Since June of 2006 the ball has been rolling to enhance the Centre's function as a place of community, creative expression and learning. The announcement of council over the devolution of the Centre to the community, certainly roused much enthusiasm: after an initial stakeholder's workshop, and a comprehensive survey gathered from Observatory’s streetlife, a handful of projects are beginning to take shape: an artist's business acumen course, a holiday activity club for kids, an events guide and newsletter (voila!), a fresh produce market, a dedicated art space, a recycling depot, and the revitalisation of the Observatory village green.
We also hope to encourage greater use of the sports facilities in Observatory, by acting as a one-stop-shop for bookings, equipment loans, group gatherings and other information. By promoting an active lifestyle, less of us will need to trek up the road to Groote Schuur :-)
The Centre’s executive committee aims to attract a greater number of courses revolving around education (for both adult and child), life and business skills, as well as host a variety of talks and seminars and increase the variety of recreation activities. In this vein we plan to upgrade the facilities and extend our range of resources. Soon, we hope to be able to offer some adult education courses, and significantly contribute to the economic upliftment and skills of workers in this and surrounding areas.
If you have an idea for a seminar, short course, support group or interest club? We welcome you to make use of our community-oriented rates and our gratis notice boards, newsletter and website to publicise your activity.
We would love to hear your ideas, no matter how bizzare you may deem them to be.
Our website - www.heartofobs.com - is a portal for you to find out about programmes and events, send us feedback, and connect with the newly initiated Obs Neighbourhood Watch.
Register on the site for updates by email, learn about the 'Grand Old Dame's' history, add your knowledge and photos to Observatory’s history and even make your mark with online surveys.
