Newsroom

July 4, 2018

Shane Knuth MP has been working with CST (Community Services Tablelands) to secure $3.9 million for funding for a new community centre in Atherton – after more than four years of lobbying, the State Government has committed to paying $1.6 million for the project, along with CST’s contribution of $350,000, and land supplied by TRC.

 

The project, covering 3000m² between the Girl Guides Hall and the Library on Robert Street (pictured), has secured the State funding on the conditions of Federal Government meeting them halfway at $1.95 million, which Mr Knuth is confident will come through.

“This is great news for the Tablelands, it’s a rare opportunity to get something in the vicinity of this vital service for our region,” Mr Knuth said.

 “With this security of funding through the State and CST we are confident that Federal Government funding will be delivered and we will be in discussions with the Federal Member this week.

 “The completion of this will no doubt improve the quality of life for many families, children and seniors,” he said.

Mr Knuth also thanked Minister for Communities Coralee O’Rouke for her assistance, and the former Minister for Communities Shannon Fentiman for the initial Tablelands visit and providing $250,000 for the case study and plans.

 John Russell, CST CEO, is excited at the prospect of the community centre going ahead saying it is shovel ready and offers a lot of help to the community.

 “This is more than a neighborhood centre, it’s a purpose-built community hub, allowing us to do proactive work focusing on community development, families, children and seniors. It will offer professional services such as psychologists, social workers, counsellors and home community maintenance workers.

 “It will also offer transport as far as Mt Garnet for medical appointments, or even to deliver someone to a community event. It also provides a focal point for the community, things like music in the park, a place for get togethers and celebrations,” Mr Russell said.

 The centre is set to employ around 40 people and will consist of just as many volunteers eager to play their part in the community.