Published Thursday, 30 August, 2007 at 05:30 AM
Minister for Communities, Disability Services, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
The Honourable Warren Pitt
Plans on track for new Mackay respite centre
A 4000–square metre property on the Mackay Bucasia Road at Rural View is to be redeveloped as a respite care centre for local children with a disability.
Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt said Mackay and District Education Centre (MADEC) had recently purchased the property, after receiving significant funding from Disability Services Queensland.
“The Queensland Government recognises the outstanding role that families and carers provide when it comes to children with a disability,” Mr Pitt said.
“However, there are times when families and carers need a break from that crucial caring role, and that is why this respite care centre in Mackay is so important.”
Disability Services Queensland provided funding of $700,000 to build the centre, plus $200,000 for a mini bus, specialised equipment and furniture, and recurrent funding of more than $500,000 per year to run the centre.
Mr Pitt said the centre would bear the name John E. Smith in honour of renowned Mackay mouth artist, the late John Smith.
“Stage one works should be complete by mid next year, with the centre providing accommodation for up to four children and several full-time workers,” he said.
“Future plans also include meeting rooms for group activities and life skills training.”
Mr Pitt said MADEC expected to call for tenders for stage one work shortly.
“I look forward to the day when this new respite centre for Mackay opens its doors,” Mr Pitt said.
“Not only will it provide additional respite for the Mackay region, the building will also incorporate sustainable housing design features, and contemporary universal design principles.”
Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3235 4280
Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt said Mackay and District Education Centre (MADEC) had recently purchased the property, after receiving significant funding from Disability Services Queensland.
“The Queensland Government recognises the outstanding role that families and carers provide when it comes to children with a disability,” Mr Pitt said.
“However, there are times when families and carers need a break from that crucial caring role, and that is why this respite care centre in Mackay is so important.”
Disability Services Queensland provided funding of $700,000 to build the centre, plus $200,000 for a mini bus, specialised equipment and furniture, and recurrent funding of more than $500,000 per year to run the centre.
Mr Pitt said the centre would bear the name John E. Smith in honour of renowned Mackay mouth artist, the late John Smith.
“Stage one works should be complete by mid next year, with the centre providing accommodation for up to four children and several full-time workers,” he said.
“Future plans also include meeting rooms for group activities and life skills training.”
Mr Pitt said MADEC expected to call for tenders for stage one work shortly.
“I look forward to the day when this new respite centre for Mackay opens its doors,” Mr Pitt said.
“Not only will it provide additional respite for the Mackay region, the building will also incorporate sustainable housing design features, and contemporary universal design principles.”
Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3235 4280