Central Ipswich 5th September 2015

A NEW world class lagoon swimming pool has been completed and ready for launch at Robelle Domain. It will be one of the biggest public lagoon-style swimming pools in Australia.

The exciting new lagoon at Robelle Domain at Springfield Central is nearing completion so what better way to celebrate the start of Spring and the warmer days with a splash around the new lagoon!

There will be lots of fun happening at the opening event including roving performers, entertainment, and of course the lagoon will be open for swimmers!

Springfield Markets in the park area of Robelle Domain will also be in full swing with entertainment, inflatable rides and fireworks at 7.30 pm!

Saturday, 5 September 2015
12.00 pm – 3.00 pm: Lagoon Opening Activities
12.00 pm – 8.00 pm: Springfield Markets

Access via Sinnathamby Boulevard, Springfield Central:

• FREE entry (food and beverages available for purchase)
• Alcohol free event
• Limited free parking will be available from 8.00 am – 8.00 pm.

The new swimming lagoon will be a much-desired attraction in Robelle Domain, and along with other water bodies cover a total area of 2,500 square metres.

This makes it one of Australia's largest outdoor recreation facilities of its kind.

Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said a review of the original plans and budget enabled council to include a zero to over a metre depth swimming lagoon equal in size to Southbank's famous beach pool.

The lagoon will cater for the local community and families right across the western corridor.
"We are committed to a city that is happy, lively and a place where people can't wait to bring their kids.

"Whether that's to have an ice cream and a splash in the lagoon on the weekend, or to make a permanent home for the family, everyone is welcome in Ipswich and we can't wait to see you.

"This is a decision by all councillors, and I want to thank them for their strategic vision and their dedication to the Ipswich of tomorrow.

"This lagoon also takes pressure off the capital and provides an ideal recreational destination for residents of all cities along the western corridor.

"Enhanced lighting, landscaping, seating, bbqs and water fountains will also be installed to make this a true recreation destination.

"Installation of Safe City CCTV cameras is planned as a future enhancement.

"These works will be a boost for the local economy with a number of jobs created during the construction phase of the project and an additional 15 full time jobs per annum for the city once the lagoon is in full operation," Cr Pisasale said.

Parks, Sport and Recreation Committee Chairperson and Division 1 Cr David Morrison said this decision will be welcomed by all local residents and families.

"The 3.74 hectare development that includes the lagoon, new green space and walking tracks brings together Robelle Domain, Orion Town Centre, Springfield Central train station, Education City and the Parklands Business District into a single unified hub.

"Being able to do some shopping at Orion, enjoy a gourmet al fresco lunch and then stroll through beautiful parklands to take the kids for a dip is in the immediate future for local residents.

"It's going to be great and as the local Councillor I am thrilled.

Springfield Land Corporation deputy chairman Bob Sharpless welcomed the commencing of works and confirmation of the lagoon pool.

"This is another significant milestone in the history of the Springfield Central town centre," Mr Sharpless said.

"Just as South Bank has done, this South Bank at Springfield will become a tourism destination for tens of thousands of visitors with major economic flow-ons also to be  expected across the Ipswich region."

The new South Bank size lagoon parkland is expected to attract 100,000 visitors a year.

Sources: http://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/about_council/media/article-archive/2014/green-light-for-swimming-lagoon-at-robelle-domain
http://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/about_ipswich/news_and_events/events/robelle-domain-lagoon-opening

Squadron Set to March into Town in $77m Plan

IPSWICH HQ: Officer Commanding 17th Construction Squadron, 6th
Engineer Support Regiment Major Henry Stimson, leads the squadron on
parade

THE army presence at RAAF Base Amberley is set to grow with plans for another squadron to be relocated to Ipswich under a $77 million project.

A defence spokeswoman confirmed yesterday that 17th Construction Squadron would be relocated from Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney to RAAF Amberley in early 2017.

She said about 140 positions would be transferred to Amberley and construction of new facilities at the base was planned to start in the coming months, subject to parliamentary approval.

The move co-locates the 17th Construction Squadron with its parent unit, the 6th Engineer Support Regiment. The headquarters of the 6 ESR and the 21st Construction Squadron are already at Amberley.

