An outdoor education organisation in Tharwa that has challenged, developed and inspired young people from across Australia for more than three decades will officially reopen on Monday with a new lease on life.
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Outward Bound Australia's ageing national facilities have undergone a $1.5 million renovation.
The organisation, which was established in 1956, has been operating from Tharwa since 1978.
Donations from the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation, Thyne Reid Foundation and John T. Reid Charitable Trusts have funded the transformation of the base's staff accommodation, administration and training facilities.
Governor-General and patron Sir Peter Cosgrove will officially reopen the base and training centre on Monday.
Acting chief executive Marilyn Newport said the 18-month renovation had transformed the buildings into more comfortable spaces.
"It's had a significant impact on staff health and well-being, and just giving people a nice place to work and to live," she said.
"It's a much nicer place to welcome visitors, and staff are accommodated in nicer surroundings."
Ms Newport said the accommodation units had been recarpeted and painted, while some bathrooms and kitchens were renovated.
She said the administration area was "gutted", gaining a new roof, internal walls, cladding, insulation and airconditioning in a more open-plan office layout.
The kitchen and dining areas were also renovated, while the training room was fitted with fresh curtains, carpet and furnishings.
Meanwhile, a separately funded $20,000 renovation of the base's high ropes course has enabled staff and participants to more easily operate and enjoy the activity.
The now circular course was upgraded mid-year to ensure better navigation between the course elements.
"Participants love it because it's high off the ground, it's challenging, but it also has that need for an element of trust to be able to help one another and enjoy it," Ms Newport said.
"It's easier to manage and it's safer. It adds to the overall experience."
Ms Newport said the renovations hadn't disrupted the programs, with staff, administration operations and training programs rehoused as required.
She said it was now business as usual.
"We will continue to deliver challenging programs and experiences for people," she said.
"We deliver to school students, community groups, young professionals; a broad spectrum of people. We're looking forward to welcoming them to our new, upgraded facilities on base."
