Ed SheeranRadio stations, businesses, and everyday locals across Queensland are lobbying for global superstar Ed Sheeran to visit Ipswich as he performs in Brisbane this weekend.
Mister Brisbane reports that the campaign stems from the fact that Sheeran has a “strong connection” to Ipswich in England, and has visited Ipswich in Massachusetts, so why not visit the Queensland suburb of the same name while on his Loop Tour?
Schools, businesses, and community groups have jumped on board as “Ed-uary” reaches fever pitch across Queensland.
Ipswich residents have proven their commitment, from bakeries introducing the “Ginger-Ed” cookie, a pub launching the “Ed Beeran Brew,” exercise classes with Cardboard Ed, and performers singing his songs. Everyone’s getting involved in urging Sheeran to visit the suburb.
Animal Welfare League Queensland has also thrown support behind the campaign, revealing that there’s a dog at the shelter named after the singer waiting for a family to adopt him.
Queensland radio stations 4BC and B105 even put aside their competition, coming together to rally for a visit from Sheeran.
Both stations have shown their support for the campaign, which has even drawn the attention of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who called on Sheeran to visit “Ipswich, Queensland, not Ipswich, UK,” per The Courier Mail.
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Mayor Teresa Harding explained that the campaign to bring Sheeran to Ipswich began ten months ago, following his visits to the above-mentioned to Ipswich in the UK and the US.
“What began as a simple invitation ten months ago has grown into a full-blown community movement, with cardboard Ed now serving as the campaign’s mascot,” Mayor Harding said, Local Ipswich News reports.
“Cardboard Ed has had an incredible tour, but it’s the people of Ipswich who have made this journey unforgettable. This ambitious ask has evolved into a remarkable community campaign that’s showcased the creativity, pride and spirit of Ipswich.”
Harding added, “Whether or not we are able to convince the real Ed Sheeran to visit Ipswich, this campaign’s greatest achievement has been the way it has brought our community together. Ipswich would certainly welcome Ed with open arms.”
Sheeran performs at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium tonight, tomorrow, and Sunday. Following his Brisbane shows, the singer concludes the run in Melbourne and Adelaide. You can find last-minute tickets here.
Reviewing the first night on Sheeran’s Australian run, The Music’s Sam Mead remarked on the show at Perth’s Optus Stadium, “As Ed Sheeran makes his return to Australia for the local kick-off of the global Loop Tour, it’s clear that he’s at the top of his game when it comes to captivating stadium crowds.”
