Meet our Teams
Carlton Meyn
Chief Executive Officer
I am passionate about ensuring children, families and communities across regional, rural and remote areas of Queensland have access to services so that all Queensland children thrive and achieve their potential regardless of their postcode. As BUSHkids CEO I am committed to developing and implementing innovative approaches in partnership with our communities to overcome the challenge of geographic isolation and social disadvantage.
Susan Harrison
With more than 25 years’ experience working in and leading allied health teams within Australia and the United Kingdom, I firmly believe that effectively supporting children living in Queensland’s rural and remote areas requires not just clinical support but building the capacity of families, professionals and communities in those areas.
With a degree in Speech Pathology from the University of Queensland and a Masters in Disability Studies, I am very committed to supporting families of children with social and emotional concerns, as well as disability and developmental delay, particularly those living in regional, rural and remote areas of the state.
Mandy Brussow
Director Finance and Shared Services
I applied for a role with BUSHkids because I was seeking a position where I could contribute to a meaningful purpose. The organisation’s commitment to improving the lives of children and families in rural and remote Queensland strongly aligns with my personal values. I’m passionate about using my skills and experience to support a team that makes a tangible impact in the community.
Liz
Manager – Business and Compliance
As an early childhood professional with 20 years’ experience working in the education, health and community sectors, I am a passionate advocate for the health and wellbeing of children and their families. I am delighted to be working with BUSHkids to support their vision of ensuring all Queensland children reach their potential regardless of where they live.
Tiffany Bannier-King
Quality Compliance Manager
It is great to work for an organisation with such amazing history helping children and their families, and continuing to support them today. I find it inspiring to work with teams across Queensland who are making positive developmental changes in the lives of children and supporting their families as well.
With a degree in Health Service Management (Safety and Quality), I am passionate about ensuring relevant principles and processes are in place across the organisation to enhance a culture that delivers safe, quality practices.
Beth
Acting Service Manager AH, CPSS, eKindy, Kindy Uplift, WQPHN
I have worked in a number of roles at BUSHkids since 2016 including Project Officer, Speech Pathology Clinical Supervisor and Allied Health Services Manager and have enjoyed each role and working for such a progressive organisation. I love working with children and families and now am thoroughly enjoying a role which has a broader influence on improving the health and wellbeing outcomes for children and families in Queensland.
Megan
Lead Practitioner and Lead Occupational Therapist
I am very proud to be a part of the BUSHkids team. I strongly align my own valves to that of BUSHkids and I am passionate about helping children and families who live in rural and remote locations access good quality healthcare. Studying Occupational Therapy at James Cook University in Townsville, shaped and inspired me to work with children in rural and remote communities. My goal is to educate communities, empower family’s and enable children to live a happy and fulfilled life. I feel very fortunate to love what I do!
Lindy
Children and Parenting Team Leader
I am grateful to be working for BUSHkids, an organisation whose values of family centered and strength based approach reflect my own. I love the welcoming and friendly environment of the work place and the support that the BUSHkids staff provide.
Previously I worked for Department of Disability Services and have extensive experience and commitment to supporting people with a disability and their families to have the best opportunity to develop to their full potential. I am excited to be working closely with the Child & Family Facilitators and supporting them in their role to provide a quality service to children and families in remote and regional areas.
Kaitlin
Lead Psychologist
As an Educational & Developmental Psychologist, I am passionate about working collaboratively and empowering children, families and communities to make a positive difference as early as possible in their learning and development. I feel excited and privileged to contribute to establishing BUSHkids’ telepractice Service, working as part of a multidisciplinary team and embracing technology to improve access to high quality services for rural and remote families.
Rebecca
Team Leader Allied Health | Speech Pathologist
I am so excited to be a part of a multidisciplinary team that provides allied health services to the region! I feel extremely lucky to be a part of a company with such a rich history and a strong value system.
Ingrid
Speech Pathologist
As a speech pathologist, I am committed to supporting children to develop confidence and skills to communicate effectively. I have experience in private practice, community health, and education settings. I am also interested in practice education and have been involved in clinical education at UQ and Griffith. I am thrilled to be part of the BUSHkids team delivering sustainable, equitable, and accessible services to rural Queensland.
Cara
Speech Pathologist
I had the opportunity to work with BUSHkids as part of my Masters degree and immediately felt like I’d found my home. I love the diversity of clients and families we have the opportunity to work with, and the passion of the BUSHkids team for the work we do.
Nishani
Speech Pathologist
I was drawn to BUSHkids as they uphold key values that I strongly align with. They provide accessible services to families and communities throughout Queensland, with a strong emphasis on family-centred practice, which fosters an environment that empowers families.
