CONCERNS regarding Port Broughton’s scarce childcare options have continued to grow. Many young families have been forced to look outside the town for reliable day care options, due to an ongoing absence of local services.

Jessica Winen said her family’s Broughton Meat Store is one of many local businesses affected by the shortage. “We’ve had to cut our opening hours down from three days per week to one day and there are other large businesses in Broughton which have also been affected,” she said.

“It makes things really hard for people in business trying to juggle their jobs in one hand and kids in the other.

“The shortage has become quite bad and has sparked lots of interest locally.” Mrs Winen said a waiting list of about 40 children in Kadina has forced her to enrol 2-year-old daughter Grace more than 30 minutes away at Port Pirie. “Grace hasn’t had the opportunity to socialise as much as she should’ve,” she said.

“Every child needs a social life at a young age, as it makes for an easier transition into school. “She was also born at the start of Covid, so she couldn’t meet her family which caused some separation anxiety and meant she hasn’t been talking as much as she should be.”

Mrs Winen said the town has become very desperate for a suitable childcare option. “There’s been people who have left the town as well as some who refuse to move here due to a lack of services,” she said. “If we want more young families moving to the region, child care is essential.”

BW Council seeks service options

Barunga West Council has responded to the active group of local parents seeking support. CEO Maree Wauchope said staff have been working with Regional Development Australia for the past 12 months to finalise a business case for child care in Port Broughton.

“The business case, a document which spells out a way forward, will finalise how much it will cost to build and operate a facility, as well define a working governance model,” Ms Wauchope said. “We’ve been looking at other facilities run by community groups, councils and the private sector.

“We have also been looking at what Yorke Peninsula Council is pursuing and what was behind its recent success in securing a $2.25 million grant towards child care. “We do know there is need for long day care and out of school hours care services in the area, so we are trying to design some solutions.”

Ms Wauchope is set to present the case to elected members at council’s May meeting, but has warned such a service comes at a significant cost. “If councillors decide to pursue the initiative, we will need to secure support from the state and/or federal government, and the community,” Ms Wauchope said.