Ark Toy & Activity Centre Wins Minister’s Award

The Ark Toy & Activity Centre Auxiliary has won the prestigious award of “outstanding achievement by a volunteer for innovation” at the recent Victorian Health Minister’s for Volunteer Awards.

East Grampians Health Service, Volunteer Coordinator Ms. Sarah Harrison said “The Ark Toy & Activity Centre was established in 1982 and was incorporated into the East Grampians Health Service in 2004.

The establishment of the centre is a result of 33 years of commitment, determination and dedication by the Auxiliary members. The Ark Toy and Activity Centre is self-sufficient and operates solely through community support, fundraising and donations”, she said.

Mrs Harrison explained “The Ark Toy and activity Centre is a unique facility which has grown and changed with the needs of the community. It was set up to cater for all children, and in particular, those with special needs, but now provides access to speech therapy and has a particular focus on games and puzzles to assist the elderly in residential aged care and those with dementia and memory issues, she said”.

The Ark Toy & Activity Centre Auxiliary President Mrs. Kaye Chamings said “I could not believe it, when they called our name, we were not expecting it at all, I was so proud to accept the award from the Health Minister on behalf of the Ark Toy & Activity Centre Auxiliary and this honored moment will stay with me forever.”

Mrs. Kaye Chamings commented that all Auxiliary members work tirelessly at the Ark Toy & Activity Centre to ensure that everyone is catered for and to meet the challenged needs of the individual.

“We provide a safe, friendly and inviting place to visit where children are encouraged to explore and learn through play while meeting and socialising with other children.”

East Grampians Health Service, Chief Executive Mr. Nick Bush highlighted that this award is a credit to the Ark Toy & Activity Centre Auxiliary and is a “compliment for all the incredible work and resources that they provide Ararat community.”

The Ark Toy & Activity Centre is open on Wednesday’s or by appointment, please call 0418 522 283