RED SHIELD APPEAL TOPPED OFF WITH LAND CONTRIBUTION FROM BLIGH GOVERNMENT

The Bligh Government has topped off The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal by contributing state land to the charity for a new community assistance facility in Townsville.

Natural Resources Minister Craig Wallace today announced that vacant state land at Garbutt would be provided to The Salvation Army for a new regional community assistance facility which would include accommodation for homeless people.

"The Bligh Government is planning for the future by providing increased facilities and services for people in need in our growing communities," Mr Wallace said.

"Townsville MP Mike Reynolds approached me on The Salvation Army’s behalf to raise their concerns in relation to acquiring land to increase their ability to assist those in our community who are struggling.

"I am delighted that the Bligh Government can provide a lease for a suitable parcel of land at Garbutt for The Salvation Army to build this important new facility in Townsville.

"Thanks to the hard work of Mike Reynolds and The Salvation Army, Townsville will soon have an indispensable facility to provide assistance for those in need."

The Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer said the new facility would offer accommodation and treatment for up to 70 men, women with children and families many of whom are currently facing hard times because of alcohol dependence, addictions and therefore experiencing financial difficulties.

"There is a real need for this facility in the Townsville community. This facility will see our residential capacity dramatically increase and the assistance we can offer to those affected by addiction expanded considerably," Major Harmer said.

Minister Wallace said a parcel of land located off John Melton Black Drive had been allocated for the new facility.

Member for Townsville Mike Reynolds strongly supported the creation of the new community assistance facility.

"I am very pleased that the Bligh Government will provide land for this highly regarded organisation for such a worthy cause," Mr Reynolds said.

"I am delighted we will be able to provide assistance to people facing hardship and families struggling to stay together," he said.

Townsville Mayor Les Tyrell welcomed the announcement and said the new centre would provide an indispensable new facility for the Townsville community.

"It’s important that Townsville City has the services in place to provide support for people going through hard times," Cr Tyrell said.

Minister Wallace said his Department would work closely with The Salvation Army and stakeholders to finalise all of the arrangements necessary for the lease to go ahead.

Media contact: Minister Wallace’s office, 3896 3688.