New Gisborne Playgroup aims to rejuvenate the much-loved Ross Watt Children’s Hall… and they are doing it brick by brick!
As a major user group of the hall, New Gisborne Playgroup is calling on local residents to ‘buy a brick’ to be engraved/personalised and used in an outdoor walkway or wall while helping to raise funds for a much-needed upgrade.
Playgroup president Fran Jackson said the not-for-profit group sought to improve safety of the building through a new layout for the kitchen, bathroom and storage area, as well as new carpet and creating disability access.
“An extension was built onto the original hall in the ’80s and it hasn’t really been touched since,” Ms Jackson said.
“We are excited about the new renovations to the playgroup hall and our brick fundraiser will help raise the extra funds needed to complete the project.”
Mrs Ross Watt had the hall built as a place for the children to gather and play after school hours back in 1913. It was built with funds raised from the local ladies selling their of sprigs of wattle in Bourke and Lonsdale Streets.
Since then the hall has hosted numerous groups and functions and has remained a special place in the community cared for by a trust and local volunteers.
This latest fundraiser will help see the hall into the future.
The playgroup recently received a $10,000 grant from the Gisborne Tavern, supported by Macedon Ranges Shire Council, which will go towards the upgrades, but a further $2000 is needed.
Bricks can be purchased for $60. Financial donations are also welcome. To be involved and donate a brick email newgisborneplaygroup@gmail.com
