Many services offered by Kurri Kurri Community Services (KKCS) including our administration are located in what was previously ‘The Co-op Store’. The Store was a traditional co-operative store that was essentially owned and managed by members who were typically people who lived and worked in the area. Any profits were returned to the members or re-invested in the business. It operated from 1904 to 1978 and, like KKCS is now, was at the heart of the local community. Following its closure, the building was vacant for a period of time before it was purchased by Cessnock City Council.

In 1983 a committee of dedicated locals was formed to establish Kurri Kurri Community Centre Inc. From 1983 until 1988 the centre operated with a small administrative staff who focussed on recreational activities and community events. The Centre relied heavily on volunteers to operate. Since then, KKCS has grown to provide a diverse range of services to the local community and beyond.

Historic Timeline

Here’s a timeline of some key events that helped form KKCS into the dynamic organisation it is today:

1983

A new not-for-profit organisation, mostly run by volunteers, opens a Community Centre in the old Co-operative Store site which served as a focal point for local groups.

1987

Our commercial venture offering work opportunities to those with a disability commences trading. Back then it was called DP79. For many years it was known as Kurri Contracting Service (KCS) and now trades as Hunter Commercial Services.

1988

We offer basic Home Modifications and Maintenance to people who need help to keep living in their own home. The Neighbourhood Centre Opens. Vacation Care Service offers support to local families during school holidays.

1990

Live@Home Service (then Coalfields Community Options and now Hunter Community Services) commences, offering a range on in-home care services to the frail, aged and those living with a disability.

1991

Dementia Monitoring service commenced. First Community Bus commences operation.

1993

Our first Youth Development Officer is appointed. Kurri Youth Centre opens. Out of School Hours (OOSH) care service welcomes first students.

1996

Our Level 2 Home Modification & Maintenance team undertake their first project.

1997

KKCC became an incorporated entity in 1997.

2000

Level 3 Home Modification & Maintenance (Statewide) starts offering ‘home mods’ across NSW. Bus partnership commences with local licensed clubs and Masonic Village Aged Care home.

2012

Kurri Kurri Community Men’s Shed opens.

2015

Disability Standards TPV and ISO 9001 achieved.

2015

Organisation name and structure changes to Kurri Kurri Community Services Ltd, a company limited by Guarantee to reflect the broader range of services offered by the organisation.

2018

A vibrant, new identity is created for KKCS that reflects the changing face of the organisation and focusses on the core services we offer. The colourful and dynamic logos and business names gives as a renewed impetus to always provide the very best service and remind us that the community is at the heart of everything we do.