Bowen Neighbourhood Centre services
Based in the Bowen Community Centre, the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre offers support in relation to housing needs, legal assistance, domestic violence referrals and other health and community matters. If you’re not sure if we can help, please ask. All enquiries are welcome and if we can’t help, we may be able to suggest someone who can.
Community Connect
For housing needs, legal assistance, domestic violence and other health and community related matters, we can connect you with support, information, and referrals.
Bowen Community Op Shop
Check out our affordable second-hand furniture and household goods and clothing.
Bowen Community Food Bank
Stock up on free and low-cost grocery items. Access is by application.
Pram Pushers
Join other Mums for a casual walk throughout Bowen and enjoy a coffee together afterwards.
Chair Exercise
Chair Exercise program using fun music & easy yoga techniques facilitated by Exercise Angels. Held at CWA Hall. A Bowen Community Centre program sponsored by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation.
Stay Connected
Free Tech classes for over 55s.
Smart phone basics, Email, Scanning, Staying safe online. Call to register your interest.
No Interest Loan Scheme
No Interest Loans (NILs) of up to $2000 are available for purchasing essential goods and services such as fridges, washing machines, car repairs and medical procedures.
Bowen Community Soup Kitchen
Nutritious home cooked meals available for minimal cost to homeless people or those experiencing severe crisis. If you can’t afford to pay please speak to staff about an exemption from paying.
Emergency Relief for Bowen
Assistance for those in urgent need of food, medication, utility payments, fuel, or rental arrears on a case-by-case basis.
Homeless Shower & Laundry Facilities
We have shower and laundry facilities at the centre for those experiencing homelessness which are available for weekdays before midday. Care Bags containing toiletries donated by Zonta Club of Bowen also available for adults & children if needed.
JP Service
Free JP Service available weekdays.
Second Bite
Second bite grocery items donated by Woolworths Bowen and Peries IGA available in reception daily for any community members to access. Gumlu Growers Association members also provide fresh vegetables during the harvest season.
Cooinda Family Centre services
A welcoming hub for the families of the Bowen community. Cooinda Family Centre provides a range of services and programs for families and children at little-to-no-cost.
Bindi Bindi
This fun and engaging program is offered during school term for children aged 3–5. Activities include age-appropriate STEM, craft, and learning activities.
Building Blocks
Parents wanting to positively shape their family can explore ideas through group discussions, guest presenters and practical activities. All while their children are supervised by our play helper. Morning tea is provided.
Triple P – Positive Parenting Program
Relaxed small group sessions for parents to learn practical tips and strategies for parenting.
Cooking Classes
Cooking classes to promote intergenerational respect and learning from diverse community members and our elderly community to share their culinary traditions. 6 week program during school terms. Limited numbers. Call to book.
Stay’N’Play
Share a cuppa and a chat with fellow parents/carers while the little ones play and enjoy the morning tea provided. This free playgroup is designed for children from birth to 8 years old.
Drop-in Baby Clinic and Baby Play
Weigh your bub and let them enjoy some sensory play time. This clinic is facilitated by a Child Health Nurse from Bowen Hospital. Drop by for a cuppa and a chat with fellow parents.
Parent Support
Families going through difficult times can drop in to find an ear to listen and be helped to find a path through challenges with helpful referrals to other services.