Rohena Duncombe, Byron Bay.
I have a long association with the BBCC professionally and as a volunteer. Unlike the Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre it does not receive ongoing government funding and is not eligible, for historic reasons, to do so.
In addition to the market funds BBCC receives one-off grants where they can be found and some donations. The management committee is frugal from necessity but also because they have stable, astute and responsible committee members.
BBCC provides a lot with very little, particularly services for seniors and people who can’t afford accommodation. They host entertainment not usually found in small towns. They provide subsidised or free space to a myriad of community organisations and do all this with volunteers and staff who contribute beyond their paid hours.
Whilst I understand that someone who has had a negative experience with the market management might be disillusioned, this won’t involve misuse of funds.
