Council will begin works to repair and revitalise the Selby Community House building this month, with services expected to progressively return to the building from spring.
In December 2025, extensive termite damage was uncovered at the community house. Council has since been working to eradicate the termites, assess the extent of the damage and finalise plans and permits to undertake repairs and improvements.
During this time, Council has been working closely with the team at the Community House to support the logistical challenges of relocating and operating its wide range of services from other locations.
Lyster Ward Councillor, Peter Mcilwain, said Council was committed to the future of the Community House.
"We know how much the Selby Community House means to the community. It's adored locally and has long been a place where so many have come to learn skills, make connections in their community and receive support," Cr Mcilwain said.
"We appreciate that it's been a disruptive time for the house and for residents accessing their services. I'd like to extend a sincere thank you on behalf of Council for everyone's patience, understanding and flexibility while we worked through this process.
"I'm pleased to share that we're not only getting underway with these essential repairs to the Selby Community House but taking the opportunity to make other general improvements to the building.
"In addition to repairing the termite damage, we'll install new flooring and split-system heating and cooling units, address some of the temporary fixes that have been made to the building over the years and, generally, freshen up the building.
"We expect to have the works completed later this year, with services gradually returning to the building from spring, and everyone back and settled into their new home for the new year.
"Yarra Ranges Council is committed to the future of Selby Community House, and I'm looking forward to seeing it reopen, better than ever."
Selby Community House Manager, Danielle McMinn, said the news had brought relief and hope to the community.
"Council has reaffirmed their commitment to the future of Selby Community House. They understand how important this place is to the township and the wider hills community, and they're just as excited as we are to see it open, better than ever," she said.
"While there is still a lot of work though, we are hopeful of having everyone back together again in our beautiful building by the beginning of next year.
"For the first time in a long time, this genuinely feels hopeful. We can finally start looking towards the future of Selby Community House with confidence again."
