PICAL's new room at Blue Gum Reserve

A significant upgrade has taken place at the Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre (PICAL) Blue Gum Reserve site with the creation of a Common Room.

Made possible thanks by a $5000 grant from Bass Coast Shire Council's Community Grants Program, the Common Room has resulted in a more functional and welcoming space for volunteers, programs and the wider community.

The grant funded essential plumbing works, including water and waste connections, making it possible to install a new kitchenette that now supports a wide range of community activities.

With the support and guidance of retired cabinet maker Mark Rowe, the kitchenette was built and installed by participants in PICAL's popular Girls on Tools program.

The program is a hands-on workshop that helps women to build confidence using tools while learning practical DIY skills in a welcoming and supportive environment.

"Creation of the Common Room shows exactly what PICAL is all about - community supporting community," said David Rooks, Centre Manager, PICAL.

"Mark Rowe, the women and volunteers who have put time and effort into making this new space possible have created a space that will benefit the community for years to come."

The Common Room is already enhancing PICAL's growing range of community programs.

It provides a space for safety briefings before Girls on Tools workshops, a welcoming place for visitors attending the Fix it Cafe to enjoy a cuppa, meeting and training facilities for community groups and a comfortable gathering space for Pantry Garden volunteers.

The project strengthens PICAL's long-term vision for its Blue Gum Reserve site. Complemented by other upgrades including solar panels and battery storage, the Common Room will play a key role in supporting the site as a resilient community hub that can provide assistance during emergencies.

David Rooks says that the completed project demonstrates the power of investing in community spaces.

"This upgrade is more than just a kitchenette. It's a place where people feel welcome, connected and supported.

Every improvement we make at PICAL is about strengthening our community and this is testament to just that.

"The Common Room provides a new space for locals to learn, volunteer, share skills and build lasting relationships."

A volunteer-led, not-for-profit community organisation, PICAL operates across two sites in Cowes - 16 Warley Avenue and Blue Gum Reserve at 119 Settlement Road.