New playground equipment for Simpson Barracks Community Centre

The community centre at Simpson Barracks in Watsonia, Victoria runs a broad range of programs to support Defence personnel and families to thrive in both the Australian Defence Force and in their transition to civilian life. Programs include social support for partners, financial counselling, playgroups, children and teens programs, work readiness, and training courses. 

Sadly, the outdoor area of the Community Centre had fallen into disrepair. With the support of the DVA Mental & Social Health Programs Branch, the centre was provided with Health & Wellbeing Funding to the value of $2000 to replace some of the old equipment and assist with the cost of rejuvenating some of the existing equipment.

‘The Simpson Barracks Community Centre is most grateful for DVA’s support,’ says Coordinator Salina Parton. ‘The playground now sees far more usage before and after scheduled sessions, as well as from families visiting Simpson Barracks. It is now a safe, clean and welcoming environment with equipment children enjoy using.’

The Community Support Advisors from each state work closely with ex-service organisations to support health and wellbeing initiatives that will benefit the veteran community.