Meet the Urraween Team

Amy

Hi I’m Amy! I’m entered into Early childhood care in 2026. I worked in Disability support for 10 years before studying to become a Mental Health Peer Worker and working in the mental health field for 5 years.

I have always had a passion for making a difference in people’s lives and being someone others can come to for support.

I have a daughter of my own and having her was the start of my journey of looking into how the early years of a child’s life shapes who they become as an adult.

I chose early childhood in hopes I can be one of the people your children come to for comfort when they’re having a hard time being away from you and because watching children learn and grow is a beautiful privilege.

Outside of work I have an interest in all things cars, and I love to create beautiful Pottery pieces or delicious desserts and cakes. If I’m not doing those things you’ll find me spending quality time with my daughter and partner.

Ashley

Hi, my name is Ashley! I completed my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in 2024 after studying and finishing my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education. The reason I chose early childhood as a career path was because I grew up with lots of cousins and family around, so I’ve always been surrounded by children and have loved spending time with them.

I have lived in Hervey Bay my whole life and currently live with my little sister, my dad and our dogs, Zeus and Bruno. What I like to do on the weekend is spend time with my sister and go on lots of adventures around the Fraser Coast! I enjoy exploring new places and doing this with the people I love.

I’m excited to learn and grow at Bay Explorers and support your children as they complete their early education.

Becky

Hello, I’m Miss Becky! I’ve had the pleasure of working with Bay Explorers since 2020, and I’m a qualified Early Childhood Educator with my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. I’ve previously been a Lead Educator in the Toddler rooms and am currently working with the Nursery.

I absolutely love watching children grow and thrive, and I find so much joy in building connections with both the children and their families. These relationships are incredibly important to me and help me grow as an Educator, ensuring I can always offer the best care and learning experiences.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about sunflowers and music. On the weekends, you’ll often find me enjoying quality time with my family, friends, and my beautiful Cavalier, Lulu.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of each child’s journey and to contribute to their early development in a meaningful way.

Bobbie

Hi, my name is Bobbie, and I have worked in the ECEC profession for 20 years as both Lead and Assistant Educator. I completed my Diploma in 2010 with Honors and Distinctions. I was previously at Bay Explorers’ Urangan for nearly six years and have moved to our sister centre at Urraween, where I’m now in Junior Kindy.

My partner Stephen and I moved to the Bay from Cairns 6 years ago to be closer to family. Stephen has his own business doing Mobile Mechanic work. I have a son named Cameron, who is 28 years old and lives in the Bay, and my partner has two children, Ethan 26, and Bri 24 years old, who live in Sydney.

We love all animals and have a cat. I love being an Educator, teaching, and watching children grow to make their way through their world.

Brooke

Hello everyone. My name is Brooke, and I’m proud to be part of the team here at Bay Explorers.

I have many years of experience in Early Childhood, and I am passionate about supporting children’s development in a thoughtful and responsive way. Over time, I have developed a strong understanding of children’s individual needs, particularly when it comes to emotional wellbeing and self-regulation. I strive to create a calm, supportive environment where children feel safe, understood, and confident to express themselves.

I am a dedicated and reliable educator who values building strong, trusting relationships with both children and families. I believe that consistency, care, and connection are key to helping every child thrive. I look forward to supporting your children as they learn, grow, and enjoy their time at Bay Explorers.

Chelsea

Hi, I’m Chelsea and I hold a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. I have been working in childcare for the past three years and absolutely love being part of each child’s learning and development journey, watching them grow, develop new skills, build confidence, and discover their own unique personalities. I love getting to know each child as an individual and supporting them as they learn and explore.

Growing up with a younger sister and being surrounded by younger children has always made caring for and connecting with children easy. Alongside working part-time in childcare, I am currently studying Psychology at university and commuting to the Sunshine Coast for my studies. I am passionate about continuing to learn and develop my understanding of the mind to benefit my role and understand children’s behaviour, and their individual needs. I feel very fortunate to work in a role that I genuinely love and to be able to make a positive difference in children’s lives each day!

Emma

Hello! I’m Emma, I have been working at Bay Explorers since the beginning of 2026 and am just about to complete my Certificate 3. I enjoy time with my friends and family. My main reason for choosing child care is to ensure that all children have a safe, happy and supportive place to come and play, learn and socialise!

Georgia

Hi, I’m Georgia!

