ABOUT US
Welcome to the Wadambuk St Andrews Community Centre, a vibrant community-run hub located in the heart of St Andrews, nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Kinglake Ranges, approximately 40km north-east of Melbourne. Our Centre serves as a space for connection, creativity, and community engagement, offering a variety of programs, events, and services for all ages and backgrounds.
Our vision
Our community feels a strong sense of connection and belonging.
Our purpose
A sustainable Community Centre that engages the local community and fosters inclusive social connection and participation.
Our values
We value:
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Creating a supportive and participative centre
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Inclusivity where all community members feel welcome
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Connection to Land and nature
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Transparency in everything we do
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Accountability to our community
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Community ownership of the centre
Our strategic goals
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Achieve financial stability of the centre
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Ensure we have capacity and a capable administration and governance systems
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Strengthen our engagement with the community
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Implement an effective marketing and promotion strategy
A SHORT HISTORY OF WADAMBUK
The Wadambuk St Andrews Community Centre was founded in 1985. Located in the quaint town of St Andrews, part of the Nillumbik Shire, the Centre originally used the Old School building, a former 1850s primary school. The community has always used the Centre as a hub for local gatherings, including early playgroups and community meetings.
After the devastating Black Saturday fires of 2009, the Centre became a pivotal part of the community’s recovery, distributing essential supplies and providing relief services. The Wadambuk name, meaning "renewal" in the Woi wurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, was chosen as a symbol of the community’s resilience and commitment to rebuilding and healing.
The Centre’s redevelopment, which began shortly after the fires, was made possible through the support of the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund, Bendigo Bank, Nillumbik Shire Council, Heritage Victoria, and local community donations. The new Centre, designed by Gregory Burgess, opened in 2014, providing a purpose-built space that continues to support the diverse needs of the St Andrews community.
WADAMBUK COMMITTEE
Wadambuk St Andrews Community Centre is proudly governed by a volunteer committee of passionate local residents who bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and heart to the centre’s operations. Our committee combines a rich mix of experience, skills, and perspectives, all contributing to the vibrant life of the Centre.
This committed group works together to guide the strategic direction of the centre, support its day-to-day running, and ensure that Wadambuk continues to be a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant space for all. The committee plays a vital role in fostering community connection, strengthening local participation, and supporting a range of programs, events, and services that reflect the needs and aspirations of the St Andrews community.
Current Committee Members
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Chairperson: Sandy Black
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Vice Chair: Helen Kenney
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Treasurer: Brian Love
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Secretary: Lisa Purchase
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General Members: Tony Barbeta, Pat Reynolds, JodyAnn van Keulen, Melissa Jones
Committee meetings are held regularly throughout the year and are open to members of the public who are interested in getting more involved.