1 Local kinder given almost $50,000 MANSFIELD Kindergarten was given $49,100 for upgrades last week, following the State Government announcement of an upgrade of nearly $6.4 million for kindergartens across the state. Upper House member Jaclyn Symes (MLC, Northern Victoria) was joined by candidate for Eildon Sally Brennan at Mansfield Kindergarten when they announced their plans to make the kinder more inclusive for all children. Were improving kindergarten infrastructure across the state so that children of all abilities can make the most out of their time at kinder, said Ms Brennan. The upgrade includes accessible pathways, acoustic treatments through the use of blinds to dampen sound, a new swing set, mirror, chimes and a sculpture sensory garden, as well as replacing the current boat with an accessible boat, and a new accessible sand table and sand wheel. We are thrilled to be receiving this money for the upgrade, said Andy Setchell, Mansfield Kindergarten president. The money will help us cater to all childrens needs in the future. Since 2015, the State Governments Inclusive Kindergarten Facilities Program has given a total of 258 grants worth $6.4 million to dozens of Victorian kindergartens, which seek to create more accessible and inclusive for kids of all abilities by upgrading their buildings or playgrounds, or to buy things like adjustable desks and chairs, moveable wheelchair ramps and soft padding for outdoor areas. Im so pleased the State Government is upgrading Mansfield Kindergarten so that more local families can reap the benefits of early learning, Ms Brennan said. We want our littlest Victorians to get the support they need and enjoy world-class and welcoming environments, no matter where they go to kinder and this investment will make a big difference to Mansfield Kinder.