Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen and the man behind Dolly’s Charity Shop, Gary Holland, joined Singleton mayor Cr Sue Moore to celebrate the completion of the shed and fit-out with a washing machine, dryer and sink.

The project was paid for by a $4000 grant under the state government’s Community Building Partnership program, and Dolly’s Charity Shop donated the shed to house the whitegoods.

Cr Moore said the facility would add to the life skills programs currently run out of the venue, which also included cooking classes.

“It’s easy for most of us to take things like washing and ironing for granted, but this laundry reminds us that washing and ironing are skills we need to learn,” she said.

“This will also be a facility that young people and their families who may not have access to laundry facilities can come in and make good use of.

“But, what is most special about this project is that it’s a true community partnership, and a great example of what we can achieve when council, the NSW Government and the goodness of the community come together.

“I sincerely thank Mr Johnsen and Mr Holland for working with us to deliver this project.”

Council’s general manager Jason Linnane said the Youth Venue played an important role in the lives of young people across the Singleton LGA (Local Government Area), and the laundry was testament to the staff who identified the need for such a facility.

“Singleton is very fortunate to have a team of dedicated youth workers who are always looking for new opportunities to provide facilities and services to the young people who come into the venue every day,” he said.

“The venue runs a very successful life skills program to help prepare young people with practical skills that often run at capacity, particularly cooking classes.

“The laundry will add another dimension not only to the life skills program, but to the support council’s Youth Venue team offers to the youth of Singleton and their families.”