History of Woorinyan
WOORINYAN provides flexible, individualised services in partnerships with the community to create opportunities toward integration, independence and inclusion for users of the service.
1953
Woorinyan Incorporated has been situated in Frankton for since 1953 and is one of the oldest disability services in the Southern Region.
Woorinyan Incorporated (originally named the Peninsula Retarded Citizens Welfare Association) was established in 1953 by a group of parents as a minding centre for their disabled children. A play group was organised on a voluntary basis and held in a local Methodist Church Hall. This operated two or three half days a week.
1955
In March 1955 with the aid of a Government Grant the present property at 32 Cranbourne Road site comprising approximately two acres which included the old cottage was purchased. The cottage was renovated and converted for use as a Day Training Centre.
1960
Opening of the new school block consisting of an administration block, main hall or playroom with storerooms, kitchen and toilets at 32 Cranbourne Road.
1965
Extensions consisting of four classrooms and other facilities were added and in the same year the first workshop assignment began.
1972
The development project, a significant Sheltered Workshop was completed at 13 Joy St (at the rear of the same site as the classrooms and activity rooms which were being used as a Special Development School)
1981
The Special Development School relocated and Woorinyan became a facility providing living skills training for adults with disabilities.
Today
Woorinyan is now an Adult Training and Support Service and Employment Service for persons with a disability.
The Day Centre is funded by the Department of Human Services and the Employment Service is funded by the Department of Family and Community Services.
Woorinyan operates 5 days per week and provides services such as independent living skills which encompasses: cooking, travel, community access, voluntary work, music, art and exercise programs.
Woorinyan also offers employment opportunities for people with a disability
