EARLY CHILDHOOD SUPPORT CENTRE TO ‘NURTURE GENERATIONS OF LOCAL FAMILIES’

Federal funding of $3.2 million has been announced for construction to be completed on a new early childhood support centre for the MidCoast.

Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said building work was underway on the First Steps Count Child and Community Centre in Myall Avenue, Taree, with today’s Federal funding commitment now allowing the project to be finished.

“This funding announcement is the result of an outstanding community collaboration and I am very happy to be delivering this news to everyone involved,” Dr Gillespie said.

“This will be a far-reaching and transformative service, nurturing generations of local families. 

“While construction only started a few months ago, when it’s finished, this centre will offer a broad range of services for disadvantaged children and their families.

“It will provide early identification and engagement for young children with developmental needs, strongly supporting local families who need it most.”  

First Steps Count campaigner Rosemary Sinclair AO said the centre would fill a critical gap in the region’s early childhood healthcare and education. 

“These young children are some of the most vulnerable in our community and their families are often battling on alone because care has not been readily accessible,” Mrs Sinclair said.  

“I am so grateful to Dr David and the Federal Government for getting behind this project. The centre will be offering many essential programs, child health screenings, supported playgroups, parenting support programs and health and wellbeing guidance for those in need.

“I could not be more proud of this coming to fruition; it will help so many in our community.”  

Photo: Federal MP Dr David Gillespie, Nationals Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, First Steps Count’s Rosemary Sinclair and local builder, Walter Duber on site at the new child and community centre in Taree.