Kool Beanz SUNS to launch integrated ECEC service in Mackay

A unique partnership between the Gold Coast SUNS, an AFL team, and Harrup Park will see early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider Kool Beanz offering a new model for integrated childcare (sic.) in the Far North Queensland region of Mackay. 

Kool Beanz SUNS Harrup Park will open its doors mid 2023 providing care for 94 children per day and is the brainchild of founder and owner of Kool Beanz Academy, Bruce Coulson who has been in the ECEC sector for over 16 years.

Mr Coulson currently operates six facilities in Northern NSW and is soon to launch a $10 million facility at Metricon Stadium in conjunction with the Gold Coast SUNS.

The service has been designed to support children with additional needs through higher child to staff ratios and staffed by educators specifically trained with the skills to help support children with diverse needs.

Construction on the $5 million Harrup Park development commenced earlier this month, with local builder Citecon assigned to the project. 

 “We were introduced to the Mackay region through the Gold Coast SUNS partnership with Mackay Council,” Mr Coulson said.

“It didn’t take us long to fall in love and start to build our presence here, quickly feeling welcomed by the local community. The Council have been extremely supportive of this and we look forward to providing the local community with a much-needed service.”

A key component of the partnership between Mackay Regional Council and the Gold Coast Suns has focused on building greater investment opportunities in the region, something which Gold Coast Suns General Manager Andrew Thomas says has been reflected in the way the club was able to facilitate and build the relationship between Mackay Regional Council and Kool Beanz.

Kool Beanz SUNS Harrup Park will feature purpose specific learning environments such as an Art Studio, STEM Room, Library, Lego Room, Zen Garden and natural play spaces.

Learn more about the Kool Beanz offering here.