The community support driving the renovations and additions to Canowindra’s Preschool Kindergarten has been described as “amazing” by its committee members.
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The not-for-profit school has recently completed phase one of its project, renovating the existing building and opening up the the Gum Nut room to provide more space for the preschool’s children.
Works on phase two of the project is hoped to begin by the end of this year, and includes the construction of a new stand alone building which will house the administration hub and serve as a multi purpose building able to cater for community groups.
More than one year ago a plan was put in place to renovate the existing building, however a successful $246,000 government grant application allowed the school to expand on their dreams.
But fundraising events within the community, and people volunteering their time at working bees has been the driving force behind the projects.
“Mid year last year we did the Great Gatsby Gala and raised just over $20,000 so that was a good kickstart and then we went on and applied for the funding which was successful,” treasurer Katy Henry explained.
“We always had the plan to do the inside but then it was able to be made much bigger with the second building.
“It all came off the back of originally trying to be more self-sustainable and not so reliant on government funding.”
President Nadine Daly explained that the multi purpose building will be open to play groups and mother groups, with a hope of offering younger children an easy transition into the Canowindra Preschool Kindergarten.
“In time it might generate the need for more kids and an increase in our licence as the young kids can transition straight into preschool,” Ms Daly said.
The preschool is hosting a fundraiser this month on Saturday, October 21.
It’s a Long Table Lunch at Boridgeree on Fish Fossil Drive catered by Jo Robson with entertainment by local singer Oli Statham.
“It’s to help us with the resourcing and fitting out the new building. We’ve had huge community support already and we’re hoping people continue to get behind us,” Ms Henry said.
“The community has just been amazing with everything. Considering we are a not-for-profit organisation this is where we rely on the people of Canowindra. They have been absolutely amazing,” Ms Daly added.
Ms Henry also acknowledged the preschool kindergarten’s director Lizz Francis and the many hours of additionalwork she has done during the process.
Also our staff and previous committee members and families have all contributed greatly to the positive direction and future our preschool is now facing.
Tickets sales for the Long Lunch are $75 and need to be purchased by Thursday, October 12.