News from Y Kinders

Inverloch & District Preschool’s outdoor upgrade celebrated at official opening

December 13, 2024 Community Partnerships

Many small hands made a big difference at the official opening of Inverloch & District Preschool’s newly upgraded outdoor space. The kinder children eagerly helped carry and cut the ceremonial ribbon and had made special decorations welcoming their visitors.

They were very excited to welcome Jordan Crugnale, Member for Bass, along with representatives from Y Kinders, the Department of Education, Parent Advisory Group and Bass Coast Shire to their Grand Opening.

Following an Acknowledgement of Country, the children showed off their new playground and chatted enthusiastically about their favourite features.

A wonderland inspiring play and imagination

The new play space is a feast for the senses! It has an inviting feel, vibrant colours, new equipment, and has increased the utilisation of the area.

Sensory elements have been included such as a waterfall, with a fairy garden and raised garden beds for growing vegetables added and an old tree has been converted into a fairy wonderland castle. 

A concept originally proposed in 2018, the project was interrupted by the Pandemic, however, through additional consultation and refinements, the final outcome was greatly enhanced.

Community collaboration

The strong collaboration between the kinder team, the Parent Advisory Group, local contractors and Y Kinders’ Management brought the vision to life, delivering results exceeding expectations.

“We are grateful for the professional insight of our educators to cater for the needs of our children in the design of the space, the Parent & Advisory Group members over the years for their input, the Bass Coast local Council for approval of the upgrade and Y Ballarat for all their work making the dream a reality, creating an incredible space for our kinder,” said Susan Houlahan, Parent Advisory Group President at the Preschool.

A huge thank you to all involved! The much anticipated $297,750 upgrade, funded by a Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) Building Blocks Refurbishment and Minor Works Grant, has already brought so much joy to the children.

Read more about the playspace, project and collaboration here


The Y acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and future.

View our full Commitment Statements here .

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