Girrabanya Children’s Centre celebrated its 30th birthday at the weekend with the official opening of its new outdoor play space and upgraded facilities.
The State Government of Victoria contributed $45,450 towards the new play space, which features an improved sandpit, yarning circle and a sustainable waterplay area. The City of Ballarat contributed $14,983 towards the project.
Groundworks, in consultation with centre staff, children and families, completed the works.
Having served the Ballarat community for 30 years, the Girrabanya celebration was well attended by children, families, current and past staff, and members of the broader community.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Daniel Moloney, and Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison were also in attendance.
Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Barry Gilson opened the event with a smoking ceremony and Ms Addison performed the ribbon cutting. Afterwards, guests enjoyed birthday cake and a tour of the new play space.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Daniel Moloney, said the City of Ballarat was proud to provide the Ballarat community with such an integrated facility.
“It is great to see everyone here to acknowledge the staff, children and families from over the years that have been part of Girrabanya,” he said.
“We also acknowledge the hard work and commitment of the current team to high quality education and care to ensure the best outcomes for children.”
Ms Addison wished Girrabanya a happy 30th birthday and congratulated all the educators, families and kinder kids who were part of the centre’s history.
“I’m proud that the Andrews Labor Government has supported Girrabanya with this grant, because Ballarat families deserve to have the facilities, support, and resources they need to give their children the best start to their learning journey,” she said.
The Girrabanya Children’s Centre is an integrated City of Ballarat facility offering long-day care, occasional care, kindergarten, maternal and child health and immunisation services with additional on-site information about early childhood services.
