A community meeting was held recently to discuss the possible future of the Old Geriatric Centre in Bairnsdale.
Held at St Mary’s Parish in Bairnsdale, the meeting was well attended with around 50 community members showing interest in the four hectare site which is currently for sale.
The heritage-listed building on the site, which has stood for around 125 years, has been home to the old hospital, geriatric centre and currently the Wild Cherry School.
Attendees heard from a number of guest speakers including Kate Young, town planner from Crowther and Sadler; Ryan Summerton, building designer from Dahlsens; Meaghan Burkett, executive director from Place Based Capital; and Fiona Weigall, chief executive officer of East Gippsland Shire Council.
Community members also heard from the organising group, Pam Findlay, Sally Kendall, Grace McCaughey and Jenny Hardy.
There were many ideas discussed during the meeting, including housing, a community centre, accommodation for organisations and outdoor spaces.
The next steps include consultation with subject matter experts to determine the best approach to forming an appropriate entity.
