By Ewen McRae
Kurunjang residents have a new home for community activities and classes, following the opening of a new centre last week.
The Kurunjang Community Hub will feature a teaching kitchen, edible garden and classrooms, and was put to the test for the official opening with a cooking demonstration from former MasterChef finalist Tim Bone.
Melton mayor Cr Bob Turner said the hub would be an important activity space for residents in Kurunjang and surrounds.
“This is such an inviting and well-designed facility, with so many elements for the community to enjoy,” Cr Turner said.
“There’s citrus trees and edible flowers in the garden, chickens scratching around outside, and a modern kitchen inside.
“It’s a space that will encourage hands-on learning for students of all ages as well as provide a range of exciting activities and programs for residents.
“The hub will create a variety of fantastic opportunities for the community to come together, learn new skills and to focus on health and wellbeing.”
Students at the hub can take classes in healthy eating and food preparation, and adults will have the opportunity to take accredited courses and enjoy cultural cooking classes.
There’s also space for student support services, community meetings, and school and community activities.
The council officially opened the hub with representatives from Kurunjang Primary School and Kurunjang Secondary School, and the celebrations concluded with a movie night.
The state government contributed $2.35 million towards the new hub, while Melton council added $300,000.
