New Centre Supports NDIS rollout in Bundaberg

People of all abilities are celebrating a new, inclusive ‘drop-in’ centre in the heart of Bundaberg.

An initiative of Southern Cross Support Services, all people with a disability and their carers will now be able to stop in at the centre when out and about in the city.

The centre includes a media room with x-box, free wi-fi, a commercial kitchen complete with barista-grade coffee machine and a central area where visitors can relax.

SCSS plans to introduce customer service scenarios in the coffee bar area as part of capacity building training for participants seeking employment.

Importantly, as Bundaberg sizzles and summer starts, the centre is air conditioned.

Member for Bundaberg David Batt cut the ribbon at the opening with NDIS participant Ben Trembath, who worked with SCSS senior managers to help decide the final layout.

“It was an honour to be invited by Southern Cross Support Services to cut the ribbon with Ben and officially open this fantastic drop in centre. It was great to see so many people from various community support groups at the opening to see what the new drop in centre has to offer right in the heart of Bundy,” Mr Batt said.

“The new facility has been in the development stages since July, and we are really proud of the facility and what we have to offer clients moving forward.”

An SCSS spokesperson said a range of activities would be announced in the coming months, mostly aimed at NDIS participants.

Alasdair Young, spokesman for the IWC’s NDIS Bundaberg Region Local Area Coordination team, said the centre was a proactive way to support inclusivity in the community.

“With hot weather on the way, it’s great to know there is another place in the CBD for people of all abilities to stop in, feel included and stay cool,” he said.

The drop-in centre is at 9 Maryborough St, Bundaberg, and is open from 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.