Replacement Shade Sail for Urunga Playgroup

Applicant: Urunga Neighbourhood Centre (Neighbourhood Centre's of the Bellingen Shire)

Fund: Community Support Fund 2024/25 - Round 1

Funding: $3,525

The Urunga Neighbourhood Centre replaced its old, damaged shade sail in the backyard - space that hosts two important supported playgroups for children and families in Urunga and surrounding areas. The previous sail had become ripped and unsafe due to weather and vandalism, hanging too low to make the area usable.

With the grant funding, the Centre installed two smaller, durable shade sails, making the space safer and more functional. The new design not only provides reliable sun protection for playgroups but also reduces the risk of damage from climbing, ensuring the backyard remains safe and accessible for children and community activities.

The shaded backyard now allows both playgroups to run consistently each week, supporting around 25 children in total. In addition, the space can host other community events and activities, increasing the Centre’s ability to engage local families and strengthen community connections.

This project has directly supported essential early childhood programs and enhanced the usability of the community space enabling other activities to run in the future.