Council strengthens financial position while securing Chaffey Community Centre’s future
Renmark Paringa Council has taken a significant step in strengthening its long-term financial position, completing the sale of the Chaffey Community Centre to help secure the future of one of the region’s most valued community assets.
Community Bridging Services (CBS) Inc. recently purchased the facility, having already managed the Chaffey Community Centre for the past five years, working closely with the local community to deliver inclusive programs, activities, support services and community events.
CBS Inc. is a recognised leader in the provision of support for people with a disability or disadvantage in the areas of open employment, further education, the arts, social enterprises, NDIS and recreation.
It is a not-for-profit organisation, supporting people with a disability to achieve success by focussing on their strengths and interests.
The Chaffey Community Centre is home to valuable services and initiatives like Foodbank, Kosmos Kitchen, Salvos Bread, the Riverland Christmas Appeal and more.
The purchase of the centre demonstrates CBS Inc.’s long-term commitment to the Riverland community and will provide greater opportunities to expand services, strengthen community connections, and create a welcoming and accessible space for local residents.
Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter said the sale represented a positive outcome for both the community and Council.
“This is a fantastic outcome for our community because the Chaffey Community Centre will continue operating as the valued local resource people know and rely on, while also aligning with Council’s land and asset rationalisation approach,” Mayor Hunter said.
“Council is extremely pleased to complete the sale to CBS Inc., which will deliver savings and reduce the financial burden on ratepayers while ensuring the Chaffey Community Centre continues to operate under a trusted and highly regarded organisation into the future.”
“CBS Inc. has already demonstrated its strong commitment to the centre and the broader Riverland community over the past five years, making them the ideal organisation to continue its operation into the future.”
The sale will provide Council with a one-off cash injection of $485,000 that can be reinvested into priority projects, services and infrastructure across Renmark Paringa.
Maintaining the Chaffey Community Centre currently costs Council approximately $40,000 annually, including depreciation and maintenance costs.
“We know how important this centre is to local residents, and we’re pleased it will remain in the hands of an organisation with a proven track record of delivering positive outcomes locally.”
CBS Inc. Founder and Executive Director Freddie Brincat OAM said it was pleasing to continue CBS’s services in Renmark on a permanent basis.
“There’s something special about the Riverland community, a bond, diversity, a spirit of working hard and supporting others in need,” he said.
“I have always been drawn to this spirit, and this has motivated us to invest further to support more people to gain the skills, confidence, and networks to help themselves.
“This is achieved by listening to people in need and responding.
“Chaffey is a great example of a community focal point where everyone feels safe, supported and knows by connecting, their future is brighter and we at CBS Inc. love being a part of this.”
Manager of Chaffey Community Centre, CBS Inc. local Jobnet Coordinator Peggy Mills said that the team at the centre is excited to continue supporting both the local and broader community.
“While everything will remain consistent at The Centre, we are pleased to announce that we will be introducing some new and positive changes in the near future,” she said.
“We appreciate the ongoing support from the community. CBS Inc. would like to thank Renmark Paringa Council for their support and collaboration throughout the management and transition process.”
“CBS Inc. looks forward to continuing to work alongside local residents, community groups, and stakeholders to ensure the Chaffey Community Centre remains a vibrant and inclusive space for everyone.”
An official community event is planned to celebrate this milestone Friday 3 August 2026
For more information about CBS Inc. and its community programs, please visit CBS Inc.
MEDIA CONTACT
Jane Frahn, Renmark Paringa Council, Communications and Engagement Officer, 8580 3000, jfrahn@rpc.sa.gov.au
Freddie Brincat OAM, Founder and Executive Director, Freddie.Brincat@cbsinc.org.au
Phone: 8224 2903 Mobile: 0417 882 405