A community space for Flagstonians and groups to meet and access service providers has opened its doors.
COVID-19 did not stop a planned opening of the Flagstone Community Centre, but the 10 people who attended adhered to social distancing measures.
Division 11 councillor Natalie Willcocks joined Uniting Church ministers and Tim Elthan from social planning and consultancy firm Communitas at the opening.
The centre, in a former display home at 19 Trailblazer Drive, aims to be a hub for the Flagstone community.
It has spaces for community meetings and social service providers, and a food bank for people to take the first steps in accessing support.
Non-perishable and frozen foods will be available for families doing it tough.
The centre will also have soap, shampoo, female hygiene products and nappies.
Families can also be referred to social services.
The centre's community development officer, Susan Hawke, said it would be a welcome facility in the community.
Mrs Hawke said a need for a community centre in Flagstone had been identified, and would only grow in the coming years.
"It's such a growing, changing community," she said.
The centre is run by the Uniting Church in Australia's South Moreton presbytery, and funded by the church and grants.
It will be open from Monday to Friday from 8.30am-4.30pm.
"But it can be opened any time by making a booking," Mrs Hawke said.
Coronavirus restrictions did not mean the community had missed out on a packed opening of the centre.
"We will have a proper opening for the community when we can," Mrs Hawke said.
Ms Willcocks predicted the facility would be well used once COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.
"I think it's a fantastic thing, and once COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted and it's all fully functional, it will be fantastic," she said.
Huge development planned for the area, Ms Willcocks said more people would access the centre's services as the area grew.
"It's the fastest growing area out here," she said.
The centre is looking for volunteers, including gardeners, cleaners and people to help out running community events.
Get in touch at flagstonecommunitycentre.com if you can help.
Read more local news here
