Kindergarten is an important stage in the emotional and educational development of children. Planning for Communities was engaged by Yarra Ranges Council to undertake a study into Kindergarten Central Enrolment. This project involved mapping the existing kindergarten enrolment practices in Yarra Ranges, exploring various models, options, benefits and limitations for implementing a central enrolment system and identifying a recommended future approach. The project included an extensive program of consultation and engagement with the community and the 70 kindergarten service providers operating in Yarra Ranges. Engagement tools included listening posts, on-line surveys and workshops.
Planning for Communities supported Macedon Ranges Shire Council to implement the WalKyneton codesign process. WalKyneton is part of the Healthy Heart of Victoria Initiative focusing upon improving the health and wellbeing of communities in Central Victoria. In Macedon Ranges the Campaspe River Walk was identified as a key resource that could help to improve physical activity levels and the overall health of the community. Planning for Communities facilitated a co-design process with local community representatives to deliver an infrastructure and an activation outcome for the Campaspe River Walk. Key elements of the process were a series of guided workshops, evaluation of the codesign process, and the development of a toolkit to support Council in the future planning and programming of facilities.