IPSWICH, on the Bremer River west of Brisbane, now has a new
overnight rest area for caravanners and other travellers.
Construction work on the facility at Albert Theaker Park on the corner of
Champions Way and the Cunningham Highway at Willowbank was completed
recently.
The $190,000 project was fully funded by the Queensland State Government.
The rest area has picnic tables and shelter, rubbish bins, drink fountain,
toilets and will have a noticeboard giving information on what to see and
do in Ipswich.
Local councillor David Pahlke expected it to be popular, particularly with
grey nomads taking part in driving holidays.
"What we've created is a space where people who are touring can stop and
take a short break or park overnight in their caravan," he said.
"It is important to note it's not a camp site ... it's a rest area to
encourage people to spend a little longer in Ipswich and help manage
driver fatigue."
He thanked Lockyer MP Ian Rickuss, former councillor Bruce Casos and
former Ipswich City Council tourism manager Janet Hewitt for their efforts
in getting the project off the ground.
Economic Development and Tourism Committee deputy chairman Wayne Wendt
welcomed the new facilities.
"This is another asset for the motorsport precinct and is about engaging
with tourists and encouraging them to stop and see what Ipswich has to
offer," he said.
"Being only about 20 minutes from the city centre of Ipswich and right on
the doorstep of the motorsport precinct, it's in a convenient location
close to great local attractions.
"Drive tourism is becoming more and more popular, so it's important
Ipswich has facilities such as this to make it easier for visitors to stay
a little longer in our city."
