Neighbourhood Centre calls on the community to help fund its future
FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
BUSINESS FEATURE
For nearly forty years, the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre has supported the community through life’s most difficult and joyful moments. Now, it is calling upon that same community to help raise vital funds for much-needed renovations.
The launch of the “Be the Reason We Grow” fundraising campaign marks a pivotal moment for the Port Douglas Community Service Network.
What started in 1988 as a simple meeting of locals discussing childcare needs has grown into one of the Douglas Shire’s most critical support hubs.
From its early days in borrowed office spaces to moving into its purpose-built Mowbray Street home in 2005, the Centre has remained focused on connection, care, and practical support.
Over the years, it has provided essential programs including playgroups, emergency relief, community transport, financial counselling, and disaster recovery services.
Now, the organisation is looking to the future, seeking community help to upgrade its infrastructure to ensure it remains a safe, welcoming, and resilient space for generations to come.
Upgrading for the future
The fundraising campaign will directly fund several key renovation projects designed to improve safety, comfort, and capacity.
Planned upgrades include air-conditioning key gathering spaces to ensure the Centre remains usable during extreme heat and wet weather, alongside improving overall building security.
Funds will also be used to create additional office space for visiting essential services and to build a brand-new community BBQ shed to host gatherings and foster local connection.
“For nearly four decades, this Centre has supported local people through some of life’s most difficult moments as well as many joyful ones,” said Network CEO Emma Travers.
“We invite everyone who has had a connection with us to help write the next chapter of our story.”
Leave your mark: The mangrove donation mural
As a centerpiece of the fundraising efforts, the Centre will install a large Mangrove Donation Mural, symbolising the strength and resilience of the Douglas community.
Community members and businesses are invited to permanently etch their names into the Centre’s history by purchasing a leaf on the mural.
Donation levels range from $100 for individual and family leaves up to $1,000 for corporate leaves, with fully customisable wording to recognise a family, business, or loved one. All donations are tax-deductible.
Campaign launch event
The entire community is invited to celebrate the official launch of the campaign upstairs at the Tin Shed on Tuesday, 16 June from 4.00pm to 6.00pm.
The event will feature a live broadcast with Michael Joseph and Douglas FM, offering attendees the chance to hear the Centre's origin story, view the renovation plans, and listen to stories of the Centre's local impact.
Those unable to attend can listen live on Douglas FM. To learn more, purchase a mural leaf, or make a donation, drop into the Centre, call 4099 5518, or visit portdouglascommunityservicenetwork.org.au
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