Boronia’s Eastern Access Community Health (EACH) has had a makeover thanks to the joint partnership of the State Government and the community health provider itself.
The Victorian Government’s Suburban Revitalisation Board put $100,000 towards the project which was completed late last year.
Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor, representing suburbs minister Sonya Kilkenny, joined residents and business leaders at the newly revitalised Eastern Access Community Health (EACH) centre in Boronia on Friday 15 March, to celebrate the opening of the new community garden, food pantry and unveil a large reconciliation artwork on the façade of the building.
The $145,000 facility upgrades deliver better open spaces for supporting community connectivity, food relief for local families and celebration of the suburb’s rich diversity.
“This project will provide locals opportunity to get involved in growing their own food and help bring all residents together,” Mr Taylor said as chair of the Boronia Suburban Revitalisation Board.
“We will continue to explore further opportunities to co-invest in projects that meet the needs and aspirations of local communities not just in Boronia, but across our great city and its suburbs.”
Since 2016, the Boronia team has been providing crucial mental health support, financial counselling, and wellbeing services to the local community.
EACH chief executive officer Natalie Sullivan said that the upgrades aren’t just about the look of the site; it’s about transforming it into a more welcoming, safe, community hub for all.
“I am immensely proud of the transformation that EACH Boronia has undergone thanks to the funding and collaboration with the Boronia Suburban Revitalisation Board, “ Natalie said.
“Together, we are fostering a stronger, healthier, and more connected community, reflecting our commitment to provide a space where everyone feels valued and supported.”
A new community vegetable garden with three veggie boxes was installed along Boronia Road, alongside a 24/7 food pantry to give access to food for people facing hardship.
Boronia Road has also become more colourful with EACH’s Reconciliation artwork by Jack and Uncle Rocco Langton, prominently displayed on the upper exterior facade of the building.
Blessed by local Elders Aunty Julieanne Axford and Aunty Gail Smith from the Wurundjeri Council, the artwork serves as a beacon, inspiring all of us to embrace strength and bravery on our journey toward reconciliation.
“As EACH celebrates its 50th year in community health, the revitalisation project and the changes made stand as our ongoing commitment to serve the Boronia community and the evolving needs of the community for another 50 years and beyond,” Natalie said.
On the advice of the Boronia Suburban Revitalisation Board, the State Government has provided approximately $3.8 million towards 25 projects in Boronia since 2020.
The Suburban Revitalisation Program is supported by the Office for Suburban Development – all projects are undertaken in partnership and collaboration with local government, businesses, service providers and community.