You could say Bay Explorers is part of my story! Having grown up around Bay Explorers since I was a child, I’ve been fortunate to have many knowledgeable and dedicated educators guide, encourage and inspire me along the way. At just fifteen, I began my own journey as an educator, turning a childhood connection into a career I love.

I knew early on that educating children was my calling. This gave me the motivation to focus on my studies and gain my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care not long after finishing school. I love discovering what makes each child unique and creating opportunities for them to explore, ask questions and build confidence through play.

Now, as a mum myself, I have an even deeper appreciation for the trust families place in us. I want every child to feel safe, understood and celebrated, and every family to feel welcome and connected.

Outside of Bay Explorers, you’ll usually find me planning my next adventure! I love travelling, camping and spending time with my friends and family. Whether I’m exploring somewhere new or enjoying a campfire with my favourite people, I’m happiest making memories.

From growing up around Bay Explorers to helping the next generation grow, it’s a special journey—and I’m proud to be part of it!

Gypsy

Hello, my name is Gypsy!

I am currently studying my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, and I have been fortunate to begin my journey with the wonderful team at Bay Explorers Urraween this year. Being able to learn while supporting children as they grow, explore and discover has been such a rewarding experience.

A little fun fact about me—I absolutely love the colour blue, and I have seven siblings! Growing up surrounded by family, including my younger siblings, cousins, nieces and nephews, sparked my love for caring for children and helped me discover where my heart truly belongs.

I am passionate about creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, valued and celebrated for who they are. I believe kindness, respect and empathy belong at the heart of every interaction, and I look forward to building meaningful connections with children and their families.

I am excited to continue growing as an educator, sharing in the little moments, celebrating each child’s achievements and encouraging their curiosity along the way!

Jaz

Hi, I’m Jaz!

My journey with Bay Explorers began as a trainee while I was in Year 11. Throughout Years 11 and 12, I balanced my school studies with hands-on learning and working towards my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Since graduating from school, I’ve proudly continued as part of the Bay Explorers team, and my love for my chosen career has only grown.
I’ve lived in Hervey Bay for five years and love being part of such a welcoming community. I chose early childhood education because I’m passionate about helping children learn, creating beautiful lifelong memories, and ensuring they feel safe, valued and supported.

My favourite part of being an educator is seeing children happy—their smiles, laughter and little achievements bring me so much joy! I love encouraging their curiosity and helping them build confidence as they discover the world around them.

I feel lucky to continue growing in a career I love, alongside a supportive team who make each day special. I look forward to sharing many more wonderful moments with our children, families and my Bay Explorers team.

Jess

Hi, my name is Jess. I am a Lead Educator for our Bay Explorers’ Urraween Service. I have been with Bay Explorers since 2018, having previously been at our Urangan Service until 2022, when I moved over to Urraween.

My Partner and I have been together since we met in high school and have three young children together. I have lived in Hervey Bay my whole life, except for four years where we moved to Gladstone, and then to Bundaberg for work purposes. I have three siblings who all live in Hervey Bay, as well as most of my family, whom we love spending time with. On the weekend we love to be together with our children, sometimes taking our caravan away for weekend adventures!

I have worked in early childhood since 2010 ranging from Outside School Hours Care to being a Lead Educator in the Nursery and many other age groups.

I love being a part of a child’s first five years of life as I believe these years are the most important, as they learn, grow, and adapt to the big world. We are always learning something new, which is what I love about working in this profession.

I am very passionate about each and every child that I care for and believe you need to build a relationship of trust and safety for each child and their families. I look forward to being a part of your child’s learning journey.

Joanne

Hi, I’m Joanne (JoJo) and I am known at Bay Explorers for my bubbly personality which leads me to create fun and engaging learning environments and experiences for children to enjoy!

I was born in England where I began in the early childhood profession in 1994 and completed my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in 2015, whilst living in Sydney. I made the move to Hervey Bay with my children in 2018 and joined the Bay Explorers’ team not long after.

I am a married woman after meeting my husband in 2020 and together we have five adult children who create our perfect blended family, along with our dachshund Rusty. When I am not spending time with my family, I enjoy beautiful beach walks, reading and have recently taken an interest in various art forms including painting.

I love getting to know all the families and being a part of their children’s fun learning adventures. Seeing the children’s happy faces each day makes my heart sing and watching how they learn and grow from the beginning of the year through to the end is the absolute best!

