About us

The parents who established the Kindergarten had a bold vision to provide a brighter future for the children of Cairns. They fundraised, sought grants and worked hard to purchase and establish the extensive grounds our Kindergarten is situated on. This passionate group of parents recognised the importance of quality early learning to build a strong foundation for life. Recent research confirms this vision. It is now widely acknowledged that quality early childhood education has lifelong benefits linked to higher success rates and educational outcomes later in life.

As a community kindergarten, parents are engaged in all the processes that support continuous improvement and growth. Our families have the capacity to direct the future of the kindergarten for the benefit of children and families in years to come.

WHY CHOOSE OUR KINDY?

Quality care and education at an affordable price

Consistent, stable staff support children to feel safe, secure and connected

An exceptional outdoor environment and natural play space

Highly qualified long term experienced staff

Exceeding National Quality Standards Rating

Facilities and learning spaces designed specifically for the Kindergarten-aged child to maximise their development

Established groups ensure children can develop strong friendships with their peers by attending the same days and times throughout the year.

Parents believe our Kindergarten better prepares children for school routines and responsibilities

Family oriented - we have a history of educating whole families with both siblings and next generation families choosing CCK as their preferred early childhood centre

Community events such as socials and working bees are a feature of the Kindergarten calendar and often lead to the development of lasting relationships with other Kindy families.

MEET OUR TEAM

BIANCA OSBALDISTON

Position: Co-Director/Teacher Kookaburra Group

Qualifications: Bachelor of Education

About Me: I have enjoyed my 20 years in education teaching in primary school, kindergartens and working in special education programs. I have taught in a variety of locations, including Brisbane, Tasmania and Victoria. My family has lived in Cairns for 7 years where my 3 children have been happily growing up, and where I have been able to teach in school and kindergarten.

What I like about being an educator at CCK:
I love the community atmosphere that is felt in our kindergarten, including the environment and grounds that are conducive to happy learning and play. I also enjoy working with educators and families that are dedicated to supporting children, as they learn, explore and develop skills in preparation for school and life.

CHRISTINE HANRAHAN

Position: Co-Director/Teacher Sunbird Group

Qualifications: Master of Indigenous Studies, Bach. Ed., Diploma of Teaching Early Childhood

About Me: I have been teaching for over 30 years in many different locations including Victoria, Western Australia and Cape York Peninsula, where my two daughters grew up. This is my 8th year at Cairns Community Kindergarten.

What I like about being an educator at CCK:
I love working with the dedicated team of educators whose experience and skills support children to learn, grow and thrive.

ANNETTE ANDERLINI

Position: Co-Educator Kookaburra Group

Qualifications: Certificate Child Care

About Me: I am a mother and grandmother. I have been with Cairns Community Kindergarten for 16 years and in early childhood education for over 30 years.

What I like about being an educator at CCK:
I really appreciate the strong and lasting connections we make with families and children at Cairns Community Kindergarten.

LIANNE MURCHIE

Position: Co-Educator Sunbird Group

Qualifications: Diploma of Kindergarten Teaching

About Me: I have been working in early childhood for over 30 years and have been at Cairns Community Kindergarten for 25 years. My three children have all attended this kindergarten. I am Nanny to two beautiful boys and one lovely girl.

What I like about being an educator at CCK:
I love seeing the joy on children’s faces as they explore our wonderful natural environment and share their stories with us.

KARINE VERSANG

Position: Office Manager

Qualifications: Diploma in Business Studies

About Me: I have been working at Cairns Community Kindergarten for 11 years. My two boys also attended this kindergarten and loved it. They are now both in high school. We are originally from the French part of Switzerland and moved to Cairns 16 years ago.

What I like about working at CCK:
Providing strong support for the parents who make up the Kindergarten Committee is very rewarding for me. I also really enjoy meeting new families and helping them transition to Kindy.