Charleston Community Centre – Where Great Things Happen

In 2024, the CCC was awarded an AHC grant to assist in the future planning of our Centre. We commissioned JensenPlus planning consultants to work with us to plan and develop the precinct and to offer suggestions as to how we could increase our revenue to fund and support any new developments. The JensenPlus Recreation Planning document identified a number of possible upgrades and change of use to elements within the Park precinct to replace aging infrastructure & facilities, to invigorate and renew existing plantings and landscaping, to provide recreation facilities for the whole community, particularly those with a disability and very small children, and to explore ways in increase our revenue base so we can continue to provide the basic services to the community like clean toilets and BBQs. The committee unanimously adopted several key suggestions from the review, and they are:

  • Developing and landscaping Newman Park for a broader recreation use e.g. junior/toddler bike path, general recreation ball sports, dog play, seasonal markets or other events

  • Continued development of the Newman Community Garden, planting, garden workshops, building the gazebo and growing the community garden family

  • An outdoor CERRG space for emergency accommodation or camping for the community in times of flood/fire emergencies

  • Upgrade of WIFI and three-phase power connections within the park precinct

  • Building park pathways for all-ability access to facilities (toilets, BBQ, play space) making the area safer and more accessible for every park user

  • A major works program over three-four years to build two internal toilets in the hall for disable access, replace septic system, and to replace the existing toilets with a new toilet block that will also incorporate shower facilities for use during community emergencies

  • Multi-use of Club rooms i.e. CCC kiosk, sport club rooms, community art/games space or even a bike-packers accommodation - pending AHC approval

  • Multi-use Court upgrade: basketball, tennis court, hand-ball, etc

  • Entry statement that reflects our community history and future, fencing/gate upgrades to keep our park users safe

  • Hall upgrades, including painting, landscaping, security, pergola/verandahs, storage, equipment etc

As with most things, this development requires funding, and while we have some limited funds available, our grants team have already applied for, and continue to apply for, grants that will support our future plans. We are always grateful for the fantastic support from our community and local businesses, whether financially or in-kind, or coming along to a working bee, or just a positive comment. Volunteering has lots of rewards.

With the support of our committee, our membership, and the wider community, we will see a new, beautiful space for all of us who live and visit Newman Park to share and enjoy, well into future.