The new Larapi* Child and Family Learning Centre in Wynyard officially opened yesterday, providing a welcoming space for our youngest children and their families and carers in the Waratah-Wynyard area.
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is delivering on its $28 million commitment to build six new child and family learning centres, taking the total number of centres across the State to 18.
Of the six new centres, East Tamar, West Ulverstone and Sorell are now open, and Kingborough and Glenorchy are nearing completion.
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said like all of the other new centres, the development of Larapi was led by local community members.
"The new Centre in Wynyard provides wrap around services and support for families with children aged birth to five years, and expectant parents, where they can access quality education, health, support and outreach services," Minister Palmer said.
"Sessions such as playgroups, oral language development programs, parent workshops and early intervention referrals give children a head start to learn and grow through play."
As in existing CFLCs, families will also have free access to psychologists, speech pathologists and social workers, ensuring children are meeting their developmental milestones and are well placed to start Kindergarten.
The centre is already living true to its vision – Our community, celebrating all children and families, playing, learning and growing together – with an average of 50 people participating each day since it opened its doors in late 2023.
Minister for Children and Youth, Roger Jaensch, said families in the Waratah-Wynyard region were excited about having a place to connect and access a range of quality early learning opportunities, both indoors and outdoors.
"I congratulate the staff, families, members of the Local Enabling Group, and design and building contractors for their work and input into establishing Larapi as a space for families to enjoy," Minister Jaensch said.
"We will continue to deliver the services our young people and their families need through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future."
The Tasmanian Liberal Government recently committed to delivering an additional four supersized Child and Family Learning Centres in Scottsdale, Longford, Smithton and Huonville, expanding the services offered across Tasmania.
Planning for these additional sites are already underway.
*Larapi (pronounced lah-rah-pee) means Flowerdale River in palawa kani.
