Launching on June 6, the day that celebrates Queensland’s identity and independence, the release pays tribute to the region’s rich heritage and pioneering spirit.

Distilled, aged and bottled in Ipswich, the whisky is the result of years of patience, craftsmanship and a deep connection to place.

“This isn’t just a product launch—it’s a milestone,” said Chief Distiller Jason Hannay.
“We chose Queensland Day deliberately. It represents identity, independence, and that same spirit is captured in this whisky for Ipswich.”

The limited release will be available at the distillery’s cellar door and online, with strong demand expected.

Imbibis Craft Distillery Address: 5/1 Gliderway St, Bundamba QLD 4304

By Rach Z | Radio Springfield City

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Speaking on It’s Rach Z on Radio Springfield City, Ipswich Show President Darren Zanow shared just how much work goes into delivering the iconic event.

“Organising a show takes 12 months,” he said, “but the last few weeks have been all hands on deck, with volunteers working around the clock to bring everything together.”

This year’s show promises something for everyone, with a packed program running this Friday through Sunday. Attendees can expect a mix of free entertainment and premium attractions, making it an accessible option for families.

What’s On

Crowds can enjoy a huge lineup of entertainment including:

• FMX Airtime motorbike stunt shows
• Brophy’s Circus
• A brand-new Half Pipe Show
• Sheepdog trials and animal nursery
• Racing ducks (a fun twist on a classic!)
• Chainsaw racing and woodchop competitions
• Brumby’s Run in the main arena

For thrill seekers, the show will feature more rides than ever before, including The Warrior — the tallest travelling ride in Australia, standing at an incredible 65 metres.

Saving on the Show

With cost-of-living pressures in mind, organisers are offering discounted ride deals, with bonus value available for pre-purchased tickets.

Visitors are encouraged to buy online before the event to take full advantage of savings.

Food & Community Spirit

Food lovers won’t be disappointed, with a wide variety of cuisines from around the world, as well as classic show treats like strawberry sundaes — a fan favourite that also supports local community groups.

“The show really is a food fantasy,” Darren said. “There’s something for everyone.”

Powered by Volunteers

The Ipswich Show is part of a much larger movement, with hundreds of volunteers helping bring the event to life each year.

It remains one of the largest volunteer-driven community events in Australia — something organisers are incredibly proud of.

Tickets are available online now, with organisers encouraging everyone to plan ahead and get involved.

By Rach Z | Radio Springfield City

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The Greater Springfield community has once again shown its strength and compassion, coming together for a heartfelt Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month Remembrance Night and Candlelight Vigil at Orion Springfield Central.

Speaking with Radio Springfield City’s Rach Z, State Member for Jordan, Charis Mullen MP, reflected on the significance of the annual event, which she has proudly hosted for the past five years.

“This event is about remembrance, reflection, and raising awareness,” Ms Mullen said. “We want it to be visible in our community — a space where people can stop, reflect, and think about the role we all play in preventing domestic and family violence.”

This year’s vigil was held in a prominent public space at Orion Springfield Central, encouraging community engagement and awareness, even among passersby. The event featured a wide range of local organisations and community groups, all متحد in their commitment to supporting victim survivors and driving change.

Key contributors included the Domestic Violence Action Centre, Beyond DV, and Creative Hearts Co, who created a powerful interactive installation allowing attendees to express their support and solidarity. Community groups such as Zonta and representatives from the Afghan community were also present, highlighting the inclusive and diverse nature of the event.

A particularly poignant moment acknowledged the tragic loss of Mujda Habibi, a young woman from Springfield Lakes, reinforcing the ongoing need for awareness and action within the community.

Adding to the message of hope, Ms Mullen highlighted the upcoming establishment of a Hope Hub at Orion Springfield Central, led by Beyond DV. The hub will provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals experiencing domestic and family violence.

“It’s about hope,” she said. “While we acknowledge the reality of domestic and family violence in our communities, we also want victim survivors to know that with the right support, they can go on to live safe, fulfilling lives.”

The event also featured initiatives such as the Purple Army by Garwin Supplies, raising awareness of the over-representation of Indigenous Australians affected by domestic and family violence.

