Community & Business
14 August, 2026
Disability service expands
WHAT began as a not-for-profit disability service provider operating initially from a two- bedroom duplex on Beames Street, Mareeba, has now developed into an enhanced facility.
The improvements include the addition of a kitchenette, a drop-off zone, terrace, and a Piagno Park outdoor area, with a community garden.
FlexiChoice is the only not-for-profit disability service provider in Mareeba that offers dedicated facilities for participants, along with a wheelchair-accessible vehicle and a 12-seat community transport van.
Established in 2003 to improve disability services, FlexiChoice rapidly developed and, in 2013, the organisation purchased its current premises on Mason Street.
Over the years, the service-based organisation has continued to grow in response to increasing local demand.
“The current refurbishment project represents the first phase of a broader upgrade strategy and has been entirely self-funded through organisational profits and fundraising, with all surplus revenue reinvested back into the community,” chief executive officer Maribel Peckham said.
The organisation is governed by a board of seven members and supported by a team of nine administrative staff.
“FlexiChoice’s vision is to continue improving its facilities through further refurbishments, including additional accessible toilets, a kitchen upgrade, and the acquisition of another wheelchair-accessible vehicle,” Ms Peckham said.
In response to ongoing changes within the NDIS, including reduced participant funding, FlexiChoice was diversifying its service offerings.
The meeting room and multipurpose centre will be made available to allied health professionals at no cost, helping to address local service gaps caused by travelling therapists and limited specialist availability.
“This initiative will improve access to occupational therapy and other allied health services for community participants,” Ms Peckham added.
