$110,064 the icing on the cake for Stage 1 of The Hub at Guyra redevelopment, with Centre Co-ordinator Chris Hietbrink, left, President Dot Vickery OAM and Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall looking forward to the installation of new computers, internet and air-conditioning.
Monday, 14 December 2020
The recently expanded ‘The Hub at Guyra’ will soon be equipped with all the technology needed to connect the community to vital outreach services, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing an additional $110,064 in State Government funding for the final fit-out the new building.
Last Tuesday Mr Marshall joined President of The Hub Board Dot Vickery OAM and Co-ordinator Chris Hietbrink to officially open the redeveloped community centre, which is now three times the original size due to a $400,000 State Government investment.
Mr Marshall said the additional funding would be spent fitting out the building, ensuring it is fully functional and able to meet the needs of staff and clients.
“Despite its new office space, consultation rooms and kitchen, there are still a few finishing touches needed to make The Hub truly functional,” Mr Marshall said.
“Ducted air-conditioning will be installed throughout the building, keeping the climate comfortable all year round.
“New computers with internet connections will be added, allowing community members to access government assistance or fill out online forms with the support of staff.”
Mr Marshall said funding would also go towards relocating the popular community garden.
“As a result of the redevelopment, Chris and the team have had to find a new home for the community garden,” he said.
“Next year, the community garden will move to the front of The Hub, increasing its street appeal, while also making the garden more publicly accessible.
“The Guyra Local Aboriginal Land Council has expressed interest in using the garden to run education sessions on native plants for food and medicine.
“The community garden will act as an extension of The Hub, providing space for outdoor, hands on education programs. In addition to native plants, fruit and vegetables will be grown, with excess provided to Foodbank.”
The Hub at Guyra Co-ordinator Chris Hietbrink said the fit-out will assist the service to connect with sections of the community they traditionally struggle to engage with.
“Installation of ducted air-conditioning and cabling for IT connection will ensure that the most comfortable space is available for those unable to access the internet from home,” Mrs Hietbrink said.
“The new systems will also allow for lessons and practice in preparation for Learner and P Plate driving tests, and access to users’ emails.
“The local Aboriginal community will have full access to the space so they can establish a learning area for their people, through the use of the garden, commercial kitchen and our computer space.”