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11th LPBD Conference 2025 celebrates Connection, Safety, and Leadership across NT ECEC sector
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Fiona Alston
Oct 30, 2025
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More than 375 early childhood education and care (ECEC) professionals from across the Northern Territory gathered for the 11th Little People, Big Dreams (LPBD) Conference in Darwin earlier this month, reaffirming the power of shared learning, connection and commitment to improving outcomes for children.
The event, hosted by Child Australia, was a full day of inspiration, reflection, and action. From a heartfelt Welcome to Country to cutting-edge keynote sessions and practical breakout workshops, the conference delivered on its promise to provide deep, meaningful professional learning and celebrate the unique strengths of the NT’s ECEC community.
A spectacular Welcome to Country was delivered by the children from Bagot OSHC alongside Edwin Fejo, setting a culturally rich and joyful tone for the day. Delegates welcomed the inclusion of children in the ceremony, describing it as “refreshing, authentic and deeply important.”
Delegates then heard from The Hon. Jo Hersey, Minister for Education and Training, via video message, followed by Susan Bowden, Chief Executive of the Department of Education, who officially opened the event.
Child Australia CEO Tina Holtom commenced her welcome by acknowledging long-serving educator Marita Mummery, Programs Manager at Bagot Community OSHC, recognising her ten years of dedicated service.
Welcoming delegates to a packed program, Tina reflected on the significance of the event:
“The LPBD Conference is a cornerstone of professional development in the NT. It’s a celebration of our collective effort to nurture children, support families, and champion quality education and care.”
Setting an inspiring tone for the day, Tina commended attendees for their commitment to the sector and emphasised the power of shared learning, the Territory’s unique strengths, and the vital role educators play in shaping the futures of children and communities across the NT.
The morning featured keynote presentations from internationally recognised neuroscientist Professor Selena Bartlett, mindful leadership expert Charlotte Thaarup-Owen, and trauma-aware practice leader Sarah Forgan. Themes explored included the impact of screen time on child development, the importance of leading with presence and integrity, and practical strategies for building safe and resilient learning environments.
Selena Bartlett’s presentation was widely regarded as a standout. One delegate said:
“Selena was the star of the show. Her insights on screen time, anxiety, and executive functioning were incredibly relevant and timely. The way she translated complex neuroscience into practical strategies was outstanding.”
Charlotte Thaarup’s keynote provided delegates with powerful tools for managing stress and strengthening leadership practice, while Sarah Forgan’s session reinforced the importance of trauma-aware approaches in ECEC settings.
A thought-provoking panel session, “Child Safety in Plain Sight: From Compliance to Vigilance”, brought together Bartlett, Nicole Talarico, Katy Brennan and Connie Borg. Together, they challenged delegates to reflect on how cultural vigilance can complement regulatory compliance, with an emphasis on proactive, everyday safety practices.
Twelve afternoon breakout sessions allowed educators to explore topics in more depth, from digital safety and pedagogy to leadership, wellbeing and inclusive practice. These were proudly sponsored by the Berry Street Education Model and HESTA.
The exhibition space featured a diverse range of innovative resources, products, and services from across the sector.
Delegate feedback reflected a strong appreciation for the professional learning, engaging speakers and opportunities to connect:
“This was my third LPBD and each year it gets better and better. Always great to connect with like-minded educators and former colleagues.”
“All the speeches made me reflect on the practices of our Centre. I learned different ways to approach situations and how it’s important to ensure children’s safety, voices and wellbeing remain at the heart of our work.”
“I especially enjoyed the interactive workshops and connecting with educators from different services.”
“Loved the welcome to the country by the Bagot Dancers! Amazing way to start the day. The MC Nicole was amazing! Loved Charlotte and Selena and Sarah, very informative and engaging. Sarah's presence on stage is so warm and engaging, she definitely stands out!”
“The highlight of the LPBD Conference for me was the opportunity to connect with so many passionate professionals and share new ideas about best practices in learning and development. It was inspiring to see how everyone is working toward improving outcomes in their services.”
A heartfelt thank you goes to our major partner, the Northern Territory Government, as well as to all of our sponsors: Berry Street, HESTA, Territory Childcare Group, The Sector, Goodstart, Connetix, and Wingaru. The LPBD Conference continues to be a powerful reminder of the strength, passion and professionalism within the Northern Territory’s early childhood education and care community.
In conjunction with the conference, the 2025 Northern Territory Education and Care Awards recognised outstanding educators, leaders and programs across the Territory. Proudly presented by Child Australia in partnership with the Northern Territory Government and Judging coordinators Early Childhood Australia. The event welcomed nominations from urban and remote services alike, highlighting the dedication and innovation defining the NT’s early childhood sector. Now in its 12th year, the evening was honoured by the presence of the Hon. Jo Hersey, Minister for Education & Training, who joined in celebrating this year’s outstanding recipients.
This year’s winners included:
Outstanding Educator, Sponsored by Industry Skills Advisory Council Northern Territory, Marie Renee Antoinette Valerien-Lajoie - YMCA of the Northern Territory Little Mangoes Child Care Centre
Outstanding Aboriginal Educator, Sponsored by Goodstart Early Learning Annika Rory, Moriarty Foundation
Outstanding Early Childhood Teacher, Sponsored by Kentish Community Services Tracy Bond, Humpty Doo Preschool
Outstanding Leader, Sponsored by Catholic Education NT Rachael Sheppard, Kentish Community Services
Outstanding Education and Care Program, Sponsored by Charles Darwin University, Mimik-ga Centre Families as First Teachers Program
Their work exemplifies the spirit of excellence, community and inclusion celebrated by the Awards, serving as a powerful reminder of the impact that outstanding early childhood professionals have on children, families and communities.
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