The Bridge’s new Shepparton office is ‘more than bricks and mortar’

The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided tours, morning tea and speeches, during which board president Nathan Quinlan declared the purpose-built facility “more than bricks and mortar”.

“It’s a statement of who we are, who we serve and where we are going,” he said.

“This building represents a major step forward for The Bridge Youth + Family Services ... strengthening our ability to support young people and families across Greater Shepparton, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Moira and Strathbogie.”

Light. Space. Purpose.

These three elements are at the core of the building’s design, with architects balancing warmth and functionality while preserving the industrial character of the former warehouse.

The result is a series of inclusive, youth-centric spaces.

The facility boasts a large community activity room and garden, a teaching kitchen, accessible bathrooms, parent change facilities, intake rooms, custom-designed offices and improved access for outreach teams.

Remarkably, the entire project was completed without any government infrastructure funding — a rarity in the community sector.

Chief executive Melinda Lawley said she was proud of this achievement, but she took even greater pride in the positive impact the new space had had on staff.

One comment that particularly resonated with her came from a staff member, who said, “It has improved my mental health. I took off my shoes, felt the grass beneath my feet, and felt grounded again.”

The opening also recognised the organisation’s recent name change, expanding from The Bridge Youth Service to The Bridge Youth + Family Services.

This shift, Ms Lawley said, more accurately reflected its long-standing approach.

“For 30 years, The Bridge has walked beside young people and families across the region, helping them find safety, confidence and connection,” she said.

“This building represents the next chapter ... a chapter built on care, connection and community.”