New home for Dampier Family Playgroup
Dampier Family Playgroup has opened the doors to their new location at Lessor Hall in Dampier thanks to support from Rio Tinto.
Committee members, families, children and Karratha Building joined Rio Tinto to celebrate the successful relocation with an informal opening and afternoon tea last week.
The relocation was initiated following a building condition report that identified significant damage to the group’s previous location, the Old Hospital Building.
Extensive upgrades and renovations to Lessor Hall were carried out by Rio Tinto in the lead up to the move to ensure the facility met the standards and requirements of Dampier Family Playgroup.
Rio Tinto contributed more than $400,000 to the relocation and renovation costs which included a full refurbishment of Lessor Hall, upgrading of air conditioning and installation of outdoor playground equipment, soft fall footing, shade sails, child proof fencing, an outdoor wash trough, locker storage and large shed.
Rio Tinto has also invested $45,800 over 18 months, with Dampier Family Playgroup to cover lease and utilities costs and provide assistance for the group to become an incorporated association.
Rio Tinto general manager Railways Division Heath Harnden said the new location would enable Dampier Family Playgroup to continue to provide an important place for families to connect and foster new friendships.
“I’d like to thank Dampier Family Playgroup for their continued efforts in ensuring our children have a wonderful atmosphere to learn and grow,” said Mr Harnden.
“Associations such as this are the essence of our thriving and resilient community and contributing to the continued development of Dampier as a community is fundamental to the future success of our business.”
Dampier Family Playgroup president Darnelle Medling said the new facility far exceeded the expectations of the group.
“The facility will become a place filled with wonderful memories for all that attend.
“It is fresh and vibrant, and much more than we were ever hoping for,” she said.
Rio Tinto worked on the project in collaboration with Dampier Family Playgroup, Dampier Community Association and Karratha Building.
Rio Tinto is committed to supporting the Dampier community by working with local organisations and community groups to deliver a range of initiatives and programmes.
Nea Hoffman, Mel Counsell, Angela and Coby Harnden, Darnelle and Aria Medling
Tags: dampier, Dampier Family Playgroup, Karratha, Karratha Building, Lessor Hall, RIO TINTO
