THE state government has given a second $25,000 grant to the Donald Simpson Centre following the loss of funding from the Redland City Council.
Seniors Minister Coralie O’Rourke and Redlands MP Kim Richards have visited the centre to announce the funding through an age-friendly cities’ program grant.
It follows $25,000 given by the state government to the centre last year.
Mrs O’Rourke said the funding was reflective of an increased need for age-friendly community activities in the Redlands.
“The Redlands area has a vibrant and thriving community of seniors, who are actively engaged with the Donald Simpson Centre,” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“This funding is another example of the Queensland government’s commitment to create age-friendly communities, where seniors can actively participate and feel included.
“By supporting Queensland’s community and neighbourhood centres, we can create thriving, vibrant and resilient communities.”
Ms Richards said the Donald Simpson Centre was a wonderful hub for seniors, promoting more than 40 activities each week, at least six bus trips a month and about three national and international trips each year.
“Through our extra funding, the Donald Simpson Centre will be able to continue to provide and expand services including social, intellectual and physical activities for seniors,” Ms Richards said.
Centre chairman Tony Christinson said the council’s operational funding had ended on June 30.
“Up until the 2016-17 financial year, the council supported the running costs of the DSC with $100,000,” Mr Christinson said. “This was reduced to $50,000 in 2017-18 and ceased after June 30, 2018.”
Mr Christinson said they had taken measures to compensate for the loss of funds but kept increases to a minimum.
“The board has increased the fee paid each time members pay for an activity from $4 to $5,” he said. “The cost for entertainment was raised from $10 to $15.”
Mr Christinson said the grant would go towards a music and entertainment program.
Sponsorships and donations are also being sought.
