Coledale has a new state-of-the-art coworking space for local businesses.
WorkLife Coledale opened its doors on December 18 with a weekend Open House and curated makers salon showcasing a special collection of wares from local artists.
The hope is that it will become a thriving hub of entrepreneurial and community activity, like its predecessors in Berry and Kiama.
With six private office suites, plus 20 coworking desks available from February 2021, the new site offers people the opportunity to work in a fully equipped, beautifully designed space that is fitted out with seamless technology and backed up by personalised service – without the set-up costs and time that going-it-alone would entail.
Jane Fullerton-Smith, community manager of WorkLife Coledale, says the launch night was "amazing".
"The community really came together… a great party, amazing market for artists and huge interest in the coworking space. Couldn't have asked for anything more."
Jane is an actress, writer and former arts sustainability specialist that many in the community would know through her role as a wedding and end of life celebrant, or through Good With Wood, her husband’s construction business.
Tree and seachangers are behind the rise in demand for co-working in the Illawarra.
WorkLife founder Kate Dezarnaulds says that increased demand for flexible workspace options in the Illawarra prompted her to invest in a new state-of-the-art site in Coledale.
“2020 has been the year that has flipped everything on its head. People and companies are questioning what the new norm is when it comes to work and living. The trends are showing that more people are moving to regional areas and flexible working is here to stay,” says Kate.
Kate says that coworking spaces fulfil a growing need for workers to have access to a ‘third space’ – not the office, not home.
“Coworking is no longer just for startups and freelancers. We have noticed that our membership is diversifying to include academics, corporate employees and public sector employees, whose employers are now more likely to contribute to the cost of their membership as part of new workplace arrangements.”
With the help of leading local architects TAKT Studio for Architecture and builders J2 Build, WorkLife Coledale has created a range of beautiful spaces for people to move between throughout their day to suit all of their working needs. Alba Ergonomics, a local Certified Professional Ergonomist, has helped with ergonomic design and provides education about workplace risk factors, signs and symptoms of discomfort. Individual workstation assessments are also available. Local IT specialists BMS Group have consulted on best practice data security and IT systems.
Curated by local creative Chrystie Longworth, the makers salon will kick of WorkLife Coledale’s regular exhibition program, with a special collection of wares from local artists such as Ceramics by Cobalt & Kin, Jewellery by Mel Young, Paintings by Anh Nguyen, Sculptures by Samantha Arnull, Bespoke tailoring by Tanya Nash, Fashion by Saffrine Nydeggar and Art by Bonnie Porter Greene.
Kate says she is excited to see how the Coledale community develops.
“With the fabulous EarthWalker & Co cafe right down the road, and the smell of the ocean in the breeze we already feel at home. There is even an outdoor shower so you can refresh after a dip in the iconic Coledale Ocean Pool just a stone's throw away from your desk so you can have a dip in the ocean at lunchtime…now that’s a good work life!“
Visit worklife.org.au
All photos: annamul; Instagram @annamul.made
