BLAIR COMMUNITY: RIPLEY VALLEY

19 June 2023

Mr NEUMANN (Blair) (16:04): This week I had the pleasure of attending the AGM of Ripley Valley Community Inc. It's a great community organisation, and I want to congratulate all the members of the various committees and subcommittees of that organisation. I want to congratulate Genevieve Cavanagh, the president; Kerry Silver, the vice president; and Kate Robert, the treasurer. I would also like to make special mention of the newly elected ordinary members: Councillor Jacob Madsen, Renee Manly, Jacinta Nunn and Crystal Strudwick.

The Ripley Valley is a fast-growing area in my electorate, and I want to congratulate the organisation for the two subcommittees they have—two organisations that they sponsor: the Ripley Valley Garden Enthusiasts and the Ripley Creatives. I want to congratulate the creatives group on their first place at the local Ipswich Show for their impressive pulled thread work, and also the gardening enthusiasts for the work they do, particularly in the flourishing community garden where residents can pick up fresh produce produced by their neighbours and friends. It's an important organisation.

The Albanese Labor government have committed $1 million to upgrade the clubhouse and facilities at Ironbark Park for the Ripley Valley Football Club. This will provide a new kitchen, meeting space and new changerooms.

Additionally, we have committed $3.4 million to the Ipswich to Springfield rail business case, which will provide essential train services to the Ripley community.

I want to congratulate the new executive committee and acknowledge the important work they do in the growing Ripley community.