The Heart of Flowerdale
Welcome to Flowerdale Community House: Our Story
Flowerdale Community House is a relevant hub that supports, engages, and connects our community through lifelong learning, social activities and responding to community needs. We are a supportive space that welcomes, educates and enriches our community. Here, you can discover our story, the people who guide us, and the values at the heart of everything we do.
Join Our Community Journey
Our Purpose, Vision & Mission
Our Purpose
Our Vision
A supportive space that welcomes, educates and enriches our community
Our Mission
Flowerdale Community House provides a relevant hub that supports, engages, and connects our community through lifelong learning, social activities and responding to community needs.
Our Journey with the Flowerdale Community
Established by passionate local residents, Flowerdale Community House has been a cornerstone of our community for many years. We have grown and evolved alongside Flowerdale, always staying true to our core mission of providing a warm, welcoming environment where people can connect, learn, and find support. From our earliest playgroups to today’s diverse range of programs, our history is built on the spirit of community collaboration.
2003
The Beginning
- Several residents of Flowerdale approached Kinglake Neighbourhood House to act as an auspicing body and outreach to their community.
- Annette Burton obtained the Articles of Incorporation for the Flowerdale Community House (FCH).
- The FCH initially operated out of the Flowerdale Hall with minimal resources, including a single computer.
- To finance the operation, an Opportunity Shop was established by a resident named Sally.
- The Flowerdale Flyer was started by Brenda Becket around this time.
Pre-2009
Early Operations
Prior to the 2009 bushfires, a separate Community Centre building existed at the Jarara site, which was mainly used for the local Kindergarten and some craft activities.
2009
Black Saturday Bushfires
In response to the challenges faced during the Black Saturday bushfires, we launched a series of community resilience programs in 2010, emphasizing support and recovery for affected residents.
Post-2009
The Rebuild
- Following the bushfires, the Kindergarten was relocated to the Flowerdale Primary School campus.
- A grant was obtained from the Commonwealth Government to build a new, purpose-built Community House on the original Jarara site.
- This plan was opposed by a local action group, leading to a hearing at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), which was ultimately adjudicated in favour of the Flowerdale Community House.
2010
A New Home is Built
- The new Flowerdale Community House was built on the Jarara site.
- A generous donation from St. Kevin’s College enabled the provision of the playground and the completion of the landscaping.
Dec 3, 2011
Official Opening
The new Flowerdale Community House was officially opened.
Meet Our Dedicated Committee
Our team at Flowerdale Community House is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. We work tirelessly to ensure that our community thrives through various programs and initiatives. Get to know the passionate individuals who drive our mission forward.
Annie Robertson
President
David Thompson
Vice President
Steph Flynn
Secretary
Ron Litjens
Treasurer
Rose Elsom
General Member
David Batchelor
General Member
Eric Lording
Murrindindi Council
Meet the Faces of Flowerdale Community House
Flowerdale Community House is brought to life by a dedicated group of paid staff and passionate volunteer committee members. We’re all committed to serving the needs of Flowerdale and ensuring our House is a welcoming and vibrant place for everyone. Get to know us below!
Rebekah Grant
Coordinator
Kelly Clift
Office Manager
Join Our Vibrant Community
Flowerdale Community House offers a broad range of programs, activities, groups and courses for all age groups