5 April 2023
Addressing the region’s homelessness remains a priority for the Southern Downs Regional Council so free hot showers will continue to be available to those in need at the Warwick Indoor Recreation and Aquatic Centre and the Stanthorpe Fitness Centre.
With winter approaching, Council acknowledged the importance of this wellbeing initiative and recently voted to extend free access until 30 June 2023, with support for its continuation to be included the 2023/24 draft budget preparation.
Southern Downs Councillor Stephen Tancred said tackling homelessness was a complex social problem and providing free hot showers was a positive step forward while long-term solutions are considered.
“Unfortunately, our region is not immune to the housing crisis or the cost of living pressures. There is no overnight solution to addressing homelessness,” Councillor Tancred said.
“Although solutions mainly lie with State and Federal Governments, Council is doing all it can to encourage developers to build more dwellings.
“We are also exploring all short and long-term avenues and we regularly hold conversations with the State and Federal Governments.
“We want to do what we can in the short-term to support community wellbeing and are offering free hot showers to anyone who presents at WIRAC or the Stanthorpe Fitness Centre.
“People may not be homeless, but just couch surfing, or down on their luck and we are offering a no-questions asked service to help maintain some dignity to those in need.”
The first free shower initiative was introduced for a six-month period in August 2022 and Council also offered free showers to the community during the recent drought.
Entry vouchers are available from the Granite Belt Neighbourhood Centre in Stanthorpe and St Vincent De Paul Cornerstone in Warwick. No identification is required.
The initiative is funded by Council with WIRAC donating 50% of the costs incurred by offering shower facilities.
Last edited date 05 Apr 2023