Photos: Supplied.
CONTRIBUTED BY LARAINE DILLON
In the late 1980s, a group of concerned Redlands citizens could envisage the future – when we would live longer, and loneliness and social isolation would become a serious concern. From their concern, The Donald Simpson Centre (DSC) was born and completed in 1987, with the general public’s assistance through purchasing bricks in the building.
So, who was Donald Simpson?
Donald Simpson (at the time) was an outstanding Shire Clerk and husband of Frances Simpson, who was involved in RDCOTA (Redland District Committee on the Ageing) management. The naming of the Centre was a tribute to his achievements and foresight.
For the past 37 years, the Centre has grown and served people not only from the Redlands, but from areas as far north as Brisbane and south to the Gold Coast.
Never has it been more essential to overcoming social isolation than when Covid hit in 2021. Through care, stringent awareness and caution, the Centre was rebranded The DSC ‘Your Meeting Place’.
DSC is a safe place for our 2000-plus members where they can partake in one of the 95 crafts, courses, indoor activities and entertainment it offers. This also includes a social coffee or meal in our Hub Cafe, operated by valued volunteers.
Often, when you’re sitting alone, a woman or gent will walk up and ask, “May I join you?” You get chatting and find they have more than often lost a partner. Or they have relocated here to be near their kids, but the kids have their own agendas and lives. This can be soul-destroying; social isolation is becoming the new epidemic.
The Centre embraces and celebrates longevity with the 90s Club for those who reach this incredible age.
Day excursions, a travel specialist for accompanied overseas adventures, theatricals, special concerts and entertainment are all on offer. Membership is affordable.
The Centre is registered as a charity and as a company of limited liability, governed by a Board elected by the members at its AGM, usually held in September.
For further information, visit the website www.donaldsimpsoncentre.com.au or go to Facebook or phone 3821 1089.
