Toun-nun Child and Family Centre in Officer opened its doors on Tuesday 16 April, with the first intake of kindergarten children taking in their brand-new surrounds.
The new facility on Fairweather Parade includes two kindergarten program rooms, a community room, and three consult rooms that will provide Maternal and Child Health and other allied health services.
The centre also has a new outdoor play-space and many more wonderful amenities.
Children enrolled to attend kindergarten in 2024 at the Toun-nun facility attended the nearby Konewark Child and Family Centre during Term 1 after the completion ot Toun-nun was delayed.
The name 'Toun-nun' means 'warm' and was selected after consultation with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, historical groups and the local community
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik said he hoped the community agreed the opening of this exciting project was worth the wait.
"This amazing new facility will be a vital asset for the many young families in our growth corridor. The centre will enable families to build ongoing relationships with educators and maternal & child health services, all under one roof," Cr Kowarzik said.
"We thank all those who have worked so hard behind the scenes to make this wonderful facility a reality and thank families for their patience during the building's delay."
Cr Tammy Radford said Council is delighted to see the centre opened and activated.
"This facility has been purpose-built to serve our community for many years to come. We look forward to watching our younget community members grow and thrive, as they receive exceptional education and care through the centre," Cr Radford said.
The Toun-nun Child and Family Centre received funding through the Victorian School Building Authority's Building Blocks Capacity Grant Program, and from the Jobs, Precincts and Region's Growing Suburbs Fund. The building also benefited from developer contributions.