Ipswich Events: Warwick Rodeo – known far and wide as “Australia’s Most Famous”

On the last full weekend of October every year, the nation’s top rodeo riders and the best broncs and bucking bulls gather for the Warwick Rodeo – known far and wide as “Australia’s Most Famous”.

The riders and the bucking stock come together to try and prove the old saying wrong – “never the horse that couldn’t be rode, never the rider that couldn’t be throwed”.

Today, Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft attract’s crowds in excess of 30,000 people with competitors and horses travelling from every mainland state to compete.

The traditional Australian event of campdrafting kicks off the program, Known by many as the "Melbourne Cup" of campdrafting, the Warwick Gold Cup attracts more riders and offers more prize money than any other campdraft in Australia. Worth over $55,000 plus a gold cup and a trophy saddle, it is, and has been for many years, regarded as the Australian Championship Campdraft.

The Canning Downs Campdraft also offers a significant prize worth $25,000 and its own trophy saddle as does Friday’s $5,000 Stallion Campdraft.

Come Saturday morning, action starts early in the rodeo arena while down-town Warwick comes alive with the Rose and Rodeo Festival street parade featuring floats, clowns, horses, entertainment and a craft market.

Warwick Rodeo – known far and wide as “Australia’s Most Famous”

Ipswich Events: Spotlight on Beccy Cole

Beccy is best known for her award-winning songs but is also an accomplished comedienne who has audiences roaring with laughter at her wicked brand of humour.

Her memorable, heart-felt songs have earned Beccy seven Golden Guitars, two Entertainer of the Year awards, three Gold records and many other song-writing accolades.

This show brings Beccy into the spotlight like never before, in a special ‘up close and personal’ night of very special entertainment. It’s easy to see why such a multi-talented performer remains at the forefront of Australian Country Music.

Beccy Cole with be performing with support act Lyn Bowtell. Lyn Bowtell is an accomplished singer/songwriter, two-time Golden Guitar winner with trio 'Bella' (2004 & 2005), Toyota Star Maker winner (1997), APRA Awards finalist and graduate of the inaugural Country Music College (1997).

SHOW DETAILS

	Dates: Thursday 10 November
	Time: 7.30pm
	Tickets: Adult $30 | Conc. $27
Child $15
	More Info: Support Act - Lyn Bowtell
	Send To A Friend: Think someone else will enjoy this show?

Ipswich Events: Spotlight on Beccy Cole

Queensland Tourism News: Queensland Tourism Industry Canvassed on China Growth

Tourism Queensland has released a discussion paper on opportunities and challenges facing the industry as the State ramps-up efforts to snare a greater share of the burgeoning China market.

Tourism, Manufacturing and Small Business Minister Jan Jarratt said work was well advanced on developing the new Project China Strategy, with industry feedback critical.

"Sustainably growing our share of the China market and giving Chinese visitors a great experience involves everyone and I want industry to have their say, with consultation open until December," Ms Jarratt said.

"The discussion paper raises issues from better catering for Chinese travellers to diversifying target markets such as attracting different age groups and destinations so it is important for industry to think about these issues and give their feedback," she said.

"The resulting Project China Strategy will map out our long-term vision to grow our share of the crucial China market, with potential spending by Chinese visitors in Australia tipped to reach $7-9 billion by 2020."

Ms Jarratt said China was already Queensland's third largest international market and one of the fastest growing, with 198,000 Chinese visiting Queensland in the year ending June 2011 - 25% more than the year prior.

"Chinese travellers are big spenders, outlaying $381 million on their trips to Queensland in the year ending June 2011 - a significant $48 million more than during the previous year," she said.

"With Chinese visitor numbers forecast to continue growing by double digits over the next few years, it's vital that our tourism industry has the skills, products and experiences to ensure they have the best possible Queensland experience, and when they go home they tell their friends and family that Queensland is where Australia Shines."

Queensland Tourism News: Queensland Tourism Industry Canvassed on China Growth

Ipswich Poetry Feast 2011 Awards Presentation

Winners in each category of the annual International Poetry Competition were announced at this prestigious event. Prizes are presented by the Ipswich Poetry Feast, and first prize winning poems, or an excerpt of these poems, are professionally read.

