Matthew Devine Brady – Boer War soldier of Ipswich
Private Matthew Devine Brady of Brassall was one of “The Ipswich Volunteers” of October 1899. This local contingent of 11 men included Sergeant Loynes, Sergeant Paten, Private Michael Egan, Private Daniel Pope, Private George Seymour, Private George Tomlinson, Private Hermann of Lowood. They belonged to the 1st Queensland...
The Girls Friendly Society in Ipswich, Queensland
The Girls Friendly Society, also known as G.F.S., first began in Ipswich in 1902. Originating in England in 1874, the society was formed with the goal of providing unmarried girls, particularly those who had moved away from family for work, with friendship and support. The society came under...
World War II Air Raid Shelters in Ipswich
As early as March 1939 World War I veteran Eric Stevens of Redbank was suggesting that Ipswich make preparations to defend the city against air attack. He feared that Ipswich’s river location, sizeable population and industries would make it a target. He was not the only one. The...
When “Banjo” Came To Town
Famous for the creation of bush ballads “Waltzing Matilda” and “The Man from Snowy River”, Andrew Barton “Banjo” Paterson was also a solicitor, journalist, war correspondent and soldier. Many people are probably aware that Banjo wrote “Waltzing Matilda” in 1895 while holidaying at Dagworth Station near Winton. However, what is likely...
Whiteheads Studios: Keeping Our History Alive
If you have lived in Ipswich you are sure to have heard of Whiteheads Studios, or even had your photo taken by them. For over a century they have been producing images of Ipswich and its community, from family portraits, wedding photos, school and sport photos. On Friday...
Vi Jordan recognised
Vi Jordan has been recognised by having the new seat of Jordan named after her in the Queensland Redistribution Commission’s proposal for the redistribution of the State’s electoral districts. Jordan – one of four electorates in the Ipswich area – is located between Bundamba and Logan and includes Springfield....
Right Royal Welcome
Years before The Beatles or The Rolling Stones came to Australia, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother visited Ipswich. It was a rock star welcome. 12000 loyal subjects greeted Her Royal Highness at Queen’s Park including approximately 5000 excited, flag-waving school children. Some waited 8 hours in the heat...
Valentine’s Day
Back in February 1937, it was reported in an Australian newspaper that other countries had begun to revive the old-fashioned tradition of marking St Valentine’s Day on February 14. Retailers in Melbourne followed suit, as staff at the Myer Emporium created themed window displays in an attempt to inspire customers...
William Pratt, Jewellers, Ipswich
William ‘Bill’ Pratt was born in New South Wales in 1877. He began his career into the watchmaking and jewellery trade opening his own shop in John Street, Singleton. At age 25, William married Miss Louisa Parr on 7 May, 1902 in Singleton. They made their way...