Mooney Mooney’s new River Hub in Point Rd is usually abuzz with activity – from children’s playgroups to soccer games, songwriting classes, creative workshops and sometimes even street parties.
The thriving community hub is on the site of the former Mooney Primary School.
Catering largely to families with young children, the hub run by Mooney and Cheero Point Progress Association with most activities free.
Community co-ordinator Vidette Findlay said Spring at the hub had been busy and vibrant.
“This Summer we will have free creative workshops teaching people how to tie-dye and make friendship bracelets,” she said.
“There will also be free drama workshops for adults and children and a garden party in our beautiful community-run garden.”
Over Winter, young members of the Mooney/Cheero community took full advantage of sporting facilities at The River Hub.
“By far the most popular facilities we’ve provided for local kids have been the soccer nets and the basketball hoop,” Findlay said.
“These items were donated by members of the local community.
“Mooney Mooney is beautiful but it’s a bit isolated, so I think it is important that we provide opportunities for young people in our community to get out there and make their own fun.”
Findlay is looking forward to the sound of live music soon emanating from the other venue on site, The Chapel.
“The Chapel also provides a space local musicians to rehearse and record their music,” she said.
“We’ve been so fortunate to have the opportunity to self-manage this important community space and we’ve been so well supported by our local community by way of fundraisers and volunteering.
“While we’re able to cover our running costs we’re aiming to continue to provide access to these facilities to not for profit community groups for free.
“Our aim is to get people coming into The River Hub to connect, create and regenerate.
“We want to hear from any groups or individuals who would like to use The River Hub to establish new activities with us.
“We’re especially keen to get activities for young people.”
Inside the former school cottage there is a self-serve library with no fees.
“Anyone can pop in and help themselves to books by writing down their name and email address once they are issued with a unique pin code,” Findlay said.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch popped in to check out the activities recently.
“The work of the Mooney Cheero Progress Association and the Mooney/Cheero community at large should be commended,” she said.
“The community has come together to transform the old school building and gardens into such a fantastic place that is helping people to connect with their local community.
“The River Hub is a commendable point of connection for people of all ages and walks of life, and best of all it’s a free space.”
See what’s happening at The River Hub by visiting the live activities calendar at cheeropoint.nsw.au/community-facilities/river-hub//
People interested in running activities at The River Hub are encouraged to contact the Mooney Cheero Progress Association and become a member.
The MCPA meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7pm.