Historical information

The Victorian Neighbourhood House movement was born in the early 1970s during the Whitlam era of significant social change. It grew out of local community need, particularly the isolation of women in the community, with a vision to bring people together and enhance the opportunities of people and communities. Another initial emphasis was to provide an informal, non-threatening and nurturing environment that supported individualised learning. The Emerald Community House (ECH) began in 1974 - one of the oldest continuously running incorporated community houses in Victoria. The State Government changed service providers for the ECH in 2025. The previous service providers have donated records of the ECH during its long history including this certificate.Like the other neighbourhood houses, the ECH began its life mainly relying on volunteers with just a small amount of government funding until 1986 when the Victorian government began the provision of secure, recurrent funding to neighbourhood houses.

Significance

The Emerald Community House has been a significant and valued contributor to community life since its inception in 1974.

Physical description

Certificate awarded to the Emerald Community House (ECH). This was part of the 2015 Victorian Learn Local Awards and was awarded to the ECH for being a finalist in the 'Outstanding Pathways Program - Permaculture Design Course'.