Thanks to support from Bass Coast Shire Council, a once-underused corner of a shed at Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre's (PICAL) Settlement Road premises has been transformed into a welcoming, light-filled community space.

The transformation was made possible thanks to a $2000 Quick Response Grant from Bass Coast Shire Council and the incredible efforts of local volunteers.

What began as a simple construction project, a new internal wall to reconfigure the existing shed, quickly turned into an exciting opportunity to create something more - a dedicated common room for connection, learning and community gatherings.

With no external access or ventilation in the newly created room, the grant allowed for the installation of a glass sliding door and window - instantly opening the space to fresh air, natural light and the wider PICAL Community Garden.

Now, this once-underused corner of the shed has become a bright and inviting place for people of all ages to come together. Whether it's a quick cuppa during the Fix it Cafe, a safety briefing before the "Girls on Tools" workshop, a garden class with local school kids, or a quiet meeting between volunteers, this new common room is already becoming a hub of connection and activity.

Community effort

PICAL centre manager David Rooks thanks the dedicated volunteers who helped bring the shed transformation to fruition.

"The transformation of the shed space and creation of our new common room would not have been possible without the vision, passion and dedication of our volunteers," David said.

"Sue Lyford, a volunteer, took the action to write and submit the grant application, while local community members and volunteers including Mark Lyford, Russel Wicking and a registered builder Richie

Davie gave their time and expertise to build the wall and install the new glass sliding door and window.

"This really does show the power of people coming together for a shared purpose."

The upgraded space will allow PICAL to host more programs, hire the room for events and workshops, and provide a warm, functional area for rest, collaboration and inspiration.

It will serve as a common room for:

* Community gatherings and social connection
* Gardening and sustainability classes
* Art and craft workshops
* School and youth programs
* Volunteer co-ordination and support
* A quiet place for a break, a chat or a shared meal
"This project speaks to what makes Phillip Island special - a community that cares, collaborates and creates spaces that bring people together," concluded David.