The Lancefield Children’s Centre was officially opened this month, providing new kinder places and an additional maternal and child health service venue.
Located at 76a High Street in Lancefield and opened on Friday, February 7, the three-room facility has the capacity for 99 children at a time and includes indoor and outdoor spaces, nature play equipment, and shade sails.
Macedon Ranges mayor Dom Bonanno said the new centre is well-equipped and conveniently located next to the Lancefield Primary School – assisting parents who might have children attending both facilities.
“This new facility ultimately means providing a better learning environment, better facilities for staff to utilise, and ensures a more convenient option for families with children at the important early years of life,” Cr Bonanno said.
“We thank all involved – particularly the Victorian Government – in supporting this priority project for council, enabling us to expand on vital education and health services for the community.”
In a Facebook post announcing the completion of the centre, Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said that the capacity for 99 children and the maternal and child health room is “great news for families in this growing community.”
“I know everyone is going [to] love playing and learning in the fantastic outdoor spaces too – thank you to everyone involved in the build,” Ms Thomas said.
“And a big thanks to the wonderful staff, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Lancefield Primary, Lancefield Playgroup, Lancefield Recreation Reserve Committee, and the Lancefield Men’s Shed.”
According to Macedon Ranges council, the naming of the centre involved consultation with children who attended Lancefield Kindergarten last year, with the children “placing an importance on the title reflecting their home and continuing the legacy of the previous service”.
The building of the new kindergarten was funded and led by the state, supported by a $3 million grant.
Macedon Ranges allocated $16,000 in its 2023-24 budget towards fully furnishing the centre and committed $120,000 towards environmental and sustainable design elements.
