Work to extend and upgrade the Irymple Kindergarten is complete thanks to a $952,500 grant from the Victorian Department of Education's Building Blocks Program.
The extension represents the first major works undertaken at the kindergarten since 2011 and has created more space for three-year-old kinder programs to be offered to meet the increasing demands in the growing Irymple area.
The extension has also transformed the Irymple Kindergarten into the largest in regional Victoria, with 198 children enrolled for 2023.
The works, which started in 2022 and were completed earlier this year, have delivered new playrooms, bathroom facilities and an administration area. Air conditioning and heating units have also been updated.
"The finished product has led to a fantastic outcome for not only our community but our region," Irymple Kindergarten Co-Director Michelle Riordan said.
"In addition to the extension we've also been able to secure new equipment and furniture, and it's exciting for our community to have access to such a wonderful learning centre.
"Ultimately our kindergarten is run by a Parent Committee of Management and the result is a real community focus on what we do."
Fellow Irymple Kindergarten Co-Director Connie Aldamiz said that while the construction phase of the project had proved challenging at times, the relationship between the kinder, Council and contractors had ensured a smooth process.
"Both Council and the contractors worked really hard to complete construction with minimal impact on staff, students and parents," she said.
"While we had to adapt at times, the result is well worth it, and we're looking forward to what the new facility will bring in 2023 and beyond."
Mayor Liam Wood said local contractors Wilkie Building Contractors had delivered the works in collaboration with Mildura Rural City Council, which acted as project managers.
"The Irymple community is going to benefit greatly from these expanded facilities, and we're really thankful to the Department of Education for making these substantial funds available," Cr Wood said.
"These works have transformed the facility and created a kindergarten the Irymple community can be proud of."
The new-look Irymple Kindergarten was officially opened to the local community during an open day on Wednesday 22 March 2023.
