MiITCHELL Shire Council and the Beveridge community came together last Wednesday to celebrate the expansion of the Greater Beveridge Community Centre.
Funded by a $3.97 million investment from the State Government, the project has delivered two new interconnected kindergarten rooms, transforming the centre into a four-room kindergarten, alongside a minor expansion of the outdoor play space to strengthen early years infrastructure in one of Mitchell Shire’s fastest growing communities.
The expansion will support Beveridge’s ongoing population growth and help address increasing demand and waitlist pressures, ensuring local families have access to high quality early childhood education close to home.
In addition to the new kindergarten rooms, the project has included landscaping works to enhance accessibility and create a welcoming and inclusive environment for children, families and educators.
Mitchell Shire Deputy Mayor Timothy Hanson said the expansion was a significant milestone for the Beveridge community.
“Beveridge is growing rapidly and it is critical that our community infrastructure keeps pace,” he said.
“These additional kindergarten rooms will give local families greater certainty and access to early learning opportunities right in their neighbourhood.
“We thank the Victorian Government for its investment in this important project and look forward to seeing generations of local children benefit from these modern, purpose-built facilities.”
Speaking at the launch event on Wednesday, Cr Hanson said this was a critical development.
“Beveridge is one of the fastest growing communities in our Shire, and with that growth comes opportunity and real challenges,” he said.
“Rapid population growth places pressure on the roads, services, schools and community facilities. That’s why projects like this matter. We must plan ahead, advocate strongly, and deliver infrastructure that keeps pace (with) a growing community.
“This $3.9 million investment from the Victorian Government has delivered a modern and welcoming environment for local children to learn and thrive. Early childhood education plays a critical role in shaping lifelong outcomes.”