Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House to reopen

THE Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House has been given a reprieve, and will re-open from tomorrow (Wednesday, October 15).

Following the venue’s operator entering voluntary administration early last month, the City of Greater Geelong stepped in to oversee operations.

The centre on John Dory Drive, previously known as the Bellarine Training and Community Hub, has long been a vital gathering place to learn, create and build community spirit.

The city has been working behind the scenes since last month to reactivate the space, ensure the building is safe and review programming.

Classes, workshops and events, which had stopped over the past six weeks, will be reintroduced in stages in accordance with programs that are high in demand.

This will also depend on which former facilitators and community groups wish to return to the timetable.

Deputy mayor Ron Nelson said the milestone was exciting news for the Ocean Grove community.

“We’re pleased that the community will have access to this special place from tomorrow.

“The city is taking a measured approach to reintroducing programs and rebuilding the timetable to ensure they meet community need and are sustainable in the long term.

“The team is giving the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House the care and attention it deserves to ensure the venue once again becomes the thriving heart of the township.”

Cr Elise Wilkinson thanked the community for its patience as the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House’s operations were transferred to the City.

“We’re so grateful for the community’s continued support and understanding during this period,” she said.

“The reopening represents a renewed opportunity to strengthen local connections, support lifelong learning, and celebrate the Ocean Grove community.”

Community members can continue to get updates about which programs will resume and when on the city’s social media channels.

To help lock in a new program more quickly, the city is encouraging former users who want to resume their activities to email [email protected]