From Ipswich to Ipswich: Queensland meets Suffolk
John Dugmore with David Wiltshire and Stefan Long, the Mayor of Ipswich Photo: Suffolk Chamber of Commerce.
President of the Ipswich Chamber of Commerce in Queensland Australia, David Wiltshire, has made a visit to Suffolk in a bid to strengthening the growing bond between the two chambers and exploring opportunities for future collaboration.
He was welcomed by John Dugmore, CEO of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, and Stefan Long, the Mayor of Ipswich, who showcased the county’s rich heritage, thriving business community and the diverse opportunities across the wider region.
The visit included a tour of Trinity Park, Ipswich Waterfront, Christchurch Mansion, and a visit to Ipswich Town Football Club’s historic home ground, highlighting both local sporting culture and the wider civic pride found throughout Suffolk.
Mr Dugmore said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome David to Ipswich and to showcase Ipswich, our county town and its rich heritage and history, alongside the work the Chamber is doing to support our business community.
“We are proud of the diverse range of businesses we represent across the county and it was great to share that story with our counterparts from Australia.
“This visit has highlighted just how aligned our ambitions are and what can be achieved when chambers work together across borders.
“It marks an important first step in building a meaningful relationship between our two Ipswich’s.”
Mr Wiltshire added: “It was fantastic to visit Ipswich and see the excellent work the Suffolk Chamber is doing.
“I am very encouraged by the potential opportunities for collaboration in the future.
“The warm welcome I received truly highlights the Ipswich to Ipswich connection.
“From Trinity Park to Ipswich Town Football Club and the town’s local star, Ed Sheeran, it is a great town.
“Perhaps one day we might even see Ed Sheeran gig in our Ipswich Down Under, further strengthening the cultural ties between our towns.”
The visit also highlighted the symbolic link between the two towns through cultural icons.
“In Suffolk, Ed Sheeran continues to inspire local pride with his concerts at Portman Road, while Ipswich, Australia, has launched initiatives, including a new mural, inviting him to perform locally, a playful nod to the shared identity between the towns.