The first group of children to be educated at a new childcare centre in West Dubbo have started a life of learning.
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The Gowrie NSW Dubbo Early Education centre opened its doors on Monday, just three doors after an official launch involving numerous stakeholders.
The facility caters for 50 children between the ages of 2-5, and also features a community centre.
There are also plans in place to develop an area of the facility that will cater for infant and toddler children aged between 0-2.
“We’re so proud of the centre we have created, and we had all of the people responsible for the project there on Friday from our architect through to the sub-contractors that built the premises,” Gowrie NSW chief executive Lynne Harwood said.
“From purchasing the land through to opening our doors it has been a process of about two years, so for it to finally be open is a big thrill.
“We chose the location because that area has a history of troubled times and we want to be a part of a bright future for the West Dubbo area.
“We also launched our reconciliation action plan on the same day. We have such a meaningful relationship with the Aboriginal community, and we saw Dubbo as a good place to do it because we wanted to cement our authenticity and accessibility to that community in a strong regional area.”
Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, David Harris, was one of the dignitaries in attendance at the launch, and said the implementation of the plan is a key step forward.
“This Reconciliation Action plan is a good initiative not just for early learning centres but also schools,” Mr Harris said.
“As a former school principal I understand the importance of cultural recognition for all children.
“The important job of closing the gap for Aboriginal people in health, education and employment starts with employing better strategies for young Indigenous people.
“When as a nation we are looking towards Constitutional recognition of First Australians, education through strategies like this are essential.”