Council welcomes Victorian Government funding that will enhance the facilities of three local Council-run kindergartens, meaning better learning and play opportunities for children.
Riddells Creek Kindergarten, Swinburne Avenue Children's Centre in Gisborne, and Kyneton Kindergarten are among 41 kindergartens state-wide to receive substantial grants to enhance their facilities, through the Victorian Government's 2024-25 Building Blocks Inclusion Grants program.
Riddells Creek Kindergarten has been awarded $69,234 for outdoor improvements including a new bike track loop, a replaced shade sail, widened sandpit entrances, and refurbished playground equipment. These upgrades will create a more inclusive and interactive space for children of all abilities.
Swinburne Avenue Children's Centre will receive $144,100 to enhance its outdoor learning area. The improvements include a bike track loop, fencing, upgraded cubby houses with wide access, new seating, and a web climber in the sandpit. These additions will encourage safe, inclusive play and support early childhood development.
Kyneton Kindergarten will receive $58,012 to convert an unshaded, crushed rock area into a grassed play space with a new shade sail, offering a safer and more comfortable environment for children. The existing sandpit will also be relocated.
Mayor Dom Bonanno emphasised the positive impact of these upgrades, saying: "This funding is a major boost for local families. The improvements at these Council-run kindergartens in Riddells Creek, Gisborne and Kyneton will create safer, more accessible, and engaging learning spaces where all children can thrive."
The Building Blocks Inclusion Grants program provides up to $200,000 for infrastructure upgrades and up to $10,000 for specialist equipment, ensuring all children can fully participate in early education.
