Building Resilience, Community Wellbeing & Capacity
Redland Community Centre is a non-profit community based organisation with its Head Office located in Capalaba. A sister organisation is located in Wynnum at 55 Berrima Street; Wynnum Community Place. United Community Services Inc. is endorsed by the federal government as a public benevolent institution and registered as a charity with the Australian Charities and Not for profits Commission (ACNC). UCS generally provides services to people in the suburbs of the Redland City Council area, including the Bay Islands, and the Brisbane suburbs of Wynnum/Manly.
Making a positive difference in the community
The Centre supports the community through a ‘solutions hub’ model which provides person centred and culturally aware services including:
Disaster Assistance
The Service Navigator and Targeted Rebuld Case Manager is jointly funded (Federal/State) to provide advice, support and referrals, along with case management, to those community members impacted by local disasters including flooding.
Emergency Relief
ER Packages assist people experiencing a crisis in a way that maintains dignity and encourages self-reliance. Some clients access ER to help them through a ‘one-off’ episode or for others dealing with ongoing disadvantage.
Counselling
Counselling provides immediate, short-term help for those people who are experiencing an event that produces emotional, mental, physical, and behaviour distress or problems.
Courses / Programs
The Centre currently runs a number of courses and events from learning about how to become an author to making cards, art classes and becoming more aware of your emotions and mindfulness. Course information and costs can be found on our Events page.
Homelessness
The Centre provides assistance to the homeless daily via our ER program. We have a range of products and services specifically designed to meet the needs of our homeless.
Community Workshops
The Centre is committed to providing workshops that promote sustainable living and self-help. We run a variety of beneficial engaging workshops to support your overall wellbeing and teach essential life skills. Please see our Facebook page for workshop dates.
Community Activities
From time to time the Centre partners with other organisations and participates in broader community type activities. We are always looking for ways to contribute to making the Redland community a better place.
Financial Counselling
The GPS program was implemented to assist members of the Community to gain a greater understanding of money management. The program provides both a Money Finder and a Financial Counsellor.
Referrals Information
The Centre works closely with a number of government agencies including RentConnect and the Department of Housing. Please take a look at our Links page for more information on what is available in your community.
In 1977 the Cleveland Rotary Club formed a Drug Awareness Group in Cleveland. That organisation later changed its name to Redlands Awareness Group (RAG) to better reflect the diversity of needs to which it responded.
In Mid 1989 a need was identified for a venue where families and individuals could get together to discuss community issues and obtain welfare related information.
RAG responded to this need by submitting a proposal to the then Department of Family Services, Aboriginal and Islander Affairs – Division of Community and Youth to purchase premises in Capalaba. The proposal was successful and in April 1990 RAG, under sponsorship and funding from the Redland Shire Council, commenced operating from newly acquired premises at 29 Loraine Street Capalaba under the name of Capalaba Neighbourhood Centre, whilst RAG continued to operate out of Cleveland .
On the 25th of August 1990, the Capalaba Neighbourhood Centre was officially opened by the Minister for Family Services, Aboriginal and Islander Affairs.
Financial assistance provided to RAG by the Redland Shire Council ceased in June 1991. Alternative funding in the form of one-off grants from the Department of
Family Services and Aboriginal and Islander Affairs along with recurrent funding via the Family and Individual Support Programme (F.I.S.P.) was accessed.
Capalaba Neighbourhood Centre changed its name to the Capalaba Community Centre Inc. when incorporated on the 15th June 1992.
On the 25th of June 1996, the Capalaba Community Centre Inc. was invited to assume the affairs of RAG in Cleveland at which point the organisation again changed its name, this time to Redland Community Centre Inc., reflecting its wider geographic interests.
In June 1996 the local community in conjunction with the Redland Shire Council, Queensland Government and Life Line committed to a redevelopment programme that resulted in the present purpose designed community centre being constructed on the original site at 29 Loraine Street followed by an official opening in August 1999. The redevelopment of this site required RCC to relocate twice within the area whilst construction took place.
Since that time, valuable community based services have been provided from Capalaba and Wynnum/Manly under contractual arrangements with Queensland and Federal Government agencies supported by self-generated funding initiatives.
As a means to solidify the growning number of locations, programs and support offered, a further name change was seen necessary by the Board, approved by the members and granted by the Office of Fair Trading in December 2022.
United Community Services Inc. is now the ‘umbrella’ that all other entities will fall under; Redland Community Centre, Wynnum Community Place, Homeless United and Safe By The Bay.
Our long standing and close association with relevant departments at federal, state and local government levels remain a priority commitment going forward in order to underwrite the continuance of the Centre’s valuable services to the community.
