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    Ararat chief executive Tim Harrison,

Refurbished Ararat kinder to reopen

Refurbishment works at Ararat’s Jack and Jill Kindergarten are complete, with children and educators returning to a refreshed learning environment.

The upgrade included a refresh of the main classroom, kitchen, children’s bathroom, sensory room, foyer and staff areas, with new vinyl flooring, repainting and energy‑efficient LED lighting throughout.

The project also installed improved insulation for better temperature control, an accessible toilet, new doors and hardware to improve safety and privacy, and widened access to the western yard.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the upgrade created a more contemporary space that better reflected the expectations of families and the kindergarten community.



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Dr Harrison said the project focused on updating an ageing facility so it could continue to support the delivery of high-quality early-years education.

The building at 19 Robsons Lane was built in 1985, and the council identified a need to modernise it so it remained fit for purpose as attendance increased under the State Government’s Best Start, Best Life reforms.

Dr Harrison said he was pleased to see the project delivered efficiently.

“In less than six weeks, we have been able to complete these works and get children and educators back into Jack and Jill, which is a fantastic outcome for our community,” he said.

“We know any disruption to kindergarten routines can be challenging, and I want to sincerely thank families, staff and the kindergarten community for their patience and co-operation while this upgrade was carried out.”

Dr Harrison said the refurbishment was an example of the council working in partnership with the State Government to plan for future kindergarten demand.

“As more children take up 30 hours of pre‑prep, we need facilities that are comfortable, welcoming and ready to support longer days of learning and play,” he said.

The entire May 27, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire May 27, 2026 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!