The children of Ballan Child Care Centre were happy campers last week as they explored their new play areas.
The centre has received a much-needed facelift to its two outdoor play areas, thanks to donations and support from parents and the community.
Centre director Glenda Fenton said for several years the play areas had been uninviting and there was barely any play equipment.
Parents and centre educators took matters into their own hands, raising about $3500.
“Prior to this work being done, it was tan bark from the front fence to the back fence,” Ms Fenton said.
“We had beautiful trees but no grass and no inviting play spaces … we wanted to create an area that was not only beautiful but practical to use.”
The play area now has grass and turf and includes a vegetable garden and bike tracks.
Ms Fenton said this was only stage one of the upgrades.
She said the next step for the centre would be the introduction of pets.
Parents have already started donating items such as a chicken coop and rabbit hutch.
“It’s been absolutely wonderful, the support we’ve got from parents and the community,” Ms Fenton said.
Ballan District Health & Care purchased the centre, which cares for more than 100 children, about three years ago and contributed to funding the landscaping of the play areas.
To help
To make a donation, call the centre on 5368 1811.
