Wagga RSL Club plans to build a childcare centre.
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The club advertised at the weekend for expressions of interest from “interested parties” to develop a childcare centre with a minimum of 50 places.
General manager Andrew Bell said the RSL was looking for a partner to design, construct and operate the centre, which would be located in Goonigul Avenue, where existing properties would be demolished.
Mr Bell said a recent RSL planning meeting had given the go-ahead for the venture, which had been under consideration for almost a year.
“We see it as keeping our links to the community,” he said.
Mr Bell said he had become particularly aware of childcare issues after his daughter had a baby, and was looking at options for care.
“There is a real shortage in central Wagga,” he said.
“It’s not always easy to get childcare.
“There are a lot of families who live near the club who would be able to use the centre.
“The RSL owns four rental houses, which are all fairly decrepit. We could spend $300,000 or $400,000 fixing them up, or we could move away from that and develop the childcare centre.
“The board decided to shift away from using these as rental properties and to develop the childcare centre.”
Mr Bell said options on fees, such as offering discounted rates to staff and RSL Club members, would be considered.
“Childcare is one of those things – if you don't have it, people don’t want to move here,” he said.
“We are looking at this as a real community service.”
Mr Bell said the club had advertised in Wagga for a joint venture partner, and had already received replies, despite the closing date for applications not being until December 1.
“We have already had one expression of interest from a crowd in Sydney,” he said.
“And there are good indications from a couple of local organisations as well.”
Mr Bell said the construction of the motel had been successful for the RSL, so adding a childcare centre would allow the club to diversify its interests and provide a service to the community at the same time.
At this stage, it is hoped the centre will be in operation by the latter part of 2018.