The Gembrook Pre School is celebrating the renovation of their kitchen and Preschoolers got to enjoy their first time using the new equipment on 6 January.
The preschool secured grants from Cardinia Council, Fonterra and The rotary club of Emerald late last year.
Though, organising contractors to build the kitchen upgrade was harder than first thought, and the preschool had to rely on the generosity of local tradespeople to get the job finished.
Gembrook Preschool Projects and Grants Officer Melissa Williamson said after a contractor pulled out last minute, local tradespeople came together to assist in the build.
“In August we found we were successful so started ordering everything and trying to get the ball rolling.”
“The contractor we had, couldn’t do the work for us and we only found out before Christmas so it came to the point where were either going to lose our funding or we try and find someone else.”
“Some amazing guys form the community came together.
“Matt Steer from MJ Steer Electrical, Darren Petrie from Olivelaine Constructions, Mark Rowlands from MLR Plumbing, Mick from Mick’s kitchens got all the materials we needed.
““They were all so helpful and really made things stress free … It was just incredible.”
The kitchen upgrade fits perfectly with the Preschool’s existing vegetable garden patch, and Teacher Kim Busacca said it would assist in the preschool’s healthy eating program.
“Gembrook Pre-School has extensive vegetable and herb gardens, as well as a Bush Tucker garden made up of local indigenous plants.”
“Our new kitchen facilities and resources will make it possible for the children to utilise the fresh produce they have grown in regular cooking experiences. These learning opportunities help to support children developing positive food habits.”
