There were smiles all round as the Napranum community united to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its early childhood centre on 15 May. Photo: Supplied.
If the celebration to mark the first 50 years of Napranum’s early childhood centre is any indication, the vital community facility has at least another five decades and many more ahead of it.
The community turned out in force to celebrate the Napranum Early Childhood Centre’s (NECC) 50th birthday on 15 May, with Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council Deputy Mayor Robert Wigness delivering a speech to mark the occasion.
NECC director Carmen Dixon said the centre supported local children in their early years and provided a safe place to grow while connecting them to culture and Country.
“It’s shaped by the community, and it gives back by supporting families and helping to raise the next generations,” she said.
“The 50th anniversary celebration was a very proud moment for the whole community; it brought together families, past and present students, Elders, and past and present educators to reflect on the successes that the centre has achieved over the years.
“The anniversary was also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of connection, learning, and respect for Indigenous histories and knowledge systems; many former students reflected on how the centre has grown and developed since they attended and the deep connection they still have for the centre.”
Ms Dixon said the NECC provided a critical service to local working families, as well as those undertaking study, adding she believed the secret to the facility’s success over the past 50 years was its people.
“The real strength of NECC has always been its people,” she reflected.
“The commitment from past and present staff and Elders, many of whom are from community and shared their knowledge and time with the centre for years and even decades.
“This is what’s kept the centre going strong for 50 years; they’ve built it up with love, care and a deep understanding of what local families and children need.”
As community members celebrated and considered what the NECC meant to them and their families, Ms Dixon said the council had plans in place to ensure the ongoing success of the centre for future generations.
“The future for NECC is very strong,” she said.
“It will keep growing with the community – shaped by local voices, guided by Elders, and inspired by the past educators who’ve laid the groundwork.
“Council is currently undertaking an extensive investment program, which will ensure the centre continues to deliver quality services well into the future.”
Napranum Early Childhood Centre director Carmen Dixon says the strength of the vital community resource over its 50-year history has been its people. Photo: Supplied.