Rach Zee, who attended the event alongside local groups including Zonta, praised the strong community turnout and collaboration.

“It was a powerful evening. You could really feel the support and unity across the community,” she said.

Radio Springfield City is proud to support conversations that matter and continues to highlight initiatives that make a difference across Greater Springfield.

???? Listeners can catch the full interview with Charis Mullen MP on Radio Springfield City.

The local community is being invited to come together later this month for a tail-wagging celebration of man’s best friend, with the return of Bark in the Park at Springfield Central.

Hosted by Jordan MP Charis Mullen, the free, family-friendly event will take place on Sunday, 24 May at Robelle Domain, promising a fun-filled morning for both pets and their owners.

Ms Mullen said the event is all about celebrating the important role pets play in people’s lives while bringing the community together.

“Our dogs are part of the family, so it’s only fitting they have a special day out just for them,” she said.

“Bark in the Park is a great opportunity to connect with others, celebrate our pets, and enjoy everything that makes our community so vibrant.”

The event will also support a worthy cause, with Empower Assistance Dogs fundraising on the day to continue their work training assistance dogs for people in need.

“They’ll be hosting a spin-the-wheel with fantastic prizes, and every dollar raised will go towards their life-changing programs,” Ms Mullen said.

Attendees can look forward to a wide range of activities, including a red carpet “puparazzi” experience, a best dressed competition, and free professional pet portrait photography.

There will also be agility demonstrations from talented local dogs, along with plenty of family-friendly entertainment such as face painting, paw print artwork, and bandana making.

Local businesses and organisations will be on site with stalls offering advice, products, and services to support pet health and wellbeing.

Food and coffee will be available, while the Goodna Redbank Plains Girl Guides will host a sausage sizzle, with proceeds supporting their group.

Ms Mullen said the event wouldn’t be possible without the support of local businesses, volunteers, and community groups.

“It’s shaping up to be a fantastic morning of fun, connection, and celebration for our whole community,” she said.

Event Details:
When: Sunday, 24 May, 10am to 1pm
Where: Robelle Domain (The Circle), Springfield Central

By Rach Z | Radio Springfield City

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There was plenty of sunshine on the airwaves during Lunchtime with Rach Z this week, as Rach welcomed a very special guest — the “Sunflower Queen” herself, Jenny Jenner, founder of Kalbar Sunflowers.

Beaming with excitement, Jenny joined the show to share the magic behind the much-loved Kalbar Sunflowers festival, which is lighting up the Scenic Rim this weekend. Known for transforming fields into seas of golden blooms, the festival has become a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.

Jenny spoke passionately about the joy the sunflowers bring to the community, creating a space where families, photographers, and flower lovers can come together and soak up the beauty of nature. From vibrant photo opportunities to a relaxed country atmosphere, the festival is all about connection, happiness, and a touch of sunshine.

“It’s just such a happy place,” Jenny shared, her enthusiasm shining through. “Seeing people walk through the fields and smile — that’s what it’s all about.”

With perfect weather and thousands of sunflowers in full bloom, this weekend’s festival promises unforgettable moments for all who attend.

If you’re looking for something to brighten your weekend, Kalbar Sunflowers is in full swing — and as Jenny Jenner says, there’s no better time to stop and smell the sunflowers.

By Rach Z | Radio Springfield City

A powerful tribute to the ANZAC spirit has taken centre stage at Brighton Homes Arena, with Boonah artists Wendy and Robert Badke unveiling a remarkable handcrafted installation for the occasion.

The large-scale corten steel sculptures, depicting the kangaroo and emu from the Australian Coat of Arms, have become a focal point of the ANZAC Day football event, symbolising remembrance, resilience, and national identity. Standing at approximately two metres tall and made from more than 500 individual steel components, each piece reflects strength, endurance, and the spirit of a nation that continues to move forward.

The sculptures were showcased alongside the moving soldier artwork “Lest He Forgets” by Georgia Fehst, creating a powerful visual tribute that brought together art, history, and community reflection.

Speaking with Radio Springfield City, Hue Kedge from Creative Hearts Co. highlighted the significance of the project and the role of local artists in telling important stories.

