- Winners of the inaugural 2023 Early Childhood Learning and Development Sector Awards celebrated at Optus Stadium last night
- Awards recognise and celebrate the contributions of outstanding people and organisations in the early childhood sector.
The winners of the inaugural Early Childhood Learning and Development Sector Awards have been recognised for their outstanding work delivering quality outcomes for Western Australian children and their families.
Eight award winners and 24 finalists were congratulated at a ceremony at Optus Stadium last night.
An independent judging panel with respected sector experts reviewed hundreds of nominations from a broad range of sector services including long day care, family day care, preschool, outside school hours care, and regional and remote services.
The awards were coordinated by Child Australia along with partner sector organisations Goodstart, REED, Ngala and The Y WA, who were supported by major sponsor BHP and other sector organisations Xplor, CTAS Education, Wanslea and Busy Bees.
Award winners included:
- Outstanding Educator Award - Lee Peing Lim;
- Rising Star Award - Rachael Baker;
- Excellence in Leadership Award - Rocky Beaton;
- Outstanding Indigenous Educator Award - Corrine Bell;
- Outstanding Early Childhood Teacher Award - Lara Bowler;
- Outstanding Child Allied Health Practitioner Award - Sarah Mountford;
- Excellence in Innovative and Sustainable Practice Award - Pachamama Early Education and Child Care; and
- Excellence in Community Engagement or School Partnerships Award - Child Australia, West Pilbara Mobile Children's Service
Finalists each received $500 with winners receiving an additional $1,000 prize.
Comments attributed to Early Childhood Minister Sabine Winton:
"These new Awards have recognised some truly outstanding individuals and organisations.
We know how important the early stages of a child's life are. There's so much evidence that a good start in life makes a huge positive difference down the track for the child and our community.
"Early childhood educators play such a huge role in supporting our young children's development and growth. It's really important we recognise the amazing work they do.
"I want to congratulate all the nominees and winners and express a huge thank you to all the staff and services for the incredible work they do to make sure our children are looked after and supported.
"I would also like to thank Child Australia, Goodstart Early Learning, REED, Ngala and the Y WA for their continued dedication to provide services and support for WA families and for hosting a fantastic event."
Comments attributed to Child Australia CEO Tina Holtom:
"Now more than ever we need to come together to celebrate and acknowledge the commitment and dedication of sector professionals who strive to make a difference and a positive impact on the lives of children and families every day.
"The winners and finalists were selected from across hundreds of nominations in WA - a testament to the many high calibre professionals working in the early childhood education and care sector."
Minister's office - 6552 6100
