Local event held to help Mackay communities thrive

Community, industry and government representatives from across the Mackay region have been brought together by the Palaszczuk Government to explore partnership opportunities supporting strong, vibrant and thriving communities.

Minister for Communities Coralee O’Rourke today (22 May) hosted the ‘Thriving Communities’ Community Services event which has brought together key local stakeholders.

“I am always keen to hear about the ways individuals, organisations and government are working together to support local people and families in need and to build the resilience of our communities,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Our Mackay communities are no exception.

“Today, we looked at ways we can ensure that community voices are heard and influence the planning and delivery of local services.

“We also discussed the critical role that local initiatives play in creating thriving communities right across this region.

“Mackay’s communities reap the benefits of individuals and organisations working collaboratively – and that’s exactly what today’s stakeholder event was all about.”

The event was held at the Harrup Park Country Club in Mackay at 7.30am this morning.

Mrs O’Rourke said creating thriving communities was a key priority for the Palaszczuk Government.

“This vision is about people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities being able to participate, being included and resilient, and enjoying high levels of social and economic wellbeing,” she said.

“Thriving communities contribute to the overall prosperity of the state and also reap the benefits of the significant government investment in education, employment, health, safety and economic development.”

Mrs O’Rourke said the $550,000 Thriving Queensland Communities Grants for Neighbourhood Centres were now open as a key part of efforts to strengthen the state’s communities.

“Under this new grants program, Queensland’s 124 government-funded neighbourhood centres can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to run events, deliver projects, or to purchase equipment which will help our communities thrive,” she said.

For more information about thriving communities or the Thriving Queensland Communities Grants for Neighbourhood Centres go to www.communities.qld.gov.au/

ENDS

Media Contact: Benjamin Mulcahy 0419 562 389