GROUND BREAKS AT SITE OF NEW COWRA PRESCHOOL

Tuesday, 30 September 2025

Work to deliver Cowra a brand-new community preschool has commenced, with local leaders joining childcare workers and excited families at the official sod turning ceremony on Thursday.

The project was first announced in 2023, with the NSW former Government awarding $3.7 million dollars to the Cowra Early Childhood Centre via the Start Strong Capital Works Grant Program.

Adding to the Cowra Early Childhood Centre (CECS) offerings, the new community preschool will create an additional 60 places for preschoolers in Cowra and provide much-needed support to working families.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined Cowra Mayor Paul Smith and CECS staff in turning the first sod - signalling the commencement of work on the much-anticipated project.

“Being able to access high-quality and trusted childcare close to home is incredibly important, particularly for single-parent households or families where mum and dad are both working,” Ms Cooke said.

“This latest investment will ensure that Cowra can support more working families and give their children the best start in life with a supportive education.

"Throughout my time as a Member, securing grants and funding for preschool facilities has remained one of my biggest priorities.

“Days like today evoke a great sense of pride, and I’m incredibly grateful that CECS, whose staff are absolutely adored by the Cowra community, can support even more children during those precious first five years of life.”

Ms Cooke has secured more than $10 million in additional funding for preschools and early childhood education services across the Cootamundra electorate over the past 8 years.