By Peter Douglas
Yarra Ranges Council has resolved to sell the beloved former Japara Neighbourhood House building in Montrose.
At its Tuesday 28 March meeting, council agreed that despite it playing an enormous role in serving the community over many years, the building at 13 Leith Road was surplus to council’s needs.
The circa 1950s weatherboard building had served as home for Japara Neighbourhood House for around 30 years, before moving in 2015 to the purpose-built Japara Living and Learning Centre at Kilsyth.
Yarra Ranges Council had given public notice of its intention to sell the property and invited public submission, though no submissions were received.
Cr Len Cox acknowledged the building had a special place for many in the community, but agreed it was no longer needed.
Meanwhile, Cr Tim Heenan said the sale would represent the end of an era for many of those involved with Japara.
“I just want to pay respect to all the volunteers, which I was a part of in 1979, that cleaned up the house when the Shire of Lilydale took ownership,” Cr Heenan said.
“The community were really excited … they thought all their Christmases had come at once.
“It was a fantastic community hub; I know we’ve moved on but I needed to thank those volunteers.”