Meet the UCS Board
The Board’s role is to determine the strategic direction for United Community Servcies and to regularly review performance against agreed plans & objectives. It is responsible for appropriate allocation of funds received from grants and donations and for the acquisition and disposal of all assets needed to run the entities; Redland Community Cetnre, Wynnum Community Place, Homeless United and Safe By The Bay.
The Board, in conjunction with the CEO, maintains and regularly reviews all policies and practices impacting the day to day running of the organisation. Members of the Board are expected to support key initiatives through their direct participation in external activities where appropriate.
The Board generally meets at 5.30pm on the last Wednesday of each month. The AGM is usually held in November for all financial members as well as the broader community.
The following members were elected to the Board at the AGM held in November 2023
Board Members
Chairman – Chris
Chris worked as a Technical Officer with Telstra until 1998 (30 years), a Retail Sales Assistant for 5 years (1998-2003) and Admin/Bookkeeping part time (2003-2021).
He retired from paid employment in July 2021. He currently volunteers with the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme since 2010.
He is Company Secretary of RWM Community Financial Services Limited (the company that holds the franchise to operate the Bendigo Community Bank branches in Victoria Point and Wynnum Manly), and Vice President of BABI Youth and Family Services Board. He is a Life Member of the Capalaba State College Amateur Swimming Club and a Life Member of Tennis Officials Australia.
Treasurer – Roger
Roger has been associated with the Redland Community Centre since 2013 as a volunteer Emergency Relief worker and was appointed to the board in 2022. He has a Graduate M.A.I.C accreditation, Ass. Dip. Building Construction also a ‘Commissioner for Declaration’ His passion is to support and advocate for the Homeless United Program at the Centre. Having 28 years experience as a T.A.F.E educator, his employment role stands him in good stead to assist the Centre in many facets within the community. Roger and his wife have always been active volunteers encompassing community programs throughout the Redlands area. in 2022 he received Redlands ‘ Volunteer of the year award’ for his dedication to the community at large.
Board Member – Robyn
Before being elected to the UCS Board, Robyn was employed by
the Centre as the Early Childhood Teacher for the Child Care program during the
Toddler Tactics parent training courses.
Later, Robyn volunteered as a co-facilitator for the
program, which was held at the Centre after hours.
During the Focus on Families programs, Robyn was responsible
for developing and creating the Create & Play mornings for parents
and children attending together. These sessions encouraged activities that
helped parents navigate their children’s early childhood adventures.
Robyn, her husband, and their daughter reside in Redland
Bay. Originally from Birkdale, Robyn is a born-and-bred Redland City local who
enjoys bush life, wildlife, native flora, and creative activities.
‘As a member of the United Community Services Inc. Board, I
value open and honest communication. Being genuinely interested in what others
have to say. Positive regard is ways exercised and all aspects of issues are
carefully listened to, treated with respect and confidentiality including all Board
Members, Staff, other Volunteers, and clients’
Board Member – Maria
Board Member – Wayne
Wayne Tynan joined the Board in 2019. Having spent 10 years on the board of a neighbour centre in Sydney in the position of Treasurer Wayne moved back to Brisbane and missed being involved in the community.
Hearing about the amazing work being achieved by Redland Community Centre and the fantastic reputation it had in the local Community he made contact and was invited to Join the board.
Board Member – David
David is a newcomer to the RCC Board, but has been a centre volunteer for over two years,
spending much of his time at Wynnum Community Place.
He has lived in Capalaba since 1990, is married with five adult children and five
grandchildren. He has a background in the media and politics and served five
years as Executive Officer to the Mayor of Redland City before his retirement
in 2017. David served the Queensland Government as firstly senior media advisor
and then ministerial chief-of-staff between 1996 and 2012. He had experience in
Police, Corrective Services, Racing, Emergency Services, Tourism, Fair Trading,
Women, Wine Industry Development, Child Safety and Education portfolios during
that time. Before entering politics David was a senior journalist at the
Northern Daily Leader in Tamworth and then the Daily Sun, The Sun and Sunday
Sun in Brisbane and Gold Coast Bulletin after moving to Queensland in 1987.
The Team
General Manager - Ronan
Ronan was appointed General Manager of United Community Services Inc. in 2024, following a progressive six-year journey with the organisation that began in 2018 as Centre Administrator and advanced through the role of Operations Manager. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to community development and an ability to adapt and respond to emerging social needs. Ronan is passionate about identifying service gaps, driving innovative solutions, and advocating for fairness and equity across all community sectors. Holding a Bachelor of Science with a major in research, Ronan brings a strong analytical foundation to his work, complemented by extensive experience in customer-facing and management roles across both community services and small business. His results-driven approach and genuine relationship-building skills have been instrumental in strengthening partnerships, enhancing service delivery, and supporting the organisation’s continued growth and impact. Outside of work, Ronan enjoys spending time outdoors - fishing, playing sport, and being with his family. His strong community ties, enthusiasm for life, and dedication to creating positive change continue to inspire his leadership and commitment to United Community Services’ mission.
