Ipswich WaterFest brings into focus the many ways you can be involved in sustainable water-based recreation and ways to improve the health of our waterways.
Be inspired to get outdoors and appreciate Ipswich’s Bremer River and our stretch of the Brisbane River, the many creeks within our catchment, and Ipswich environmental initiatives making a difference.
Take part in the event:
Stay tuned for future dates for WaterFest in 2026.
See below for a recap of activities in 2024.
Host an event or activity:
If you have an event or activity that aligns to waterway health, that can be held from February to May, get in touch!
Ideas for free and low-cost events across Ipswich that engage the community are welcome.
Email the team at environment@ipswich.qld.gov.au
A WaterFest catchment map details key locations and event information.
Download a copy of the WaterFest Program (PDF, 657.4 KB)
WORLD WETLANDS DAY AT MASONS GULLY BUSHCARE
Join council volunteers and the West Moreton Landcare Group to plant out the edges of the waterway running through the site. Learn more about wetland function and health - the local wildlife and waterways will thank you!
When: Saturday 3 February 2024
Where: John Street Reserve, Rosewood
Cost: Free, registrations required.
More information at Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com
CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY
Litter often ends up in our waterways, blown by the wind or washed down by stormwater. Why not get together and register a clean up site along a local creek or waterway in your neighbourhood? Every little bit helps when we are caring for our waterways.
When: Sunday 3 March 2024
Where: Register a clean up site, or join in a community clean up site
Cost: Free, registrations required
More information: Cleanup.org.au/cleanupaustraliaday
PUGGLES PLAY TIME
Bring the little ones to Queens Park Environment Education Centre for a drop-in play time activity. Puggles Play Time is a regular activity and during WaterFest will have a special waterway theme. Designed for children aged 5 and under.
When: Fridays, drop in 9.30am – 11.30am
Where: Queens Park Environmental Education Centre
Cost: Free (no registration required)
SMALL CREEK EXPLORATION
During the school holidays join in a nature play activity at Small Creek, a naturalised creek channel.
When: 11 April 2024
Where: Small Creek, Poplar Street Park, Raceview
Cost: Free
More information: Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com
LEARN TO FISH
During the school holidays join in a fishing activity with council’s Active and Healthy program.
When: 2 April and 7 April 2024
Where: Joseph Brady Park
More information: Sign up to the Active and Healthy program and register for this activity at Ipswich.qld.gov.au/activehealthy
CATCH SNAP & WIN FISHING COMPETITION
Hosted by Ipswich City Council and 2 Bent Rods, join in this fun fishing competition.
A total prize pool worth up to $2400 is up for grabs, including a kayak!
When: Thursday 28 March – Sunday 14 April 2024
Where: Across waterways within Ipswich local government area (some exclusions apply)
Cost: Free
Registrations via 2 Bent Rods Humanitix
Winners will be announced on Saturday 20 April 2024 at a free event at Queens Park Environmental Education Centre.
WATERFEST CELEBRATION
Join in family-friendly activities and learn about waterway health. This event will also include the announcement of winners of the Catch & Snap Fishing Competition.
When: Saturday 20 April 2024
Where: Queens Park Environmental Education Centre
Cost: Free
Find more event information at Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com
TREES FOR MUM
Plant a tree to honour and celebrate Mum and the special women in your life, with council’s Habitat Connections program. Pack a picnic rug and enjoy activities on the day while helping revegetate an Ipswich waterway and improve habitat for native species.
When: Sunday 12 May 2024
Where: Tite Family Park, Bundamba Creek
Cost: Free, registrations required
Find more information at Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com
TEACHER PD - EXPLORING WATER BUGS
This workshop is designed to support teachers who are interested in learning how to collect and classify macroinvertebrates in a local creek, and what that can teach us about our waterways.
When: Wednesday 29 May 2024
Where: Poplar Street Park, Raceview
Cost: Free, registrations required
Find more information at Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com