A cardboard cut-out of touring UK singer songwriter, Ed Sheeran, is popping up all over Ipswich as the city steps up its bid to secure the services of the global music superstar for a local concert.
Ipswich City Council Mayor, Teresa Harding (pictured, right) said the cardboard tribute was all part of her cheeky mission to convince the real Ed Sheeran to visit.
“What began as a simple invitation 10 months ago has grown into a full-blown community movement, with cardboard Ed now serving as the campaign’s mascot,” Mayor Harding said.
“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.
“Things escalated quickly after I belted out a cover of Castle on the Hill while riding The Warrior at the Ipswich Show, a moment that went viral, even though there was more screaming than singing.
“In September, I travelled to Ipswich in the UK to hand deliver an official invite to Ed’s local, The Thomas Wolsey pub, where he did his pop-up performance last year. Followed by confirmation that our many requests had made it to Ed and his team.
“Back home, a new large scale mural of Ed Sheeran was commissioned by Warner Music Australia, taking pride of place right in our city centre.”
By late 2025, the campaign had taken on a life of its own, with Ipswich schools, businesses and community groups finding creative ways to join in.
“Leichhardt State School’s Deadly Dancers performed Sandman in Yagara language, students submitted Edthemed artwork, local musicians kept the covers coming, and a special ‘Ed Beeran’ brew became available on tap at the Prince Alfred Hotel,” said the Mayor.
“We have now entered Ed-uary and with it, cardboard Ed’s whirlwind tour. He floated over Ipswich thanks to Floating Images, visited the Llama Farm at Pine Mountain, checked out the Brisbane Lions at Brighton Homes Arena, and toured RAAF Base Amberley for a once-in-a-lifetime cockpit moment.”
Even the Prime Minister has added his support to the call for Ed to visit.
“From our school students to our local artists, our businesses, our defence community and importantly our residents, everyone has added their own spark.
“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,” said Mayor Harding.
Ed Sheeran performed his final Sydney concert on Sunday 15 February before heading to Queensland for three shows at Suncorp Stadium on 20, 21 and 22 February.
