Queensland Government approves ECEC service despite ongoing concerns
Sep 13, 2023
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The Queensland Government has approved a controversial early childhood education and care (ECEC) development in Deebing Heights despite “serious community concerns” given the history of a nearby former Aboriginal mission and burial grounds.
Before continuing to read this piece, readers should be aware that the matters outlined in the story may be distressing for members of, and advocates for, First Nations communities.
The land at the centre of the development application – 7001 Grampian Drive, Deebing Heights – is home to a known cemetery, sacred sites, a stand of rare melaleuca trees, and koala habitat, all of which have significance to the local First Nations community.
Ipswich City Council referred the development application back to the State Government, following ongoing concerns about the history of the site, with the State Government ultimately determining that a Material Change of Use could be applied, making the approval.
The developer which owns the land – AV Jennings – signed a Cultural Heritage Management Plan with the Yuggera Ugarapul People (YUP) covering the majority of the site in 2019.
A spokesperson for Economic Development Queensland said they reviewed all relevant application information provided by Ipswich City Council, including submissions, and sought advice from the Department of Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Communities and the Arts.
“We are satisfied the proposed childcare centre achieves the vision set out in the Ripley Valley Development Scheme, and that cultural heritage issues have been appropriately addressed,“ the spokesperson shared with local news source Ipswich News Today.
“We recognise and acknowledge that significant work has been undertaken by the development industry in conjunction with native title parties to effectively manage cultural heritage in the area.“
