MAB and GPC were pleased to recently host at Merrifield, the Victorian Governments announcement to provide funding of $1.55million for the creation of the Merrifield West Northern Community Hub as part of the 2018-19 Children’s Facility Capital Program. The Hon. Jenny Mikakos Minister for Families and Children, officially announced the funding with further support from Ros Spence Member for Yuroke and Hume Mayor Councillor Geoff Porter in attendance.

The new Merrifield West Northern Community Hub is expected to open in 2021 and will provide three preschool rooms with capacity for 198 preschool positions. It will also feature five maternal and child health services/visiting specialist services consulting rooms, along with a dedicated waiting area and multipurpose activity rooms to support early years and community activities. The facility will also provide flexible arts and cultural spaces where a range of activities and events can take place to contribute towards creating a strong and inclusive community for residents.

Hume Mayor Councillor Geoff Porter said he was thrilled with the Victorian Government’s announcement, adding that it recognised the growth taking place in the Mickleham area.

“In 2018, the population of Mickleham is 7,244 and by 2035, this will grow to more than 48,000 residents,” Cr Porter said. Growing communities like Mickleham need new quality facilities to meet the demands of a changing community and to provide opportunities to bring residents together.

Media release originally published by Hume City Council, 15^th October 2018.