SDN Lady McKell celebrates 70 years of education and care

Freya Lucas

Feb 23, 2024

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Children, families and staff, both past and present gathered together at SDN Lady McKell in Goulburn, New South Wales, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the service, which opened its doors in 1954 thanks to the fundraising efforts of Lady McKell, wife of the Governor-General of Australia, Sir William McKell.

Three generations of McKell’s were in attendance, along with the Mayor of Goulburn, Peter Walker.

Lady McKell’s grandson, Peter Lucas, generously donated a commemorative silver tray to the centre, which was originally gifted to his family when the centre opened. Mr Lucas was joined by his granddaughter and great grandson on the special day.

(from L-R): SDN CEO Kay Turner, Lady McKell's grandson, Peter Lucas and Goulburn Lord Mayor Peter Walker

“In our portfolio of centres, Lady McKell stands out as a beacon of consistent high-quality early childhood education and of community connection,” SDN CEO Kay Turner said, complimenting the centre on its efforts to serve the community for the past seven decades.

Children from the service marked the occasion by presenting a special painting to the Mayor, and helping to plant two trees in the service’s garden with his help.

Goulburn Lord Mayor Peter Walker together with SDN Lady McKell Centre Director Anna Lamarra and children planting trees to mark the occasion.

After the ceremonial aspects were complete, attendees enjoyed afternoon tea with “plenty of cake, conversation and connection, something which Ms Turner said was “a testament to the centre's cherished memories and community spirit over the last seven decades.”

Learn more about SDN Children’s Services here. Main image shows (from L-R): Acting Centre Director Sara Sheekey; former Centre Director Penny Saxton; outgoing Centre Director, Anna Lamarra and former ECT, Anne Halliday.

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