Our History
The Leopold community have not had a Neighbourhood House or Community Centre in the past.
The Leopold Community Bank recognised that Leopold as a town, lacked an identity, a focal point where the residents of Leopold can come together to socialise, learn and connect with their neighbours. With the growth of the community this would become more of an issue especially with new families coming here to live that previously have had no association with the area.
The Leopold Community Bank and Bellarine Living and Learning Centre, undertook a community needs survey in July 2013.
The survey identified:
- Those respondents felt isolated and disconnected.
- There was a strong need expressed for a place the community could meet and connect.
The broader community did not know what current programs, activities and groups already exist in Leopold. They voiced their desire for a local library and a public swimming pool. The lack of services for youth was also a concern. A steering committee was established from a community meeting held in July 2014. The steering committee worked on setting up the centre and finding a home. The Leopold & Community Learning Centre was established as an organisation in October 2014.
With funding support from Leopold Community Bank and State Government through ACFE has seen the establishment of the centre, hiring of a centre Manager and undertaking courses such as Introduction of Computer classes, which have been well received by the community.
The Ash Road site started classes in March 2015.
In December 2018 we were excited to move to our new home at the Leopold Community Hub – above the library at 31 – 39 Kensington Road, Leopold.
Our Vision
The Leopold Community and Learning Centre Inc. vision is of a just and empowered community. Leopold Community & Learning Centre Inc. will strive to:
- Provide a facility for the provision of living/leisure skills, adult education, self-development, social skills and vocational training
- Offer accessible and affordable opportunities for learning, personal development and social connections
- Provide local activities through initiating programs that foster principles of inclusion, strong community participation and wellbeing
- Develop programs and services which are responsive to the community
- Be fully inclusive to people of all abilities respecting diversity of gender, culture, age, location, disability and disadvantage
- Provide a wide range of information to the community
- Engage the community in activities, programs and functions which will address multiple issues including isolation, engagement and disadvantage
- Provide a focal point for the provision of community services in the community
- Encourage participation in the provision and management of services and local activities.
Committee of Management
The Leopold Community & Learning Centre is governed by a volunteer committee of management that is elected by local community members. While the committee handles governance, day-to-day operations are carried out by the Manager.
2025/2026 Committee of Management members
Jenny Vandersteen Chairperson
Alan Davis Treasurer
Patricia Cristina
Mary McConnell
Wayne Deller
Graham Kenneady
Alan Ireland
Manager: Sherrill Roache
Proudly sponsored by Community Bank Leopold
