Macksville preschool saved from the brink of closure

THE Macksville Pre-School Childcare Centre is celebrating 50 years of service as a not-for-profit community preschool this year.

The half century landmark was almost not reached however, after the preschool fell on hard times that threatened the closure of the centre earlier this year.

With the challenge of fixing a severely damaged roof, removal of asbestos and long overdue maintenance, the community preschool found itself in financial and governance trouble.

Seeking assistance, the centre’s two remaining board members reached out to Nambucca Valley councillor Tamara McWilliam, a former attendee of the preschool.

“I was deeply saddened to hear the news that the preschool was facing imminent closure,” councillor McWilliam told News Of The Area.

“I went to this preschool as did both of my children.

“This beautiful community preschool holds memories over generations for me.”

Cr McWilliam then approached the General Manager (GM) and Mayor of Nambucca Valley Council, seeking support to help the preschool keep the doors open.

Council resolved to appoint GM Bede Spannagle to the preschool’s board to assist with financial and governance guidance.

“This longstanding community preschool is essential to our community and offers a unique nurturing and inclusive environment for the youngest members of our community to thrive in,” Mr Spannagle said.

“I am excited to be helping, along with Bree Castle as our treasurer and Stacey Munro as our secretary, and an enthusiastic group of parents.

“We will be positioning the preschool to ensure a sustainable financial and governance future.”

The Council GM said childcare is an “essential service”, noting an insufficient number of providers to meet demand in the Nambucca Valley.

“We want families within our community and those looking to move to our Valley to have adequate access to childcare,” Mr Spannagle stated.

Council has now become the Crown land manager of the land the preschool resides upon.

“This will ensure the preschool and daycare centre has a home for the long term,” Mr Spannagle said.

Following the retirement of long-term centre director Kylie Hall, the executive committee has appointed Amanda Cowan as temporary director during this transitional phase.

“Amanda has extensive knowledge and experience in the childcare sector, and is a valuable addition to the team of incredible staff here at the centre,” Mr Spannagle commented.

Ms Cowan said she is excited to get started in the director role.

“I’m honoured to join a preschool community that recognises children as unique and precious individuals deserving of care, respect, and opportunities to explore the world around them through play, imagination, and meaningful relationships.

“With the support of our passionate team of educators and an inspiring new management committee, we are entering an exciting new phase.”