Cowra Ability Network Community Hub Opens

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined Federal Member for Riverina the Hon Michael McCormack, Cowra Ability Network Chief Executive Shane Kruger, Chairman Jim Morgan, board members, staff, and the local community at a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the official opening of Cowra Ability Network’s new Community Hub.

The Community Hub marks a game-changing step forward in delivering high-quality disability support services across Cowra and Central West NSW.

Ms Cooke commended Cowra Ability Network for its dedication to fostering inclusivity and independence.

“This facility represents more than just a building; it’s a place where people can come together, learn, and thrive,” Ms Cooke said.

“With this new, purpose-built space, Cowra Ability Network will continue providing invaluable services that make a real difference in the lives of local residents.”

The Community Hub is designed to be a welcoming and fully accessible space where people with disabilities can build skills, connect socially, and participate in meaningful activities. It features modern, accessible kitchen facilities that support life skills programs, including cooking and meal preparation. With lowered benchtops, accessible ovens, and cooktops, the space ensures all clients can fully participate in these programs.

The development of the Hub was supported by $70,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s ClubGrants Category 3 Fund, helping Cowra Ability Network create the new kitchen space, as well as its first-ever dedicated staff room.

Shane Kruger, Chief Executive of Cowra Ability Network, expressed his appreciation for the support from the community and the grant that made this project possible.

“As Cowra’s leading not-for-profit disability provider, we are proud of our brand-new community space coming to life, designed to bring people together, build skills, and create opportunities for everyone,” Mr Kruger said.

“This new facility means we can expand our services and welcome even more participants who are eager to benefit from the amazing programs we offer. We look forward to continuing our work in this community and providing our clients with the best opportunities to thrive,” Mr Kruger added.

Beyond life skills programs, the Community Hub also offers professional services from Occupational Therapists,

Speech Pathologists, Counsellors, and Allied Health Assistants. These services play a key role in helping clients gain independence and participate more fully in their communities.

The new Community Hub is now officially open, ready to serve Cowra and surrounding communities with a full schedule of programs and services.

• Topics:
• Community
• Community Groups