The Captains
Learn More
Alicia
Director
Alicia
Director
Hi, I’m Alicia, a dedicated early childhood Educator since 2011. I started my journey as an external student volunteering hours to complete a Certificate 3. This created so much passion in me for the idea of working with children that I extended my knowledge and accomplished a Diploma in Children’s Services in 2012. Since starting with Bay Explorers in 2013, I have had the opportunity of various roles that have led to my personal and professional growth, and in 2024 I became the Director of our Urangan Service.
I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the growth of many children and families throughout my time with Bay Explorers. I’m proud of my Australian South Islander heritage and cherish the values of family and community.
I believe in fostering a warm and inclusive environment for all children. I value the cohort of people I call my team and what they each bring to the Service every day.
I thoroughly enjoy the energy of being around young children.
Learn More
Chef Andy
Chef
Chef Andy
Chef
Hi, my name is Andrzej (Andy). I have worked as a Chef since 2010, and I REALLY enjoy it.
I am originally from Poland, I say originally because I was born there (like all my family) and I lived there for almost the first 20 years of my life but, I always knew that I wanted to see the world. After my graduation I went to France and, after a short time had to come back and do my time with the Army.
When I was 22 I went to Ireland and spent 9 years there. During that time, I travelled and saw quite a bit, I also met up with a very good Australian friend who talked me into coming to Australia to see how great the living is and how beautiful the country is. That was in 2020 and I don’t regret it at all. I’ve met great people, the weather is good, and I can engage in sport activities outside almost every day. Australia is so big and there is a lot still for me to see!
When dropping off your children please pass the kitchen and say hello! I love working alongside children, despite being the fussiest customers I’ve ever had; they have an infectious positive energy that makes every day new, fun and exciting!
Learn More
Chef Alex
Chef
Chef Alex
Chef
Hello. Originally from Italy and now happily living in Australia, my love for cooking started when I was very young, right alongside my beloved nonna (grandma) in the kitchen. I grew up on a family farm, where I learned the importance of fresh ingredients and the joy of preparing food with care and love.
Inspired by my nonna’s delicious home-cooked meals, I followed my passion and became a Chef. Over the years, I’ve worked in many kitchens, learning how to create tasty, healthy meals that bring people together. I also care deeply about health, fitness, and nutrition, and I always bring that same passion into the meals I prepare.
At Bay Explorers, my goal is to make every child feel at home with warm, nourishing meals that are full of flavour and goodness. Whether it’s a cozy soup, a colourful veggie-packed dish, or a fun, kid-friendly snack, everything I cook is made with love, tradition, and a big smile.
Our Kid-Loving Crew
Learn More
Brooke
Brooke
Hi, my name is Brooke. I hold a Diploma in Early Years Education and Care and have been working with children since 2016. I began my journey in the outside school hours care sector, working with school-aged children. In 2019, I discovered my true passion lies in early childhood education, and I have been dedicated to the early years’ profession ever since.
I’m married and a proud mum of two young children, which has further enriched my understanding and appreciation of early childhood development.
I’m thrilled to be joining the Bay Explorers’ team and am looking forward to building strong, positive relationships with my colleagues, the children in our care, and their families.
Learn More
Hana
Hana
Hello! My name is Hana. I earned my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care in 2020, which marked a significant milestone in my journey to pursue my passion for education. My love for working with children has been a guiding force in my life since becoming a mother.
I find immense joy in supporting young learners as they develop their skills and confidence. Witnessing their growth and achievements, whether it’s mastering new concepts or expressing their creativity, is an absolute pleasure.
It is incredibly rewarding to play a part in children’s learning journeys and to help them grow.
Learn More
Jasmine
Jasmine
My name is Jasmine and I have been working with children since 2018 when I started my early childhood career in Sydney. In 2019, I moved to Hervey Bay and started my journey with Bay Explorers and have loved every minute!
I chose this as my career path as I absolutely love the learning and development that happens in the early years of a child’s life and love to be able to say I have helped in the growth and development of so many children.
A little bit about me … I am a puzzle person and love sitting down at the end of the day to do a puzzle and switch off after caring for children. I am raising my son, Carter, which is so much fun! Watching him grow and learn every single day is a blessing! Together, we love to go to the playground and have fun at home playing outside, kicking the ball, running around and enjoying lots of water play!
Learn More
Kelly
Kelly
Hi families, my name is Kelly! I joined Bay Explorers in June 2022 after moving from the Gold Coast, which was my home for 30 years. Hervey Bay offers a much quieter lifestyle, and I am thoroughly enjoying it.
I began my career in early childhood when my now older children, were much younger, and have since worked with children of all ages. I love observing children’s behaviours and interactions with their peers whilst being a part of their development.
In my role, I prioritise helping children to build their sense of confidence and wellbeing. Seeing the smiles and a sense of accomplishment on their little faces is my reason for doing this role.
I am a Diploma qualified Educator and you will find me assisting in all the rooms within Bay Explorers.
My family and I are loving Hervey Bay’s relaxed lifestyle and you will often find me pounding the pavement with regular walks along the beautiful esplanade or out in our boat enjoying the beaches and fishing with my youngest son and husband.
Learn More
Kyella
Kyella
Hi, my name is Kyella. I am currently studying in my final year of school and working towards my Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care as a school-based trainee.
I enjoy spending my time at the beach and am passionate about Karate. I have always had an interest in Early Childhood as I have looked after my younger twin brothers and younger cousins over the years.
Having completed my work experience at Bay Explorers’ Urangan at the end of 2023, I was so excited to get the opportunity to work as a school-based trainee. After being a part of the Bay Explorers team since 2024, I have loved watching all the children learn and grow throughout this time.
I cannot wait to see what the future holds for my journey and the continuous journey of the children. I feel privileged to be a part of the children’s education while working alongside a supportive and amazing team.
Learn More
Samantha
Samantha
Hi there, my name is Samantha. I have been in childcare since 2010. I had been working in the events and hospitality industry previously. Seeing people having a good time brings me joy and fulfilment. The switch to childcare was wonderful; I get to contribute to the lives of children and their families, whilst building connections and giving service to our community.
I like that no two days are ever the same and there is plenty of variety in our roles. Creativity is where I thrive, and I enjoy all sorts of art experiences. I believe the first five years of life are so important to foster a sense of self, connection, and a love of learning. When we give children confidence in themselves, they can achieve great things.
I enjoy travelling, reading, and cooking, spending time with family and close friends, and quiet nights in.
Learn More
Sophie
Sophie
Hello, my name is Sophie and I am new to the Bay Explorers’ team having attained my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in 2024. I am thoroughly enjoying my time learning and applying new skills.
I have a large family that includes 4 younger sisters and 4 more foster siblings! This is where my love for working alongside children has come from, having grown up with younger children around me and helping my mum with all of them as they grew.
In my spare time, I enjoy engaging in any sort of creative experience. Arts and crafts is a huge love and passion of mine and I can’t wait to be able to apply this creative flare to my daily tasks at Bay Explorers.
Learn More
Tahlia
Tahlia
Hi, I’m Tahlia and I have been working as an Early Childhood Educator at Bay Explorers since 2024, which makes me relatively new to the team. I currently hold a Certificate III in Children’s Services and am looking forward to furthering my studies in the future to be able to better provide children with the opportunity to flourish.
I love educating children and being part of a fantastic team, like Bay Explorers. I enjoy being able to nurture and care for children and absolutely love watching them develop and grow through play and learning.
I have two children of my own who keep me busy on the weekends, and we are often out and about exploring local parks and playscapes. Having children of my own has given me a better insight into how to approach and create meaningful relationships with children and their families.