“Art has the ability to hold space for reflection in a way that words sometimes cannot,” Kedge said. “To showcase local artists at such a meaningful event is something we’re incredibly proud of.”

In the lead-up to the event, Creative Hearts Co. also brought the community together through poppy-making workshops at The Hub, giving locals a hands-on way to honour those who have served. The sessions provided an opportunity for reflection, connection, and shared storytelling in the spirit of ANZAC Day.

The Badkes, who are also known for their involvement in community initiatives such as the Sunflowers of Hope project in collaboration with Kalbar Sunflowers, continue to use their work to give back and strengthen regional ties.

As the community gathered at Brighton Homes Arena, the sculptures served as a poignant reminder that ANZAC Day is not only about remembrance, but also about unity, mateship, and the stories that connect us all.

Photo credit: Hue Kedge, The Creative Hearts Co.

Click Here to Listen

From Navy Service to Community Impact: Stephanie Shipman Shares Her Story on Radio Springfield City

By Antoine Vidal | Radio Springfield City

A powerful and deeply personal conversation is now available on Radio Springfield City, as Antoine Vidal sits down with former Navy sailor Stephanie Shipman.

Stephanie’s journey into the Australian Defence Force began at just 19, driven by a desire to challenge herself both physically and mentally. What followed was a nine-year career that took her across Australia and overseas, including deployments to locations such as Samoa and Hawaii.

In the interview, Stephanie shares firsthand insights into life in the Navy — from the intensity of recruit training to the strong bonds formed while serving alongside fellow personnel.

But beyond the uniform, her story takes an even more compelling turn.

After leaving the Navy, Stephanie faced significant personal challenges, including mental health struggles and the loss of close family members. Like many veterans, transitioning back to civilian life came with its own set of obstacles.

Today, she is using those experiences to make a difference.

As Treasurer of the Greater Springfield RSL Sub-Branch, Stephanie is playing a key role in supporting veterans and building stronger community connections. Her work focuses on bridging the gap for modern veterans — ensuring they feel supported, understood, and connected.

A major highlight of the conversation is the evolving vision for ANZAC Day in Greater Springfield. With a renewed focus on community, inclusion, and connection, Stephanie and her team are helping create a meaningful experience that honours the past while supporting today’s servicemen and women.

Her message is simple but powerful:
“Honour the past, support the present, and build the future.”

The full interview with Stephanie Shipman is now available here: Click Here to Listen

Ipswich is positioned to be the manufacturing and defence capital of Queensland with an 8,000-hectare future supply of industrial land.

With the largest area of land earmarked as developable for commercial and industrial purposes than any other city in South East Queensland, Ipswich City Council has outlined its competitive advantages in a new investment prospectus, The City of Ipswich: Space to Grow.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the city is uniquely positioned to attract advanced manufacturing, defence, production, innovation and logistics.

“Ipswich is in a prime position to help bring manufacturing back to Queensland and Australia,” Mayor Harding said.

“As a proven location for industry to thrive, Ipswich is HQ to operations of companies including Goodman Group, Coles, Suntory Oceania, JBS, Rheinmetall, L’Oréal Groupe, Australia Post, FedEx, TAE Aerospace, Visy, CHEP, Sunny Queen, Bombadier, DB Schenker and Bapcor. Officeworks and Asahi are also building large-scale facilities in Ipswich.

“Manufacturing and defence are our city’s biggest industries, contributing about 60 per cent of our $8 billion in annual exports, and we are hungry more of this type of investment.

“With a potential industrial land supply of 7,923 hectares – a supply bigger than that of all other South East Queensland local government areas combined – we have space planned for new commercial and industrial centres.

“The region overall is facing challenges when it comes to industrial land supply, with Brisbane predicted to run out in a matter of a few years.

“Ipswich stands ready to cater for the land requirements of a range of industries. Our city has a proud history of manufacturing and it remains one of the largest employers of any industry in our city.

“We want to ensure Ipswich is the manufacturing and defence capital of Queensland, so that investment flows through our economy and leads to job opportunities for our residents, while also benefitting our fast-growing region and country more broadly.”

