Gowrie WA selected for new 67-place early childhood hub

The preferred-operator decision moves Katanning’s integrated hub closer to operation, with lease approval and arrangements for the transition still to be finalised.

Gowrie WA has been selected as the preferred operator of a new 67-place early childhood education and care service in Katanning, Western Australia. The appointment remains subject to ministerial approval and execution of the lease.

The Shire of Katanning announced the selection on 16 October following an expression of interest process that attracted six submissions. The service will form part of an integrated hub bringing early learning, child health and family support together.

“From the beginning, our vision has been about more than just creating additional childcare places,” Shire president Cr Kristy D’Aprile said.

Cr D’Aprile said the council wanted an inclusive service that responded to changing community needs. Its vision encompasses long day care, before and after school care, vacation care and broader family support. 

Selection follows competitive assessment

The council assessed submissions against organisational capability and experience, financial capacity, workforce planning and providers’ ability to meet local families’ current and future needs. Experienced ECEC representatives also contributed an independent evaluation.

Gowrie WA’s selection establishes a preferred provider for the purpose-built facility at 33 Daping Street. However, the outstanding approval and lease requirements mean the announcement does not confirm an opening date.

The Shire’s September proposed lease notice outlined a 10-year term with a five-year option. Proposed annual rent was $167,500 plus GST, adjusted annually by the Consumer Price Index and based on an independent market valuation. 

Transition will change local service provision

The council said the service currently provided by Uplyft at its council-owned Conroy Street premises would transition when Gowrie began operating from the new hub. Its announcement did not detail arrangements for enrolled families or employees.

Following that transition, the council said Katanning would have two operating childcare providers: Gowrie WA and Bright Start Childcare Centre. Bright Start would continue operating from its Hassell Street premises.

Cr D’Aprile acknowledged community concerns and the relationships families had established with existing providers. The announcement recognised those providers’ contributions, but did not include a response from Uplyft or explain how continuity of care would be managed during the change. 

Hub brings early learning and family services together

The broader development includes a family centre, child health offices and space for visiting child development and family support services. These facilities extend the project beyond its planned 67 long day care places, although Gowrie’s direct responsibilities for the wider services have not been specified.

The Western Australian Government has committed $7.3 million to the project, with a further $2.2 million from Minderoo Foundation. Lotterywest and the Shire have also contributed to the hub, which is being delivered through the Early Years Partnership.

A State Government construction update anticipated completion in the first half of 2027. The latest operator announcement provides a further milestone, while families await confirmation of when services will commence and how the transition will work.