A new $6.1 million multipurpose community hub has officially opened its doors in Lidcombe, adding a major new facility to the growing Carter Street precinct at Sydney Olympic Park.
The Yarra Community Centre brings together learning, study and event spaces in a single, modern building designed to serve residents, community groups and local businesses. The centre introduces Australian-first smart technology features, including an online I.D. verification system linked to a free City of Parramatta library membership. This allows people to sign up and access facilities, services and resources without needing to attend in person.
Inside, the centre offers a quiet study area, self-copy and printing facilities, free Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art audiovisual systems and a library click and collect service that allows members to reserve books for loan.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the centre reflects Council’s response to a rapidly growing city.
“As our City continues to grow and housing density increases, we must continue to provide facilities and services where and when people need them, helping our residents to live their lives to the fullest,” Cr Zaiter said.
He said community hubs such as Yarra play an important role in local neighbourhoods by providing professional and comfortable spaces close to home.
“Our suburbs are special and community centres and hubs like Yarra make it possible for people to borrow a book, study or host events and meetings in a professional and comfortable environment, right on their doorstep,” he said.
Cr Zaiter said the centre had been shaped by local input and sits alongside other Council-run hubs.
“I am proud to say that this centre was created for the community, by the community, and joins our other successful community hubs, PHIVE and Wentworth Point Community Centre, which provide spaces that some people may not have at home,” he said.
Inside, the centre offers a quiet study area, self-copy and printing facilities, free Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art audiovisual systems and a library click and collect service that allows members to reserve books for loan
Extended opening hours and high-level security systems will allow the centre to be used safely later into the night, a feature aimed at meeting the needs of residents living in higher-density housing nearby.
“Residents will also have greater access to the centre through extended opening hours with high level security installed to ensure the facility can be used safely late into the night, so it is the perfect design for the people living in and around the area,” Cr Zaiter said.
Visitors entering the building are greeted by a specially commissioned artwork, Migration of Minds, by Sydney artist Richard Briggs. The artwork was developed following community workshops held before the opening, where residents contributed elements that form part of the final piece.
The opening was marked with a program of free workshops and performances, including The Fish That Wanted to Fly, Wiggle, Jiggle & Grow, The Musical Plants, a Community Canvas Mural and a Shadow Puppet Making and Theatre Workshop.
State Member for Parramatta Donna Davis MP said the centre’s name reflects recognition of local heritage.
“It’s refreshing to see the City of Parramatta has acknowledged the First Nations heritage of the area in naming the Yarra Community Centre,” Ms Davis said.
She said the project aligns with broader investment in community facilities alongside new housing.
“The Yarra Community Centre is a great example of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to funding community infrastructure at the same time as we are delivering new homes,” she said.
“This NSW Government investment of $6,127,000 will give residents a community living room with enhanced security that will provide people using the centre a safe space both during the day and at night.”
The centre will host after-school, school holiday and creative programs throughout the year. It has been funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
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