Mayor Harding said greenfield supply is just one of many reasons Ipswich is an attractive place for business.

“The City of Ipswich: Space to Grow investment prospectus highlights our city’s unique strengths as a location for investment including workforce opportunities and geographical advantages, as well as our growth mindset when it comes to business,” Mayor Harding said.

“We have a strong local workforce supply with a population of 270,000 on track to double to more than half a million by 2046 driven by priority residential growth areas, of a median age lower than that of Queensland overall.

“Our location bordering the Brisbane, Logan, Scenic Rim, Lockyer Valley and Somerset local government areas provides connectivity to a catchment of millions of people, and a gateway to the state’s west.

“Ipswich has a booming economy of $15 billion, growing at 4.2 per cent annually with more than 13,000 businesses and 95,000 jobs, and we’re excited for others to join us on this journey of growth.

“Through our Economic Development Incentive Policy, we will continue to attract high value projects to Ipswich that drive job creation, capital investment and support the growth of our local industries.”

John Gualtieri, Managing Director, Officeworks, explained why Ipswich was chosen for the location of the company’s new Omnichannel Distribution Centre, being built at Redbank Motorway Estate.

“This is a significant investment in the future of Officeworks and in how we better serve our customers across every channel to bring their big ideas to life,” Mr Gualtieri said.

“Located in Redbank, with strong access to key transport links and a growing local workforce, this highly automated, future-ready Omnichannel Distribution Centre will help simplify our operations, create hundreds of local jobs, and support our team with a safer and more modern workplace.”

Jess Caire, Queensland Executive Director, Property Council of Australia has endorsed The City of Ipswich: Space to Grow investment prospectus.

“Ipswich’s scale, land availability and industrial capability position it as a natural home for Queensland’s next phase of manufacturing and defence investment,” Ms Caire said.

“As pressure builds on industrial land supply across South East Queensland, Ipswich stands out as one of the few locations able to accommodate major employers at the scale they need.

“This kind of long term, jobs focused investment is critical to strengthening productivity, supply chains and economic resilience for the entire region.”

View Ipswich City Council’s investment prospectus, The City of Ipswich: Space to Grow, here. To be part of Ipswich’s growth journey, contact invest@ipswich.qld.gov.au

By Antoine Vidal | Radio Springfield City

For many, a childhood dream shapes the path ahead. But for Australian Defence Force aircraft technician Matt Burgoyne, it was the dream that didn’t quite work out that ultimately led to a remarkable career in service.

Speaking with Antoine Vidal on Radio Springfield City, Matt shared his journey of nearly 20 years in the Defence Force—one that began with a passion for flying at a young age.

Having flown solo at just 13 through the Air Force cadets program, Matt initially set his sights on becoming a pilot. However, due to height restrictions, that path was no longer an option.

Rather than walking away, he adapted—choosing a role that would keep him close to the aircraft and immersed in the world he loved.

Now based at RAAF Base Amberley, Matt works as an aircraft technician, maintaining and supporting a range of Defence aircraft including the C-27J Spartan and the C-130 Hercules. His role has taken him across Australia and around the world, supporting operations ranging from training exercises to humanitarian aid missions.

“It’s a varied job,” Matt explained. “One day you’re managing maintenance, the next you’re flying somewhere in the world helping deliver aid or evacuate people during disasters.”

Among his most meaningful experiences have been humanitarian deployments—providing support to communities facing floods, fires, and other crises.

“Helping people through what could be the worst time in their lives—that’s probably the most rewarding part,” he said.

Beyond his Defence role, Matt is also contributing to the local community as a committee member of the Greater Springfield RSL Sub Branch. Since joining, he has been part of a team working to bring a new and engaging ANZAC Day experience to the region.

This year marks a significant milestone, with commemorations expanding to include a full day of community activities following the dawn service. Planned events include a march, commemorative service, and AFL matches aimed at bringing families and the broader community together.

“We want to create something that honours tradition but also engages the next generation,” Matt said.

While organising such an event comes with its challenges—particularly within a volunteer organisation—Matt remains optimistic about the impact it will have.

With strong support from the local community and Defence personnel, this year’s ANZAC Day is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet.

