Fish Creek Jaycees generously donate to FC Kindergarten

FISH Creek Kindergarten provides a positive, stimulating learning environment and it is with this environment in mind that the Kinder has incorporated art appreciation into its program this year.

Taking many forms, art appreciation at the Kindergarten has extended to the exterior of the building in the form of a sensory wall mural which is currently in the design stage.

With the majority of funds necessary for completion of mural now in hand, thanks to the wonderful generosity of the Fish Creek Jaycees and achievements of the Kinder’s fundraising committee, the commencement of work on the mural is expected to start soon.

The front wall of the building, facing Ryan Street, recently underwent a makeover in preparation for the mural. Bunnings Wonthaggi donated labour and Dulux supplied materials free of charge to paint over the uninspiring brown brickwork, rendering it a vibrant blue which will provide the perfect colour as a backdrop for the mural.

The design of the mural is currently being planned by a local artist who will also carry out the design in mosaic. The mural is expected to incorporate a river, a tree (depicting the four seasons), land formations and various flora and fauna.

Both natural and manmade materials will be used, such as small mirrored tiles, pebbles, pieces of bamboo, sliced cross sections of branches and many other small items. Contrasting in texture, each type of inclusion will provide its own unique sensory experience for little fingers and hands.

Kim Smith, Educational Leader at Fish Creek Kindergarten explained that connecting with the Arts occurs through making, participating and appreciating art, adding that while making art is a central part of the kindergarten program, appreciating art as part of everyday life is a major part of the program.

“Art appreciation is recognising the work of others for what it meaningfully and beautifully communicates about us and our world,” Kim said.

“We aim to incorporate art appreciation into our everyday learning environment through the development of the outdoor sensory wall mural,” she added.

“The Fish Creek Jaycees have been absolutely fantastic in helping us out with funding over the last few years,” Kim said, referring to the organisations assistance with a new oven, electric jug and a microwave, as well as helping financially with the creation of the Kinder’s very productive veggie garden.

The funding they provided has enabled the Kinder’s kitchen and garden program to continue, providing the children with the experiences of planting, nurturing, harvesting and cooking their own produce.

“We are very lucky to have the assistance of the Jaycees of Fish Creek. These projects wouldn’t have been possible without you,” Kim said, gratefully accepting the funds from Fish Creek Jaycees president Paul Hannigan, who is a parent of Fish Creek Kindergarten’s Emma, and of Kelly who attended last year, and Luke who attended two years earlier.

This very generous donation by the Fish Creek Jaycees was made possible by their fundraising efforts at the Promontory Home Produce & Craft Markets which are held six times each year from November through to April.

As part of their fundraising efforts, the Fish Creek Jaycees will be holding pool competitions at 8pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at KO Bar & Grill and also at the Fish Creek Hotel at 8pm on Wednesdays. For further information on these evenings, or to find out joining the Fish Creek Jaycees (open to 16 to 40 year-olds), contact Paul Harrington on 0438 357 679.

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