Casey Council has celebrated the official opening of the Manna Gum Family and Community centre in Clyde North during an online ceremony on Monday 21 September.
The $6.3 million double story facility, a joint project with the Education Department, is the first of its kind in Casey and provides dedicated spaces for early years programs and services, and multi-purpose community spaces for residents to connect, learn and socialise.
Built adjacent to Grayling Primary School, the new facility aims to build and maintain a strong connection with the school community fostering a seamless transition from early years through to primary school.
Casey Council chair of administrators Noelene Duff noted the important role community facilities play and council’s commitment to fostering and supporting community connections.
“The City of Casey recognises community facilities as an important means of creating capacity within the community, as they provide a space where residents can meet, carry out activities and access local services in a safe and inclusive environment, which strengthens the life and connection of a community,” Ms Duff said.
“Manna Gum Family and Community Centre aims to grow greater community connectedness, reduce social isolation and provide important services and opportunities for local families.”
The integrated Family and Community Centre includes an upper-level space accessible by lift or stairs, with a large 145sqm community room, community kitchen with amenities, break out space and secure outdoor terrace.
The lower level features a large communal break out space with kitchenette, one consult room available for hire, two dedicated maternal and child health consult rooms with designated waiting area, and three kindergarten playrooms with a designated waiting area and secure outdoor yard.
The large community room and consultation room available for hire provides opportunities for a variety of programs and/or services to engage the community and support their growing needs.
Council invested $4.71 million towards the project, with the State Government contributing $1.6 million through the Children’s Facilities Capital Program.
While available programs and services will be depended on Covid-19 restrictions, council hopes to begin playgroup, school holiday programs, training and community programs, and other activities early next year.