Matt’s journey is a powerful reminder that while plans may change, purpose can still take flight in unexpected ways.

 Listen to the full conversation with Matt Burgoyne Click Here to Listen

By Rach Z| Radio Springfield City

As families across the region prepare for the Easter break, cost-of-living pressures remain front of mind—particularly when it comes to fuel prices.

In a recent conversation on Radio Springfield City, Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, joined Rach Z to discuss new measures aimed at easing the burden on households.

A key announcement includes a temporary reduction in fuel excise, which is expected to lower petrol prices by more than 25 cents per litre over a three-month period. For the average family, this could mean noticeable savings at the bowser—particularly during a busy travel period like Easter.

The changes come in response to ongoing global uncertainty, including international conflict impacting fuel supply and pricing. While these challenges are being felt worldwide, efforts are being made at a national level to reduce their impact locally.

Additional measures include support for the transport sector, with temporary adjustments to heavy vehicle charges aimed at keeping goods moving efficiently across the country. This is expected to help stabilise supply chains and reduce flow-on costs for everyday essentials.

Beyond policy, the message from leaders is clear—community matters.

Residents are encouraged to travel safely, use fuel responsibly, and support one another during the holiday period. With increased monitoring also in place to ensure fair fuel pricing, there is a strong focus on maintaining fairness and accountability.

As the Easter long weekend approaches, the conversation serves as both an update and a reminder: while external pressures may be beyond control, local communities remain a source of strength and resilience.

Listen to the full interview now Click Here to Listen

From Navy Service to Community Purpose: Brad Barr’s Story of Mateship, Transition and Giving Back

By Antoine Vidal | Radio Springfield City

For many who serve, the military is more than a career it’s a defining chapter of life shaped by challenge, discipline, and an unbreakable sense of camaraderie.

For former Navy serviceman Brad Barr, that chapter spanned nearly two decades and took him across Australia and around the world. But as he shares in a recent conversation with Radio Springfield City, it’s not just the places or operations that stand out — it’s the people.

“It’s the mateship,” Brad explains. “You go through tough environments together, and that builds bonds that last a lifetime.”

Brad’s journey into the Navy began with a simple decision after finishing school on the Gold Coast. Unsure of his next step, a conversation with his brother led him to enlist — a choice that would shape the next 18 years of his life.

Training at HMAS Cerberus in Victoria marked the beginning of a demanding but rewarding path. Like many recruits, Brad quickly learned that life in the Navy extends far beyond technical training.

“You learn how to follow before you lead,” he says. “And you’re always balancing your role with other responsibilities — whether that’s duties, physical training, or supporting your team.”

Specialising in electronics, Brad went on to serve on ANZAC-class frigates, with deployments that included East Timor and operations in the Middle East. His time at sea involved everything from security patrols to long stretches away from home — experiences that tested resilience and reinforced the importance of teamwork.

While the operational side of service was significant, Brad reflects that the shared challenges created something deeper.

“There’s a level of trust and connection that comes from going through those experiences together,” he says. “That’s what stays with you.”

Like many veterans, transitioning out of the military brought a new set of challenges. After briefly exploring civilian work, Brad returned to service before eventually being medically discharged. The shift from a structured military environment to civilian life required adjustment both professionally and personally.

Now, Brad is focused on his health, wellbeing, and supporting others navigating similar transitions.

That passion has led him to the Greater Springfield RSL Sub Branch, where he now serves as Deputy President. In this role, he is helping create stronger connections within the veteran community while also working to raise awareness and understanding among the broader public.

“I wanted to be part of something that supports veterans,” he says. “There are great people doing great work and it’s important we continue building that support network.”

A key part of that effort is helping shape how the community engages with important moments of remembrance, including ANZAC Day. Brad and the team are working to create experiences that not only honour those who have served, but also help younger generations understand the significance behind it.

“We want families to be part of it,” he explains. “It’s about making sure the meaning is passed on.”

Working within a volunteer organisation presents its own challenges, particularly compared to the structure and resources of military life. But for Brad, the mission remains the same — working as a team to achieve something meaningful.

