Member for Cook Cynthia Lui has today confirmed Rio Tinto will start a long day care service in Weipa from next week, bringing much-needed certainty for local families.
Ms Lui said the service would operate out of the newly renovated premises on Hibberd Drive.
“I whole-heartedly welcome this news on behalf of local families,” Ms Lui said.
“The timing of this announcement could not be better, with the Napranum Early Childcare Centre due to cease its extended operations next Friday 3 August.
“I know the potential loss of a local childcare service had been very concerning for local parents and community members.
“I thank Napranum Council for its decision back in May to extend the Napranum long day care service for two months to allow more time for this new service in Weipa to be established.
“Families currently accessing the service in Napranum will now be able attend Rio Tinto’s new service in Weipa.
Education Minister and Ministerial Champion for Napranum Grace Grace said the Department of Education had worked closely with Rio Tinto to support the establishment of the new service in Weipa.
“Thanks to Cynthia Lui’s ongoing advocacy on this important issue, we’ve been able to deliver seamless continuity of local early childhood services which is an excellent outcome for local families,” Ms Grace said.
“This has been a great example of everyone working together to find a solution – the Council, Rio Tinto, the Department of Education, and community members in both Weipa and Napranum.
“I look forward to visiting the new service when I travel to Weipa in a couple of weeks.”
ENDS
Media contact: Cook Office – 4223 1100
