For more than 30 years, BASE Services has supported people in Toowoomba experiencing hardship, operating from the basement at 10 Neil Street. Over that time, the organisation has transformed a modest space into a place of care, connection and practical support for countless people in our region. But as demand has continued to grow, it has become clear that BASE has outgrown its current home. A facility no longer meeting demand The current building is being stretched far beyond what it was designed for. Offices have become storage areas, hallways are filled with essential supplies, and the limited space is making it harder to provide services in a way that reflects dignity, safety and connection. More than half of BASE guests are unable to sit down and share a meal onsite, instead having to take meals away due to the lack of room. The organisation has also lost the capacity to properly host visiting support services such as legal aid, health professionals and case workers, with some services now needing to operate from a separate location. Why The Big Move matters In response, BASE Services has launched The Big Move — a three-year plan to raise $3 million to purchase and redevelop a permanent, purpose-built home. This new facility would bring the soup kitchen, offices and outreach services together under one roof, while also creating space for practical facilities like showers and laundry, a safe daytime area for guests, and improved access to legal, medical and allied health support. Most importantly, it would allow BASE to continue serving our community in a way that better meets today’s needs and the needs of the future. A stronger future for BASE Services This project is about more than a building. It is about making sure an organisation that has served Toowoomba so faithfully for decades has the space and infrastructure to continue that work well. It was a privilege to attend the recent opening event and see the support building around this next chapter. What stands out most is the number of people willing to contribute their time, skills, networks and resources to help make it happen. That kind of support speaks volumes about our community. Looking ahead After more than 30 years of service from an overcrowded basement, BASE Services deserves a home that reflects the scale and importance of its work. I am proud to support The Big Move and to stand behind an organisation that continues to make a real difference in the lives of so many people across our region. If you’d like, I can also make this one more punchy again so it reads a little more like Gary’s natural speaking voice.