The Learmonth township is celebrating the completion of a new project that will serve as a vibrant hub for locals and result in a more connected community.
The Learmonth Community Skills Shed project at the Learmonth Recreation Reserve is now complete, resulting in a purpose-built modern facility that will contribute to better physical health, mental health and wellbeing outcomes for Learmonth community members.
The $535,588 project was majority funded by the City of Ballarat, supported by $80,000 from the State Government's Department of Families, Fairness, and Housing.
The shed will provide a hub for the Learmonth Community Skills Shed group to come together to undertake community shed activities such as woodworking, metalwork, and other creative pursuits.
It will also be a space where other community groups can gather, have meetings, and run activities. Included in the construction is a kitchen, accessible toilet and verandah.
Previously, community members used a small, privately-owned shed in Learmonth that was inadequate and did not have guaranteed long-term prospects.
Now, the new facility has been handed over to the community and is ready for use.
City of Ballarat North-ward Councillor, Jim Rinaldi and CEO Evan King joined Member for Ripon, Martha Haylett for the official opening of the facility on Friday.
Cr Rinaldi said the new facility would provide an enormous boost for the community.
"It is fantastic to deliver such a vital community facility that the Learmonth community can feel proud of," he said.
"This is so much more than just a shed, it will be a lively hub that will bring the community together and have wide-reaching benefits for the town."
Member for Ripon, Martha Haylett said the new shed would have a lasting benefit in Learmonth.
"Our investment is supporting people to come together, share skills, and build friendships," she said.
"This brand-new shed will benefit the health and wellbeing of Learmonth locals for years to come."
The establishment of the Learmonth Community Skills Shed aligns with the objectives outlined in the Learmonth Plan: Our Township Towards 2040, which emphasises the importance of community-led initiatives and the development of local facilities to support a thriving and connected community.