Ipswich poetry feast 2011

An international poetry competition and program of literary events aimed at encouraging, promoting and showcasing poets and poetry writing for all ages
Councillor David Pahlke, chair, Ipswich poetry feast committee & councillor Paul Pisasale, mayor of Ipswich

The Ipswich Poetry Feast has become an important part of Ipswich's cultural identity.
The competition was born of "The Babies of Walloon" story after the release of a book on the subject by Walloon author Judith Baker which captured the sad tale of two young girls who drowned in a waterhole near Walloon late in the 19th Century. The event so touched Henry Lawson, the soon to be famous Australian poet, that in 1891 he wrote the poem.

Ipswich City Council is committed to positioning the Poetry Feast to be one of the leading poetry competitions in Australia. With international interest emerging, the competition will place Ipswich on the international stage via the love of poetry.

A winning Poem: Edwards Property Mentorship Award

Petrichor by Vuong Pham from Camira, Qld

A
lull
in the
first rain
after a dry
spell breathes
a suspense like
no other. Its silence
calms the exhaustion of
hysterical trees shrugging
off drought. Its scent lingers
between blackberry lanes that
bare their chests to the drizzle,
air-coffeed with earth. Its arrival
is crystal chrysalis awakening on
hot tin roofs like popcorn baking.
The remains are along staves of
fence wire, hanging dewdrops
of broken notes. They offer
peace, that is a trickling
sun, to the puddle's
heartbeat...
plop

Melbourne Cup Race: Glam Up For Cup - Metro Hotel Ipswich International Melbourne Cup Fashion Glipse

THE Metro Hotel Ipswich International might be two states away from Flemington Racecourse but that won't stop them dressing for the occasion.

As part of the Metro's annual Melbourne Cup celebrations, the hotel will be running a fashion parade with clothes from Ipswich store House of Amy.

The event, which is already sold out, will be raising money for the Ipswich Hospital Foundation.

Metro Hotel guest relations manager Fran Edney said the hotel's Melbourne Cup lunch was becoming a tradition for some locals.

"This is the third year we've held it and the second we've sold out, but this time we've sold out much earlier than before," she said.

"People just love it though.

"It always gets a really good rap."

While this year's event won't have the popular guinea pig races of last year, Ms Edney promised some other entertainment that was still under wraps.

"We'll have some great entertainment, not everything has been decided yet but there are some big plans."

Even though fashion parades have always been part of the Metro's Melbourne Cup festivities, this is the first year they've showed off the clothes of House of Amy.

"I went in there and just fell in love with everything," Ms Edney said.

House of Amy owner Amy Winks is an award-winning designer and studied in Paris on a scholarship from the Australian Student Awards.

The parade will be showing some of the store's latest fashions, including '60s-inspired skirts, tassels and the many hats and fascinators stocked.

The festivities will kick off at noon and run until 3pm on Tuesday November 1.

The Metro Hotel Ipswich International is far from the only venue hosting an event, with celebrations occurring throughout Ipswich.

Melbourne Cup Race: Glam Up For Cup - Metro Hotel Ipswich International Melbourne Cup Fashion Glipse

Discover Ipswich in 60 seconds - Video

Discover Ipswich in 60 seconds!



Ipswich is Queensland's oldest provincial city and offers an alluring blend of heritage charm, metropolitan sophistication and expansive green spaces. Early colonial buildings stand proud in the city centre, lovingly restored Queenslanders perch on hills and quaint townships dot the surrounding countryside.

Just 40 minutes west of Brisbane and an hour from the Gold Coast, Ipswich combines rich heritage with the energy of being the hub of today's growth region in South East Queensland. Whether you’re looking for family friendly fun, outdoor adventure, adrenalin action, pure indulgence or a glimpse back to bygone days … come and Discover Ipswich.

Melbourne Cup at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Where better to see the latest fashions for the track then at the Metro Hotel Ipswich International on Melbourne Cup day fashion parade by The House of Amy Ipswich.

Be charmed by key trends hitting our racetracks this Spring.

How better to describe classic and quality than the word LACE. Antique style lace returns in all its glamour and will be a prominent feature through Spring 2011 and Winter 2012. Traditional needle or bobbin lace stealing the limelight, wider nets, unique patters and sturdy fabrics are featured in skirts, dresses, tops. Shapes are simple and elegant.

The 60’s lady – Miss Dior silhouettes are still a strong focus this season. Fuller skirts, long midi length pencil skirts that taper to the calf. Forget the mod 60’s we are not doing miniskirts and tiny shift dresses. This look is elegant. Bright fresh colours and pastels, prints such as floral and stripes that are bold and fruity will be seen. The House of Amy has already ordered ranges for next year’s Ipswich Cup and we have this look covered!

