Seven Greater Shepparton early learning centres awarded for oral health leadership

Seven early learning services in Greater Shepparton have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to children’s oral health through the Smiles 4 Miles program, an initiative led by Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV).

The program, based on the World Health Organisation’s Health Promoting Schools Framework, delivers clear and consistent oral health messages “Drink well, Eat well, Clean well” to support the development of healthy habits in early childhood settings.

Smiles 4 Miles targets high-risk areas across Victoria and is delivered locally by GV Health.

Currently, the program reaches more than 2,300 children across 38 early learning centres in Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie Shire and Moira Shire.

This year, seven services were formally recognised for their exceptional dedication to oral health promotion:

• Arthur Dickmann Children’s Centre
• Dolena Young Preschool
• Frank R. Pullar Children’s Centre
• Isabel Pearce Kindergarten
• Nancy Vibert Kindergarten
• Rodney Neighbourhood Steiner Kindergarten
• Tatura Children’s Centre

Goulburn Valley Public Health Unit Health Promotion Officer Indee Muthuarachchi praised the centres for integrating oral health education into their everyday practices.

“These services have gone above and beyond to promote healthy habits through play-based education, healthy eating policies, and community engagement,” he said. “By embedding oral health promotion into their programs, educators are helping children and families build the skills that support lifelong wellbeing.”

The program equips educators with practical tools to promote oral health, such as encouraging children to choose water over sugary drinks and brush their teeth twice daily. In doing so, it aligns with the National Quality Framework Quality Area 2 – health and safety.

GV Health acknowledged the efforts of educators and health promotion staff, including Alicia Minotti, Ann John and Phillipa Jones, who were instrumental in supporting the awarded services.

“These awards are a reflection of the passion and dedication of educators across our region,” Mr Muthuarachchi said. “We’re proud to work alongside such committed services to support better health in our communities.”

As oral health remains a critical aspect of children’s overall development, initiatives like Smiles 4 Miles demonstrate the impact of early intervention and community collaboration. 

By championing healthy habits from the start, these early learning centres are laying strong foundations for the lifelong wellbeing of the children in their care.