The Department of Defence said the relocation of 17th Construction Squadron would provide opportunities to enhance the command and control of engineer units in south-east Queensland and to improve the overall operational and training effectiveness of 6 ESR.

The project being considered by the Federal Government's Public Works Committee proposes to provide both purpose built and adaptively reused facilities for 17th Construction Squadron.

Construction of the squadron headquarters offices, troop buildings, workshop and vehicle and equipment shelters is expected to be completed by late 2016. A public hearing on the project will be held at Metro Hotel Ipswich International tomorrow at 1pm.

Mayor Paul Pisasale welcomed the $77 million investment in the city and said Defence families were a strong part of the community spirit. "We are a defence city," Cr Pisasale said.

"We want to give a loud and clear message to the people of Australia that we are there to support RAAF Base Amberley. We are here not only to support the base but to support the families."

17 Construction Squadron was originally formed in 1949 and based at Kingsford, New South Wales. Operational achievements include the Vietnam War, Operation Slipper in Afghanistan and peacekeeping operations in Namibia and East Timor.

Squadron personnel are trained as plant operators, carpenters, plumbers and electricians.

With more than 600 regular soldiers, 6 ESR is the largest of the Royal Australian Engineer regiments.

A Defence report into the relocation notes that RAAF Base Amberley is one of the largest Defence sites in Australia and is also home to RAAF's C17 strategic airlift fleet, Army's 9th Force Support Battalion and the Joint Logistics Unit.

"As such, relocating 17 Construction Squadron to RAAF Base Amberley will also enable wider Defence gains in operational effectiveness that involve domestic and regional air and land deployments, and operational efficiencies that involve the reliance on force and national level logistics support and sustainment," the report states.

View Source Article

Blasina Will Help Ipswich People 'Reboot Their Business

Blasina Will Help Ipswich People 'Reboot Their Business

Television's "The Gadget Guy" Peter Blasina will help Ipswich people "reboot their business" at the first Ipswich Region Digital Expo.

The Channel Seven Sunrise Program's regular guest presenter has signed on as guest speaker for the event, held at the Metro Hotel Ipswich International on May 28.

The Ipswich Region Digital Expo will assist small to medium businesses in the region on the benefits of digital technology and 'Cloud' applications for business and technology providers can assist with hands on use of digital devices and technology.

The event will be held on May 28, from 7.30am to 6.30pm. For more details, contact 3810 6938 or ipswichcity@ipswich.qld.gov.au
Meetings and Events at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Book Accommodation at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

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The Official Blues Brother's Review Ipswich

A reverent replication of the musical, comedic and cinematic legends - The Blue Brothers'

 

The Official Blues Brother's Review Ipswich

The Blues Brothers are what can only be described as the stuff of
musical, comedic and cinematic legend. They have become an inextricable
thread woven into the fabric of our culture and the images of Jake and
Elwood are universally and instantaneously recognisable throughout this,
and quite possibly, other solar systems.



Featuring Wayne Catania as Jake and Kieron Lafferty as Elwood, The Official Blues Brothers™ Revue and
their eight‐piece intercontinental rhythm and blues revue band pay
homage to the humour, music and mayhem of the Blues Brothers and to
Chicago’s rich musical history of blues, gospel and soul music.



Produced
by Dan Aykroyd, Judith Belushi and original Blues Brothers musical director Paul Shaffer, The Official Blues Brothers™ Revue features all the Blues Brothers classics including Soul Man, Rubber Biscuit, Sweet Home Chicago, Rawhide and Gimme Some Lovin’ among many others.



Event Details:



Sunday 17th of May 2015 at 6.00 PM

Adult $55.00

Concession/Student $49.00

Group 6+ $49.00

Group 10+ $45.00



IN ASSOCIATION WITH LENNARD PROMOTIONS AND
IPSWICH CIVIC CENTRE, DAN AYKROYD AND JUDITH BELUSHI PRESENT : THE
OFFICIAL BLUES BROTHERS™ REVUE



View the official site for more information



Keywords: The Official Blues Brother's Review Ipswich, blues brothers ipswich, ipswich shows, civic theatre shows, ipswich hotels, accommodation ipswich, metro hotel ipswich international

Metro Hotel Ipswich International Helps Make Your Big Event Memorable

GREAT LOCATION: Metro Hotel Ipswich International general manager Earl Muir

ON SATURDAY, May 2, the Ipswich CBD will be alive with the action, colour and entertainment of the annual Ipswich Festival.