Luxury Trims Return – The Tassel

Tassels have been used throughout history as symbols of status from military to religious, from personal adornment to furnishings. 17^th century France had a boom industry in manufacturing handmade tassels representing wealth, power and opulence.

Our global instability has awakened a desire for small luxuries, and our appreciation for craftsmanship and quality has matured. We see luxury as craftsmanship a perfect adornment such as the tassel or antique inspired lace is a statement. The connotation of opulence in good taste. Quality is key when it comes to the tassel, an understated sense of luxury and authenticity. Tassels will be seen adorning handbags, shoes, belts, hats and garments and will be in a range of materials from rope to silk, beads to leather.

Pleats are Back and Here to Stay..

The most dominant pleats are knife pleats which are single pleats that all go in the same direction, and sunray pleats which are knife pleats that are cut to start smaller and get wider flaring to the hem.

Pleats will be prominent in sheer lightweight fabrics that are flowing and ethereal. Fabrics such as sheer crepes and silk tulles are hot. Lengths in dresses and skirts vary and you will see pleats in 70’s revival maxi skirts and dresses through to the 1920’s flapper look.

Classic Black and White…Always a favourite

Different combinations will be seen! All black, all white, spots, stripes, black on white, white on black…always a winner.

Spring has seen a burst of colour with reds, oranges and green prominate. Colour blocking will be popular trackside with clever matching of solid colour in outfits. You will see red and orange together, blue and green together, and purple and yellow. This is a strong statement look with styles very minimalist in cut.

Fascinators and Hats

The most important adornment for a trackside woman. Choose a colour that compliments your outfit and doesn’t overpower the total finished look. If choosing a plain black fascinator or hat add a few extra feathers or ribbon in a colour that is featured in your outfit, it is important that your headwear ties back with your outfit to achieve a polished finished look.

The House of Amy is showcasing exclusively to the Ipswich International Hotels Melbourne Cup Day ranges that will be in store for Next years Ipswich Cup. Labels will include Lemonade on the Lawn, Ruby Valentine, Studibaker and Darling. These ranges are not even in production yet and will be instore Feb, March 2012. We will also be showcasing a designer range of Millenery by local milln

Metro Hotel Ipswich International: White Christmas Helps Tiny Blaise

WHETHER you are organising a work group or a gathering of friends to celebrate the festive season, this year the Metro Hotel Ipswich International has devised the perfect event - a Winter Wonderland Christmas function, complete with one of the world's most experienced Santas.

While the weather may be warm outside, the hotel is expecting a winter chill on November 11 as it dresses itself in its winter finery.

Guests will be treated to a wide array of festive nibbles, a two-course Christmas dinner and beverages.

Entertainment will be provided by a mobile DJ, while a magical elf with a sack full of tricks will perform.

Funds will be raised for two-year-old Blaise Wyatt, who suffers from cerebral palsy.

Blaise's parents Dawn and Cameron Wyatt aim to take the toddler to the United States for treatment. Raffle tickets will be sold on the night.

To book for the Winter Wonderland event, call the hotel on 3812 8077.

White Christmas Helps Tiny Blaise

THE Last Four Super Hornets to be Based at RAAF Base Amberley

These photos were taken today from the Metro Hotel Ipswich International As they flew over today.

THE last four Super Hornets to be based at RAAF Base Amberley will fly over Ipswich today as part of a 20-strong jet formation.

Ipswich residents will see 16 F/A-18F Super Hornets depart Amberley about 10am before they fly over various south-east Queensland locations from the Sunshine Coast to Tweed Heads.

After they meet the four new jets at the Sunshine Coast, they will return, and Ipswich residents will be able to look to the skies about 11.24am to see all 20 Super Hornets return to base.

Busting Out! On sale now What's On Ipswich

Direct from sold out seasons in London and Los Angeles, the Australian made, international hit show Busting Out! is touring Australia in 2012! Busting Out! 2012 has the best of the earlier show plus new material!

Busting Out! would make a great Christmas gift, with more front than Myer, our bosom-buddies return in their own laugh-out-loud and totally liberating show which has been seen by over 400,000 adoring fans throughout the world.

In the words of the UK's Leicester Mercury this show is "Absolutely brilliant." Follow our ladies as they unleash their playful puppies and walk abreast down mammary lane. It's an uplifting celebration of bouncy songs, wobbly jokes, thigh-slapping sketches, and of course, practical demonstrations of the fascinating lesser-known uses of your drooping assets.

