CBS Inc. Invests Long Term in The Riverland – acquiring Chaffey Community Centre

Community Bridging Services (CBS) Inc. is proud to announce the official purchase of the Chaffey Community Centre from Renmark Paringa Council. This marks an exciting new chapter for community services and support in the Riverland region, securing the future of one of the region’s most valued community assets.

CBS Inc. is a recognised leader in the provision of support for people with a disability or disadvantage in the areas of open employment, further education, the arts, social enterprises, NDIS and recreation. It is a not-for-profit organisation, supporting people with a disability to achieve success by focussing on their strengths and interests. The Chaffey Community Centre is home to valuable services and initiatives like Foodbank, Kosmos Kitchen, Salvos Bread, the Riverland Christmas Appeal and more.

The Chaffey Community Centre has been under the management of CBS Inc. for the past five years. Our organisation works closely with the local community to deliver inclusive programs, activities, support services, and key community events. Since running the centre, we have increased funding through tenders, increased services and built partnerships with more community services.

The purchase demonstrates CBS Inc’s long-term commitment to the Riverland community and will provide greater opportunities to expand services and strengthen community connections. CBS Inc. Founder and Executive Director Freddie Brincat OAM said it was pleasing to continue CBS’s services in Renmark on a permanent basis. After receiving a continued long-term contract from the Australian Government to support people with a disability into open employment in our one of our core services this gave us more confidence for the future.

“There’s something special about the Riverland community, a bond, diversity, a spirit of working hard and supporting others in need. I have always been drawn to this spirit, and this has motivated us to invest further from our cash reserves to support more people to gain the skills, confidence, and networks to help themselves. This is achieved by listening to people in need and responding. Chaffey is a great example of a community focal point where everyone feels safe, supported and knows by connecting, their future is brighter and we at CBS Inc. love being a part of this.”

Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter said the sale represented a positive outcome for both the community and Council.

“This is a fantastic outcome for our community because the Chaffey Community Centre will continue operating as the valued local resource people know and rely on, while also aligning with Council’s land and asset rationalisation approach,” Mayor Hunter said.

“Council is extremely pleased to complete the sale to CBS Inc., which will deliver savings and reduce the financial burden on ratepayers while ensuring the Chaffey Community Centre continues to operate under a trusted and highly regarded organisation into the future. CBS Inc. has already demonstrated its strong commitment to the centre and the broader Riverland community over the past five years, making them the ideal organisation to continue its operation into the future.”

The sale will provide Council with a one-off cash injection that can be reinvested into priority projects, services, and infrastructure across Renmark Paringa.

“We know how important this centre is to local residents, and we’re pleased it will remain in the hands of an organisation with a proven track record of delivering positive outcomes locally.”

Manager of Chaffey Community Centre, CBS Inc., local Jobnet Coordinator Peggy Mills, said that the team at the centre is excited to continue supporting both the local and broader community. “While everything will remain consistent at the Centre, we are pleased to announce some new and positive changes soon. Thank you for your ongoing support.”

CBS Inc. would like to thank Renmark Paringa Council for their support and collaboration throughout the management and transition process. CBS Inc. looks forward to continuing to work alongside residents, community groups, and stakeholders to ensure the Chaffey Community Centre remains a vibrant and inclusive space for everyone.

An official community event is planned to celebrate this milestone soon.

For more information about CBS Inc. and its community programs, please visit CBS Inc.

MEDIA CONTACT

Freddie Brincat OAM, Founder and Executive Director, 

Phone: 8224 2903   Mobile: 0417 882 405