Recreational choices are set to expand for young people in the Rasmussen and Upper Ross area, with the opening today of newly-upgraded sporting facilities in the community.The Minister for Police and Corrective Services, Judy Spence, has officially opened the new $1.2 million extension of the Upper Ross Police Citizens Youth Club.
Ms Spence, who was joined by the Member for Thuringowa, Craig Wallace, visited the centre and inspected the facilities that are now on offer to young people.
"This is a wonderful place for youth in this area, who now have access to video gaming technology at the new 'Pulse' centre, and more supervised sports such as basketball, boxing and volleyball," Ms Spence said.
"The additional space that has been built here provides a dance hall for 300 persons, youth room, entertainment centre and cafe space.
"This major upgrade has been made possible by the strong support and co-operation between the community, police, state and local government and the private sector.
"This PCYC provides young people in the area a place to meet and socialise, as well as take part in a range of activities in a safe, supportive and supervised environment."
Ms Spence said funding for the upgrade of the Upper Ross PCYC had been provided by the Beattie Government (Sport and Recreation Queensland $498,000, and Community Renewal Program $500,000), the Thuringowa City Council ($62,000), the Collins Food Group ($58,000) and local community and business groups.
Mr Wallace said he was delighted to see such strong backing within the community for the project.
"This PCYC would not be successful without a dedicated band of volunteers," Mr Wallace said.
"There are now more than 95 volunteers within the Upper Ross branch of the Police Citizens Youth Welfare Association, and in the last financial year they performed more than 12,000 hours of community service for this PCYC.
"The Upper Ross PCYC was originally established in 1996 and has been well-supported by the community, recording consistent membership growth over the past three years."
Ms Spence said the Beattie Government was a strong supporter of PCYCs.
"These clubs provide our kids with a terrific place to play and learn in, and make a positive and valuable contribution to the lives of young people," Ms Spence said.
"Research shows that young people who engage in sport and this type of social activity are less likely to experiment with drugs that are detrimental to their physical health and sense of well-being.
"PCYCs also help strengthen the crime prevention partnership between police and local residents."
Ms Spence said there were 43 PCYCs across the state. The Queensland Police Service provides 58 officers to assist the association, as well as providing funds to support the operating costs of the branches.
Media contact: Alison Smith 3239 6218 / 0439 673 287
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