History

The Centre was the first Community College in regional Victoria. We have been successfully operating as a provider of adult and community education since 1962.

1961 People in the community of Wangaratta came together and expressed their needs for further education. The Department of Education decided in late 1961 that the old high school building could be used for a Continuing Education Centre.

The Centre would be managed by the Advisory Council to the High School and a staff member of the high school was appointed as Executive Officer.

1962 The Continuing Education Classes Centre was officially opened by Mr. McDonnell, the Director of Education, on 27 February. 105 men and 266 women enrolled in 21 classes. Mr. Colin Cave, regarded as a visionary in the adult education world, was Executive Officer from 1962 to 1971.

1980 Accountability was transferred from the Education Department to the Council of Adult Education. Funding came from the Regional Board of Technical and Further Education.

1984 The Centre expanded into the wider region in response to the needs of rural communities, the aged, shift workers and women at home.

1985 The Centre saw the need for education in rural communities and helped set up Bright Adult Education, King Valley Learning Exchange, and later a regional network of adult education providers. The Centre also played a role in establishing the Wangaratta University of the Third Age (U3A).

1987 – 1990 New project areas were introduced: Distance Education, Learning Connections, Energy Education, Basic Education, Job Train, Older Workers Retention Project, VCE, Developmental Disabilities, Volunteer Resource Bureau.

1993 The Centre grew to 40 staff as it was successful in tendering for employment and other programs: New Work Opportunities, Landcare Environment Action Programs, Job Club, NEIS, SIP, OTFE, ALBE, CGEA, Leisure for Everybody, Driver Education, Research projects.

1997 The Centre and Benalla FORUM merged.

2000 The Centre drops the Benalla FORUM name and launched a new logo and brand.

2010 The extension to our Chisholm Street building was completed. It brought all staff back together on one site, with a commercial kitchen, more learning and multipurpose spots, and a new customer service area.

2021 Over 5000 people participated in The Centre’s activities. People from all ages and backgrounds find ways to work together on language, literacy, training, employment, volunteering and sports-based learning and projects.