Welcome to Geckos

GECKOS is going from strength to strength. There are many activities, unit and special events happening here yet we still have our quiet times too. Suggestions to continually improve what we offer are always welcomed. So, if you've any ideas of things you would like to participate in here but we don't offer it, let us know so we can see how we could accommodate your needs.
You can email suggestions via the link to the left of this page or call one of us at the numbers above.

Background

In contrast to previous years, operational tempo now has the impact of creating an ongoing requirement for welfare support as the different units and individuals deploy on operations or extended absences from Townsville.

The major change has been the need to battle group across units of the Brigade as we have not had to do in the past. It is now much more common for battle groups to deploy with almost equal parts from different units. This has the effect of leaving some families at a loss as to which Welfare Officer they should be approaching for help. This is particularly compounded where a unit has soldiers deployed on several different operations overseas.

GECKOS has been created to assist all Defence families, whether deployed or not, who are in Townsville. The centre can provide information, support, social contact, and assist to link you with resources in Defence or civilian communities.

Vision

This Brigade has a facility staffed by uniformed personnel located in "GECKOS", the Defence family centre, which is able to build supporting relationships among family members enhancing operational effectiveness of our deployed soldiers.

GECKOS is the focus for any family looking for others who experience the same hardships when the soldier in their lives deploys on operations, goes on exercise, or course, or spends long hours away from home.

GECKOS offers families a respite, particularly from young children proving too much to handle at home. Geckos is airconditioned and has large spaces where children can run and play under your watchful eye.

GECKOS is open to all the families (close or extended) of Defence personnel in the NQ region, including those residing in this region who have a soldier deployed from another of Army's bases around Australia.

GECKOS is a smoke free zone.

Goals

• Provision of opportunities for spouses to develop networks and focus support from appropriate Defence and civilian agencies.
• Identification, fostering and support to unit based Family Support Groups.
• The location of choice for unit welfare activities.
• The centre for excellence in provision of Defence family support in Australia.
• Support and ongoing training to Unit Welfare Officers

FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GECKOS

Frequently Asked Questions about GECKOS