Riddells Creek incident updates

As the owner of the building (which is on Crown Land, leased out by Council), Council would like to provide the following update in relation to the Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool in Riddells Creek, following the truck incident in November 2024.

Quotes attributable to Maria Weiss, Acting CEO, Macedon Ranges Shire Council:

Council is working diligently to ensure the building is safe and ready to welcome children back as soon as possible, cognisant of the traumatic event and the sensitive approach required, as well as the different stakeholders involved.

Practically, the incident resulted in several impacts to the building and services, including the surrounding grounds and facilities. This included impacts that have already been rectified – such as the removal of three damaged trees – and other impacts to the building and grounds that are being prioritised for repair.

Following a break in available tradespeople due to the Christmas/New Year period, work is expected to resume next week to then continue throughout January, so residents will notice trades in and around the building.

Practical fixes aside, the nine-year lease for the building ends in mid-January 2025 and Council is working with relevant stakeholders to develop a new lease agreement, including new provider Uniting Vic.Tas. There are also other approvals that will need to be facilitated by Victorian Government authorities and the Department of Education prior to the service resuming.

There are clear and diligent processes in place for these aspects and while this can take some time, Council is prioritising the process. We will continue to provide regular updates and work closely with all involved to reach a positive outcome.

Quotes attributable to Jessica Hateley-Browne, Acting General Manager Early Learning, Uniting Vic.Tas:

We’re excited to be the new provider for the Macedon Ranges Montessori early learning service. We’re looking forward to welcoming children and families back to the 61 Main Road site after works are complete.

In the meantime, as works are ongoing at the site, we plan to operate from the nearby Riddells Creek Primary School for all of Term 1 2025, so that we can provide certainty and a stable service for families and children.

We appreciate the support of Council, the primary school, the Department of Education and the community during this process.