The Tom Price Childcare Centre, located in West Australia’s remote Pilbara region, is a step closer to becoming a reality, with the Shire of Ashburton Council awarding the contract for design and construction to Pindan at a Special Meeting of Council in late December.

To be delivered as part of the Services Partnership between the Shire of Ashburton and Rio Tinto, the service will support the broader aims of the partnership, namely to improve the liveability of Tom Price, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica through the delivery of new and upgraded community infrastructure, services, events and programs.

Speaking on the latest developments Shire President Kerry White said she was excited the project was continuing to move forward and was confident the Tom Price Childcare Centre would be available to Tom Price families from early 2022.

“Pindan have extensive building experience in design, construction and building and also understand our unique Pilbara environment and harsh climate” Councillor White acknowledged, expressing her confidence in their capability. 

The 96-place service will include dedicated indoor and outdoor play areas, maintenance and storage areas and accommodate parking for up to 24 vehicles. Little Geckos, as part of Tom Price’s Nintirri Centre, were appointed as operator of the centre in November of last year.