About Us

The Sandgate PCYC provides quality sporting and recreational opportunities for the Sandgate and surrounding communities in a fulfilled and friendly environment.

Our Vision

Our vision is to improve our community through youth development.

Our Mission

Our mission is the PCYCs, in partnership with the government and community, be recognised for excellence in youth development, through the provision of sporting, recreational, cultural and welfare programs.

Our Objectives

• To afford the young people of Queensland the opportunity to participate in clean and healthy recreation;

• To improve the standard of physical fitness;

• To encourage and foster music, literature, art and culture;

• To encourage the interest in Australian flora and fauna;

• To encourage the principles of good citizenship;

• To awaken citizens to their responsibilities towards adolescents;

• To assist boys and girls in their future vocations;

• To do anything conducive to the welfare of youth and citizens generally;

• To promote the physical, mental and social welfare of youth, who, by physical or handicaps or because of indigent circumstances of their parents, may be regarded as disadvantaged.

Our History

The Founders of the then Sandgate Youth and Leisure Centre, Ray Cross, spoke to the late Harold Dean M.L.A as to the feasibility of such a club. The venue for this new club was to be the old Beach Theatre on Flinders Pde. They approached George Jarvis who was the President of Sandgate Apex at the time. Apex agreed to assist and the first meeting was called at Memorial Park Sandgate on Sunday, 3Rd July 1977. Hundreds of people came to pledge their support including all local Service Clubs. On August 10th 1977, an Executive and a Committee were elected to form and manage the new club.

Chairman-Alwyn Davies, Vice Chairman-Nonie Russell, Secretary-Ray Cross, Ass.Sec.-Des Rodgers, Treasurer- Don Connoll, Ass. Treasurer-Noel Shelley, Fundraising-Barry O'Toole, Publicity Officer-Alan Russell, Liaison Officer-George Jarvis with other Committee Members:- Paola Cross Bob Newton, Ann Counsel, Olwyn Connolly, Dawn Chapman, Patti Davies, Val Newton, Val Minnis, Merv Hill, Dawn Didriksen.

The Beach Theatre lease was agreed to, and on August 15th, 1997 the Youth Centre was declared open by Kevin Cairns M.H.R. Membership grew quickly with the new well organized club. An application was made to the Queensland Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association for affiliation. In November 1977 this affiliation was granted. Constable Dennis Robinson, who was the President at the time applied for and was appointed Secretary Manager.

On Thursday 13th April, 1978 a fire destroyed the Beach Theatre complex. Everyone that was involved in the club was devastated by this great tragedy. Everything was lost in the fire so a temporary club was set up at the Sandgate High School and at the Lutheran Church. A $40,000 building appeal was launched on Saturday 10th October, 1978 at the first Lagoon in Sandgate. The newly appointed Secretary/Manager, Constable John McComb was present at the launch. Opening of the building appeal coincided with the club moving to new premises at 122 Connaught Street, Sandgate.

Membership was always on the rise and in 1979 under the guidance of new Secretary/Manager, Senior Constable Ross Mitchell, membership exceeded 600. With increased members it was necessary for larger premises. A building at 137 Rainbow Street became available and was purchased to help stop the drain on funds and assist in the long-term viability of the club. Word was out that land would become available for a new Community Youth Centre in the Deagon Reserve. Constable Neil Streets with the support of the President, Stuart Patrick and over 20 committee members saw the fruition of 18 months hard work fundraising turn into new premises. Boxing Day 1981 saw the club move into these new premises on the Deagon Reserve.

Since its beginnings, the club has relied upon the dedication and commitment of the police officers who have been involved as Branch Managers.  These are:

• Constable 1/C T Hardie

• Senior Constable Jeff Pidgeon

• Senior Constable Tony Russell

• Sergeant Andrew Holderness

• Senior Constable Peter Williamson

• Sergeant Stephen Brocke

• Constable Dave Hornby

• Sergeant Kerry Mackay

• Sergeant Stephen Thomson

• Sergeant John Kennedy

Acknowledgement must also be given to the hundreds of volunteers who have provided the support and determination over the years to make Sandgate PCYC what it is today.

For more information about the Police Citizens Youth Club, visit www.pcyc.org.au.