New creative hub

THE ARMSTRONG Creek-Mount Duneed community could soon be watching construction start on its new creative hub where residents can look forward to meeting or reconnecting.

The exciting Mount Duneed Community Shed project provides a purpose-built space for people of all ages and interests, with the scope for a community garden to be developed in the future.

The project is being funded thanks to a $595,000 grant allocation in the City of Greater Geelong’s 2021-22 Budget.

Kardinia Ward councillor Ron Nelson said a detailed design of the Mount Duneed Community Shed had been completed and the tender process was almost complete.

“We anticipate construction will follow soon after the appointment of the preferred tenderer,” Cr Nelson said.

“The new facility will provide premises for members of the Mount Duneed Men’s Shed who have been meeting in temporary sites in recent years.

“The Men’s Shed is an important group and provides the impetus for members, many of them older and retired, to remain active and socially connected.

“Enabling community connection has never been more important following the isolation and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The design includes scope for the potential inclusion of a community garden in the future.”

Cr Nelson said any community groups interested in establishing a garden at this facility were encouraged to get in touch with the city.

“Gardening and food production provides another great opportunity to stay lively, connected and resilient,” he said.

“The inclusion of a multipurpose creative space for broader community use will open the facility up to other local residents and provide a suitable area for creative activities.

“Council was extremely pleased to support this project for the Mount Duneed community to enjoy for generations to come.

“I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing the community enjoy the community shed, multipurpose creative space and potential addition of a community garden – which will be a community space for years to come.”

The project, originally promoted as the Armstrong Creek Community Shed and renamed the Mount Duneed Community Shed to reflect its location, will be built at the Sovereign Drive Sports Reserve.

The shed and garden’s development has been guided by community input, with more than 40 people contributing ideas during the community engagement process which took place late last year.

Local residents interested in establishing a community garden should check out the community gardens assessment guidelines on the geelongaustralia website.