Kinder surprise for Portarlington

PORTARLINGTON will have a new kindergarten by 2025 as part of an ongoing statewide facilities rollout.

The Bellarine town has been targeted by the latest round of a Victorian Government childcare program, which funded 50 more early learning centres across the state in the most recent state budget.

The state government is yet to announce the precise location of the new centre but has confirmed its catchment will also include St Leonards.

The government indicated it would work with the City of Greater Geelong and local stakeholders to determine the best spot for the new centre in response to demand.

Portarlington Pre-school is currently the only early learning facility available in the area. Education access is becoming a growing concern for community groups as more families move to the north-eastern Bellarine.

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant said she was pleased the new service would soon be available.

“Having access to affordable childcare for families on the Bellarine is so important – giving parents, particularly mothers more options to get back to work while giving their children the best possible start in life.”

“With the growth we have seen in the Portarlington and St Leonards area, it is vital we have services such as childcare. We know the Bellarine it’s a great place to raise a family and this new childcare service will ensure local families are supported.”