Kalisha

Hi, my names Kalisha. From a young age, I have been passionate about working with children. This passion began in third grade when I was asked, “what do you want to be when you grow up?” Without hesitation, I replied, “I want to look after little babies.”

In 2020, I began studying for my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education, which I successfully obtained in 2021. I completed my Diploma in May of 2025. My journey as an Educator officially began in early 2024 when I joined Bay Explorers, where I have had the privilege of working with a dedicated team to create a nurturing and joyful environment for children.

I am committed to continuous learning and growth in this profession and look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of the children I care for.

Katie M

Nice to meet you, everyone! My name is Katie, and I have been working in Early Childhood for many years. I have a true passion for supporting children in their Kindergarten years, which inspired me to further my studies and complete my Bachelor degree so I could continue pursuing my dream of becoming a Kindergarten teacher.

I believe these early years are such a special time for growth, discovery, and connection. I am passionate about creating a calm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Supporting children to build strong social skills, develop confidence, and explore the world through play-based learning is at the heart of my teaching philosophy.

I look forward to getting to know each child and family, and to sharing many fun and meaningful learning experiences together.

Melissa

Hi, I’m Mel! I’ve recently moved to the area with my family and am excited to be part of the Bay Explorers’ community. I hold both a Certificate III and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, and have been working in the childcare profession since early 2023.

Outside of work, I love spending quality time with my children, whether it’s cheering on the sideline at my children’s football games, or heading out on family fishing and camping trips.

I’m passionate about creating a warm and nurturing environment for children, and I look forward to getting to know your little ones here at Bay Explorers.

Rachael

Hi, my name Rachael and I have been in the profession since I was 17 years old. Since 2022 I have gained a lot of experience and knowledge and only hope to learn more along the way. I am extremely passionate about caring for children and their development and growth while in an Early Childhood setting.

I love creating experiences and opportunities which give the children space to explore, learn and play. Since starting at Bay Explorers in 2023, I have been successful in studying my Certificate III and Diploma. My next big goal is to begin working towards a “Bachelor of Primary Education.”

Sim

Hi, my name is Sim. I’m a mum of 3 daughters and have worked in childcare for over 5 years. I enjoy working with children, helping them learn and grow, best part of my job is I get to sing and dance with all the children.

Taryn

Hi! I enjoy working with toddlers and being able to support them as they grow and develop. Their fun personalities are so individual, and it makes me so proud to be able to support them through this special part of their lives. I also really appreciate being able to build strong connections with families, showing them respect and support too.

In my own time I enjoy spending time working on cars, learning about Early Childhood Education and having time with friends and family.

Tasha

Hi, my name is Tash and I am currently studying to achieve my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. While I am new to the profession, I am super excited to be part of Bay Explorers and learn and grow alongside an incredibly supportive team!

I love everything sports related and spend my spare time on and around the netball courts! I have a younger brother who is 12 years younger than me and he always keeps me on my toes, pushing me to be the best version of myself and he was ultimately what kick-started my drive and passion for early childhood.

Thom

Hello, my name is Thom Nguyen

I am delighted to be joining the team. I look forward to getting to know you and your family. Please feel free to say hello, ask questions, or share any information that may help me support your child’s learning and development.

I’m originally from Vietnam, I have been living in Australia for many years and value the rich diversity that each family brings to our learning community. As a mother of two daughters, I understand the importance of building strong relationships with families and creating a sense of belonging for every child. I value open communication and believe that working in partnership with families is essential to supporting children’s learning and development.

I am holding a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care over seven years and currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) as part of my ongoing professional development. I am passionate about lifelong learning and continually enhancing my skills and knowledge to provide the best possible outcomes for children.

Zoi

Hello, my name is Zoi and I’ve just started my career in childcare. I am a qualified Chef by trade and was looking for something completely different.

I was born in one of the biggest racing towns in Australia, Bathurst. My family ran farms, and this is how I spent the first ten years of my life until my parents moved us somewhere warmer and nicer to look at. They moved us to the small coastal town of Forster – Tuncurry where I completed high school and my Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. It’s also where I met my partner, Todd, when we were both still in high school. At the young ages of 22 – 25 we packed up everything and made the move to Hervey Bay. We then had our kids, Noah and Lotti, who definately keep us on our toes.

I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason whether good or bad, and everything worth having is worth fighting for. I believe that everything serves its purpose, and things will happen with hard work.

I look forward to working my through this new career path that I have chosen for myself, and making friendships, memories and connections with the people I meet.