THE first step towards creating the most significant parkland in south east Queensland for a generation was taken at a special ceremony in Ipswich recently.

Premier Anna Bligh joined Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale and Springfield Land Corporation (SLC) Chairman Maha Sinnathamby to open stage one of the 24 hectare site at Robelle Domain in Springfield Central Parklands.

Cr Pisasale said he was delighted the first stage of the $30 million recreational hub at the heart of the 487 hectare parklands was now complete.

"Robelle Domain is set to become one of the state's most significant leisure areas and a world class destination for local residents and visitors when stage two of the 24 hectares opens by late 2010," he said.

"The first stage completes about 60% of the domain area and includes six kilometres of cycling and pedestrian paths, landscaped gardens and paving.

"When finished, the domain will feature a piazza, environmental education centre, cultural heritage displays, public art and sculptures plus restaurants and kiosks.

"Artificial lakes, water features, playgrounds, BBQ and picnic areas will also be available for many generations of Springfield residents to enjoy next year.

"When stage two is completed a network of more than 11km of cycling and walking paths will connect the space between the Education City, Parkside Business Precinct, the proposed Health City and Orion Town Centre."

The space was named ‘Robelle Domain' after SLC Managing Director Bob (Robert) Sharpless and his wife Belinda.

"The name recognises the important role Bob has played as one of the original and continuing directors of the company which founded Springfield," Cr Pisasale said.

"Robelle is a clever combination of Bob (Robert) and Belinda's first names and a fitting tribute to a couple who have worked tirelessly to help shape Springfield."

Robelle Domain in Springfield Central Parklands has been funded by a public private partnership between Ipswich City Council ($10 million), the Federal Government ($10 million), Springfield Land Corporation ($5 million) and the Queensland Government ($5 million).

Springfield Land Corporation Chairman Maha Sinnathamby said he was pleased that his long-time business partner Bob Sharpless had been recognised for his efforts in building Springfield.

"Bob has been integral to the success of Greater Springfield and made numerous sacrifices for the city's benefit over the past 17 years," Mr Sinnathamby said.

"He has worked with the SLC since 1985 and was appointed managing director in 2003, giving him responsibilities across all the group's companies and projects.

"During his career Bob has been involved in all major sectors of the property development industry including tourism, retail development, residential subdivisions and commercial and industrial projects.

"As Springfield's population is set to double in less than 20 years Robelle Domain is a fantastic and much-needed asset."

The 24 hectare Robelle Domain is at the heart of the 487 hectare Springfield Central Parklands, one of Australia's largest urban parkland corridors which extends along Woogaroo and Opossum creeks.