Gembrook Preschool celebrated a milestone on Tuesday afternoon, 3 June, with the official opening of Stage One of its outdoor learning area redevelopment, a brand-new sandpit and play space, proudly funded through the preschool’s own fundraising efforts.
The occasion was made even more meaningful as the community came together to farewell a much-loved educator whose 26-year legacy has left a lasting mark on the centre.
The $25,000 project, which represents years of dedication by past and present committees, was opened before a crowd of families, staff, and community members who gathered to celebrate the achievement.
The new sandpit was not just a shiny new addition, but a symbol of what community-led vision and persistence can accomplish.
Former preschool president Julia Prout reflected on the years of work behind the project, praising the commitment of many.
“The beautiful new space is more than just a refreshed addition, it represents a long-term commitment. Lisa , Stephen and I each led committees that carried this project forward with care and pride,” Ms Prout said.
Ms Prout said the need for an inclusive, accessible sandpit was identified through the preschool’s Quality Improvement Plan, led by long-time educator, Kim Busacca.
“Kim recognised, through her experience, that a new sandpit accessible to all children and adults was essential. It’s thanks to her leadership, and the hard work of our centre manager Melissa, that we’ve brought this vision to life,” Ms Prout said.
Though current president Stephen Cameron humbly described his role as “taking credit,” he acknowledged the legacy he inherited.
“When it got opened, a lot of people messaged me and said, ‘Well, that looks fantastic.’ I didn’t do much. By the time I joined, the project was well into its advanced stages. It’s because of previous committees and leaders like Julia that we’re here today,” Mr Cameron said.
Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik and Cr David Nickell also attended the ceremony. During the formal proceedings, the current president read aloud a congratulatory message from local MP Daniela De Martino, celebrating the team’s outstanding achievement.
“The new sandpit and play space are a testament to your creativity and dedication, it’s inspiring to see what can be accomplished through local initiative and teamwork,” Ms De Martino’s message read.
The day also carried special emotional weight as the community farewelled a beloved co-educator, Kim Barkley, who retired earlier this year after 26 years of service.
In a surprise tribute, a bench seat with a plaque bearing Ms Barkley’s name was unveiled – a permanent mark of gratitude in the space she helped shape.
Ms Barkley, affectionately known by many as “the constant,” spoke with warmth and humour about her journey, which began in April 1999.
“I started at Gembrook Preschool 26 years ago, last century, I stayed and I stayed and I stayed,” she said.
“I just loved it. The families, the children, the team, I never felt it was a challenge.”
Over the years, Ms Barkley witnessed vast changes – from staffing models and shared fruit platters to remote teaching during COVID. Yet her joy never wavered.
“I remember saying to my husband, I’d even do it for nothing getting up in the morning, delivering something to these little faces – it’s pretty special,” she said.
She shared fond memories of introducing Bush Kinder to the preschool, as well as more playful moments like chasing a runaway gingerbread man down the path with fellow educator Mrs B.
“Hopefully the children share some fond memories of our time together. I certainly have,” she said in closing.
The preschool isn’t done yet. Stage Two of the outdoor redevelopment – which will include an inclusive, undercover learning space, is now in the planning stages. A funding application has been submitted to Cardinia Shire Council, with hopes of securing 50 per cent of the cost through a capital works grant.
Ms Prout summed up the heart of the project.
“To the untrained eye, the sandpit might look like just a fun spot for digging. But to educators and children, it’s where discovery, learning and friendships begin – one bucket of sand at a time,” she said.
The opening of the redeveloping of the sand pit was a celebration of legacy, love and local spirit – a day that will live long in the hearts of the Gembrook community.
The event wrapped up with some light refreshments, giving everyone a chance to chat and celebrate together.
