Ferntree Gully churchgoers and community members will have better access to a local church hall, thanks to accessibility upgrades supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino today visited the Ferntree Gully Uniting Church to officially open the upgrades, which were made possible by a $42,000 investment from the Victorian Labor Government’s Living Local Fund.
The venue plays an important role in the local community, hosting a range of group activities including exercise sessions, jazz classes and tai chi, as well as Alcoholics Anonymous and Family Support Group meetings.
Works at the hall have widened the main doorway and created a safer and more level entrance to allow for wheelchair access to the hall’s disabled toilet, ensuring that community members of all abilities are made to feel welcome and able to participate in social activities and support sessions at the venue.
Ms Martino said these church hall upgrades will mean people of all abilities can feel welcome and are able to participate in social events and gatherings here at the venue.
“We know how important it is for all community members to be able to spend time and socialise close to home – that’s why we’re proud to have supported the upgrades to the hall to ensure we meet the needs of our vibrant community,” she said.
The upgrades will also support safe and more diverse uses of the hall for regular user groups, whose memberships include seniors, women, essential support workers and people with mobility impairments.
Importantly, this project will facilitate stronger community connections and social cohesion, while supporting more people to get involved with activities at the hall, either as participants or as volunteers.
The building upgrades will support the Ferntree Gully Uniting Church, Mountain District Learning Centre and other user groups in meeting the needs of a wider range of people and help foster stronger social bonds among their members.
Ms Martino also acknowledged Ferntree Gully Uniting Church for its commitment and financial contribution of $8,000 to the project.
The $15 million Living Local Fund is designed to ensure local community organisations have the infrastructure and equipment they need to continue to thrive.
For more information on the Living Local Fund, visit suburbandevelopment.vic.gov.au/living-local
