Children's centres playground works progressing

Published on 08 May 2023

Children who attend two Gannawarra Shire Council-managed children’s centres will soon benefit from play space improvements supported by the State Government.

Work is underway at the Cohuna and District Preschool Centre and Gannawarra Shire Children’s Centre, Kerang to rejuvenate play spaces at both sites to ensure they comply with the Disability Discrimination Act and Child Safe standards.

“Play-based learning has been proven by early childhood educational experts to improve children’s learning and development outcomes, which these new spaces will foster,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“These spaces will also provide unique ways children can play, thanks to the incorporation of sensory pathways, gathering spaces and the incorporating of nature play elements.”

Improvements to the Cohuna and District Preschool Centre play space (above), 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 is also occurring at the Gannawarra Shire Children’s Centre, Kerang (main photo), 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 turf mound.

“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 looks forward to the completion of these two projects, 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.”