An AFL club has unveiled plans for a surprising new project described as “like no other in Australia”.
Adelaide Crows have announced a partnership with the childcare provider Kool Beanz to develop a Crows-themed childcare centre.
Set to the based in Mount Barker, in the Adelaide Hills, the centre will be able to accommodate 100 children at a time, supporting increasing demand in the growing region.
The centre, should it receive planning permission, will be based alongside The Summit Sport and Recreation Park and would provide a football-centric learning environment for youngsters.
The project is being spearheaded through the Adelaide Crows Foundation and would employ 20 staff, with the plans unveiled this week.
“We see this as an opportunity to establish a permanent presence in the region and connect with local families,” Crows chief executive Tim Silvers said.
“Our role in this project is as a community and brand partner, to offer family engagement opportunities and support the overall vision of the precinct.
“Importantly, it will allow us to make a positive impact on young people in Mount Barker and surrounding areas through the delivery of our evidence-based programs which support wellbeing and education.”
The development would also provide the childcare company’s first centre in South Australia.
“Mount Barker is an ideal location for Kool Beanz given it sits only 30 minutes from the CBD of Adelaide and is one of the fastest growing regions, with a population of 46,000 growing annually at 3.5 per cent,” Kool Beanz Academy founder Bruce Coulson said.
“In addition, the region is home to one of the Crows’ biggest supporter bases, so it makes perfect sense. This centre will be like no other in Australia.”
Mount Barker Mayor David Leach said the proposal reflected a growing need in the area.
“It is encouraging to see organisations such as Adelaide Football Club and Kool Beanz Academy recognising the growth happening in Mount Barker and looking to invest in our community,” he said.
Should the project be given the green light, construction work will begin next year.
Originally published as Adelaide Crows unveil plans for surprising project in Mount Barker