Redlands seniors have turned out in numbers for a community morning tea with Seniors Minister Coralee O’Rourke and Redlands Labor candidate Kim Richards.
Residents representing seniors groups across Redlands told MPs and councillors about matters of concern, with funding to the Donald Simpson Centre high on the list.
Redland City Council is cutting operational funding to the centre, instead using the money more broadly across the retiree and needy community
The centre had been given more than $1 million dollars over 30 years. No other organisation in the Redlands had received such financial support over such a long period.
She said seniors’ funding would not be cut, rather it would be distributed more widely.
“We have people with disabilities, young people and a large number of older residents who are not connected to the Donald Simpson centre who also need support,’’ she said.
“...Funds that have been part of the support provided to the Donald Simpson Centre will be reinvested into a new age-friendly communities’ program to support our city's ageing population.”
Cr Williams said centre managers had indicated they had opportunities to raise revenue through sponsorship and grants which would ensure they remained sustainable without having to rely so heavily on ratepayer contributions. Council would continue to underwrite the centre's nominal rent and maintenance costs.
The meeting at Lakeside Victoria Point was also attended by Deputy Mayor Cr Wendy Boglary and Cr Lance Hewlett.
Ms O'Rourke said a focus had to be placed on providing support for seniors and the importance of planning for an ageing population.
Ms Richards said seniors had to have a strong voice in state parliament.
Redlands has a total of 17 aged care homes, with an 18th in the planning stages.
