Now, government backing has followed suit and further brought the centre into the 21^st Century.

Federal and state government each contributed $40,000, and Greater Hume Council $4000, to extending an indoor learning space and building nappy change and laundry areas – previously, staff had been washing bedlinen at their homes.

Centre committee president Rosie O’Keeffe said capacity had grown from 22 places to 40 thanks to the improvements.

“The government grants and donations from the local business and residential community has certainly enabled the centre to thrive,” she said.

“It now offers four days of preschool, three days of occasional care and three days of after-school care, as well as vacation care.”

The journey began when a parent management committee utilised a $60,000 fund, established by donations and fundraising for the centre, which is entirely community-run.

Ms O’Keeffe said this allowed landscaping, interior painting, installation of disabled toilet facilities and the relocation of the office to the front of the building to be completed.

“After those improvements in 2015, and after significant interest and need in the community for increased early childhood services, the committee applied for government grants,” she said.

“Grants have also meant that other more recent fundraising could be allocated towards resources like a smart-board and iPads.

“Because of the level of community support, the centre’s exterior was completely painted.”

Greater Hume Council Mayor Heather Wilton, who launched the new centre on Sunday with Farrer MP Sussan Ley and Albury MLA Greg Aplin, applauded the community passion behind the project.

“It’s important for the people of Culcairn there is an accessible and safe environment for childcare – I congratulate the hard-working committee on this outstanding project,” she said.