Buunji opens

The new centre is a standalone building that will provide existing and new members of the Jack Towney Hostel social group with a dedicated place to host their activities.

The facility also provides a space for other events such as information and cultural sessions to be held at the hostel. The centre was opened by chair of the Jack Towney Hostel Corporation, Michael Cain, who cut the ribbon alongside Kathy Bird.

The activity centre was funded through a generous donation from the estate of Henry Stockings.

Acting manager of the Cooee Hostel and Villas, Del Gordon, said the centre will embody the name.

"Thanks to the late Henry Stockings, Jack Towney Hostel will be able to do what buunji means “to share” a yarn, cuppa and company, in a welcoming beautiful space and undertake some craft activities as well.

“There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet,” said Mrs Gordon.

The activity centre project took seven months to complete and local tradespeople were used where possible.