Ballan’s new library was officially opened over the weekend with a community event, and the new venue is already receiving plenty of visitors.
Hosted on Saturday, September 6, attendees enjoyed magic tricks, music, children’s activities, food, and coffee, as the Ballan Library and Community Hub was officially unveiled.
The $7.25 million library and civic plaza is at 127 Inglis Street, Ballan.
Its key features include modern library services with digital resources and study spaces, designated areas for youth and children aimed at encouraging literacy and leaning, maternal and child health services, an art exhibition space, a visitor information centre, and community meeting rooms.
Part of Saturday’s event included the revealing of a brass plaque, and the names of two animal statues in the library’s outdoor area following an online naming competition: Wally the wombat – also known as Sir Digs-A-Lot – and Snoot the echidna – also known as Detective Spikes.
The project received $5 million of funding from the state government, $2.25 million from Moorabool council, and $250,000 from the community.
Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell said it is extremely exciting to see the project come to fruition, and the number of visitors in its first few weeks before the official opening exceeded council expectations.
“It’s a wonderful asset for the people of Ballan and surrounds, and it was fantastic to celebrate the opening officially with a family-friendly, fun-filled event,” he said.
Eureka MP Michaela Settle said the library and community hub is a “landmark investment for our thriving Ballan community”.
“I know this facility will make a huge difference to everyone in town – and I couldn’t be more excited to see it officially open and full of life,” Ms Settle said.
“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when government, council and community work together for the future of Ballan.”
