Expanding Horizons (1970s-1990s)

Ipswich in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s

This is the period that Robyn Buchanan referred to as Expanding horizons, expanding boundaries in her publication "Ipswich in the 20th Century". The early years of the 1970s was one of tragedy with the Box Flat Mine disaster in 1972 and devastating floods in 1974. On 31 July 1972 many Ipswich residents were awakened by a deep loud band an a feeling that their house had been rocked.

In the Moreton Shire area new estates and suburbs were being developed at  Karana Downs in 1973, Collingwood Park in 1978, Yamanto in 1981, Springfield in 1992. The Local Government Commissioner recommended in 1994 that Ipswich and Moreton Shire Councils be amalgamated. This was opposed by both councils but the amalgamation took place on 11 March 1995. John Nugent was elected as the first Mayor of the combined councils. In 1998 Karana Downs and Mt Crosby were transferred to Brisbane and Rosevale was transferred to Boonah Shire.

The worst flood of the 20th century occurred in January 1974 resulting in Ipswich being cut off for a few days and a number of suburbs being isolated. 41 homes were washed away and approximately 1800 houses and businesses were inundated by flood waters. As the flood waters started receding on 30th January the mammoth task of cleanups began.