Region goes from strength to strength with new park

Published on 14 May 2026

Ipswich’s booming Ripley region continues to go from strength to strength, with a fitting name chosen for a new recreation park in South Ripley.

Division 1 Councillor Pye Augustine said council had decided the park in Lucas Drive, South Ripley, will be named Bandarra Park, after an Indigenous word meaning ‘strong’.

“The name ‘Bandarra’ was chosen following consultation with the Yuggera Ugarapul People members at the Ripley Valley Cultural Collaborative meeting of December 2024,” Cr Augustine said.

“The name, meaning ‘strong’ in Yagarbul, has been chosen because the park is designed for physical activity.

“This is a measure of respect by our community opting for Indigenous names that we are proud to support. I think it is wonderful to keep this strong connection with our Indigenous community.”

The application had been made in accordance with Ipswich City Council’s Naming Procedure and had been supported by all parties including the YUP Native Title Applicant.

The park will include fitness equipment and be used for recreation activities, as opposed to designated sports fields.

Cr Augustine said the park, informally referred to as Eastern District Park, in Providence Estate is under construction and once completed will be handed to council for future management.

“The developers have followed procedure, coming to council and the Yuggera Ugarapul People. We are very proud that in the last six years there has been a strong push by council to make sure we have First Nations names in our community, and that this is supported by the developer,” Cr Augustine said.

“This follows on from the naming of another South Ripley district sport park by council in July last year. That park, also in Providence Estate, was informally referred to as the Centenary Sportsfields.

“However, council adopted the name ‘Goolpahjo Harry Thompson Senior Park’. Harry Thompson Sr had a deep and enduring connection to Deebing Creek, having arrived in the early days, likely in the 1890s and the name was chosen because this First Nations identity was renowned for his sporting prowess.”