Housed in one of Maroondah’s oldest homes is the Wyreena Centre. Here residents can meet and join in an enormous variety of activities ranging from art classes to seminars to community broadcasting. At a time when mainstream broadcasters are increasingly remote from local events, Wyreena provides the Maroondah community with the rare privilege of having both their own community radio station and a community based television service.
Community Radio Station 3ECB (98.1FM) broadcasts from Wyreena 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Eastern Regional Access Inc (ERA) transmits through Melbourne’s Channel 31, renowned for its eclectic mix of programs featuring music, art, news and events of local interest.
The stations provide a unique resource for binding the community together and, combined with the many other activities that Wyreena is home to, add to the rich cultural and information network the City enjoys.
Coordinator of the Centre, Kate Turnbull, said that Wyreena has been a highly valued and popular local resource since its inception in the 1970s, but is set to enjoy a new role. Traditional uses include a range of educational and leisure activities, with over 40 classes each week. Residents can study a variety of subjects including pottery, painting, leadlighting and calligraphy.
Over 500 students attend classes run by the Centre and by other groups who utilise its facilities. It is in regular use as a reading room, community hall, for meetings and training sessions
Recently, a Conservatory and tea rooms have been added to complement the existing craft shop and gallery. This is expected to draw people who may not be coming for a particular activity but want to relax, browse through the art works and observe activities taking place.
“We have an aim of supporting emerging and established artists in the community,” Kate said. “We have around 12 exhibitions a year primarily for local artists. Our craft shop also gives local artists an opportunity to exhibit and sell their work.
“There are four and a half acres of gardens and it is a delightful setting for people who just want to visit and enjoy the surrounds. Many people comment on the lovely feel of the place.
“The opening of the tea rooms will draw even more people to the centre and encourage patronage for local arts.”
The Centre is run by a Committee of Management, partly self funded with some Council funding. The new additions are expected to create another revenue stream so the Centre can continue to foster Wyreena as a focal point for the thriving arts and cultural community in Maroondah.
For further information contact Kate Turnbull, telephone (03) 9725 4611.
