Centre History

The Burnie Brae Centre opened in 1984 following seven years of intensive fundraising and lobbying by the Rotary Club of Chermside. The scale of the Rotarians commitment ensured the best of beginnings for the Centre. What followed was strong membership and a warm and welcoming environment which fostered friendship and enthusiasm. Named Burnie Brae after the homestead which stood on its present site, the Centre quickly became known for the wide range of activities and social events enjoyed by its members.

The focus of the Centre broadened in 1994 with a major expansion of the facilities, including a Government-funded Day Respite Centre and Home Maintenance Office. This expansion heralded the beginning of a new direction for the Centre, with further services being developed to meet growing community demand and trebling the size of the organisation.

A project that has been a long term goal of the Burnie Brae Management was realised with the official opening of Cafe Connect on 18th November 2009.  The Cafe adds to the social opportunities available for Seniors in the local area and has been very well received. Additionally, after many years of planning, Healthy Connections Exercise Clinic was launched in November 2011 providing a unique, safe and professionally supervised venue for over 50s to undergo a clinical exercise program.

Burnie Brae has successfully worked in collaboration with Brisbane City Council to redevelop Burnie Brae Park as a recreational space for the community. A major focus of this project is the development of a Community Garden, walking paths and shaded exercise stations.

As the beginnings of the organisation were built on a commitment to a goal, Burnie Brae has continued to commit to the goal of improving and maintaining the quality of life for all people associated with our organisation.