Redcliffe PCYC is needs $700,000 to finish expansion project and get children of waiting lists

ALMOST 200 children are on waiting lists for activities at the Redcliffe PCYC. But a $1 million extension could help fix the problem.

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REDCLIFFE PCYC offers much more to the community than vacation care and a space to exercise.

The club offers more than 30 programs, many of them aimed at trying to keep at risk youth on the right path.

Redcliffe PCYC branch manager Sergeant Peter Parkes said the club was non-for-profit and relied heavily on community support to keep the doors open.

“Each year staff, the community and local business work tirelessly to raise the minimum $200,000 needed to keep the doors open,” Sgt Parkes said.

This week The Herald launched a six-week campaign showcasing the work Redcliffe PCYC does in our community, the difference it makes, and what the organisation needs to thrive in the future.

The Redcliffe PCYC is running at capacity, with close to 200 children on program waiting lists. Sgt Parkes said an extension would help fix the problem.

The PCYC received $200,000 from the Moreton Bay Regional Council and $100,000 from the State Government grants to go towards enclosing the outdoor basketball court.

Sgt Parkes said this money was just enough to cover the cost of putting a roof over the outdoor basketball court beside the PCYC.

“To make it a fully enclosed indoor activity centre we need another $700,000,” he said.

Why we need it

Redcliffe PCYC Noel Powell said securing this extra money would allow the 190 children on waiting lists a chance to participate in their chosen activity.

“We hope to expand on the 35 activities we currently offer,” Mr Powell said.

Mr Powell said PCYC motto “the more children in sport, the less children in court” was very true.

“An extension at the PCYC and the ability to offer more activities to more children will benefit the whole community,” he said.

“I believe the PCYC is a vital part to the community.”

Benefits to community

Acting superintendent of the Moreton District Lee Jefferies was also a strong advocate of the work done by the PCYC staff.

“It is challenging to quantify exactly how much crime is prevented through successful programs (run at the PCYC),” he said.

“However in the current financial year, the Redcliffe area is experiencing a projected decrease in reported crime in a number of offence classes including assaults, break and enters, unlawful use of motor vehicles and theft from motor vehicles.”

What politicians are willing to do

The Herald asked all three levels of government if they would be willing to help the PCYC secure more funding for the upgrade.

Federal member for Petrie Luke Howarth said he knew first hand the difference Redcliffe PCYC made to young people’s lives.

“It is great to know our Redcliffe PCYC is so popular that the club is planning to extend and build an indoor activity area,” Mr Howarth said.

“I’d like to see more money dedicated to this upgrade by the state government as PCYCs are a state government responsibility.

“However I’m working with our local PCYCs and the community to make sure our area has the infrastrucutre and facilities we need to prosper.”

State ALP MP for Redcliffe Yvette D’Ath said she would actively support the PCYC with any future proposal for funding.

“A range of local, state and federal funding options may be available including the state government’s Get Playing Plus program with up to $1.5 million to help not-for-profit sport or recreation organisations ...,” Ms D’Ath said.

James Houghton (Div 5) also said he was willing to help support any further upgrades.