Queensland Government funding beats the heat in Emerald

The Emerald Neighbourhood Centre will beat the heat next summer thanks to a Queensland Government grant of $9989 to upgrade its air-conditioning and install outdoor fans.

Stirling Hinchliffe, Parliamentary Secretary to Communities Minister Warren Pitt, will today present the grant cheque to Emerald Neighbourhood Centre coordinator Lorna Hicks.

“The Emerald Neighbourhood Centre has been supporting and helping families and individuals in the district for many years and this funding will make the job a little easier,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

The Emerald and District Social Development Association received the funding as part of the government’s commitment to strengthen and support Queensland’s neighbourhood and community centres.

“This funding is an example of the Queensland Government’s commitment to building strong, supportive and inclusive communities, particularly in rural and regional areas,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Community and neighbourhood centres are playing an increasingly important role as service hubs, providing an array of support and information for families and individuals.

”I am sure staff and clients of the Emerald Neighbourhood Centre will appreciate the upgrades, which will make the facilities more comfortable for all.”

Mr Hinchliffe is in Emerald to meet with government and industry representatives as part of a regional tour of central western Queensland.

The funding is part of the Queensland Government’s Best Start – Supporting Families in the Early Years initiative.

A total of $5 million in grants will be made available through the initiative to help neighbourhood and community centres upgrade equipment and provide prevention and early intervention initiatives which build community capacity.

Media contacts: Stirling Hinchliffe 0418 983 654; Minister Pitt’s Office 3235 4280