A Landmark Regional Early Learning Development Inspired by Community
Project Overview
MPG is proud to support a respected not-for-profit, community-based Early Childhood Services organisation in the delivery of a purpose-built children’s services hub in Cowra, New South Wales. This visionary project will establish a state-of-the-art early learning centre, incorporating a 60-place preschool, Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) facilities, and a dedicated administration hub – all forming a vibrant and integral part of the local community precinct.
Designed to respond to the evolving needs of regional families, the centre will set a new benchmark in early education infrastructure across regional Australia.
Government Funding and Strategic Support
As part of the Client’s plan to deliver a high-quality early learning environment, MPG was engaged to provide strategic support to assist with the application for a capital grant through the NSW Department of Education. MPG delivered a comprehensive Childcare Modelling Report and Grant Application Report, incorporating:
- Feasibility concept plan
- Façade design
- Site-specific design considerations
- Financial viability and operational modelling
These comprehensive reports were instrumental in the Client’s successful grant approval, positioning the project for immediate progression.
Fast-Tracked Development Approval
Following funding success, MPG led the Development Application (DA) process, achieving Council DA determination within an exceptional timeframe of 31 days. This rapid approval reflected the quality, detail, and precision of the application, supported by a collaborative and transparent approach.
Shortly after DA submission, the MPG team were thrilled to receive positive feedback from Cowra Council commending the process, stating:
“Thank you for making the assessment process so easy and straightforward – all the information was there to enable us to assess the application immediately.”
A Regional First in Early Learning Design
MPG continues to work in close collaboration with the Client to ensure full compliance with grant requirements and support seamless project delivery. Once complete, the Cowra Children’s Services Hub will be one of Australia’s first regional childcare hubs of its kind—a place where children, educators, and families can thrive in an environment that champions growth, connection, and community.
Architecturally and contextually inspired by the Cowra Country, the centre celebrates natural textures, warm tones, and inviting spaces that foster curiosity, learning, and belonging. It is a bold and meaningful investment in the future of regional early education.
Services Provided
- Childcare Modelling
- Grant Application Report
- Centre Design & Design Management
- Development Management
- Project Administration
- Interior Concept Design & Specification
Creating Tomorrow’s Early Learning Environments Today
The Cowra project exemplifies MPG’s ability to deliver exceptional outcomes in partnership with local organisations and government. By combining creative design, deep sector experience, and strategic guidance, we are helping shape the next generation of early learning environments across Australia.
From complex urban sites to premier education precincts, MPG delivers visionary early learning environments that balance operational success with architectural integrity and community integration.
A Word From Our Client
“When we set out to build a dedicated preschool for Cowra Early Childhood Services, we knew it had to be more than just bricks and mortar – it had to reflect our values, meet the needs of local families, and be achievable within a restricted budget. Partnering with Mollard Property Group was one of the best decisions we made.
From the very beginning, Mollards understood our vision. They helped us shape a design that was not only educationally sound but also deeply connected to our community’s needs. Their expertise in early childhood infrastructure and planning was evident at every step.
One of the standout achievements was securing development approval in just 30 days. That kind of turnaround is almost unheard of, and it speaks volumes about the quality of the planning and documentation Mollards supported us with. It gave us the momentum we needed to move forward with confidence.
Just as importantly, Mollards connected us with a builder who could deliver the project within our budget – without compromising on quality. That alignment between vision, cost, and capability was critical, and it’s something we couldn’t have achieved without their guidance.
I want to make special mention of Beverley Chow, our Project Administrator. Beverley was a calm and steady presence throughout the process. Her updates were always clear and informative, and she helped us navigate the inevitable twists and turns with practical solutions and a reassuring approach. Her help to oversee the financial side of this project has been highly valued and an aspect we have leaned on throughout the process. Her contribution made a real difference.
And to Phil Mollard, who I learned a lot from, and who helped negotiate the best outcomes for our organisation, through his wisdom and experience in this space of early childhood development and construction, thank you so much.
This preschool is going to be a game-changer for Cowra. It will give families more choice, attract skilled educators to the region, and provide a stable, enriching environment for generations of children. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together, and grateful for the professionalism, care, and commitment Mollard Project Group – and Beverley – brought to the table.”
– Libby Ewing-Jarvie, General Manager, Cowra Early Childhood Services
