Ipswich is celebrating an award that might come as a surprise after the devastation the southern Queensland city experienced just six months ago.

It’s the winner of the Queensland Sustainable Communities award and will now compete for the national title.

Melanie Rica reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Ipswich has turned on the charm for a national judge from Keep Australia Beautiful.

He’s come to assess the sustainable projects that won it the Queensland title.

Dick Olesinski says he’s been impressed by the city’s environmentally friendly housing, the preservation of its heritage and the beauty of its parks and gardens.

Dick Olesinski, National Judge – Keep Australia Beautiful: “I’m really looking forward to visiting some of the schools and finding out about Ipswich’s Waste Education Program and how you deal with the environment here to be sustainable.”

Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale is excited that Ipswich is developing in the way he had planned.

Paul Pisasale, Ipswich Mayor: “It’s not only good for the city but for the people itself and also for south-east Queensland. I think all the hard work we’ve put in has paid off and it’s just wonderful to know we’re on the right track.”

It took Ipswich a long time to rebuild after the January floods and it is focused on creating a city that is ready for its children.

Dick Olesinski, National Judge – Keep Australia Beautiful: “I think that demonstrates the community spirit here, the leadership of council here in rebuilding Ipswich and rebuilding it
in a sustainable way.”

Despite the many hardships throughout the January floods, Ipswich is confident they have a good chance of winning the national final against the other cities.”

Last year’s winner was Sterling in Western Australia.

This year’s Australian champion will be announced in Perth on the 21st of November.

Melanie Rica, QUT News.