Part of the activities will be the showcase of events presented by the Metro Hotel Ipswich International, service sponsor of this year's Ipswich Festival.

General manager Earl Muir said the hotel could assist customers looking for a great location in Ipswich for their special event.

"We proudly support the Ipswich Festival and we are taking this opportunity while people are in town to remind people we are here," Mr Muir said.

Amidst the array of things to do, pop into the hotel at 43 South St, Ipswich and meet with the experienced events team to talk to them about your upcoming event, be it a wedding, gala dinner, formal or special birthday party.

"Our team will be able to give you many ideas from themed rooms, menus, entertainment and everything that will make your event an experience to remember. And while you are there, enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly and tease your tastebuds with a selection of canapés," he said.

By simply having a chat about a future event and checking out the venue, you could win one night's accommodation, full buffet breakfast and dinner for two and a sunset flight with Pterodactyl Helicopters worth $980, so make sure you fill in the entry form.

The hotel's events showcase is being held from 11am-4pm, leaving time for visitors to stroll around the corner to take up position for the Ipswich Festival Parade at 6pm.

"We offer a complete package for weddings, the only hotel in the city that does so, including accommodation, venue, food and beverage package it means that the couple have a flat, per head cost and room for them to add their own personal touches to their special day," he said.

When it comes to conferences, the variety of rooms available is sure to please. Each room has high speed data connectivity, data projector and standard resources, Metro offers conference packages.

Mr Muir is no stranger to hospitality, starting out with the hotel scene around backpackers in Europe, working in resorts in far North Queensland and with Rick Stein, Alistair McLeod and other well-known chefs.

"I have been here for a year now and it is a very rewarding opportunity," he said.

Metro Hotels is the public face of Transmetro Corporation, an Australian owned public company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. The group currently provides a national accommodation network of properties, with more than 1000 rooms in key locations and major cities across Australia.

Visit Metro Hotel Ipswich International during the festival celebrations on May 2. 

For more details phone 3812 8077

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Metro Hotel Ipswich International showcase for weddings, parties, gala dinners and formals

Metro Hotel Ipswich International functions showcase for weddings, parties, gala dinners and formals! 

When: 2nd May 2015 from 11am to 4pm
Where: 43 South Street, Ipswich QLD

Enjoy a FREE glass of bubbly and a selection of canapes from our Head Chef Guy Farrow!

Experience a selection of themed room perfect for your next event. Come and enjoy how we can enhance your next special occasion or even and meet our experienced event team at Metro Hotel Ipswich International.

Go in the draw for your chance to win the Sunset Flight Overnight Experience for two people valued at $980! To enter, fill in your entry form at Metro Hotel Ipswich International.

Website: www.metrohotels.com.au/hotels/queensland/metro-hotel-ipswich-international

Shayne Neumann | Metro Hotels Stand - Regional Showcase Event Ipswich

Shayne Neumann | Metro Hotels Stand - Regional Showcase Event Ipswich

Shane With Gail, Emma and Earl supporting Metro Hotels & CCIQ Bremer Region tonight. Well done sponsors & exhibitors.

Follow Shayne Newman on twitter at https://twitter.com/ShayneNeumannMP

Ipswich Festival 2015 Highlights

The spectacular Ipswich Festival is back in 2015 bigger than ever! Packed with fantastic shows, events, parades and concerts to suit the whole family.

Fire on the River launches the festivities with a spectacular explosion of colours lighting up the night sky. Join us for an enthralling display of fireworks synchronised to a dedicated soundtrack that is sure to delight the whole family. This spectacular pyrotechnic display has become a festival favourite with a stunning showcase of the very best "feature" fireworks and fire canons.

Best vantage points are at Riverlink Shopping Centre and David Trumpy Bridge.

