About Us
Vision
Connecting the Kinglake Ranges
Mission
A community-led culture with integrity and accountability that is inclusive, responsive, and accessible to all.
Our Values
Community Led
We learn from each other and share what we know.
Integrity and accountability
Underpin the work we do
Inclusive
Every person is valued and accepted
Responsive
We listen to community and support local community initiatives
Accessible
Safe and welcoming environment that connects the community
Purpose
2. Promote and support the development of a sense of community spirit and involvement, within the Kinglake Ranges to strengthen local partnerships and community connection.
3. Secure funding and support for the development of services, programs, and other activities (including material aid) that are accessible, low cost and designed to meet community needs.
4. Provide courses and workshops that encourage lifelong learning across the Kinglake Ranges.
5. Provide a non-political, non-sectarian environment for community participation and inclusion.
6. Promote and support volunteering across the Kinglake Ranges to build local capacity.
7. Support and advocate for community development initiatives across the Kinglake Ranges.
Committee of Management
| Title | Name |
|---|---|
| President | Sue Zuber |
| Vice President | Open |
| Secretary | Julie van der Eynden |
| Treasurer | Jodie Jackson |
Interested in joining the Committee of Management?
House History
Surveys were conducted and a profile of the community’s needs was developed. A community centre, comprising of a senior citizens’ lounge, craft room, hall, kitchen and servery, was completed in 1985. Following this success, the KDCA sought community support for the construction of an indoor sports stadium adjacent to the community centre.
Funding was obtained through the State Government’s Neighbourhood House Coordination Program to develop the Kinglake Neighbourhood House. The House’s first program of adult education activities was launched in 1990, operating from an office in the community centre. 1990 also saw KDCA successful in obtaining Adult Community and Further Education Funds (ACFE). The House still receives funding from ACFE for vocational, preparatory and literacy courses.
In 1994, the KDCA changed its name to become the Kinglake District Neighbourhood House Inc (KDNH).
Continuing its role supporting and meeting the needs of its community, the Kinglake District Neighbourhood House quickly outgrew its limiting quarters, and in 1995 relocated its operations to the old Kinglake Primary School, seeking funds and donations to refurbish the building.
In 1998 an outreach program was developed for the community of Toolangi, which had been absorbed into the newly formed Murrindindi Shire Council, as a result of local government amalgamations. KDNH employed a Coordinator to work with community volunteers to develop programs and activities.
In 2001, Toolangi Community House successfully applied for its own funding and is now operating under its own Committee of Management. In 2002, due to current trends, a decision was made to change our name from Kinglake District Neighbourhood House to Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House. This change encouraged other local community groups to follow suit. The name Kinglake Ranges aligns our area with the Yarra Ranges and enhances tourism opportunities.
In 2003 several residents of Flowerdale approached us to outreach to their community. As the House was unfunded, an Opportunity Shop was established next to the Hazeldene Store to finance the operation of the Flowerdale House. The house is open on a weekly basis and offers computer access, classes, health and wellbeing workshops and youth activities. The production of the monthly Flowerdale Flyer keeps residents informed and connected with their community. The Flowerdale Community House is now incorporated and is operating autonomously with its own Committee of Management.
In 2006, the State Government changed our funding body from Human Services to the Department for Victorian Communities. This change also saw us with an increase of ten extra coordination hours per week and an increase in the base funding rate. The House, in conjunction with the local community, embarked on the Kinglake Community Hub Project.
Success with a funding grant through the State Government Community Support Fund enabled us to purchase a three-bedroom house, which was relocated and joined to our existing building. Renovations of the entire building were undertaken.
The building was officially opened by Deputy Premier, John Thwaites, in October 2006. A new look logo was also launched during our official opening and an Annual General Meeting was held on the same day. KRNH has since undertaken further building renovations – we have a new double classroom, a renovated kitchen and an updated reception area. We also have a Foodshare building which provides assistance to residents in need of help.
Today the Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House employs a Coordinator, a part-time office Administration Assistant, a part-time Bookkeeper and a part-time Community Engagement Officer.
The House delivers two semester programs of activities each year. KRNH oversees the operation of the Kinglake Opportunity Shop located at 1A Glenburn Road Kinglake, and auspices a number of small community groups. It enjoys the regular support of volunteers and continues to respond to local needs and issues and to advocate for the Kinglake community.