Whittlesea Playgroup held its fifth Messy Play since 2022 on Saturday – an ongoing term fundraiser registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.
The fundraiser helps the playgroup aid in costs associated with venue hire, upkeep and purchases of play equipment, craft activity and sensory play supplies, supply of cleaning equipment, excursions and incursions.
The small committee of six this year has found no task too big however, after this big community fundraiser comes off the back of a significant venue relocation – the first in over 30 years after previously being situated off Forest St, behind New Horizons Whittlesea church.
Messy Play came with an exciting theme for the community – Bluey – with the committee working hard to offer 18 stations of Bluey-themed sensory, craft, and messy play as well some favourite playgroup favourites.
Messy Play Day offered three sessions across the day, each lasting an hour long with a group wrap-up activity to conclude.
For the Bluey fans, children enjoyed getting hands on with Duck Cake Playdough, Christmas Swim Slime, Dance Mode Disco, a Pizza Girls Mud Kitchen, and other activities.
Whittlesea Playgroup president Laura Ferraro said the vibe at the event was incredible.
“We saw over 200 people come through the doors on Saturday and everyone had a great time, many families have left us some wonderful feedback and we are so grateful,” she said.
“The fundraiser was a great success, and we are so thankful to all our community supporters as we as everyone who attended on the day.
“We really wanted to ensure the event came into its third year strong, something to look forward to with the kids and offer a great atmosphere.”
Whittlesea Playgroup president Laura Ferraro said it had been a huge year for the playgroup.
“I am constantly impressed by the incredible things we achieve as a committee of Mums and Dads with very full lives,” she said.
“My wonderful predecessor Cara was successful in locking us into this purpose-made venue on Laurel Street, previously Whittlesea Kindergarten some years ago, to now be operating out of a kindergarten building is the dream, really.”
Whittlesea Playgroup runs every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday during term from 9.30am till 11.30am and are currently taking expressions of interest for a Tuesday session to open during the same hours.
People can contact Whittlesea Playgroup via social media including Facebook.