Molly
Speech Pathologist
During university I was fortunate to have a placement with BUSHkids Warwick where I developed my passion for supporting childrens’ communication and development. I have always been interested in supporting regional and rural communities and BUSHkids gave me the opportunity to connect and learn from families and communities living in these areas. I am excited to be a part of BUSHkids and work within a collaborative and family-centred team to create better outcomes and opportunities for children and their families.
Sarah
Speech Pathologist
I have extensive experience in teaching, which provided me with valuable insights into the value of speech therapy within child development. Since graduating from my Master of Speech Pathology, I was eager to contribute my skills and passion for supporting children’s communication needs with BUSHkids.
Nikki
OT & Community-Engagement Therapist
Having grown up in Townsville and seeing the great work of BUSHkids in the local community, I am excited to now be working for this organisation. As a qualified occupational therapist, I am passionate about building inclusive communities and supporting children and families to live the life they choose to live.
Hayley
Occupational Therapist – Kindy Uplift
With my interests in general development, sensory processing and the overlap with attachment and parenting, as well as perinatal and infant mental health, I was so pleased to join the BUSHkids team to help support the provision of the Kindy Uplift program.
Brett
Maintenance & Facilities Coordinator
It’s a privilege to work for BUSHkids and to be part of a team that helps children and their families across Queensland.
Lisa
WHS Coordinator
I am motivated and feel satisfaction and connection to a role and workplace that has a greater purpose of helping individuals and the community. I am drawn to the purpose, mission and values of BUSHkids to support children and families by providing accessible and equitable care and education. The workplace culture at BUSHkids is inclusive and family focused. Supporting children and families is the first step in improving the community and better health outcomes.
Fabien
HR Coordinator
It is an honour and a great satisfaction to join a growing team of amazing people, all dedicated to provide their best to support children and families in rural communities. I will myself strive for being a strong support within the BUSHkids family so that our people can focus on their honourable and rewarding mission.
Michelle
Recruitment Coordinator
I have a strong desire to make an impact and support those that are most vulnerable in the community. To further promote and support the amazing work that BUSHkids are achieving by providing essential services to families was an opportunity that I couldn’t miss.
Ling
Senior Accountant
What interested me in joining BUSHkids is BUSHkids’ mission and what BUSHkids has achieved over the past 85 years – to support the health and wellbeing of children and families in Queensland’s regional, rural and remote communities.
It is a huge privilege for me to be part of BUSHkids’ family to allow me to contribute via my accounting knowledge and experiences accumulated over the years. I believe the position is also a long-term fit for me as it will allow me to continue to grow professionally.
Marie
Financial Accountant
I see this opportunity at BUSHkids as a way to continue to make a difference in people’s lives. Though not involved directly in community engagement, it is incredibly rewarding to know that the work I do behind the scenes will help drive meaningful change in the community and improve the lives of children and their families.
Kathy
Finance and Claims Administration Support Officer
For the past few years I have had a very real desire to have a career that makes a real difference in the world. I wanted to be part of an organisation where positive outcomes happen every day – where lives are changed for the better. I am excited to be a contributing member of BUSHkids and to see people benefit from the valuable work we do.
Ken
IT Team Leader
I joined BUSHkids with the goal of assisting and growing their internal IT systems and processes. Doing so gives me great pride, as through various IT projects I’m able to support frontline staff deliver the best services to the large number of families BUSHkids helps every year.
Philip
IT Support Officer
I was interested in joining BUSHkids due to the chance to take on a role supporting an organisation whose mission is providing healthcare and assisting with the wellbeing of children and families. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
Matisse
IT Support Officer
I decided to join BUSHkids because it provides a great way to help families and children across Queensland, as well as providing professional experience in the IT field.
Melissa
Executive Assistant to the CEO
Carlton Meyn’s passion and commitment for BUSHkids is clearly evident when you meet him – I am excited and feel privileged to join his team. I look forward to working together in providing an ongoing positive impact on the lives of children and their families in rural and remote Queensland communities.
Joy
Clinical Administration Coordinator
I feel privileged to work for BUSHkids and being able to contribute indirectly to supporting children and their families. My young nephew has autism and I know firsthand the struggles that brings, it’s certainly a learning curve. BUSHkids is a great organisation – the staff are wonderful people, skilled professionals providing invaluable free services to those who most need them – it’s very rewarding being part of that.
Trish
Administration Officer
BUSHkids is an amazing organisation helping regional Queensland families and, being a bush kid myself, I understand how essential these services are for rural communities. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to be a part of this respected team, helping to make a difference – creating positive outcomes for everyone involved.
