New funding arrangements secure continued Neighbourhood House Program in Broadford
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21 July 2016
To ensure the community can continue to access a Neighbourhood House program in Broadford, the State Government is transferring funding to Mitchell Shire Council from 22 August 2016.
The State Government has terminated a service agreement for the Neighbourhood House Program with Broadford Community Centre, effective 19 August 2016. Mitchell Shire Council will be funded to provide the program from 22 August 2016.
As a result of these changes, Broadford Community Centre Inc has been given notice to vacate from the Broadford Community Centre which is currently leased on a month-by-month agreement.
Council is also in discussion with other groups and users including the Work for the Dole community garden scheme to minimise disruption.
Mitchell Shire Deputy Mayor Councillor Des Callaghan, OAM,BJ,JP said it was unfortunate the situation had arisen, but it was reassuring that the State Government was committed to continuing neighbourhood house services in Broadford.
“We understand people enrolled in neighbourhood house classes and centre users will have some questions about the change and will want to know what it means for them,” Cr Callaghan said.
“We don’t have all the answers right now, but we’re keen to minimise disruption as much as possible as we work through the change and introduce new arrangements from 22 August.
“We are mindful that there will be groups and individuals who have regular classes or meetings at the centre and those that have already paid for the current term, and these people will be our first priority in the short term.
“We’ll also be seeking expressions of interest for an advisory committee and we look forward to working with the wider Broadford community over the next 12 months to re-establish the community centre and create a vibrant community precinct along with the nearby youth centre, kindergarten, preschool, skate park, police station and community garden.”
Council is contacting known user groups this week. Anyone who would like to be kept up to date or have questions about existing programs or bookings is encouraged to contact Council on 5734 6200.