Published on Wednesday, 24 April 2024 at 3:24:13 PM
The Shire of Dardanup today officially opened its new Library, Administration, and Community Building in Eaton, marking the culmination of an 11-year journey.
Shire President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said when Council embarked on this journey in 2013, they wanted more than just a building — they wanted a space that would foster connection, creativity, and community spirit.
Cr Gardiner said the journey was not without its challenges but the result, an award-winning sustainable and innovative building in the heart of Eaton that will serve the community well into the future.
“Here at the Shire of Dardanup, we dare to think ahead, and today, one of those thoughts has become a reality,” Cr Gardiner said.
“Starting in 2013 with plans for an expansion of the existing Council Offices, we faced budget challenges, explored alternatives, and secured a land transfer in 2018.
“Despite cost escalations and COVID-19 setbacks, construction on the new building started in 2023 and finished last month, delivering this impressive $19.3 million project, under budget and on schedule – this achievement reflects years of dedication.”
Cr Gardiner the new building, constructed by local company Perkins Builders, incorporates a range of essential elements, including a customer service area, a public library, community-meeting spaces, and the Council Chambers. The Café and state-of-the-art Make-It Space will open later this year, with the Make-It Space securing significant funding from Lotterywest and Wespine.
He said the new building, designed by Perth architect Peter Hobbs, stands as a symbol of the Shire's commitment to excellence and innovation.
“Reflecting on the Council's bold initiative — the 2050 Vision – it is a testament to our shared values and aspirations, guiding us towards a future that is healthy, self-sufficient, sustainable, connected, and innovative,” Cr Gardiner said.
“The new building stands as the fourth timber building for the Shire, inspired by Council’s Wood Encouragement Policy and showcases its dedication to sustainability and innovation.
“By incorporating timber into our civic structures, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also leading in sustainable construction practices.
“The Shire's commitment to excellence in community infrastructure and environmental stewardship has been recognised with two awards at the recent Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) Awards.
“The new building is also in the running for a Local Government Award in the Productivity through Infrastructure category.”
The official opening also included a special announcement regarding the Make-It Space, an innovative community space fostering STEAM education and community involvement.
Cr Gardiner announced the official naming of the space as the Mick Bennett Make-It Space, honouring the former Shire President and Honorary Freeman’s foresight and dedication to the community.
Mr Bennett also did the honours of officially opening the new building.
The Shire will host a Community Open Day on Saturday, 4 May from 10 am-1 pm, which will include guided tours of the new building, a sausage sizzle, face painting, engaging library activities for children, and dynamic Make-It Space activations.
Caption: The Shire of Dardanup officially opened its news Library, Administration and Community Building today, which was opened by former Shire President and Honorary Freeman Mick Bennett (fourth from left), pictured with (from left) Shire CEO André Schönfeldt, Chairman of the State Library Board the honourable John Day, Member for Collie-Preston Jodie Hanns, the Honourable Nola Marino MP and Shire President Tyrrell Gardiner.
Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Communications Officer | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.
Back to All News