Centre Coordinator/Special Projects - Annette
Annette Van Balen-Smirk is a highly organised and approachable professional with over 30 years of experience in business management, operations, and environmental sciences. She brings a wealth of knowledge across reporting, human resources, workplace health and safety, and facilities coordination - underpinned by a solid background in financial management and governance. With more than 15 years as Business Manager and Director at Phibion Pty Ltd, Annette led HR, HSE, logistics, and financial systems, guiding the company through major growth and a successful acquisition by private equity. Her leadership style is people-focused and results-driven, creating positive, well-run workplaces where teams thrive. Annette is passionate about giving back to her community. She enjoys coordinating special projects and events—like multicultural celebrations and Christmas donation drives—that bring people together and make a real difference locally. Holding a Graduate Diploma of Management and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Chemistry, Annette combines analytical thinking with practical leadership. She’s committed to ensuring safe, welcoming, and well-managed community spaces where staff, volunteers, and visitors all feel supported and valued.
Money Finder & Homeless United Leader
- Kellie
Kellie commenced working as the Volunteer Coordinator in January 2018. I love working with the RCC volunteers as they have a genuine desire for helping people in our Community during times of need. In February 2020 I changed roles and commenced working within the Homeless United Program, as well as leading Emergency Relief. In 2022 I further branched out to assist those who need further support managing their finances. Kellie passionately believes that everybody has the capacity to handle their money better, no matter what they are earning. All they need is a little support. Kellie has a passion for assisting and supporting people in the Community and am extremely blessed and grateful to be working alongside such amazing people who have the same passion.
Centre Assist - Bernie
Bernie has been a dynamic force at Redland Community Centre since 2021, starting as a volunteer and swiftly becoming an indispensable staff member.
Known for her go-getter attitude and constant smile, she efficiently manages multiple projects and activities, enhancing community engagement and team morale. Her seamless blend of passion and organisational skills makes her a key asset to the Centre.
Volunteer Manager - Jaye
Jaye was appointed as Volunteer Manager of United Community Services Inc. in 2025, having joined the centre in 2024. She brings nearly 20 years of experience working with people across diverse backgrounds and is passionate about fostering meaningful connections and building supportive communities where volunteers feel valued, supported, and inspired to make a difference. Her professional journey includes extensive experience in aged care, complemented by qualifications in Leisure and Health, Mental Health, and Business Operations. This combination provides her with a well-rounded perspective and a strong foundation in understanding the unique needs of individuals. Her approach to volunteer management is shaped by empathy, resilience, and collaboration, ensuring volunteers are equipped with the resources and guidance they need to effectively support the Centre. Dedicated to strengthening the volunteer community, Jaye is committed to promoting well-being, inclusivity, and engagement at every level, helping volunteers make a meaningful impact in the lives of those served by the Centre.
Projects - Janette
Janette has over 14 years of experience as a dedicated Teacher Aide, providing tailored support to students with diverse learning needs. She also works as an Allied Health Assistant alongside a Speech Pathologist, assisting in the delivery of communication support and therapy. Beyond her professional roles, Janette is an active community contributor through the Redland Community Centre’s Toddler Tactic program and ongoing volunteer work. She is also a devoted volunteer with Scouts Australia and The Pyjama Foundation, where she supports children’s learning, development, and wellbeing through mentoring and community engagement.
Wynnum Community Place
Coordinator - Lauren
With over two decades of experience across the not-for-profit and hospitality sectors, Lauren brings a unique blend of community insight and operational expertise to her role. With a Bachelor of Leisure Management majoring in Community Development, her career spans working with award-winning hospitality venues, Foodbank Queensland, and leading National educational scholarship programs; always with a strong focus on equity and access. She has also managed major philanthropic grant programs, directing over $1 million in funding to grassroots initiatives. Passionate about sustainability and community wellbeing, Lauren thrives on creating meaningful partnerships and believes in the collective power of communities working together for positive change.
Wynnum Community Place Program Support - Steph
Born and raised in Wynnum, Steph has a deep connection to the local community. She first joined Wynnum Community Place as a volunteer during her Diploma of Community Services placement, quickly standing out for her compassion, drive, and commitment to helping others. Now a valued member of the team, Steph supports the coordination of programs, volunteer engagement, and leading administration. With a strong understanding of local needs and a genuine passion for supporting others, Steph creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone who visits the centre. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and keeping active at the gym.
