Since the 1970’s community centres of one form or another have evolved across Australia. These centres are the hub of the local community, providing both a meeting space and a focal point.

Demonstrated need within the community has resulted in some of these centres becoming funded under different government programs. Hervey Bay’s nieghbourhood centre developed as a result of community need and commitment.

In June 1985 a group of Hervey Bay Volunteers formed the Womens Information Service.

In 1986 this group of volunteers decided to broaden their interests to include a Neighbourhood Activity group which would run regular activities to answer a need in the community.

These activities were held in a local hall which- while not particularly suitable or inspiring- was available and affordable.

From this small beginning grew an awareness of a need for:

• Better Facilities
• More Frequent Activities
• A wider Range of Activities Greater Accessiblity to Welfare Organisations

These volunteers became increasingly aware of the needs of the community and approached the Community Development Officer for assistance in submitting a funding application for a neighbourhood community centre.

Timing was favourable as the State Government announced the establishment of the Queensland Neighbourhood Centre Program in 1986. The Government, through the Department of Family Services, was considering funding applications from interested community groups for the establishment of Neighbourhood Centres under this Program.

In March 1987 the first fifteen houses were purchased under this scheme.

Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre at 57 Taylor street Pialba was one of these fifteen houses. Initially the Centre was sponsored by the Hervey Bay City Council until the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre bacame an incorporated body in it’s own right and started managing it’s own funds and services.