"Tasteful, clever, liberating and laugh out loud funny!" DAILY TELEGRAPH

"Wonderful.. hilarious... time and again ambushing the audience with its audacity." MANLY DAILY

"Mega talented... these girls sing, dance, bounce and squeeze through a non stop two hour show with clever skits, laugh out loud song and dance, and ripping gags." MELBOURNE HERALD SUN

Ipswich Events: Oh What A Night! A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons

Tickets selling fast - get in quick for Ipswich's 'one night only' show!

Direct from Las Vegas – OH WHAT A NIGHT! is an exciting musical revue written and directed by independent Motown producer George Solomon, and award-winning producer/director Michael Chapman. Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, Working My Way Back To You, Let’s Hang On, and Who Loves You, are just some of the many hits you will enjoy from the songbook of those dynamic boys from Jersey, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

While the smash hit Jersey Boys is a scripted musical biography of the group, OH WHAT A NIGHT! is a concert tribute which features all the original hits and more. Between the recognizable tunes you will be delivered informative and often hilarious banter between the high-spirited cast. Fans of Fankie Valli & The Four Seasons will not want to miss this show!

With supporting act Tommy Memphis - The legend & spirit of many of the big names in Rock n Roll history lives on in the heart and soul of one of the new breed of entertainers. Tommy Memphis shows & performances have entertained thousands

Ipswich Events: Oh What A Night! A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons

Ipswich Events: Echoes of Edinburgh & Australian Army Band Brisbane - Ipswich Events

Make a day out with friends for our upcoming special offer for Echoes of Edinburgh and Australian Army Band Brisbane.

Echoes of Edinburgh - Thur 20 October 2011 @ 11:00am
Queensland Police Pipes and Drums Band - Starring Billy Raymond Australia’s favourite Scottish entertainer Billy Raymond, comperes 90 minutes of family fun, music and dance featuring the highly acclaimed Queensland Police Pipes and Drums Band and the talented Scotia Highland Dancers.

Among the finest exponents of piping and drumming the band has appeared at the legendary Edinburgh Military Tattoo and as guests of Queen Elizabeth II at Balmoral Castle. Renowned recording artist and comedian Billy Raymond provides his family style humour and well-known songs from Scotland that feature on his 14 popular albums.

Normal Ticket Prices:
Adult $20.00
Concession $17.00
Group 10+ including a Light Meal $25.00

Australian Army Band Brisbane - Tues 22 November 2011 @ 11:00am
Known as one of the finest military bands in Australia, the Australian Army Band Brisbane provides music for regal, vice-regal, state and ceremonial occasions, performs at festivals, gives concerts and presents precision marching displays, as well as fulfilling its military role.

Every year the band provides music for many varied community groups and receives acclaim from audiences wherever it performs.

Normal Ticket Prices
All Tickets $12.00
Group 10+ including a Light Meal $20.00

Ipswich Events: Echoes of Edinburgh & Australian Army Band Brisbane - Ipswich Events

Shop Until You Drop - Get the Girls Together for Christmas Shopping Spree and a Fantastic Night Out.

Shop Until You Drop - Get the Girls Together for Christmas Shopping Spree and a Fantastic Night Out.


Accommodation twin share
Plus1 x$ 20 gift voucher for
Platform 9 restaurant and bottle of wine on arrival
$75.00 per person

Looking for a bit of retail therapy... Exclusive boutiques... Novelty gifts... Fabulous homewares... Local art... One stop-shopping? Then check out a sample of some of our retailers and centres.

Within walking Distance from the METRO HOTEL IPSWICH INTERNATIONAL you will find the historic vibrant section of the City boasting a broad diversity of retail, cafes and commercial and community enterprises nestled within a unique streetscape boasting preserved and restored historic buildings.

Turn any corner and you are likely to find something to surprise and delight you. Top of Town is Ipswich's premier boutique shopping, cultural, dining and entertainment precinct. The two-block stretch along Brisbane Street boasts some of Ipswich's oldest and most beautiful heritage buildings, funky cafe's, long standing businesses and a wide array of shopping delights Or you can take a short drive to Ipswich Riverlink Shopping Centre destination.

With Coles, Kmart, Target and Woolworths along with over 130 specialty stores , Next stop is the region’s newest shopping Centre Orion Springfield Town Offering Big W, Woolworths, Aldi and over 100 speciality shops.

All this within 30mins drive of the Metro Hotel Ipswich International

• Call Now 073812 8077
• Email, reservations.ipswich@metrohg.com