Help keep Bowen Community Technology Centre open

The Bowen Community Technology Centre (Bowen CTC) serves as a vital hub for technology and connectivity, providing a space where residents can access computers, printing services, and the internet without the need to travel all the way to the city center or library, where costs can be burdensome.

Bowen CTC has become a lifeline for many, enabling them to stay connected, pursue educational opportunities, and engage in online services. The Bowen CTC is a drop-in centre for children and adults. The Centre provides a safe place for children, after school and during school holidays.

Children are encouraged to attend school as they are aware that if they do not go to school they will not be allowed to use the computers at the centre, but will be offered work sheets to complete.

Another key activity is teaching students how to safely use a computer and avoiding very real online

dangers. Students also complete set activities each week which include quizzes and puzzles on local and

topical events incorporating a “reward” system where they receive certificates, and much-appreciated

acknowledgement on the After School Club reward chart, where friendly competition is fierce.

With a strong educational focus, students are encouraged to continue to higher learning and their sporting aspirations with one-one tuition and support.

However, to ensure the sustainability of this invaluable resource, we need to raise funds to keep the centre open. By supporting our fundraising efforts, you can help us maintain this essential community technology centre, empowering residents and fostering a sense of belonging and growth for everyone. Together, we can continue bridging the digital divide and creating a brighter future for all.

HISTORY OF BOWEN CTC

The Bowen Residents Action Group (BRAG) was formed in 2006 following a community meeting attended by over 200 people. The meeting was called in response to a high incidence of antisocial behaviour, car theft, arson, intimidation and violence in the neighbourhood. From that meeting, the Bowen Community Technology Centre (Bowen CTC) was formed and opened in August 2008.

The BCTC is oversighted by the Bowen Residents Action Group (BRAG), a community-driven, not-for-profit, Deductible Gift Recipient collective of local citizens.

Some of the antisocial behaviour in the neighbourhood was attributed to poor school attendance/homework completion. Contributing factors to these problems were identified as lack of

homework support, children being unable to access the internet and other study resources at home and

have little to no parental support.

The centre has grown with the students and the wider community. Since 2011 over 41,600 student visits

have been made and have used the facility with over 5,000 completing homework.

Bowen Community Technology Centre

Carriage Cottage, Spring Street Orange

Phone 6362- 8584

Visit our Website

Access to:

• Internet

• Help with Homework

• Help with preparation of resumes (including printing and job applications)

• Emailing to Government and other agencies

• Letter writing and reading

• Online practice for RMS driving tests

• Assistance in filling out forms

• Assisting with extracurricular activities

• Printing of information for TAFE

• Classes on computer use. Please see the

Volunteers or supervisor for more information.

Open times:

11 am – 5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday.

2 pm – 5 pm Thursday