Cohuna child care one step closer

Published on 22 December 2021

The creation of Long Day Care and sufficient kindergarten options for Cohuna and district residents is one step closer to fruition after Gannawarra Shire Council received State Government funding to explore available options.

Council has successfully received $65,800 from the 2021/22 Building Blocks Planning Program to explore future kindergarten service delivery and models of care for Cohuna, as well as the potential to also provide Long Day Care in the town.

“Since this important issue was raised with Council in April 2021, Council has been working proactively with residents who led this community campaign and the State Government to find a solution that would be beneficial for the community and families accessing this much-needed service,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“This funding will enable Council to explore a children’s hub model, bringing together three-year-old kindergarten, four-year-old kindergarten, Maternal and Child Health services, Supported Playgroup and Long Day Care.

“It is hoped that the end result will be a modern, purpose-built centre that will embrace the advantages of indoor/outdoor programming, bush kindergarten programs and explore service models which give working families flexible options.”

Investigations are scheduled to be completed by mid-2022, with the report to assist with seeking funding for the construction of the proposed facility.

“This funding is exactly what we need, as the planning that will occur will set us up to apply and secure grants that will fund the actual building of the centre,” Cohuna Child Care campaign organiser, Tenielle Edge said.

“There are a few options to explore regarding the proposed location, but we are very excited about this project receiving this funding.

“We cannot thank Council’s Director Community Wellbeing, Stacy Williams and Manager Children and Family Services, Annette Millard enough for their support and assistance.”