A $1.25 million-dollar refurbishment of the Dougherty Community Centre, proudly funded by the Federal Government, has been unveiled during its official reopening on Wednesday.
The major improvements provide more amenities and accessibility for people with disabilities, plus a new home for the vibrant and inclusive hub, MOSAIC Multicultural Centre. The Centre also acts as an emergency evacuation centre in times of crisis and is now better equipped for this purpose.
Willoughby City Council Mayor Tanya Taylor joined the Federal Member for North Sydney, Mr Trent Zimmerman MP in unveiling a commemorative plaque created in honour of the centre’s reopening.
“This is the space that the community deserves and we are so thrilled to see it opened with extra venue hire spaces for the community to gather and host activities,” Mayor Taylor said.
“Connected communities are more resilient communities. Having a more welcoming, accessible and inclusive place for people to gather and connect will foster greater social cohesion and support the community’s resilience.”
“The two new art spaces in the centre have already been booked out for the next year – a testament to the incredible creative talents we have within the Willoughby area.”
The centre now boasts more modern venue spaces for hire, to enable the community to run programs and host activities for many people to enjoy.
The refurbishment of the Blend Café and the courtyard garden has created a welcoming focal point and accessible space for all to enjoy.
The improvements were made possible by a $1 million grant funded by the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program with Council contributing $250,000 toward the project.
