LOCAL musicians and venue operators are reacting positively to the announcement of a new panel aimed at revitalising Ipswich’s nightlife economy.
The panel, appointed by the State Government, will be chaired by Queensland’s night-life economy commissioner John “JC” Collins, formerly of renowned band Powderfinger.
It aims to explore strategies for enhancing the safety and vibrancy of the state’s nightlife sector.
Local musician Damien Johnson sees the panel as a positive step, highlighting the growth of Ipswich’s CBD nightlife in recent months.
New hospitality outlets and entertainment venues, combined with events like the Christmas festival, have contributed to increased foot traffic in the area.
However, Mr Johnson cautioned that the key challenge would be sustaining this growth long-term.
“Ipswich will need to develop a culture of congregating in the CBD so that it becomes a habitual practice,” he said, emphasising the importance of creating a unique identity for the area.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding echoed these sentiments, noting that the city’s nightlife had long been underdeveloped, but was beginning to thrive thanks to new additions like the Nicholas Street Precinct.
“It’s been fantastic to see such a positive uplift in night-time visitation,” Cr Harding said, referring to recent openings such as HOYTS Cinemas, General Public, and Hotel Commonwealth.
With more than 80 per cent of the precinct now leased and more tenants on the horizon, the Mayor expressed optimism about Ipswich entering a new era of nightlife.
State Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard stressed the importance of collaborating with local small businesses to boost the nightlife economy.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann also expressed his support, highlighting the significant contribution that live music venues and festivals make to local economies and tourism.
The panel is set to meet for the first time in February.
