New kinder a step closer
Earthworks and rubble have taken over Warragul Primary School this week as works begin on a new early learning centre that will deliver 132 additional kindergarten placements for Warragul.
Turning the sod at the Bowen St site last Monday, Member for McMillan Russell Broadbent described the new centre as a piece of art rather than a building.
He said he had seen the designs and plans and was excited about what will develop on the site over coming months.
Mr Broadbent said the early learning centre would include two multi-purpose rooms to provide pre-school education for 132 children.
“The new centre will provide accommodation for early years and family-based services, after-school care, supported play group and other health and early intervention services.
“It will also provide muchneeded services including three and four-year old kinder, playgroups, maternal and child health and allied health support services to support a growing community,” he said.
The federal government is providing $1.9 million towards the project with council contributing $1.178 million and the state government $650,000.
Mr Broadbent said the federal government was happy to invest in these projects in partnership with local government.
“What we have learned from the investment of funds into these facilities is early intervention in education makes a difference to the learning life of a child,” Mr Broadbent said.
Deputy prime minister Michael McCormack said when the $3.7 million project was complete it would increase the learning area spaces available to children attending the centre, allowing kids to reach their full potential.
“The co-location of this facility will make life easier for children and parents alike – children with their transition into primary school and parents who will be able to drop their kindergarten and school children off at the same place.
“This project is another example of all levels of government working together to provide modern essential services in regional Australia,” he said.
Mayor Mikaela Power said with more and more families choosing to call Baw Baw Shire home, the need for more early years learning infrastructure was at an alltime high.
“Warragul really needs these extra spaces and we look forward to seeking the project completed.
“It’s great to see this vital facility now underway which will cater for a further 132 much needed kindergarten spaces.
“Providing new Early Learning Facilities has been one of Council’s key advocacy project over the last few years and we’re grateful for the support from both state and federal governments.
“Soon we will be able to deliver an outstanding community facility that will service our growing community well into the future,” she said.
The facility will be built by local company Kubale Constructions with completion expected in the second half of 2019.