Baw Baw Shire FDC celebrates National Service of the Year Award

Baw Baw Shire Council’s Family Day Care service was recently recognised as the National Service of the Year at the 2021 Family Day Care Australia Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.  

“Congratulations to our award-winning Baw Baw Shire Family Day Care team. We are so fortunate to have such skilled and passionate educators working in our community. The families that make use of this excellent service know firsthand just how much they care and dedicate themselves to everything they do,” Baw Baw Mayor Michael Leaney said.  

The Council has 22 Family Day Care educators and four other staff working across the Shire and has delivered care to Baw Baw families for more than 30 years. The team were selected as national finalists for the award for the Tasmania/Victoria region, before winning the overall award at a gala ceremony held on Saturday 26 February. 

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Baw Baw Family Day Care have been outspoken advocates for educator and staff wellbeing, and prioritise strong, meaningful relationships with peers, children, and families, and the team was recognised for their collaborative approach to ongoing development, reflective practice, and community contribution. 

“Baw Baw Shire Family Day Care have displayed excellence in all areas of practice and are committed to providing quality outcomes for their children, peers and communities. Their contributions, not just to family day care but to the wider early childhood sector, are invaluable,” Family Day Care Australia CEO Andrew  Paterson said.

The award was accepted on behalf of Baw Baw Shire Family Day Care by Caroline Halliday, who coordinates the program. 

“I am greatly honoured to receive this National Award on behalf of Baw Baw Shire Council, who continue to support us and see the value in the service we provide,” she said. 

“This  award is only possible because of the amazing support we receive from staff, educators, and of course the families who participated in the nomination process. We are greatly honoured to receive this award and will continue to make sure we provide the best possible service to families in Baw Baw Shire.” 

Baw Baw Shire Family Day Care is rated as Exceeding the National Standards and in addition to this year’s award, they have been previously recognised with Perpetual Star, Coordinator of the Year and Regional Educator of the Year awards by Family Day Care Australia. 

Click here to learn more about Baw Baw Family Day Care service.