Ingrid Stitt commends Rochester Kindergarten on resilience and recovery

Victoria’s Minister for Early Childhood and Pre-Prep Ingrid Stitt recently visited the newly reopened Shine Bright EYM Rochester Kindergarten following the significant floods of 2022 that rendered their previous site unusable. 

With the support of the local community and authorities the kindergarten staff and children have created a welcoming new space in a purpose-built modular relocatable building at the Rochester High School site.

During her visit, Ms Stitt expressed her admiration for the Rochester Kindergarten community, praising their strength and resilience in the face of adversity. She emphasised the importance of investing in early childhood education and recognised the role played by the educators in shaping the future leaders of our society.

The children warmly welcomed their special guest, and were delighted to show her around their new service, and in their own way demonstrated gratitude for their resilient community, supportive families, what they love about their world, and the opportunities they have.

Many residents and businesses were impacted by the floods, however the community as a whole has rallied together to ensure that the children’s educational journey continued uninterrupted, reflecting their determination and tenacity. 

“It is truly heartening to witness the Rochester Kindergarten community’s unwavering determination to provide a nurturing environment for our children,” said Shine Bright CEO Suzi Sordan. 

“Their ability to overcome the challenges presented by the floods and create a new space filled with hope and learning is truly commendable. I am inspired by their resilience and the community spirit that drives them forward.”

Learn more about Shine Bright EYM Rochester Kindergarten here.