Council calls forum to discuss Chuwar motocross impacts
16 February 2022
Chuwar residents, raceway operators, and council will meet to discuss community concerns about operations at the Chuwar motocross site on 24 February, in response to concerns raised by the community.
Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann proposed the forum at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 27 January in response to community feedback, supported by Mayor Teresa Harding and fellow councillors.
Cr Kunzelmann said the purpose of the community forum was to provide a safe and transparent forum for everyone to express their views and be heard.
“Having met with a number of impacted residents since activity has intensified, it is clear the current situation is having a significant impact on their quality of life,” Cr Kunzelmann said.
“I proposed a community forum to bring the issue into the light, which I hope will spark a positive dialogue between all stakeholders.”
Mayor Harding said the forum, which will be independently moderated, will be an opportunity for all stakeholders to have their say on the issue.
“The operators of the Chuwar motocross site have a valid approval to use the site for this purpose which has been in place since 1974. However, the increased activity has had a significant impact on nearby residents every weekend since operations commenced last year,” Mayor Harding said.
“While council does not have the authority to override this approval, we are committed to working with all stakeholders to find a better way through this complex and challenging situation.
“This will be a chance to hear all sides of the story, from concerned and impacted residents to the business operators, to ensure everyone clearly understands the situation and can work towards a solution.”
A community forum will be held on Thursday 24 February, 6pm - 8pm, in the Cunningham Room at the Ipswich Civic Centre.
The forum will also be livestreamed via council’s YouTube channel to allow all interested parties to view proceedings.
To attend the forum, please RSVP to council by Friday 18 February by email to plandev@ipswich.qld.gov.au. If you would like to speak at the forum, please advise in your RSVP email.
Further information is available on council’s engagement website, Shape Your Ipswich.
The State Government’s vaccination requirements apply to the Ipswich Civic Centre. This means patrons will need to show proof of vaccination to enter this venue and check in via Qld QR Code displayed at the centre’s entry.
Please note the community forum details, including the date, venue, mode of delivery mentioned above may need to be changed based on Queensland Health Covid-19 public health directions as applicable at the time.