Leases support community growth, cohesion

Four Townsville community groups and organisations will continue to make a difference across the city with their leases being renewed at Council’s Ordinary Meeting this week.

Football Queensland, Townsville Community Garden, Community Gro and Community ASA (Centrals Rugby League) have had their leases renewed unanimously by councillors on Wednesday. Community ASA’s lease footprint has also been extended for future expansion, allowing for a larger club house to provide space for more community members to get involved in rugby league.

Mayor Nick Dametto said Council was proud to support the groups keeping the Townsville community healthy, engaged and connected.

“These are four very well-deserving organisations who have shown their commitment to our community year after year,” Cr Dametto said.

“Two sporting clubs, the impressive community garden and social organisation Community Gro, all help shape the fabric of our city, and Council providing them nominal leases supports their great work to continue.”

Community Gro chief executive Kathrin Meehan said the lease extension would allow for the organisation to continue servicing the Townsville community.

“We are very grateful to Townsville City Council for its ongoing support of Community Gro through leasing a Council property, which enables us to continue providing valuable services to our community,” Ms Meehan said.

“The renewal of our lease provides certainty and allows us to keep delivering inclusive, community-led programs that foster connection, wellbeing, and opportunity for children, young people, and families in Townsville.”

Council’s Community Lease Program supports more than 200 local community groups, sporting clubs, and non-profits by providing access to Council-owned land and facilities, often through subsidised rent or peppercorn ($1) arrangements.

The program supports community groups, sporting clubs, theatre groups and scout groups to benefit from $4.91 million in subsidised rent in the 2025/26 FY, in addition to subsidised rates and utilities.

For more information on community grants and partnerships, visit Council’s website.