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Opposition Leader praises work of Streetlevel during official opening of new centre

5 March 2013
Opposition Leader praises work of Streetlevel during official opening of new centre

Opposition leader Tony Abbot makes pancakes with celebrity chef Dominique Rizzo at the opening of Brisbane Streetlevel Mission. (Photo: Matt Seaman, Chaordic Creative)


“Congratulations on this centre, you are making a difference in the lives of so many people in this city,” said Federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott as he toured The Salvation Army Brisbane Streetlevel Mission’s new complex just two hours before its official opening on 1 March.

“It shows a great depth of character when people are doing things out of love for others and not for money, and I want to thank the staff and volunteers of The Salvation Army for all their work.”

Mr Abbott chatted with clients, staff and volunteers as he was shown around the facility. He also made pancakes with celebrity chef, Dominique Rizzo. Dominique had prepared a breakfast that morning, inspired by her famous Italian cuisine, as part of the launch of the new centre.

Mr Abbott also visited the Army’s Youth Outreach Services, which is located next to Streetlevel, asking questions and speaking with staff and students.

During the opening ceremony, Teresa Gambaro, Federal Member for Brisbane, thanked The Salvation Army, volunteers, local businesses and the community for their part in making Streetlevel a reality.

Councillor Vicki Howard, representing Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, also attended and spoke at the ceremony.

Volunteer Kerrie shared of how Streetlevel had empowered her, helped her want to be a better person, and worked miracles in her life. “Thank God this place is here,” she said.

Major Mark Campbell, South Queensland Divisional Commander, concluded the ceremony with prayer. John Burke, who has helped at Streetlevel for three years since his son died from a drug overdose, then cut a ribbon to open the centre.

“It’s surreal that this is actually happening after three years, but today felt like the right time,” said Major Bryce Davies, Streetlevel team leader.

“This special place is definitely a ‘God job’. There is a beautiful spirit here, it’s a close-knit community that offers the lonely and disadvantaged a place to belong and I love it that so many people want to be here.”

Streetlevel now also houses The Salvation Army’s Brisbane Community Welfare, and Moneycare Financial Counselling.

The renovation of the centre has been made possible thanks to the generosity of tradesmen and suppliers who donated goods and services valued at $130,000.

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The Salvation Army acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to elders both past and present.

The Salvation Army is committed to ensuring the provision of safe and inclusive environments for children, young people and vulnerable people where they feel respected, safe, valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation.