A builder will begin work on the new Ocean Grove Health and Wellbeing Hub project.
Bellarine Community Health (BCH) appointed Loaram Constructions to undertake stage one of the project, with work currently underway and expected to be completed by the end of August.
BCH chief executive Garry Ellis said he was “thrilled” to work with the construction company again to deliver a purpose-built, accessible, and inclusive hub on Goodwell Drive in Kingston Estate.
“Loaram has a proven track record having completed the redevelopment of the BCH Portarlington site last year,” he said.
“They delivered a modern building within budget, which is now being enjoyed by our clients on the Northern Bellarine.
“The hub will provide the Bellarine community equitable access to quality health services and supports and enhance our capacity to engage with children, young people and their families.”
The first stage of the hub’s development will include outdoor therapy areas, group rooms for children, and contemporary assessment, therapy and sensory spaces.
Stage two will allow for the co-location of BCH’s highly skilled youth and child services teams to provide a central Bellarine location for needed support.
BCH Child, Youth and Family Services executive director Liz Womersley said the new hub would support the “overall wellbeing for children”.
“The integrated services at the Ocean Grove Health and Wellbeing Hub will positively impact preventable health issues and developmental concerns,” she said.
Stage one of the Ocean Grove Health and Wellbeing Hub received $150,000 from the Anthony Costa Foundation and $4 million from the federal government’s Department of Health and Aged Care.
BCH still seeks additional funding for the build’s second stage and welcomes expressions of interest from organisations.
