More than 218,000 visits were made to the city heart to experience the wonder and joy of Ipswich City Council’s Christmas in Ipswich festivities and the fun-filled entertainment venues.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the massive visitation to Nicholas Street Precinct showed how quickly Ipswich residents and visitors have embraced the revitalised city centre.
“Nicholas Street Precinct is quickly becoming the destination of choice for entertainment and dining,” Mayor Harding said.
“St Nicholas Precinct was the centrepiece of the Christmas in Ipswich program, attracting more than 38,000 people across 10 nights.
“It was particularly wonderful to have a dedicated sensory night again this year. Almost 1,800 people took advantage of the opportunity to explore the light installation in a gentler, quieter environment.
“In November, the Lighting of the City Christmas Tree and Santa and Sirens also drew crowds with more than 4,700 people coming along to see their favourite emergency service heroes joining in the festivities.
“Local volunteers supported the popular St Nicholas Precinct activation, giving 194 hours of assistance to spread the Christmas spirit in Ipswich.
“Our city’s cultural heart is absolutely thriving, and I can’t wait to see our community continue to enjoy all that’s on offer, from our libraries, to seafood adventures or just a gelato and a stroll.”
Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the high visitation extended beyond the Christmas in Ipswich program.
“The newest attractions have been a gamechanger for Ipswich entertainment. Residents have been able to hang out with their friends at General Public, enjoy a date night at HOYTS or have drinks with friends at Hotel Commonwealth,” Cr Augustine said.
“The incredibly strong visitation to the precinct has benefitted all the businesses, and these benefits will ripple across the Ipswich economy.
“For many of the businesses in the precinct, December gifted them increased sales and exposure in time for the new year.
“With miniBounce and Anytime Fitness opening in coming weeks, residents will have all their entertainment, dining and fitness needs in one place.”
The Christmas in Ipswich program was delivered with the support of the following partners: Nine News Queensland, Stockland Providence, Narellan Pools Ipswich, Energex, STRUD, G.J. Gardner Homes Ipswich, Event Cinemas Springfield, Choices Flooring by Mallets, Ipswich, General Public and Premier Queensland.
