October, November & December 2024
Buzzing Events, Budgets & a By Five Baby!
Oh, how I just love December! Not only does it mark the official start of summer, but it also brings back some of my fondest memories—hanging out at the Hopetoun pool and Lake Hindmarsh, the fresh smell of cut grass, and the nostalgic sound of the big rotational sprinkler clicking away to keep the lawn green for the black-plastic slip ’n slide. December is also the time when we feel the pressure to wrap up our work for the year, knowing that not much happens before February.
In this edition of the By Five newsletter, we’re thrilled to share the wonderful news of the arrival of Hannah’s beautiful baby boy, Elliot, who has been warmly welcomed by his three older brothers. Hannah will be back with us in June.
We’re also excited to participate in the State Government’s children’s roundtable events with parents and carers to share their experience of raising children in the Wimmera. We look forward to welcoming parents and service providers to join us in this important conversation.
Although our team declared “no more events” after our successful paediatric documentary launch, we couldn’t resist a few wonderful gatherings! The Learn, Network & Celebrate event in October brought together over 100 leaders from across our region for a fantastic day of collaboration. Additionally, we hosted the second Kindergarten-to-School Transition and Networking event in Horsham, where approximately 30 education professionals came together for a high-energy session.
We also had some special visits and trips! A rural early learning service from WA, REED, dropped by to share their inspiring local story about strengthening early education, setting the stage for future networking opportunities. We joined the amazing team from Rainbow P-12 and Royal Far West in Melbourne to celebrate their teamwork at the Victorian Early Years Awards. And finally, we had a flying visit from the Federal Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education, The Hon. Angie Bell, who visited Hopetoun and Beulah to hear firsthand about the structural reforms needed to deliver sustainable services in rural communities.
These activities were so much more than just social gatherings. They showcased our region’s deep commitment to delivering the best outcomes for children, no matter where they live.
We thank you all for being part of this journey and look forward to a productive and inspiring 2025!
~ Jo Martin, Executive Officer
