The program had been running for three-and-a-half years from St Joseph’s Primary School. When the school began its major reconstruction works, the privately-run program was left without a venue. 

Owing to a state government grant, it has now been reinstated as a publicly funded program under the direction of Junee’s Community Centre.

“It was an enormous loss to the community, we were hearing that for some parents it meant having to take leave during the holidays. There was a lot of uncertainty for a lot of people in the time it was closed,” said centre manager Amy Murphy.

After months of inoperation, the program is now seeking new enrollments. But at the peak of its progression, more than 83 families were involved with both the school term and holiday initiatives.

“It is just so important. There is no other after-school care in Junee, the closest one is in Coolamon. That’s a long way to go, and it leaves parents with the problem of transporting their children.”

The official reintroduction was announced on Tuesday by the state minister for early education Sarah Mitchell and Cootamundra member Steph Cooke. 

It followed a series of wins for the community centre, with the additional announcement of $20,020 state funding towards the improvement of its Lorne Street premises.

“The building is quite old, so the money is greatly needed to put in some new fans, fix some of the broken windows, and get some fixed awnings on the western side,” said Ms Murphy.

“Thanks to a grant last year, we were able to put in a fantastic ramp, but now we need to put in a compliant handrail to help people use the building. 

“We’ll also be putting in some security doors and fencing the area because we’re on the main road so we need to know that in particular children will be safe and secure at the centre.”