Warm welcome at ‘Toun-nun’ kinder

The Toun-nun Child and Family Centre in Officer opened recently. Picture: SUPPLIED

Officer youngsters now have a new place to grow and prosper, with Toun-nun Child and Family Centre in Officer opening its doors on Tuesday 16 April.

The new facility on Fairweather Parade includes two kindergarten program rooms, a community room, and three consult rooms to provide Maternal and Child Health and other allied health services.

The centre also has a new outdoor play-space and a number of other amenities.

Children enrolled to attend kindergarten in 2024 at the Toun-nun facility attended the nearby Konewark Child and Family Centre during Term 1 after the completion of Toun-nun was delayed.

The name ‘Toun-nun’ means ‘warm’ and was selected after consultation with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, historical groups and the local community

Cardinia Shire mayor Jack Kowarzik said he hopes the community enjoyed the opening of the new facilities.

“This amazing new facility will be a vital asset for the many young families in our growth corridor,” he said.

“The centre will enable families to build ongoing relationships with educators and maternal & child health services, all under one roof.

“We thank all those who have worked so hard behind the scenes to make this wonderful facility a reality and thank families for their patience during the building’s delay.”

Officer Ward councillor Tammy Radford said the council is delighted to see the centre opened and activated.

“This facility has been purpose-built to serve our community for many years to come,” she said.

“We look forward to watching our youngest community members grow and thrive, as they receive exceptional education and care through the centre.”

The Toun-nun Child and Family Centre received funding through the Victorian School Building Authority’s Building Blocks Capacity Grant Program, and from the Jobs, Precincts and Region’s Growing Suburbs Fund, as well as other developer contributions.