Firstchance and Jumbunna Community Preschool named in HESTA Excellence Awards

Finalists in the 2022 HESTA Excellence Awards have been announced, showcasing 24 organisations and teams who have excelled in the disability, allied health, aged care and community services sectors, including early childhood education and care (ECEC).

The Awards will take place in November, with New South Wales services Jumbunna Community Preschool and Early Intervention Centre Inc, from Casino and Firstchance from Mayfield North both being named as finalists. 

Firstchance has been recognised for supporting the development of children with disabilities in the Greater Newcastle region, particularly through its ‘Welcome to Touch Football’ program to develop motor and social skills and its ‘Video Modelling Project’ to support children on the autism spectrum.

Jumbunna Community Preschool and Early Intervention Centre Inc. is recognised for providing a fully inclusive environment and support for children and families in their community. The team initiated visiting professionals, including paediatricians and hearing and vision professionals, to attend the venue and run clinics for families, who would otherwise not be able to access these services due to transport issues.

Other ECEC aligned finalists include a program thatwhich brings together aged care residents and children in ECEC to develop a walking soccer program for neurodiverse people, and another online support pathway for parents in WA thatwhich empowers parents to support their infants development through the Baby Play Academy. 

HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said all finalists have demonstrated inspiring leadership, dedication, and a drive to improve care and support for Australians during challenging times.

“HESTA is proud to help share the stories and amazing achievements of these wonderful finalists, who through their work each day demonstrate such care and compassion for Australian communities, improving health and wellbeing outcomes,” she added.

The national Awards highlight the extraordinary work of the four sectors to enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities, with finalists chosen across the categories of Outstanding Organisation and Team Excellence.

Eight winners will share in a $60,000 prize money pool to be used for further education, service improvement or team development, courtesy of longstanding HESTA Awards supporter ME.

Winners will be announced on Thursday 24 November, 2022. More information about the HESTA Awards program can also be found here.

Pictured are the staff from Jumbunna Community Preschool and Early Intervention Centre Inc