07 Mar 2018 McIvor Times, Heathcote VIC (General News) by Michael Mattingly MEMBERS of the community joined together in a working bee over the weekend to help with the final site preparation for the Childrens Community Hub. Old doors, stoves, laundry tubs, shower recesses and cupboards were removed, while carpet and floor coverings were pulled up. Trailer and skip loads of rubbish were taken away and the Heathcote Community House now has carpet galore for their community garden. These last couple of days of cleanup work ensure the site is well on its way to being ready for construction to begin this month. The contributions made by members of our community have saved us thousands of dollars, we are very grateful for the many hours community members have contributed, said Sandra Slatter, chair of Heathcote Community Childrens Services Association (HCCSA). Our childrens hub project demonstrates what can be achieved when the community work together for a common cause. The project, which will cost about $1.3 million, will bring much needed childrens health services to Heathcote, together with a 76-placement child care centre. Thanks to support from Jaclyn Symes, the Member for Northern Victoria, the HCCSA received a $650,000 grant from the Department of Education. A planning permit was issued earlier in the year and work is now being completed so that a building permit can be issued to allow works to begin. The HCCSA board and community members are tirelessly working to ensure sub-structure works can be commenced by the end of the month. The build completion date is November 30, and will require the dedication and efforts of many people, but the board are feeling confident. Our aim is to have the child care operational for 2019, said board member Mel McCarthy. The community is invited to attend the centre launch on Tuesday, March 13, where Ms Symes will turn the sod, the centre name and logo will be unveiled, Bishop Matt will bless the land, and members from our local Tunerang people will hold a welcome to country ceremony. Caption Text: ? Carpet was ripped up in preparation for the Community Childrens Hub.Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.