The City of Greater Geelong is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from qualified not-for-profit and/or charitable early years organisations to manage and lease two key facilities (Bloinks Community Hub and Biyala Primary School Kindergarten) that will form a vital network of early childhood and community services in Armstrong Creek.

Through an integrated service delivery model, the successful operator will provide Early Years Services within both facilities, and activate community space at Bloinks Community Hub.

The Bloinks Community Hub, scheduled for opening in early 2026, is a state-of-the-art, three room (99 place) modular facility and community space located on Warralily Boulevard next to the future Biyala Primary School and Coastside Drive Recreation Reserve.

This project is being accelerated by a grant from the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) and a $3.5 million co-contribution from the City.

Complementing this facility is the Biyala Primary School Kindergarten, a permanent building located on the school site. Leased by the City from VSBA, it is proposed to be subleased to the successful applicant of this EOI.

Together, these facilities are designed to meet the growing demand for early years services in Armstrong Creek, with projections estimating an additional 410 children under the age of four by 2026. This initiative supports the Victorian Government’s ‘Best Start, Best Life’ reforms, promoting high-quality and accessible early childhood education.

The City has commenced enrolment activities in anticipation of the opening of both centres.

To ensure a smooth transition and coordinated service commencement, the City will work closely with the successful respondent to support operational planning, family engagement, and service readiness.

The City seeks a qualified not-for-profit or charitable early years organisation to manage and lease these facilities, which will operate as a cohesive network delivering integrated early childhood and community services.

It's anticipated these facilities will be completed in time for service delivery to commence Term 1 2026.

The City’s preferred outcome is to appoint a single service provider to oversee both facilities.

The selected operator(s) will play a crucial role in fostering community connections, enhancing accessibility, and supporting families in alignment with the Victorian Government’s ‘Best Start, Best Life’ reform.

Located in one of Victoria’s fastest-growing communities, the Bloinks Community Hub and Biyala Primary School Kindergarten will serve as a network of vibrant, inclusive spaces offering high-quality education, health, and community programs.

These facilities will:

• support collaboration across services
• strengthen links to Biyala Primary School and other key local assets
• offer flexibility to meet the evolving needs of Armstrong Creek’s population
• promote a strong sense of belonging and community engagement.

Through partnership with the City, the selected operator will help to realise a shared vision that delivers long-term benefits to residents and families.

Bloinks Community Hub

2119A Warralily Boulevard Armstrong Creek 3217

A purpose-built, modular facility designed to support early years education and broader community services. The buildings are connected via pedestrian pathways to support integration and connectivity across the precinct, linking the hub, kindergarten and school. This design also facilitates a single drop-off point for convenience and efficiency.

The building consists of:

• three room (99 Place) kindergarten
• multipurpose community room (113.2m2) with outdoor play area and provision for toy library
• four consulting rooms
• on-site parking.

Biyala Primary School Kindergarten

176 Coastside Drive Armstrong Creek

A permanent facility situated within the Biyala Primary School site, co-located with the primary school, which aims to support smoother transitions for children and simplify drop-off for families.

The building consists of:

• two room (66 Place) kindergarten
• Biyala Primary School site location
• office space
• on-site parking.

The City also welcomes feedback from the community regarding its intention to enter into leases with successful applicants.

We recommend reviewing the proposal and vision for the sites prior to providing a submission or feedback. Both submissions and feedback can be submitted through the links below.