“You just adapt,” he says. “You work together, think differently, and make it happen.”

Brad Barr’s story is one of service, resilience, and continued purpose — a reminder that while military careers may end, the commitment to community and mateship often continues long after.

The full conversation with Brad Barr is available now - Click Here to Listen

Ipswich City Council’s Active and Healthy Program goes from strength to strength with a new report revealing it attracted almost 35,000 participants.

Throughout 2025, the program featured 48 regular weekly activities, 10 nutrition workshops, 12 Learn-2-Ride cycling sessions, and 189 Active Kids school holiday sessions.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the program had a total participation of 33,781.

“What an amazing achievement, helping so many of our community stay fit and healthy,” Mayor Harding said.

“This was a direct outcome and delivery action of the Ipswich Community Development Strategy and the Active Ipswich Strategy 2031.

“The sessions offered everything from Active Ipswich, Active Low Impact (formerly seniors), Active Mums and Bubs, Active Women and Girls, Active Kids to Healthy Eating workshops.

“Feedback from participants showed the most liked aspects of the program were the instructors, the cost of the program, the social connection and community benefits, the convenience and accessibility of the program and the health and wellbeing benefits.”

The annual survey of participants showed:

·         81 per cent identified improvements in physical health (up from 79 per cent in 2024).

·         68 per cent identified improvements in mental health (up from 64 per cent in 2024).

·         90 per cent rated their satisfaction of the program as 4 (out of 5) or higher (up from 81 per cent in 2024), with an overall average of 4.52 out of 5 (up from 4.36 in 2024).

·         92 per cent have used the Active and Healthy app to book classes (up from 87 per cent in 2024), with general feedback describing the app as easy to use and navigate.

“We asked participants for feedback on areas of improvement and the people said they wanted increased number of activities, improved management of the aqua classes, and more classes in Ipswich Central, north and west,” Mayor Harding said.

“Additionally, many expressed gratitude to council for the program being available to the community.

“They can rest assured - or get active as the program suggests - that council will be bringing more to the table in 2026 for our participants to enjoy.”

The 2025 Active and Healthy Participant Survey received 448 completed surveys, an increase of 36 per cent from 2024.

Council’s Active and Healthy program offers free and low-cost physical activity, outdoor recreation, wellbeing and healthy eating sessions for people of all ages and abilities.

It has been made easier for residents to participate in the program through the Active and Healthy Ipswich app and booking system.

For more information about the program, visit Ipswich.qld.gov.au/Live/Healthy-Lifestyle/Active-and-Healthy-Ipswich

Brookwater, QLD – 31 March 2026

Creative Hearts Co. has celebrated a successful Art in Bloom fundraising event, bringing together guests from the Greater Springfield community and beyond, for an evening of creativity, connection and purpose in support of the Mater Foundation. Guests were immersed in the Art in Bloom exhibition—an exploration of florals, growth and renewal—while connecting with artists, business owners and community members from near and far.

 Hosted in collaboration with Kalbar Sunflowers the event transformed the Brookwater art gallery into a vibrant space filled with flowers, conversation and community spirit.

The evening raised more than $5,600 for the Mater Foundation, contributing towards state-of-the-art equipment for cancer patients at Mater Hospital Springfield. Mater Foundation Relationship Manager, Margaret Wilson said the event “showcased the strength and generosity of our Greater Springfield community” and highlighted Creative Hearts Co.’s dedication to healing through art (both in their workshops and through this event) as “a powerful reminder of how creativity and community can come together to create impact.” 

 Kalbar Sunflowers owner, Jenny Jenner described the evening as “such a beautiful collaboration”, sharing that she loved seeing “our sunflowers come to life in such a creative way, all while raising funds for the Mater Hospital Springfield,” and valued the opportunity to connect with “so many inspiring women in business” in a space that celebrated creativity, community and giving back.

 Creative Hearts Co. Co-Founder Hue Kedge said the night reflected the power of alignment. “When the right people, businesses and causes align, the impact speaks for itself,” she said.

Co-Founder Sean Ferguson said the exhibition itself was a standout, featuring artists from across South East Queensland. “It’s been incredible to bring together such a diverse group of artists for Art in Bloom. Seeing the gallery come to life—and even more so, watching artworks find new homes on the night—was a really special moment for both the artists and our community.”

