Open to possibilities – Warburton Community Space
What does it mean to a community to have a cheerful, minimal cost space to meet? How central is a community space to the vibrancy of community life? What can be done to help community groups meet and prosper? These questions were asked at the Community Forum program more than eighteen months ago and the response was clear – our towns needed a dedicated community place that was inclusive, inexpensive and an accessible place to meet.
A few months ago, the perfect space – with indoor and outdoor areas, a garden and commercial kitchen – became available and a steering group, auspiced by Koha Community Café, leased the site with start-up funds provided by the Warburton and Yarra Junction Community Bank® branches. Warburton Community Space opened at the beginning of October with much goodwill and big plans – despite its small façade. (Some have likened it to the tardis!)
As a not-for-profit endeavour, Warburton Community Space has developed a fee structure that supports other not-for-profits, and also caters for private and commercial use at very affordable rates. The onsite commercial kitchen is a bonus for local producers who need a registered kitchen – there is even a cool store!
The aim is for the space to be self-sufficient and donations, fundraising activities such as major quarterly raffles, sausage sizzles and space hire income will be relied on to cover everyday expenses.
The space will be run by volunteers – by our community, for our community. Warburton Community Space is a place to bring people together to create, plan and advance the community and whatever else the space can be used for!
More info on the Warburton Community Space Facebook page or visit www.upperyarra.net.au