Granite Belt Neighbourhood Centre celebrated 34 years on 10 November, commemorating the event by installing their new sign on the corner of Corundum and Short Street.
The group behind the centre dates back to 1986, when the Granite Belt Rural Aid Support Project (GRASP) was created by a group of concerned citizens who wanted to address problems they saw in the region.
These problems included isolation in rural areas from government services. GRASP felt both the State and Commonwealth Governments were not understanding the needs and problems of rural areas.
Locals also felt isolated from the services available and had little information on how to access these services.
The community also felt they had a shortage of welfare services, and issues with rural financial crises, family crises, and youth crises; in particular youth suicide.
GRASP evolved into Community Development Services which became an incorporated association in November 1987.
The organisation was originally funded by the Queensland State Government and sponsored by the Stanthorpe Shire Council prior to incorporation.
Since then, the funding streams have been expanded to include both State and Commonwealth Government Departments and PHN (Primary Health Network).
Support and “in-kind” services have also been received from Southern Downs Regional Council, local service clubs, local businesses, schools, churches and community grants.
Currently, CDS is comprised of a voluntary management committee, members, 15 mainly part-time staff members, and a number of volunteer workers.
With government support, the centre offers support to locals including limited hours of child care, early years support groups, youth support groups, family support services, community support services, mental wellbeing services run through PHN, and emergency relief.
Through their own funds, they also offer food support, help with sustaining tenancies, and room rental.
Catholic Care Toowoomba, TASC Community legal aid services, braking the cycle, STAR Community Transport, and tax help are also run out of the centre.