Co-Founder Marie Ferguson added that the energy in the room captured exactly what Creative Hearts Co. stands for. “Seeing the gallery filled with connection and creativity was incredibly rewarding—it’s what happens when you create a space where people feel welcome and inspired.”

Creative Hearts Co. extends its heartfelt thanks to P&L Accounting for the generous event sponsorship, Keirson Dewitt for sharing her cancer journey and Antoine Vidal from Radio Springfield City for facilitating the live auction, as well as all attendees, prize donors, and collaborators who made the evening possible. 

 The Art in Bloom exhibition remains open to the public until 24 April 2026 at Creative Hearts Co., 7006 Melaleuca Drive, Brookwater, QLD 4300. 

 Photo Credit (Rod Noendeng Photography) - Group Shot (L-R):

Hue Kedge, Jenny Jenner, Antoine Vidal, Cr Pye Augustine, Marie Ferguson, Magaret Wilson, Sean Ferguson, Keirson Dewitt

New Era for Greater Springfield RSL: Glenn West Leading Change Ahead of ANZAC Day

By Antoine Vidal | Radio Springfield City

A new chapter is unfolding for the Greater Springfield RSL Sub-Branch, with President Glenn West bringing fresh energy, rapid growth, and a bold vision for the future — just in time for ANZAC Day.

Since stepping into the role in mid-2025, West has overseen a remarkable transformation of the sub-branch. What was once a small, quiet group has grown to more than 140 members, many of them younger veterans, signalling a shift toward a more modern and inclusive RSL.

West, a former Royal Australian Navy serviceman who joined at just 17, says his journey into leadership happened unexpectedly.

“There was a call for someone to step forward,” he said. “Everyone else stepped back — and I was the one left standing.”

A Modern Approach to Supporting Veterans

While honouring tradition remains at the core of the RSL, West is focused on evolving how support is delivered — particularly for modern veterans and their families.

“Commemoration is critical, but it’s only part of what we do,” he said. “We need to support the living just as much as we honour those who have served before us.”

A key focus for the sub-branch is strengthening family support systems, recognising the impact military service has not just on veterans, but on their partners and children.

West highlighted that many veterans face significant challenges transitioning back into civilian life, including financial stress and family breakdown.

“If we can keep the family unit strong, the long-term wellbeing of the veteran improves dramatically,” he said.

Innovative Support and Future Plans

In a move that reflects the sub-branch’s forward-thinking approach, plans are underway to introduce an AI-enabled system designed to fast-track veteran support services — potentially reducing wait times for assistance from months to just days.

The initiative aims to help veterans access medical assessments, lodge claims, and receive support more efficiently.

“It’s about removing barriers and getting people the help they need, when they need it,” West said.

A Bigger Vision for ANZAC Day

This year’s ANZAC Day commemorations in Springfield are also set to take on a new dimension.

Building on the well-established Dawn Service, the sub-branch is introducing Springfield’s first-ever ANZAC Day march, alongside a full day of community-focused events.

These include partnerships with the Brisbane Lions, AFL matches featuring Australian Defence Force and Queensland Fire and Rescue teams, and plans for a ceremonial flyover.

The goal, according to West, is to create a more inclusive, family-friendly experience that keeps the community connected throughout the day.

“We want people to stay local, stay connected, and be part of something meaningful,” he said.

Community at the Centre

Unlike some traditional RSL models, the Greater Springfield sub-branch is intentionally moving away from a pub-based environment, instead focusing on building a family-oriented community hub.

“Our focus is simple — no pokies, no pubs — just people,” West said.

“We want a place where veterans can bring their kids, their grandkids, and feel supported.”

Looking Ahead

As Springfield continues to grow, so too does the role of its RSL sub-branch — not just as a place of remembrance, but as a vital support network for those who have served.

For West, the mission is clear.

“Honour the fallen, but don’t forget the living,” he said.

“And most importantly, make sure the next generation understands what service truly means.”

The full interview with Glenn West is now available here: Click Here to Listen