Community & Business
15 October, 2025
Gilgandra Preschool’s national HESTA Award for Outstanding Service
The local preschool stood out among around 250 nominations from across the country for its inclusive and innovative approach to early learning, proving that quality education thrives in rural communities.
Gilgandra Preschool has been named one of Australia’s top early education services, taking home the HESTA Award for Outstanding Service at the national Early Childhood Education and Care Awards in Perth, Western Australia.
Director Kristy Hyndes said the national win came as a huge shock but also a proud moment for her dedicated team. “Being recognised as a winner is both a tremendous honour and a powerful affirmation of our team’s work, commitment, and heart,” Ms Hyndes said.
“For a small rural community service, it reflects how genuine relationships, strategic inclusion, and deep respect for children, culture, and community can lead to transformative outcomes.”
At the heart of Gilgandra Preschool’s success is its focus on access for all families - no matter their background or circumstances.
Through the Start Strong for Community Preschools program, families can access fully subsidised fees, meaning many children attend for free. The preschool also provides free local bus transport, covers excursions and visiting programs, and even offers onsite therapy sessions at no extra cost to families.
“It’s all about access - making sure that every child, no matter their background, can attend and thrive,” Ms Hyndes said.
The centre’s early intervention program includes weekly visits from occupational therapists and speech pathologists, who not only support children but also train educators to embed therapy strategies into everyday learning.
“Our whole team is trained so that all children benefit,” Ms Hyndes said. “I also help families through things like NDIS applications and medical appointments; sometimes even going with them to see specialists. It can be daunting, and we want to make sure they’re supported every step of the way.”
Nearly half of the preschool’s children identify as Aboriginal, and cultural inclusion is woven into daily life. Staff are part of the North West Wiradjuri Language Hub, learning and teaching Wiradjuri throughout the day. “We greet each other in Wiradjuri and families have started using it at home too.” The service’s Bush Preschool program is another standout. Each week, children spend time learning in the bush - exploring, building, tracking wildlife, and connecting with Country.
“It’s about taking safe risks, problem-solving, and learning from the land,” Ms Hyndes said.
“Children see the changes in nature week to week. It’s hands-on, grounded, and builds real resilience.”
HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said this year’s winners demonstrated extraordinary dedication to creating inclusive and supportive environments where children can thrive.
“Congratulations to all winners and finalists,” Ms Blakey said. “They have shown a remarkable commitment to nurturing the potential of our youngest generation.”
The awards also recognised Larissa Hayes from Victoria for Individual Leadership, and C&K Ascot Community Kindergarten from Queensland for Advancing Pedagogy and Practice. Each winner received a share of $30,000 in prize money, provided by ME (a subsidiary of BOQ), to support professional development and service improvement.
Ms Hyndes said Gilgandra Preschool plans to use its share to expand cultural and early intervention programs, grow the Bush Preschool, and share knowledge with other early education services.
“This recognition validates our belief that quality early education should be accessible for every child, regardless of where they live or their needs,” she said.
“It also shows that rural services can deliver the same level of innovation and excellence as any metropolitan centre - sometimes even more.”
The HESTA Early Childhood Education and Care Awards are held annually alongside the Early Childhood Australia Conference, celebrating the educators and services shaping the nation’s youngest learners.
