Friday, February 14, 2025
HomeOpinionCameron DickCameron Dick Newsletter: health clinics, bank closures and a new school year

Cameron Dick Newsletter: health clinics, bank closures and a new school year

Health clinic opens

THE doors are officially open at the new Logan Medicare Mental Health Care Clinic, providing free, accessible, and confidential mental health services to the community. 

This vital service is already making a positive impact, with no appointment or referral required and extended opening hours to ensure help is always available when it’s needed most.

This new facility is part of a national network of Medicare Mental Health Centres being rolled out by the Albanese Government.

Here in Queensland, Logan joins four other operational centres in Townsville, Kingaroy, Ipswich, and Redlands, offering critical support for individuals with complex mental health needs.

Thanks to the strong advocacy of Treasurer and Member for Rankin, Jim Chalmers MP, Logan Central now has a safe and welcoming space where anyone can access mental health care at no cost. 

This initiative is helping to break down barriers, ensuring that cost and accessibility are no longer obstacles to receiving vital mental health support.

Looking ahead, there’s more good news on the horizon for our region, with plans to open a Medicare Mental Health Centre in Jimboomba in the near future. 

This investment will expand access to life-changing mental health services for even more communities.

The Logan Medicare Mental Health Care Clinic is a shining example of how strong partnerships and targeted investments can make a real difference in people’s lives. 

Together, we are building healthier and stronger communities by ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access the care they deserve.

If you or someone you know needs mental health support, visit the Logan Medicare Mental Health Care Clinic today. The clinic is free, open now, and no appointment is necessary.

Another bank closure

THE announcement that the Bank of Queensland (BOQ) branch in Logan Central will close its doors on 7 February has left the local community disappointed and frustrated. For an area that has already seen the closures of the Commonwealth Bank and Australia Post in recent years, this decision further reduces access to essential financial services for a community that relies on them.

The closure of the Logan Central BOQ branch is part of a broader decision by the bank to shut 14 branches across the country.

While BOQ has cited the shift toward digital banking as the driving force behind these closures, the impact on local communities—particularly in areas like Logan Central—is undeniable.

For many residents, physical bank branches are not just about transactions; they are places to seek guidance, build trust, and access financial services that may be challenging or impossible to navigate online. 

The loss of yet another local banking service has sparked concern and anger, as residents worry about how they will manage without convenient access to in-person banking.

Logan Central has already faced significant setbacks with the closures of other essential services, including the Commonwealth Bank and Australia Post. 

Each closure chips away at the infrastructure that supports the daily lives of residents, particularly those who are elderly, lack internet access or prefer face-to-face interactions for their financial needs.

The BOQ branch closure is another blow to a community that values its local services. While businesses may point to cost-cutting measures or the rise of digital alternatives, it is clear that these decisions leave many people behind.

Logan Central deserves better, and the frustration felt by locals is a reminder that communities need accessible and reliable services to thrive.

Making the new school year great

THE start of a new school year is always an exciting time! 

It’s a chance for students to learn new things, grow in confidence, and create lasting memories with friends. 

Whether your child is starting Prep, moving to high school, or joining a new school, this marks the beginning of a journey filled with opportunities.

This time of year is also a wonderful moment to appreciate the incredible work done by teachers, teacher aides, and all the staff who help schools run smoothly. 

These dedicated professionals create welcoming environments where students feel safe, supported, and inspired to achieve their best.

For students starting fresh, getting familiar with their school can help ease those first-day nerves. 

Visiting the school to meet the teachers, explore classrooms, and get a sense of the layout can make all the difference. 

It’s also helpful to plan transport arrangements and make sure everything is organised for those busy mornings.

Most importantly, this is a time to encourage children to embrace the adventure of learning. 

They’ll discover new subjects, build friendships, and enjoy the fun of sports, arts, and extracurricular activities. 

School is not just about lessons in the classroom, it’s a place where young people grow, develop resilience, and explore their potential.

As families prepare for the term ahead, it’s also a great opportunity to celebrate the strong partnerships between schools and communities. 

Together, we can make this school year a positive and rewarding experience for everyone.

Here’s to a year full of learning, growth, and plenty of fun for all our students. 

Let’s make 2025 a fantastic year in our schools!

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