A top centre

By Bridget Cook
SPRINGVALE Service for Children took out a top honour at the Victorian Government Early Years Awards last Wednesday.
The $7.7 million integrated early years centre in Lightwood Road won the Better Access to Early Years Services, beating seven others in the category.
The awards, now in its fifth year, recognise the contribution community partnerships make towards improving the health, learning, development and wellbeing of youngsters.
The awards were held at the National Gallery and presented by Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development Maxine Morand.
The centre includes a kindergarten, child care, toy library, maternal and child health and community-based services for children and families. It also provides space for community meetings and community groups to use.
Greater Dandenong Community Services Director Mark Doubleday said winning the award recognised the positive difference the centre was already making to children and families in the local area.
“This is one of the highest recognition awards the facility and service could achieve,” Mr Doubleday said. “The Springvale Service for Children was the result of years of advocacy from the local community for improved children’s services in the area and this award is testament to what council and the community has achieved.
“Integrated services improve access by children and their families by removing barriers and making it easier for our community to be involved.”