A NEW multipurpose child and family centre focused on health, wellbeing and early childhood development, is set to be built in Menindee as part of a grant received by Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation.
CEO of Maari Ma, Richard Weston, said the $5 million grant, along with Maari Ma’s own funding, will be used to build the centre.
“We are very pleased to have another opportunity to invest in our local communities through enhancing infrastructure,” he said.
“With our experience in Wilcannia with the Wilcannia Health and Wellbeing Centre, we have seen the difference a community-controlled facility has made in community engagement and what a purpose-built space makes to service delivery.
“We are keen to make that a reality in Menindee as well, with a particular focus on children and their families.”
The new centre will be built on the corner of Darling and Haberfield Streets, with Troppo Architects overseeing the build.
“Troppo Architects, who project managed the Wilcannia Health and Wellbeing Centre, are also on board for the Menindee project and have been there recently consulting with community on early designs for the space, with more visits planned,” Mr Weston said.
“This new centre will give us our own space to be able to provide some new services supporting young Aboriginal children and their families, and along with the Board, the organisation is very excited to see this investment in the town. “
“The proposed design will go on display in due course as required under normal planning processes and we are also committed to keeping the community up to date via our own newsletter, website, Facebook page and other means” Mr Weston said.
The facility will offer health checks, immunisations, growth and development checks and visiting specialities such as paediatric and allied health services.
Mr Weston said Maari Ma look forward to continuing their already well-established relationship with Menindee residents.
“Maari Ma has a long and happy relationship with the Menindee community, and we will continue to provide our adult and chronic disease GP services from the FWLHD’s Menindee Health Service,” he said.
