More to bricks and mortar

WARILLA residents have reason to cheer after the official opening last week of the Warilla Neighbourhood Centre.

The centre has been in operation since March this year providing a number of vital and interesting services to the local community including an information referral service, legal aid, line dancing, art and craft, a justice of the peace, meeting rooms and extensive youth projects.

According to Community Worker Coordinator Marlene Calleja the centre has been well utilised so far however new people are always welcome.

The $1.2 million facility provides an operational base for a number of outreach programs that are vital in providing information and support to the local community.

Shellharbour Mayor David Hamilton and Labor Candidate for Shellharbour Lylea McMahon were on hand to officially open the centre.

It adds another dimension to the community precinct of the suburb which also includes Warilla library, Warilla Womens Centre, swimming complex and medical facilities, Cr Hamilton said.

A community is much more than just bricks and mortar and I am thrilled that we now have a purpose built facility that will help support and develop a happy, safe and vibrant neighbourhood, he said.

Ms McMahon said the centre had a lovely ambience and vibrancy and is sure to become a hub for the community. Warilla Neighbourhood Centre provides a large area for local groups and meeting rooms for many community and cultural organisations from throughout the local area. The centre features a number of environmentally friendly design components including solar access, rainwater harvesting in tanks stored in sub-floor space and elevated floor level to maximise ventilation and prevent flooding. Ms Calleja said as a small organisation the neighbourhood centre has the ability to respond to situations quicker than some larger organisations. On the cards for next year Ms Calleja said the centre is planning several projects including healthy weight loss and stress management.

The centre is open Monday to Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm and on Friday from 8 am to 1 pm. For more information on the centre give them a call on 4296 3433.