There is light at the end of the tunnel for users of Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House.
The community centre will once again be open to the community tomorrow (Wednesday 15 October) after weeks of disruption.
The news will be welcome to the many on the Bellarine who take part in community courses and support groups at the former Bellarine Training and Community Hub (BTACH).
The BTACH committee of management entered voluntary administration on Tuesday 2 September after years of significant financial losses.
Geelong council intervened quickly after the closure, working with administrators and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing to transition to temporary management of operations at the community house.
City officers initially expected services, including community courses and support groups, would continue “largely as normal” during the transition period.
However, City staff were unable to gain operational access to the building while administrators finalised the insolvency procedure.
Six weeks later, the neighbourhood house’s doors will once again open, with classes, workshops and events to be restarted in stages.
Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson said the milestone was exciting news for the wider Ocean Grove community.
“Council was able to temporarily step in and oversee operations of the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House after the venue’s operator entered voluntary administration,” he said.
“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.”
Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson thanked the community for its patience as the 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.”
City officers encouraged community members to email communitystrengthening@geelongcity.vic.gov.au to help staff prioritise which activities to resume.