Date: Thursday April 16th @ 7pm
Location: Riverlink Shopping Centre, Upper Level, Ipswich Central

Parade of Light - Cheer on the cavalcade of our spirited community groups, classic cars, lively marching bands, local businesses, festival characters, schools, and energetic dancers.

For the first time, the Ipswich Festival Parade moves into the night creating high excitement and a colourful carnival atmosphere. Be amazed as giant, magical lanterns journey along Ipswich's inner city streets creating a night of spectacular surprises.

Themed "Our People, Our Culture", the parade celebrates Ipswich's rich history and diverse community and will be an impressive display that is sure to entertain. The annual parade is a must-see highlight of the festival.

Date: Saturday May 2nd
Location: Brisbane St - Between Waghorn and Bell St

Lunchtime Sessions - Revolutionise your lunchtime routine! Festival LunchTime Sessions feature five exciting days of free live entertainment in Ipswich City Mall. This is a FREE event!

Dates: April 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th
Location: Ipswich City Mall, Ipswich Central
Shows: See below

The Magic Parlour
A day of monumental magical mayhem! Two incredible shows so close up and interactive - they will delight and amaze you. The Super Steph Magic Show and Damien the Magician. Plus balloon art, live bunny and magical tricks galore. This one is for the kids as well as the young at heart.
Tuesday April 21st 11am - 1.30pm

The Romance of Strauss, Bach and Bluegrass
Lunch with over 20 musicians from the strings section of Ipswich City Orchestra. Come and be swept away to old Vienna with Strauss Waltzes played by the professional Orchestra's String section. Then get your hands clapping for some good old fashioned bluegrass with the Suzuki Students of Ipswich.
Wednesday April 22nd 11am - 1pm

That's Entertainment!
Let us take you on a journey of timeless music and history, with 'Back to Basics' recreating the era of the Andrew Sisters, followed by a mash of your favourite hit pop rock songs of the 70's, 80's, 90's and beyond with live band Shriners Park. Tea & light refreshments early or BYO lunch.
Thursday April 23rd 11am - 2pm

Big Band Brassy
Swing and sway to the smooth and brassy sounds of the amazing C17's Amberley Brass Band and the gold medal award winning Redbank Plains State High School Marching Band. Sit back and relax or dance to the beat of big band swing, classical, new world symphony, and so much more.
Wednesday April 29th 11am - 2pm

Swing it!
With a double scoop of comedy and a generous serving of musical mayhem the Swingin' Martinis belt out the best of Frank Sinatra/Dean Martin classics through to the Proclaimers via ABBA and Tom Jones - all fused together to bring you some good old high energy and cracking entertainment.
Thursday April 30th 12noon - 1pm

Night Time Sessions:
Latin Dance with Brazilian Soul
Join in the fun or opt in the free dance class when Brazilian Soul perform a variety of Latin dance styles, all authentic from South America.
Wednesday April 22nd 5pm - 6pm

SwingaBilly Ray
It's a revival of the golden age of swing jazz. Kick up you heels doing the lindy hop, the Charleston, St Louis shag, or shim sham and jitterbug - all this to the sounds of your favourite swing tunes from yesteryear. Everybody welcome. Free Swing Dance Class.
Thursday April 30th 5pm - 7.30pm


To view more Ipswich Festival highlights visit their official website: www.ipswichfestival.com.au/2015/browse.php?cat=1

International Rugby League May 1-2 Queensland NRL Representative Round

International Rugby League will return to South-East Queensland this year with Brisbane and the Gold Coast set to host a blockbuster stand-alone weekend of representative rugby league in May.

In a huge coup for NRL fans in Queensland, Suncorp Stadium will host the traditional Trans-Tasman Test Match between Australia and New Zealand, supported by Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), on Friday May 1.

The Test is the only international match between the Kangaroos and the Kiwis in 2015. The Test Match will be a key game in rugby league's program of events to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli.

May 1 also sees the Australian Jillaroos take on the NZ Kiwi Ferns at Suncorp Stadium, while Pacific powerhouses Samoa, Fiji, Tonga and Papua New Guinea will be part of a triple-header at Gold Coast's Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday May 2.

