Ipswich #1

Ipswich City Mayor Paul Pisasale said he was excited. "We're the brunt of many jokes," Cr Pisasale said. "One thing about the people of Ipswich is we defend our home. "For many years we've been defending Ipswich.... hold your head up Ipswich and be proud. "To win number one, I feel so proud. No one can claim victory on their own." Ipswich's submission included testimonials from youth leaders, principals, developers, State members and even former premier Peter Beattie and wife Heather. Cr Pisasale thanked the Ipswich community for believing in the council and working together to improve the city. Cr Attwood agreed saying the award provided a benchmark for Ipswich and as a city we must continue to improve its liveability. "I think it's a benchmark for Ipswich to continue striving forward," he said. "Last year, the city scored the sixth largest increase in population of any local government area in Australia."Other finalists included Pecs (Hungary), Portsmouth (Virginia US), Kakamigahara (Japan), Richmond BC (Canada), Santa Clarita (US) and Mancomunidad del Sureste de Gran Canaria (Spain). They were narrowed down from 1500 cities.