Southern Downs women’s support service restored after Protea Place pilot program winds up

The temporary closure of a regional Queensland’s women's service is no more, with an army of dedicated volunteers having pulled out all stops to restore it. See what’s changed here.

The former Protea Place site in Warwick has been reborn as 'Willow Tree 37' thanks to a number of hardworking, dedicated community members. Photo: Southern Downs WAAT/ Facebook

When news broke of Protea Place Warwick’s closure an air of uncertainty filled for vulnerable women in the region.

The hard work of all involved not only to build the space, yet that of the volunteers who made it flourish wasn’t about to go to waste.

Warwick-Killarney Uniting Church, along with an army of dedicated individuals, have worked tirelessly since the pilot program ceased in July to rebuild a community owned and operated service.

Church member Sue Campbell said while it wasn’t an easy process, the service has now opened under a new name; WillowTree 37.

Mrs Campbell said there was never a chance the church was going to let the achievements of the women’s service or the businesses who contributed to its operation go to waste.

“The work of Protea Place continues under the banner of WillowTree 37 with the same

operational style, connections for legal, health, housing and general wellbeing support that too many local women have needed in the past 12 months,” she said.

The lease formerly held by Protea Place has been taken over by Toowoomba-based Domestic Violence Action Group, who have a separate operation out of a room in the building.

Mrs Campbell said WillowTree’s name was inspired by committee member Jill Bockman who floated the idea during a meeting.

“It’s a symbolism of what the service offers, which is a place of rest and comfort (for vulnerable women),” she said.

While the official signage is not quite up, the doors are now wide open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 4pm.

Mrs Campbell said the friendly unassuming faces of volunteers Jo and Karen remain to answer the door to those in need.

“We’d just love to get the word out there that the program and its services are still operating,” Mrs Campbell said.

No government funding has been granted to the service with its operation solely supported by community funding efforts.

The women’s service is still in the process of registering as a charity, and while they’re not currently accepting charitable donations, sanitary and toiletry packs are encouraged.

These items can be dropped off at the service during business hours.

Originally published as Southern Downs women’s support service restored after Protea Place pilot program winds up