We, the undersigned members, supporters, and stakeholders of The Queensland Russian Community Centre, submit this petition to request that you reconsider and cancel the proposed sale of the property at 19 Lotus Street, Woolloongabba QLD 4102 (currently listed for sale).

Why this property must remain in community hands

1. Community heritage and identity — The Centre has served as a vital hub for the Russian community (and wider multicultural community) for many years. The property represents more than mere real estate: it is a place where cultural ties, social support, traditions, shared history, and community identity are fostered and preserved. Selling it risks irreparable loss of cultural heritage.
2. Not-for-profit mission and social benefit — As a not-for-profit organisation, the Centre provides essential services and supports to vulnerable community members, including recent migrants, elderly people, families, and children. Retaining the property ensures these services continue without interruption.
3. Lack of viable alternatives — There is no confirmed alternative facility that could replace the property’s size, location, accessibility, and suitability for community events, classes, social gatherings, cultural celebrations, and meetings. Selling now would dismantle a community resource without reasonable replacement.
4. Community support and opposition to sale — Many Centre members, families, and community stakeholders strongly oppose the sale. We believe decisions of this magnitude affecting the community asset should not proceed without broad consultation and democratic consent from the membership and community the Centre serves.

We therefore request:

a) That the decision to sell the property be revoked.
b) That the members and community stakeholders be consulted in a transparent process before any further consideration of sale.
c) That, if required, alternatives be explored (e.g., community grants, fundraising, joint partnerships with local councils or organisations) to maintain and preserve the Centre for future generations.

We, the undersigned, stand together in support of this petition, and request that you acknowledge receipt of this petition and advise us of the next steps.