A PROPOSED cultural monument at Robelle Domain has sparked a broader community conversation in Ipswich – not just about where it should go, but about what belongs in shared public spaces and what precedent such decisions may set for the future.
Ipswich City Council is currently in the consultation phase over a proposed “Mother Language Monument”, with no final decision made and the exact location yet to be determined.
In a letter seen by Local Ipswich News, Council sought advice from RSL Queensland on whether the monument should be installed near the Springfield Central ADF Memorial.
The monument has been proposed by multicultural community groups, including the Brisbane Bangla Language School, to mark International Mother Language Day on Feburary 21.
Mayor Teresa Harding said Council had resolved to fund construction of the monument at Robelle Domain at the Ordinary Council meeting on April 30, 2025, acknowledging its cultural significance with the location to be approved by Council.
The proposed preferred location would position the monument 35 metres from the existing ADF memorial and on higher ground, making it a visible feature within the same space.
The structure itself is planned as a 2.1 metre stone monument with coloured engravings, connected to existing pathways.
An alternative site closer to UniSQ has also been put forward by stakeholders, with many supporting the location further from the ADF memorial.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said he supported the proposal in principle but urged Council to consider the alternative location.
“Any installation needs to take into account community and stakeholder views, and be sensitive to the surrounding environment,” Mr Neumann said.
“I am aware that the local veteran community and Greater Springfield RSL Sub Branch had concerns that the currently proposed monument could detract from the significance and solemnity of the Springfield Central ADF Memorial.
“I would call on Ipswich City Council to respect this community feedback and work with all the stakeholders to install the monument at an appropriate location.”
After seeking comment from stakeholders, Greater Springfield RSL Sub-Branch President Glenn West responded, saying the sub-branch’s concern is not with the monument itself, but with its placement near the existing memorial precinct.
Mr West said the Springfield memorial site is an Anzac memorial area centred on a cenotaph – meaning “empty tomb” – a form of war memorial for those who died overseas and did not return.
He said the sub-branch had been consulted by Council in late 2025, had participated in discussions about the proposal, and had consistently supported an alternative location further away from the ADF memorial.
Mr West said the Greater Springfield RSL Sub-Branch and representatives of the Bangladeshi community had agreed in consultation that the alternative location was the more appropriate site.
Ipswich City Council said it is working towards a balanced outcome that respects both cultural expression and the significance of existing memorials.