The first match on Saturday night (May 2) will feature the Junior Kangaroos against the Junior Kiwis. The PNG Kumuls will then take on Fiji Bati, before Samoa return to the international stage following their successful Four Nations campaign against traditional rivals Tonga.

View Information Source 

Country Superstars Rock Ipswich as CMC Plans to Stay

CMC ROCKS is set to have a home in Ipswich for years to come after a hugely successful three-day international country and roots music festival wrapped up yesterday.

More than 30,000 fans came through the gates during the festival with US international act Big and Rich closing last night's program to great acclaim.

Troy Cassar-Daley backs CMC Rocks' future

The festival has a three-year deal out at Willowbank with Ipswich City Council and the State Government but Matthew Lazarus-Hall, the CEO of co-promoter Chugg Entertainment, said a long-term stay was in the pipeline.

"We want a permanent home here," he said.

"We have moved this festival twice and we'd love to be here as long as people want us to be here."

Mr Lazarus-Hall said Ipswich, and south-east Queensland generally, was a hub for the genre.

"We've moved the festival to where the audience is," he said.

"Everyone who has come to the festival has had a great time."

More than 75% of the suppliers for the festival were from the region, ensuring a massive injection into the local economy.

Mr Lazarus-Hall said the Willowbank site was like "a mini city" with all the facilities available for fans to have a great time.

"We have even got a doctor and pharmacist on site," he said.

"It is very rare you have everyone running in the same direction but everyone from the local suppliers, to the council and State Government has been a dream to deal with.

"Mayor (Paul) Pisasale has been amazing. He has said, 'whatever we need to do to make it work, let's get on with it'.

"We really appreciate the opportunity to bring international acts out but also to promote Australian acts."

Grammy Award winners such as Lady Antebellum, Chris Young and Kacey Musgraves played as did Australian stars.

The Aussie acts proved a big drawcard for Ipswich's Tammy Telford.

"This is the day I wanted to come, to see Adam Harvey, John Williamson and Troy Cassar-Daley," she said yesterday

"I'm from Ipswich, so this is absolutely fantastic that us Queenslanders get to go.

"I'll be coming every year. I'm a huge country fan."

View Source

Country Superstars Rock Ipswich as CMC Plans to Stay

CMC ROCKS is set to have a home in Ipswich for years to come after a hugely successful three-day international country and roots music festival wrapped up yesterday.

More than 30,000 fans came through the gates during the festival with US international act Big and Rich closing last night's program to great acclaim.

Troy Cassar-Daley backs CMC Rocks' future

The festival has a three-year deal out at Willowbank with Ipswich City Council and the State Government but Matthew Lazarus-Hall, the CEO of co-promoter Chugg Entertainment, said a long-term stay was in the pipeline.

"We want a permanent home here," he said.

"We have moved this festival twice and we'd love to be here as long as people want us to be here."

Mr Lazarus-Hall said Ipswich, and south-east Queensland generally, was a hub for the genre.

"We've moved the festival to where the audience is," he said.

"Everyone who has come to the festival has had a great time."

More than 75% of the suppliers for the festival were from the region, ensuring a massive injection into the local economy.

Mr Lazarus-Hall said the Willowbank site was like "a mini city" with all the facilities available for fans to have a great time.

"We have even got a doctor and pharmacist on site," he said.

"It is very rare you have everyone running in the same direction but everyone from the local suppliers, to the council and State Government has been a dream to deal with.

"Mayor (Paul) Pisasale has been amazing. He has said, 'whatever we need to do to make it work, let's get on with it'.

"We really appreciate the opportunity to bring international acts out but also to promote Australian acts."

Grammy Award winners such as Lady Antebellum, Chris Young and Kacey Musgraves played as did Australian stars.

The Aussie acts proved a big drawcard for Ipswich's Tammy Telford.

"This is the day I wanted to come, to see Adam Harvey, John Williamson and Troy Cassar-Daley," she said yesterday

"I'm from Ipswich, so this is absolutely fantastic that us Queenslanders get to go.

"I'll be coming every year. I'm a huge country fan."

