General News
3 July, 2026
Goldfields Family Centre receives $150,000 funding
Goldfields Family Centre was the only kinder to receive funding for upgrades in the Ripon electorate.
Goldfields Family Centre have secured almost $150,000 from the State Government to upgrade their “outdated” kinder playground.
The local kinder’s share of $12.3 million in grants will see the playground expanded into a nature-based play area with learning features.
Goldfields Family Centre was one of 63 kinders, and the only one in Ripon, to receive a Building Blocks Improvement grant.
The program is designed to help kindergartens refurbish or renovate early childhood facilities.
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the funding was especially needed locally.
“This funding will transform the centre’s old outdoor area with a brand-new playground and nature-based play area. It will be so much better for the kids, as well as their incredible educators,” she said.
Goldfields Family Centre coordinator Heather Wright said the upgrade recognised the staff’s hard work.
“The educators here are so positive, and so embedded in practice, they’re here for the right reasons,” she said.
The centre’s educational leader Alison Carr said the upgrade will give them more options to focus on children’s physical development.
“It’ll be good to have an environment that matches the passion of our educators,” she said.
“Having a quality environment helps them deliver an engaging program.”
Ms Haylett described the current facilities as “outdated” and cramped.
“Playgrounds get a beating from kids and this one has been here for many, many years,” she said.
“It’ll just be lovely for the kids to learn and have fun outside.”
The announcement comes as the State Government’s funded hours gradually increase from 15 to 30 hours each week for four-year-old kinder.
Ms Haylett said this will be rolled out locally over the next few years.
“For many years to come the kinder kids of this centre will be able to enjoy it,” she said.