Community
14 August, 2024
After- school care program returns
NEW colourful, fresh and familiar surroundings greet children as Mossman families celebrate St Augustine’s Outside-School-Hours-Care reopening its doors after a six-month flood recovery program.
Following the devastating effects of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper, St Augustine’s Outside-School-Hours-Care facilities were extensively damaged, forcing the program to close for six months as part of a flood recovery program.
Catholic Diocese of Cairns early learning and care director Alison Forster said it was great to be back delivering outside-hours care for Mossman families and carers, who had been toughing it out over the past six months.
“From having half a metre of muddy flood water flowing through the buildings and grounds, destroying everything in its path and leaving a thick layer of mud, to our beautiful, bright and welcoming new space, we are super happy to welcome back our OSHC children and families,” she said.
“This is thanks to our dedicated tradespeople, Catholic Education, and the community of St Augustine’s, who have all worked together to have children happily and safely return to school and OSHC.”
While Ms Forster said the centre had yet to return to total capacity in providing care for up to 30 students outside school hours, care had resumed for 10 primary school-aged students, with the number expected to increase to 15.
“While we are not operating to maximum capacity, we are on track to do so in coming months,” she said.
“In the short term, offering working families and carers some respite after six long months is a big step forward.”
“We are proud of our many significant and lasting relationships with the local community, who share a vibrant energy, and dedication to primary education and care.”