View Source

Ipswich, where the sky’s the limit. Hot-air ballooning over Ipswich.

Hot-air ballooning over Ipswich, Queensland.

FIRE lights the sky in the pre-dawn of a Queensland day. Soon we are floating gently upwards, borne by a hot-air balloon above the heritage city of Ipswich.

Beyond the balloon gondola, the landscape wakes to the sun. The Great Dividing Range, in shades of grey and blue and green, shrouded in mist, rises in front of us and below us the narrow ribbon of the Bremer River cuts its way through the city. Sunlight catches on the brick and stone buildings of Queensland’s oldest provincial city, dotted with parks and gardens.

Before long we are flying over farmland and vineyards, drinking in the landscape from 550m while Floating Images chief pilot Graeme Day tends the burners and the wind takes us where it will.

On a two-day visit to Ipswich, I find myself in the air almost more often than on the ground, as I sample some of the activities that make the region an easy choice for a Brisbane getaway. Only 30 minutes’ drive from the Queensland capital, Ipswich is undergoing a renaissance that is seeing many of its heritage buildings put to modern use, with the undulating countryside of southeast Queensland’s Scenic Rim just minutes out of town.

In the city centre, the modern Metro Hotel International is the pick-up and drop-off point for ballooning and helicopter tours. Balloon rides finish with a champagne breakfast at the hotel’s Platform 9 restaurant.

At Ironbark Ridge vineyard, a mob of kangaroos, more than a dozen strong, stands stock still beside the driveway, alert but immobile as they watch us pass. We’ve arrived in rock-star style … by limousine transfer from Brisbane and then by helicopter, landing in a mown circle of grass on the edge of the vineyard.

“We also occasionally get a couple of koalas wandering through,” says winemaker Barry Hoffensetz, who planted the first vines on his property in 1983.

Ironbark Ridge is the oldest of about a dozen boutique wineries on the regular drop-in list of Captain Mike Jarvis’ Pterodactyl Helicopters tours. Soon we’re heading to the cellar door, a historic miner’s cottage that served as Hoffensetz’s surgery in Ipswich before he retired as a GP.

Tastings are waiting. Ironbark Ridge has 3.4ha under vine with mainly chardonnay, shiraz and grenache grapes, but smaller plantings of boutique varieties such as marsanne, rousanne, viognier, dolcetto, verdelho and nebioli. All the vines are hand-planted and the grapes are hand-picked.

It has not always been easy. “We had 10 to 12 years of drought, then an abundance of rain at the wrong time in the past four years,” says Hoffensetz.

But he and his wife, Jan, and others in the region, have persevered and the heli-tours have helped. Pterodactyl Helicopters is one of several businesses boosting Ipswich’s tourism industry beyond its well-known heritage attractions.

At the second of two vineyards on our combo-tour from Pterodactyl’s wine and pub tours, Normanby Wines owner Mick Hall extends a grape-stained hand in welcome to his “best backyard in the world”.

Hall came to Australia five decades ago, from England, and now declares the nearby village of Harrisville “the hub of the universe”. He and his wife Jenny have lived there since 1972 and planted their first vines in 1999. They have seven varieties of grape on 3ha of their 66ha property. I’m intrigued by wine names I’ve never heard before: veraz (a blend of verdelho and shiraz) and durif. Hall says Normanby Wines is one of the few Queensland vineyards to produce durif, a rich dark red wine.

A few minutes’ flight away — and about 30km from Ipswich by road — is the historic Royal Hotel Harrisville, where we tuck into schnitzel for lunch and down a couple of cold beers. Publicans Steve and Monika Patrick bought the pub three years ago, and will soon open their first accommodation, in a restored railway carriage, to complement the free camping they offer to travellers.

In stark contrast to the Royal’s elegant Queenslander-style verandahs, our next pub stop is the Sundowner Saloon at Haigslea, on the busy Warrego Highway. With a front garden of tall cactus, saloon doors and Clint Eastwood gazing down from the restaurant wall, it’s country and western territory.

