OPENING in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic was no mean feat, but it soon became clear to the staff at the Flagstone Community Centre that it was just the right time.
The community hub opened in May last year and has grown boasting child care services, senior groups, an immunisation clinic and a thriving book club.
Community development officer Susan Hawke said the centre was looking at building up families this year and has started a child health clinic every Tuesday from 9am to 4pm.
The clinic run by Queensland Health offers a range of services including growth and development checks, early feeding support, parent support groups and counselling to help parenting from birth to eight years.
There are also playgroups on Mondays and Thursday focusing on children aged three to five and newborns to two years.
Ms Hawke said when they first opened she expected families and kids would be the first through the doors, however the older generation sought help highlighting the need for a place for the elderly to meet.
"People wanted to have a talk, a cry and we noticed the elderly in our community were lonely and wanted to make connections... especially during the pandemic," she said.
She said even mums stuck at home while their partners were at work dropped in for support and a cup of tea.
Book club on the third Monday of the month at 6pm has proved both a therapeutic and social gathering. Ms Hawke said the group not only talk about their books but also about life stories which helps them connect and make new friends.
"It is a place where people can come and feel connected to their community. We are here to support people with whatever they are going through and help them feel connected," Ms Hawke said.
The centre is run by the Uniting Church in Australia's South Moreton presbytery, and funded by the church and grants.
"It was clear the community needed the centre, we knew it was going to be hard when we opened, it's financially tough - but definitely the right decision for the community," Ms Hawke said.
Service providers pay a small fee and some group activities and services carry a minimal price.
For more information and to book an appointment with the child health nurse visit https://www.flagstonecommunitycentre.com/ or phone 0491 711 398.
Angela Kelly
Redland City Bulletin senior journalist covering politics, community issues and human interest stories. South African living the dream in Australia.
Redland City Bulletin senior journalist covering politics, community issues and human interest stories. South African living the dream in Australia.
