THE QUEENS Park Environmental Education Centre has grown to become a much-loved Ipswich attraction and this year celebrates 15 years of welcoming the next generation of conservationists and environment protectors.
The centre first opened its doors on June 5, 2009, with its 15th birthday on Wednesday, June 5 – which is also World Environment Day.
Ipswich City Council’s Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairpersonr Jim Madden said significant renewal of the centre in recent years was reaping rewards for the Ipswich community and environment.
“In the past 12 months, more than 21,200 people visited the Queens Park Environmental Education Centre, and the numbers have been growing year to year,” Cr Madden said.
The centre underwent upgrades last year, and on reopening saw greater numbers taking in the unique space the facility has to offer.
“Revamps at the centre have made it more user-friendly and attractive as a learning hub for all ages, including colourful displays with insights to Ipswich’s valuable natural environment,” Cr Madden said.
Programming offerings at the Queens Park Environmental Education Centre had also been refreshed in recent years to engage with a wider audience.
“School excursions to the centre now include a guided tour of the nearby Ipswich Nature Centre,” Cr Madden said.
“These excursions are offered three days a week and are so popular that whole school terms quickly book out.”
This year SPARK Ipswich has also extended to the centre, and from June 24 to July 13 will be unveiling an art installation which will see an oversized crochet and crafted garden burst from the centre.
Cr Madden said the ongoing success of the Queens Park Environmental Education Centre would not be possible without the hard work and commitment of staff and volunteers.
“Around 100 community volunteers generously contribute their time for a number of council environment initiatives,” he said.
“These include the Bushcare program, Queens Park Glasshouse, Ipswich Nature Centre, council’s nursery, and of course the Queens Park Environmental Education Centre.”