We finish our tour in town at Ipswich’s new boutique brewery, the Pumpyard Bar. On the ground floor in the heritage-listed former Ipswich Technical College, where blacksmiths and plumbers once learned their trades, the place is all industrial-chic, with a long wooden bar and shiny stainless steel brewing tanks lining the walls.

Award-winning brewer Wade Curtis and co-owner James Long are hopeful their 4 Hearts Brewing venture will attract not only locals but Brisbane-ites looking for new places to drink and dine.

With 10 taps, the brewhouse is offering its own seven beers (with names such as Coalminers Stout to reflect the city’s heritage), “guest” boutique beers and ciders, and organic soft drinks. The beer-focused menu includes a signature beef cheek dish and even beer ice-cream.

Pumpyard is the first tenant in the redevelopment of the sprawling old Technical College, to be known as 88 Limestone, in Ipswich’s Top of Town district. This takes in Ellenborough, Brisbane and Limestone streets, all bustling with renovation and redevelopment projects. Cafes and restaurants are springing up and there are vintage fashion stores, the Daily Planet comic shop and CJ Volger & Son’s model and hobby store. None of it is far from the Ipswich Art Gallery, which lays claim to being the nation’s most visited regional art gallery, and Jamie Oliver’s first Australian Ministry of Food kitchen.

But it’s the Latin phrase emblazoned on the frieze on the front of the Limestone 88 building that catches my eye. Auspicium Melioris Aevi, it reads. The translation, I’m told, is roughly, “the promise of a better age”. Somehow, it seems appropriate.

Lee Mylne was a guest of the Metro Hotel Ipswich International, Floating Images and Pterodactyl Helicopters.

CHECKLIST

Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights runs one-hour balloon flights daily, including a champagne breakfast. More: floatingimages.com.au.

Pterodactyl Helicopters has a range of options including wine and pub tours. More: pterodactyl.com.au.

Metro Hotel Ipswich International has 97 guestrooms and nine one-bedroom apartments. More: metrohotels.com.au.

Ladies on Show in Top Racing Ipswich

It is all about the girls at Ipswich over the next three weeks.

The Ipswich Turf Club hosts heats of the Girls on Track series tomorrow and on March 18, as well as the sold out Swichettes Ladies Day on March 13.

The "Girls on Track" series is an initiative of Racing Queensland to celebrate the contribution of women across the state in both harness and thoroughbred racing.

There is a series of heats, including the two at Ipswich, which lead to the $100,000 final for fillies and mares at Doomben on March 28. There are also bonuses for the leading female trainer and jockey during the series.

Gold Coast trainer Gillian Heinrich will be a highlight of the Swichettes Ladies Day on March 13 as the near to sold out event will be hosted during the ITC Friday race meeting.

The bubbly is sure to be flowing along with fashion and fun galore as the Swichettes group enjoy a day trackside.

Females Sand Tall

IT is fitting for current Ipswich premier trainer Gillian Heinrich to be the guest speaker after becoming the first female in 155 years of racing in Ipswich to achieve that honour.

One would expect the female jockeys to come in for more betting support than normal.

The likes of Tegan Harrison, who became the first female to ride an Ipswich Cup winner on Brave Ali last year, and current Premier Ipswich Apprentice Cassandra Schmidt, mix it up with their male counterparts.

Fittingly in Ipswich

THERE was a big day of racing at Ipswich last Wednesday as nine races were contested, including the $65,000 QTIS three-year old, which had been transferred from a waterlogged Doomben.

On a soft track, the big money race provided a great spectacle as runners were forced 14 horses wide on the home turn ruining the chances of many including top weight and widest runner Punta Norte.

Roughie Seashells snuck along the rails under the urgings of apprentice Beau Appo to get the win in a blanket finish fitting of a race of such value.

Benico's Prince was second just in front of the favourite Polynikes resulting in a trifecta pay of $5500 and first four of $30,000.

If that wasn't enough, another huge highlight was delivered in the next, the ninth and final race.

Former champion jockey Chris Munce collected his first win as a trainer.

Munce was visibly thrilled as Specific Choice put him on the board as a trainer with an easy win under apprentice Matt McGillivray.

Munce is a dual Ipswich premier jockey. He's also one of a handful of jockeys to win the four major races in Australia - the Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate, and Golden Slipper.

