Blue Gum* Child and Family Learning Centre (CFLC) in West Ulverstone officially opened its doors today, providing a safe, supportive and welcoming space for our youngest children and their families and carers.
The Tasmanian Government has delivered on its $28 million commitment to build six new centres across the state, with Blue Gum bringing the total number open in Tasmania to 15, with three to open later this year.
Minister for Children and Youth, Roger Jaensch, said the Blue Gum Centre will provide wrap around services and support for both expectant parents and families with children aged birth to five years.
"The purpose of our Child and Family Learning Centres is to work with the community to improve the health, wellbeing, education and care of Tasmania's children in their early years by supporting parents and enhancing the accessibility of services in the local community," Minister Jaensch said.
"This is a place where they can access quality early learning, health, support and outreach services.
"Like all child and family learning centres, Blue Gum has been community-led from the beginning by a Local Enabling Group made up of local community members.
"The Centre is already welcoming hundreds of people come through the doors each week, including families that are multi-generational."
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said we know these centres are so special to local families with young children, giving them a place to belong and build strong community connections.
"This centre is already seeing up to 100 people per day visiting since opening in January," Minister Palmer said.
"I congratulate the staff, families, Local Enabling Group and designer David Denman and Associates and building contractor Vos Construction and Joinery for their input and work into establishing this space for the local community to enjoy."
The Tasmanian Government's 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future ensures that we provide supportive environments in our children's early years and commits $32 million to building a further four new supersized Child and Family Learning Centres at Huonville, Smithton, Longford, and Scottsdale.
*Tasmanian Blue Gum is the state's floral emblem. It's ability to grow to great heights and be a valuable habitat and resource, represents the shelter, safety and connection that Tasmania's CFLCs offer.
