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Charity selectability transforms old building into Richmond’s first wellbeing hub

A run-down old fire station in the main street of a remote town has undergone an unbelievable transformation, courtesy of a not-for-profit charity searching for a place to start a wellbeing hub.

Richmond Wellbeing Hub: grand opening of the new selectability building on Richmond's main street, Goldring St.
Richmond Wellbeing Hub: grand opening of the new selectability building on Richmond's main street, Goldring St.

A run-down former fire station on Richmond’s main street has undergone an unbelievable transformation, courtesy of a not-for-profit charity searching for a place to start a wellbeing hub.

Charity Selectability officially opened Richmond’s first dedicated wellbeing hub on June 12.

The hub is located at 43 Goldring St inside an old fire station which looks almost unrecognisable following renovations.

Richmond Shire Council Mayor John Wharton said the hub was a game-changer for the town.

“Finally, locals can access vital services without travelling hours. It’s about dignity, access, and looking after our own,” Mr Wharton said.

“Plus, it’s fantastic to see the old fire station put to such meaningful use.”

Richmond Wellbeing Hub: 2025 grand opening
Richmond Wellbeing Hub: 2025 grand opening
The same building in 2023, before selectability renovated it into a wellbeing hub.
The same building in 2023, before selectability renovated it into a wellbeing hub.

Richmond local and Selectability’s regional co-ordinator Renee Backer, said the wellbeing hub was built in response to “urgent community need”.

“Last year, as part of our consultation, over 90 per cent of survey respondents told us Richmond desperately needed accessible wellbeing support,” Ms Backer said.

Richmond Wellbeing Hub: Renee Backer, Sally Schaefer, selectability CEO Debra Burden and Richmond Mayor John Wharton
Richmond Wellbeing Hub: Renee Backer, Sally Schaefer, selectability CEO Debra Burden and Richmond Mayor John Wharton

“The Wellbeing Hub is our response. It’s a safe, inclusive space where anyone can walk in—no referral or appointment needed.”

The hub will be used to run one-on-one support, group programs, NDIS support, and Federally funded programs, bringing health care to residents without requiring them to leave town.

Originally published as Charity selectability transforms old building into Richmond’s first wellbeing hub

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Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/townsville/charity-selectability-transforms-old-building-into-richmonds-first-wellbeing-hub/news-story/5742d979e8d89ed9a66ebea362c3d85e