Community & Business
7 March, 2024
Giving back to the community
A cluster of local businesses led by pork production company Cefn is helping to ensure the youngest in the Clifton community have access to high quality facilities through donations to the Treasure Island Child Care Centre.
Natasha Muggleton, treasurer for the not-for-profit Clifton Community Childcare Association Inc which administers Treasure Island, said the centre is in the midst of refurbishment to its playground thanks to a generous donation by Cefn.
“Our playground is being upgraded as it has been out of commission for over two years,” Ms Muggleton said.
“We are replacing the soft fall bark and surrounding edging, as well as the shade sail.
“Cefn has donated $10,000 for this project.”
With over 100 staff, Cefn, is one of the largest employers in the district and many children of their staff have spent time at Treasure Island since it opened 25 years ago.
Katherine Robinson (née Jones) is both a manager at Cefn and a Treasure Island mother, so when the centre approached her family’s business for a donation she jumped at the opportunity.
“We were more than happy to help,” Mrs Robinson said.
“It’s really important to help the daycare expand and grow.
“It’s an important part of the community.”
Mrs Robinson said she had considered sending her son Archie to a childcare centre in Toowoomba, however she saw the benefits of using somewhere closer to home.
“He thrives in that centre,” she said.
“We’re really happy with staffing and everything.”
Ms Muggleton said other businesses had contributed towards another project at Treasure Island.
“We are also adding a community garden for the service to utilise for learning opportunities.
“It will have fruit trees, vegetable beds, butterfly habitat and bush tucker plants.”
The following businesses have donated trees or items for the garden area:
Darryl Bowe Enterprises
Finesse Embroidery
Rudd’s Pub
CAECE (College for Australian Early Childhood Education)
Pursehouse Rural
Bunnings
“Many families associated with the centre are also donating,” Ms Muggleton said.
“We have also had support from the local cluster schools for this project.”
The projects have also been supported by Clifton Community Childcare Association president Will Bazley and Acting Director Emma Bermingham, among others.
“We are thankful to Cefn who has many ties to our service over the last 25 years and are hoping with their help and the help of other community businesses that we can officially open our refurbished area on our 25th anniversary which will be held November 16th,” Ms Muggleton said.
