The historically significant former Australian Red Cross Centre at Greenslopes will soon be transformed into a new park and home for Legacy.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Council would purchase the underutilised site to pay homage to the area’s rich history and deliver significant benefits to the community.
“This is a full circle moment. The Red Cross Centre played a pivotal role in the Second World War and it’s fitting it will soon become a new home for Legacy Brisbane,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Our nation’s veterans sacrificed everything for our country and we owe them a debt of gratitude.
“The new Legacy Headquarters will help veterans and their families cope with trauma, grief and stress, with wrap around services operating on-site.
“Having a new home for Legacy across the road from one of the most important hospitals for Brisbane veterans, as well as a new local park, is a win-win for the community.”
Finance Chair and Coorparoo Ward Councillor Fiona Cunningham said the site would be given a new lease of life.
“The Red Cross Centre was built during World War II to provide services to the military personnel who were patients at the 112th Australian Military Hospital,” Cr Cunningham said.
“Many hundreds of soldiers passed through this building while undergoing treatment during and after the Second World War.
“For many years after it continued to be a sacred and safe place for veterans and their families to heal and build connections.
“I know it has the potential to do so much more as the new Legacy headquarters and community park, which will be a wonderful asset for local residents.
“I’m proud to have helped Legacy find a new home, which will allow them to build their new headquarters, change lives and heal old wounds.”
Legacy Brisbane CEO, Brendan Cox, thanked Council for its support in securing the site.
“A sense of family is central to veteran wellbeing and the new Legacy House at Greenslopes will restore this focus of care when supporting a veteran that is seeking support at the Greenslopes Hospital precinct,” Mr Cox said.
Brisbane City Council approved the purchase of the Greenslopes site this month, with the purchase to be finalised by the end of the year.
The land surrounding the proposed new headquarters will become parkland.
Council will continue to keep surrounding residents informed throughout this process.
For more information or to access concept designs of the new Legacy House, visit www.bringithome.org.au/cms/building-legacy-house
