THE loss of Redland City Council funding had a severe impact on the Donald Simpson Community Centre, prompting an increase in activity fees from $1 to $5, according to board chairman Tony Christinson.
In his board report which coincided with the centre’s 30th anniversary on Monday, Mr Christinson said the centre had sufficient funds to pay all debts but warned the situation could be different by this time next year.
Mr Christinson said the board had pulled out of plans for a community hub development but would listen to any proposals.
About 100 of the centre’s 2320 members attended the AGM.
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Centre manager Thomas Jithin – who runs the facility which is the district’s biggest community hub – said a branding campaign was under way for the centre which included a social media presence.
“During the last financial year, we had 2660 peple attend our day trips and 148 people attend our overseas trips,” he said.
To celebrate the longevity of members, the centre also set up a grop called the over 90s.
“Anyone over 90 is welcome to join the club,” he said. “We had 17 attend our first meeting where we hosted lunch and entertainment.”
The group will meet again this month.
Oodgeroo MP Mark Robinson said the 30th anniversary was a terrific milestone for the centre which hosted functions for all ages.
“Chairman Tony Christinson and centre manager Thomas Jithin are a tremendous asset to the centre and I commend them and all of the board members, staff and volunteers for their work serving the community,” Mr Robinson said.
“If you want to help us preserve this vital community resource, please sign the ePetition as we fight for funding for the Donald Simpson Community Centre at donaldsimpsoncentre-lnp.nationbuilder.com/