After doing it all in the saddle he has now turned to training.

He noted after the race that it was fitting that his first training win was in Ipswich.

Group 1 favourites fold

WHILE Contributor won the NSW Chipping Norton at Warwick Farm as a $2.50 favourite, it was a blowout for favourites in Melbourne.

Suavito, at $11, defeated Smokin Joey and long odds-on favourite Dissident in the Futurity Stakes.

Next up was the Oakleigh Plate where another to pay $11 and win was Shamal Wind, which defeated Under the Louvre and Fast 'N' Rocking resulting in a big trifecta over $3000.

The final Group 1 for the day was the Blue Diamond which was won by Pride of Dubai over Reemah and Lake Geneva, returning a trifecta of more than $6000. Favourite Fontiton missed a place.

This weekend the Group 1 races include competing 3yo mile races as the Australian Guineas at Flemington are contested at the same time as the Randwick Guineas in Sydney. The Weight for age Canterbury Stakes are also contested over 1300 metres at Randwick.

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Katie Noonan in Concert - Ipswich Qld

Four time ARIA Award winner Katie Noonan is back in 2015 with a brand new band and a new album.

As Katie’s first band project since 2010′s acclaimed Emperor’s Box (with The Captains), the new album shows a richer and fuller sound than Katie’s more recent intimate and acoustic sojourns.

Premiering material from the new album as well as some of her favourite songs, this show marks the beginning of Katie’s exciting new musical chapter.

Katie Noonan announces new band, single and EP

‘Peace Is My Drug’

Support Act Sahara Beck

Katie Noonan returns to the spotlight in 2015 with the launch of a heartfelt new single and EP, ‘Peace Is My Drug’. This release will be accompanied by tour dates across SA, VIC, NSW and QLD from March 12 to March 28 and will be available exclusively via audience fundraising site PledgeMusic, or as a limited edition CD on the tour itself.

Following on from a number of years of unique and highly-acclaimed projects – Songs That Made Me, Love Song Circus, Songbook and Songs of the Southern Skies with Karin Schaupp – this celebrated singer songwriter is ready to share her new original material. The EP will feature two new tracks – ‘Peace Is My Drug’ and ‘Cloud of Home’ – with additional remixes to tantalise the senses. ‘Peace Is My Drug’ is based around the Michael Leunig poem ‘Peace’, with Leunig creating a second verse to the poem exclusively for this song.

Katie is thrilled to work with a band again, returning to her first love and harking back to the days of George after several solo, duo, ensemble and cross platform collaborations in recent years. This new band line-up includes two members of The Captains – Stu Hunter and Declan Kelly, as well as outstanding Melbourne guitarist Ben Edgar (Angus & Julia Stone). The tour will see the band premiering new material from the ‘Peace Is My Drug’ EP and forthcoming album, as well as songs from The Katie Noonan and The Captains project and one or two Noonan favourites.

As a proudly independent artist, Katie is launching a PledgeMusic campaign, an undertaking that will enable her to finish and release an album of new material. Katie discussed the campaign today, saying, ‘I have been hesitant to do so for many years, as I figure it’s enough to ask people to come to my gigs and buy my albums. But having produced six independent albums in close to five years, I am in a position now where I would love to invite my wonderful audience and supporters to be part of the journey for my next album.

My next album feels like a return to me. This is the first truly Katie album with all new material in a long time. All in all, I’m really proud of these songs and so excited to be able to share them.’

When: Fri, 27 Mar 2015 @ 7.30pm
Tickets: https://au.patronbase.com/_Ipswich

• Adult $48.00
• Adult Early Bird $42.00
• Concession/Student $42.00
• Concession/Student Early Bird $36.00
• Group10+ $38.00
• Group 10+ Early Bird $32.00

FREE Program included plus ‘Meet and Greet’ the musicians after the show.

EARLY BIRD TICKETS PURCHASED ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2015!

• Performance Duration 2 Hours
• 20 Minute Interval
• No Photography/Flash Photography or video allowed

Source: http://www.ipswichciviccentre.com.au/katie-noonan-and-band-in-concert/