Onwards and upwards: Tenterfield Shire Council’s business and cultural development officer Harry Bolton cuts the ribbon to officially open the Tenterfield Hub at its new location. Hub coordinator Steve Bowler (holding son Shambler) looks on.
The Tenterfield Hub has realigned itself farther south down to 204 Rouse Street into much larger premises where Tentergrafx used to operate.
The new premises feature a large private upstairs meeting room and two office areas for visiting outreach services. The meeting room is available for the use of any agency or community group, and is already used by Alcoholics Anonymous, the Horticultural Society and the Tenterfield Social Committee for meetings.
The large area at ground level has reception space and is used for training and education activities.
“It’s like it was purpose-built for us,” Tenterfield Social Committee service coordinator Jenny Melmuth said.
Art pieces already hang on the wall, but Tenterfield Hub coordinator Steve Bowler is keen to line all the walls with local art and is encouraging community members to use the Hub as an exhibition area, and a sales avenue.
“And we don’t charge any commission,” he said.
Special exhibitions will also be accommodated such as the Tenterfield Pre-school’s collection of art pieces celebrating NAIDOC Week, on display at the Hub over the school holidays.
Ms Melmuth said the shop originally occupied by the Hub was too small by the time of official opening eight months ago.
“We just didn’t have the space right from the beginning. Now we have enough space for this stage, and it’s a good platform to build on.
“It’s a positive that the Hub outgrew the old place. Obviously we really do need it.
“The response from the community has been overwhelmingly magnificent. We’re now in a good position to provide feedback to the minister on where the needs are.”
The Hub’s core business is to provide an information service for community members, whether it be providing internet access to CentreLink services or directing inquiries for after-school sporting activities. It does not provide case management.
Mr Bowler said the Hub is handling more and more events as the months go by, and he is desperate for more volunteers to help the cause, especially with last week’s departure of one stalwart.
Ms Melmuth echoed the call for volunteers, especially younger people who would benefit from the experience.
“They gain skills and it looks good on their resume,” she said.
Mr Bowler is encouraging all members of the community to drop in and check out the new surroundings, and the services available.
“The Hub is for all members of the community,” he said.
“All age groups, all races. It’s a very inclusive environment. We’re not just a welfare service,”
For further information or to book the meeting room, contact the Tenterfield Hub coordinator Steve Bowler on 6736 4443. The Hub is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm.