Gippsland › Latest news › Wellington Local News

Yarram Early Learning Centre expansion made possible by $2.1M funding from the government's Building Blocks Program

Expanded Yarram Early Learning Centre, now with 66 more places, was officially opened. The $2.1M project, funded by the Victorian government's Building Blocks Program, was celebrated by Wellington Shire Council and Yarram Centre representatives.

By news@gippsland - 16th August 2024 - Back to News

The newly expanded Yarram Early Learning Centre was officially opened today, marking a significant milestone for the Yarram community and the future of its youngest residents. The expansion, which was made possible through $2.1 million in funding from the Victorian government's Building Blocks Program, has increased the centre's capacity by an additional 66 approved places. The official ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Wellington Shire Council Councillors Garry Stephens and Marcus McKenzie and representatives of the Yarram Early Learning Centre Committee of Management.

Yarram Early Learning Centre kinder students Emilia Cutts and Lilly McKenzie pictured with Wellington Shire Councillors Garry Stephens, Councillor Carmel Ripper and Councillor Marcus McKenzie, Yarram Early Learning Centre Committee of Management Members - Rebekah Muir, Anne Morris and Helen Dwyer and Yarram Early Learning Centre Manager - Sarah Gregory

Investing in future

Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Cr Ian Bye expressed excitement about the new facility. "This expansion represents our strong commitment to investing in the future of our youngest generation. We would like to thank the Victorian government for its support, which enables more children in our community to learn, grow and thrive in a safe and engaging environment. The new building is fantastic, and I'm excited to see how it will benefit our children and families for years to come".

The expansion of the Yarram Early Learning Centre also reflects council's ongoing efforts to support the liveability and growth of Yarram and its surrounding communities. The centre, which has been supporting families for almost a decade, is now better prepared to welcome more three and four-year-olds, allowing it to continue its essential role in the community.

Community-backed achievement

The Centre's Committee of Management, staff and local families were all acknowledged for their support and dedication to the project. On the day, Wellington Shire Councillor Garry Stephens said "this achievement wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of our dedicated staff, the support of local families, and the entire community rallying behind this project. It's a proud day for us all".

This project was funded by the Victorian government's Building Blocks Capital Grant Program at $2.1 million with Wellington Shire Council co-contributing $85,000 and donating the land for the site. The Yarram Early Learning Centre also contributed $200,000 for the furniture fit out. For more information about the Yarram Early Learning Centre and the services it provides, please contact 5182 5190 or email admin@yarramelc.com.au.

Enhancing early education

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh said, "Free 3 and 4-year old kindergarten is making early learning better and fairer - to give Victorian kids the best start in life. This is an amazing investment in early childhood in Yarram that will make sure local kids and their families can access great kinder and childcare close to home. We are building new kinders and upgrading existing kinders like Yarram to set our youngest Victorians up with benefits that will last a lifetime."

Anne Morris, Chairperson Yarram Early Learning Centre Committee said, "The Yarram Early Learning Committee of Management, with the support of Wellington Shire, have worked tirelessly over the past two years to achieve the completion of this impressive 'state of the art' building that provides spacious and resource rich learning environments where teachers, educators and children can enjoy learning alongside each other now and well into the future".

"It is recognised that access and participation in quality education and care are critical factors that enable the best possible start in life for Victorian children. It is a highly significant achievement to know that Yarram Early Learning Centre plays a central role in increasing positive educational and life outcomes for all enrolled children, especially those who may be experiencing disadvantaged circumstances," Ms Morris said.

Pictures from Wellington Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com