A van full of fun

By Tania Martin
FUN is on the move in Cardinia with the help of a new PlayStart Van.
Hills youngsters recently (15 January) got their first glimpse of the van when it made a stop at JAC Russell Park in Gembrook.
The van aims to engage with families, especially the disadvantaged and isolated.
It gives parents the chance to locate play and support groups across the shire at parks, sporting venues, and halls where equipment is also available.
A playgroup facilitator also travels with the van wherever it goes.
The travelling playgroup allows families to engage with others in their area without relying on resource funding to sustain their group.
According to the council, a lack of transport to playgroup venues was identified by its Best Start Partnership as one of the main barriers preventing families from participating.
The van offers a range of services for parents and children, from babies to five-year-olds.
Those interested in visiting the van should watch out for the shire’s community newsletter and calendar of events at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au for locations.