Changes are coming to the Nundah Activity Centre, which “… remains closed until further notice, excepting essential services delivering food,” due to the coronavirus public health emergency. In an earlier announcement, Aurous, the centre’s main lessee, also revealed that it will be cutting back some of its free services and vacating the building by the end of June due to a shortage of funds.
Aurous’ Chief Executive Officer Rachael Cook posted a notice on Facebook to inform the public of this operational update.
6 April 2020 Aurous Ltd continues to closely monitor the developments regarding the COVID-19 virus and as per…
Posted by Aurous on Sunday, April 5, 2020
Earlier in February, she also confirmed that the non-profit will shift its operations in Nundah to “only a small core” of its Community Visitor Scheme (CVS) program.
“If these programs continue, there is a risk of Aurous being placed into receivership and it is unlawful to operate if the business is insolvent,” Ms Cook wrote.
“Over the last 4 months, the staff and volunteers have worked together to review our services and ways of working and I have been in discussions with our grant providers and worked closely with the Board to consider all options. The choices came down to closing the business or identifying what, if any, activity had potential to be revised and continue.”
Here’s what you need to know about the changes at the Nundah Activity Centre:
1. Queensland Meals on Wheels
Queensland Meals on Wheels has found new providers to continue to serve all of its clients, including those in Chermside and Geebung These providers are local and will serve fresh meals compared to reheating frozen food. This was confirmed by Jen Ulichny, the Chairperson of the Aurous Board of Directors.
” Meals on Wheels clients will continue to receive their meals and will soon be fully transferred to their new supplier,” Ms Ulichny assured the public.
2. Queensland Men’s Shed
Queensland Men’s Shed has opted to leave the centre, along with all of the equipment donated to the service provider.
“We have been working with Men’s Shed Association Qld for possible solutions. There are several other Men’s Shed locations in our surrounding communities, and we are investigating all options,” Ms Ulichny said.
3. Faith City Worship Centre
The church group is also looking for a new location or organisation that may help continue its services at the centre. Faith City Worship Centre provides weekly meals, laundry and shower servicers to the needy under its Compassion for Community program.
4. Demolition of the Nundah Activity Centre
Councillor Adam Allan dispelled speculations that the centre will be demolished and replaced with a high rise. Brisbane City Council owns the property.
“The land is zoned as Sport and Recreation and it will stay that way. The focus of the facility is to support community activities,” Mr Allan said.
5. Community groups support
The Council has not asked community groups to leave the centre. Mr Allan assured large or small groups will receive support from the Council. This transition will give everyone a chance to review what should be changed or addressed to sustain the activities.
“As we wind back and transition programs over the coming months, we will continue to provide you with regular updates and as many options as possible,” said Ms Cook.
“When reviewing member activities in particular, we did consider if there were other community suppliers that offered the same or similar services, and if you would receive specialised or a better offering if you transferred elsewhere.”
Other organisations will also benefit from donations once the Nundah operations wind down. “We are pleased to announce we will also donate supplies to Qld Centre for Digital Inclusion (QCDI) and to the local Men’s Shed who are now successfully incorporated. Both organisations are in contact with BCC to identify location opportunities once the COVID-19 closures are past.”
Finally, Ms Ulichny also assured its members that services will not be interrupted during the transition, despite the current limited operations. Those opting to make changes to their membership may do so before the 30th of June for the fees refund.
For questions and clarifications, phone 1800 AUROUS (1800 287 687) or email Jen.Ulichny@aurous.org.au
For other updates about the changes, follow Aurous on Facebook.
