In what is being claimed as a win for community advocacy, the Scenic Rim Regional Council has committed to supporting the establishment of a Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) in Beaudesert.
It comes off the back of a community-led campaign started by the Beaudesert Chamber of Commerce in September 2020, incorporated as the Youth and Community Centre Beaudesert (YACC) in June 2021.
At its 5 July Ordinary Meeting, Council agreed to secure suitable Council-owned or controlled land on which to base a ‘multi-faceted community hub centred around sport and recreation facilities, youth support and community services.’
Council also agreed to provide a representative for the Project Control Group proposed to be formed by YACC, made up of PCYC Queensland, Queensland Police Service, Council and YACC representatives.
John Powell is President of YACC, alongside Vice-President David Kassulke, Secretary Bel Brown, Treasurer Mark Jackson and committee Lesley Turton, Alice Warby, Maree Richardson, Anthea Jennings-Hingston, Tim Walker, Linda Jackson, Julie McDonald and Beaudesert Officer in Charge, Senior Sergeant Ken Murray.
Mr Powell thanked his YACC counterparts, the Chamber, Queensland Police, PCYC Queensland and Council, making special mention of outgoing Manager Community & Culture Debra Moore for her support.
He said the PCYC would play a vital role in the community.
“This is a great result for the Scenic Rim community, especially our youth, many of whom are struggling with social engagement issues,” he said.
“Exhaustive research for this project has taken almost two years and has proven the absolute need for this facility in Beaudesert.”
Based on population data, and recommendations from PCYC Queensland, the project will require centrally located land in Beaudesert, with the ability to accommodate up to a 4,000m2 clubhouse facility and parking for up to 200 cars.
Division 4 Councillor Michael Enright said Council would play a vital role in supporting the project to move forward.
“In addition to in-kind support by way of a lease agreement for Council-owned or controlled land, we will support YACC in their pursuit of funding from both the Queensland and Australian governments, to build and establish the PCYC facility,” he said.
