Drone food delivery service takes off in Ipswich
20 April 2023
The City of Ipswich has today welcomed international aviation company Wing as it begins servicing the local community with a new drone delivery service.
The new operations centre at Orion Springfield Central Shopping Centre makes it possible for local restaurants and retailers using DoorDash's platform and Wing’s delivery drones to provide food and other items to the surrounding communities.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said strengthening the local economy and building prosperity is a key priority for Ipswich City Council.
“Ipswich is the state’s fastest-growing city and with our population forecast to grow to 453,875 by 2041, now is the time to harness new economic opportunities and attract investment into the region.” Mayor Harding said.
“Mirvac, DoorDash and Wing have worked together to create this innovative delivery solution that benefits the Ipswich community by reducing congestion and providing an on-demand delivery service using autonomous aircraft.
“Encouraging new services such as drone deliveries will contribute to the economic growth of Ipswich.”
Economic and Industry Development Committee Chairperson and Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the council’s Office of Economic Development had worked closely with Wing to help it take flight in Ipswich.
“Council’s Office of Economic Development helped in analysing possible launch sites, taking into account feasibility of local business and customers,” Cr Jonic said.
“We were also able to facilitate introductions to local landowners and connected Wing representatives with local chambers of commerce.”
Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said this collaboration between business and council is evidence of the innovative nature of the types of ventures the City of Ipswich is now attracting.
“This is another example of Ipswich being a leader in embracing technology,” Cr Tully said.
The launch today is Wing’s first venture in Ipswich and further expands on its South East Queensland footprint.
"We're thrilled to officially launch in Ipswich and to team up with Mirvac and DoorDash to support consumers' demand for faster, more convenient, and sustainable delivery choices,” Wing Australia General Manager Simon Rossi said.
“On-demand drone delivery helps address the costly last-mile delivery challenge for lightweight goods. It reduces road congestion and emissions while creating new economic opportunities for retailers and communities.”
Wing drone deliveries will service parts of Redbank Plains, Springfield Central, Springfield Lakes, Spring Mountain, Brookwater, Augustine Heights, Camira, Bellbird Park, White Rock, Springfield, Goodna and Greenbank.