A decision by Ipswich City Council to manage Riverview Community Centre will come with significant benefits for people of the Riverview area, including potential for rejuvenation of the current facilities.
Community, Cultural and Economic Development general manager Ben Pole said a decision was made at a council meeting on Thursday to manage the centre.
“Council will put out an expression of interest on or before 1 July 2020 outlining a clear path forward for the centre to be managed by a third party in partnership with council,” he said.
“This means that over the coming months we will be looking at current programming, the type of support the centre needs from council, and how we can make the facility an effective focal point for the people of Riverview and surrounding suburbs.”
Mr Pole said that council is committed to ensuring continuity of services and programming to the local community.
“We’d like to commend those who’ve help put such vibrant programs in place,” he said.
“We know how much work is involved, and we’re aware of the genuine value that these programs bring to the community. Some of the ways people within the centre have changed others’ lives for the better is extraordinary.
“Now, we want to expand on those achievements.”
Part of that would be a complete review of facilities.
“We know that there are some parts to the centre which require a touch up, a lick of paint or some handyman-type work,” he said.
“Other parts might need a more major overhaul, so they’re the types of thing our team will be looking at with a view to making the centre an improved focal point for all people who live in the area.”
Mr Pole said the centre was a key player when it came to tackling social issues.
“Youth in particular are provided a real sense of identity and belonging by some of the programs offered at the centre,” he said.
“Others who are in need know they can lean on the services operating from the centre for support and guidance. Now, we realise we need to do more to ensure the centre has a bright and expanded future.”
