City to keep doors of Neighbourhood House open

THE City of Greater Geelong will temporarily oversee operations at the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House, after the venue’s committee of management entered voluntary administration last week.

The move will allow the centre to continue delivering its community services, while a search for a new long-term operator commences.

Previously known at the Bellarine Training and Community Hub (BTACH), the centre is home to a youth group, several community groups and, until recently, a registered training organisation (RTO) providing various community courses.

The RTO had previously been a primarily source of revenue for the BTACH committee of management, who oversaw the operation of the venue, but a significant decline in students during the pandemic and the years that followed led to the organisation going into debt.

The city’s executive director of city life Anthony Basford said the move would ensure the community continues to have access to essential programs and services.

“We know how important the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House is to local residents,” Mr Basford said.

“By stepping in, council is making sure the doors stay open, and that people can keep accessing the activities and connections they value.

“Our priority is to minimise disruption and provide certainty for the community while longer-term arrangements are put in place.”

The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) is providing support to the council to keep the venue open during this period.

The city will work closely with DFFH, the appointed administrator and community partners to provide regular updates and ensure clear communication throughout this process.

During the transition period, services are expected to mostly continue as normal, with only minor adjustments as operational changes are made.