Gold Coast ECEC service raises funds for NT yarning circle

A childcare centre in the Gold Coast has raised $2,000 for a not-for-profit organisation based in Katherine, the Northern Territory, The Katherine Times has reported.

The local newspaper reported that Kidson4th, located on the Gold Coast’s Palm Beach, raised $2,000 via a raffle at its 2018 Christmas concert fort the ‘Dakku Kan’ Yarning Circle community discussion group.

The fundraiser held by Kidson4th is a good example of the types of activities early childhood education and care (ECEC) services can do to meet the requirements of the National Quality Standard Quality Area 6 (collaborative partnerships with families and communities).

A yarning circle is an important part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, used to learn from a group, build relationships, and preserve and pass on cultural knowledge.

Kidson4th Centre Manager Rachael Egerton told The Katherine Times that she heard about the Yarning Circle through her sister who often attends. “We really thought it was important to support issues around Indigenous culture and families,” she reportedly said.  

The ‘Dakku Kan’ Yarning Circles were reportedly established after community requests for a safe space, led by Aboriginal leaders, to explore ways to best support children and families.

What types of activities or fundraisers does your centre hold to engage with the community? Tell us in the comments below.