Children's centres playground works completed

Published on 17 August 2023

Children who attend two of Gannawarra Shire Council-managed children’s centres are benefiting from the recent completion of play space improvements supported by the State Government.

Work to rejuvenate play spaces at the Cohuna and District Preschool Centre and Gannawarra Shire Children’s Centre, Kerang were recently completed, ensuring both sites comply with the Disability Discrimination Act and Child Safe standards.

“Council is excited that these works are finished, which have provided new, unique ways children can play thanks to the incorporation of sensory pathways, gathering spaces and the incorporating of nature play elements,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“Early childhood educational experts have identified play-based learning improves learning and development outcomes, which these spaces will foster.”

ABOVE: The Cohuna and District Preschool play space.

Improvements completed at the Cohuna and District Preschool Centre play space, supported by $195,523 from the State Government’s Early Childhood Refurbishment and Minor Works program, include the installation of new shade sails, improving access to raised areas, creating new gathering spaces and incorporating nature play elements.

Similar work also occurred at the Gannawarra Shire Children’s Centre, Kerang, supported by $199,690 from the State Government’s Early Childhood Building Blocks Inclusion Grant Stream. Key features include a new waterplay element, sensory path, edible garden and balance beams.

“These improvements build on work undertaken by Council or supported by Council during the past five years. This includes the Leitchville Preschool Play Centre redevelopment and the construction of the new Koondrook Preschool building,” Mr Rollinson said.

“Council thanks the State Government for financially supporting these improvements, which will provide new experience for children and families who currently use either of these centres, or families who will access programs from either site in the future.”

MAIN PHOTO: The Gannawarra Shire Children's Centre play space.