The Neighbourhood House is a not-for-profit organisation whose aim is to respond to community needs by offering a range of educational, health, social and recreational programs that foster a sense of community spirit.

The centre opened on July 4 1979 after Sister Erin Ballinger mentioned to then Member for Ripon, Tom Austin, that Ararat lacked a place for mothers and their children to get together `to have some sort of community life'.

Fortunately, later that day Mr Austin attended a function with the then Housing Minister Brian Dixon, who promised to provide a house for the community.

That house was 56 Campbell Street, which has been known as Ararat Neighbourhood House for the past 30 years.

When it opened its doors the House offered two weekly playgroup sessions, which were only made possible by the fundraising efforts of the mothers of the day.

House operations have grown since the humble beginnings, and with assistance from the Department of Planning and Community Development and Adult, Community and Further Education funding, the centre now offers the community a diverse range of programs and services.

Ararat Neighbourhood House is no longer just a place for mothers and babies; the House is a Registered Training Organisation that provides a place for learning and social engagement through general and educational courses.

The centre runs courses in literacy and numeracy, English as a second language, computers and assists people with their Certificate in General Education.

It also runs a variety of programs, including health and well-being sessions, a book club, Sunday social programs, the Pomonal Singing Group and playgroups, as well as incorporating the popular Men's Shed.

Ararat Neighbourhood House would like to invite all past and present House participants along with any interested community members to attend their 30th Anniversary celebrations tomorrow.

A barbecue lunch will be held at the house in Campbell Street between 11.30am and 1.30pm.

If you would like to attend, please call Caroline on 5352 1551.

Discussions are currently underway to relocate the house to a more accessible site, and to provide additional room for the growing number of projects on offer.

Ararat Neighbourhood House urges you to come along see where it all began - before it is too late!