About BrisWest

Having been a place of community connection for over 50 years, we acknowledge and remember the efforts and contributions of those who have come before.

We make special mention to recent contributors, Maggie Shambrook for years of service and dedication to making our space safe and welcoming, and our beloved treasurer, Denise Gibbons, whose expertise and care for BrisWest were greatly valued and whose untimely passing in 2025 was a sad moment for the organisation.

Staff

• Business Manager / Hall Bookings – Michelle Williams

Committee

• Christine Zangari (President)
• Kim Marchiori (Treasurer)
• Patricia Ferrier (Secretary)
• Anthony Esposito
• Anna Heriot
• Indrani Doloswala
• Kerry Forsythe
• Sandy McCathie

Arising from the collective efforts and generosity of our members, volunteers and supporters, and adapting to ever changing societal needs, over its 50 years of operations, the BrisWest Centre has hosted a diversity of events and activities, each contributing to the care and vitality of the BrisWest Centre and its community.

This Charter affirms the purpose, values and objectives of Brisbane West Senior Citizens Centre Incorporated (BWSCC Inc), the not-for-profit, incorporated community organisation whose members are responsible for the use, maintenance and management of the BrisWest Centre at 132 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington Queensland.

Mission

To provide an environment of mutuality and inclusion, where elders can gather, engage and thrive in community with people of all generations.

Vision

To be a vibrant, welcoming, and community-managed space that fosters connection, creativity, contribution, and care for all, especially seniors.

Core Values

• Mutual respect, care and compassion
• Inclusion and non-discrimination
• Honest, open and transparent governance
• Stewardship of community assets
• Love, generosity and community empowerment

Objectives

1. Establish and operate a centre in Paddington, Brisbane, predominantly for the benefit of persons aged 50 years and over.
2. Provide facilities and encourage activities that promote wellbeing, enjoyment, and active participation.
3. Foster community interaction, creativity, and sharing across all generations.
4. Host events that encourage democratic engagement and community empowerment.
5. Promote public interest, membership, and active stewardship of the organisation and its spaces.
6. Ensure equality of access, participation, and opportunity for all.
7. Share the story and legacy of the centre as a gift from the Whitlam Government to working-class seniors.

Governance and Committee

The BrisWest Centre is governed by an elected Committee from the membership of BWSCC Inc. Committee members are caretakers of the organisation and its assets and act in alignment with the Constitution and this Charter.

The Committee ensures:

• Governance in line with Queensland regulations.
• Transparent financial and operational management.
• That all committee members receive appropriate training and support.
• Succession planning to ensure ongoing community leadership.

The Committee meets approximately every six weeks, with a two-month summer break.

Two (2) General Meetings (typically July and December) and an Annual General Meeting (AGM) are also held.

All community members are welcome, and hall hirers are encouraged, to become members of Brisbane West Senior Citizens Centre Incorporated (BWSCC Inc) to more actively contribute to the Centre’s mission, community life and governance.

• Operates on mutuality – everyone contributes and participates as they are able.
• Is maintained and improved through community effort and generosity.
• Is a place to gather, share, and belong.
• Supports member and community-led activities that are creative, cultural, recreational, and civic.
• Welcomes use by the wider community and encourages interaction across all demographics.

The Centre promotes its mission, activities, and events in a welcoming and accessible way, seeking to foster community involvement and engagement from across the region.