Allycia
Resource Assistant
I am a passionate self-advocate as the Queensland representative for the Our Voice Committee, which works with Inclusion Australia; as well as being a member of Loud and Clear – a Sunshine Coast based self-advocacy group. I enjoy working with BUSHkids and value the importance of children being able to access early supports to ensure they can have a good life.
Matt
Brand Guardian
BUSHkids has been a ‘quiet achiever’ for three generations of Queenslanders, helping kids and families realise their full potential. Having supported the organisation for the past six years, it was a privilege for me in 2015 to be asked to step up and help further spread the word in the 80th anniversary year about the work of BUSHkids teams past and present.
Matt is an award winning graphic designer, editor and writer with 30 years experience in the field. In 2011 he designed the bold rebranding of BUSHkids and has supported the organisation’s work since. He is also one of the authors of our history book ‘BUSHIES’.
Adrian
Communications & Grant Writer
Adrian is a published writer of many magazine and journal articles, and is a keen social and genealogical historian, with an Honours Degree in History form the University of East Anglia in the UK. Before moving to Queensland, he won several awards, both as a writer and playwright. Adrian is one of the authors of our history book ‘BUSHIES’ writing much of the main content and fascinating sidebox stories, along with conducting a number of interviews.
Adrian has now joined the BUSHkids team as our Communications & Grant Writer, coordinating all our social media posts and raising our profile and followers considerably over the past year, and will be using his writing skills for preparing grant proposals in line with the organisation’s needs.
Sasha
Child and Family Facilitator
My passion is to work alongside young people in rural and remote communities, focusing on strong minds and wellbeing with programs to build confidence and learn new skills. Working at BUSHkids will allow me to continue this passion and to grow and develop community capacity to benefit children and families.
Amy
Parent Peer Facilitator
I know firsthand how frustrating, confusing and difficult it can be to find the right avenues on how to get the support that your child needs. Being a parent with children who have developmental issues, I feel passionate about providing help to all parents and families, which I can now achieve through BUSHkids.
Joana – Currently on leave
eKindy Pod Team Leader
Working with children has always been a passion I have and I believe BUSHkids is a great way to help children and families to achieve their best potential
Jenna
Team Leader
I am a firm believer in the power of play, inclusivity, and meaningful connections and that these elements are key to nurturing positive growth and development in children. Working with BUSHkids allows me to continue to cultivate these values within the community to enable more children to experience the powerful feeling of belonging and being
Shari
Operations Manager
I joined BUSHkids because I am passionate about providing opportunities to families and children. I enjoy working with regional and remote communities and assisting them to access services and overcome barriers.
Amy
Project Officer
I am excited to be working with BUSHkids to deliver support and much needed services for young children and families in our area. Bundy is my home town, so it has been very rewarding for me to have an opportunity to give back to our local community.
Nicola
Administration Assistant – Data and Reporting
I joined BUSHkids because I wanted to contribute to the important work BUSHkids does. I enjoy being the first point of contact for the families at the Bundaberg office.
Kellara
Occupational Therapist
The commitment BUSHkids demonstrates towards accessible health services resonates deeply with me, particularly since having grown up in regional and rural communities. I am genuinely interested in learning more about the use of telepractice within the scope of occupational therapy practice and how it can be used to support a variety of client needs.
Rylee
Occupational Therapist
All children should have the opportunity to access support and services to give them the best start in life. I’m excited to be working for BUSHkids to provide equal opportunities for all families in Bundaberg.
Sienna
Speech Pathologist
I was particularly drawn to BUSHkids because of their commitment to overcoming geographical barriers and ensuring children and families in rural and regional areas can access high-quality services that they may otherwise miss out on.
Julie
Social Worker
I was a primary school teacher for an extended period of time before returning to university to become a social worker. I have worked as a social worker within the Bundaberg region in recent years, during which time my focus has been on working with families. I am passionate about children being supported to grow to be the person they wish to be, and also want parents to recognise all that they do to be the best that they can be for their children.
Jenelle
Intake Officer Social Worker
My goal of becoming a social worker was to work in early intervention. I’m looking forward to working with children and families to support them to access services and supports.
Terri
Intake Officer – Early Childhood Teacher
I’ve been involved with BUSHkids for a long time, when my children were little. Having referred many kindy children and families to this service, I believe this is a valuable service to our community.
Linnae
Early Childhood Coordinator
I like the idea of being able to help more children and their parents to access the necessary supports required to improve their outcomes. Having worked in rural and remote kindergartens, I have seen how much early intervention has helped kids reach their potential.
Erin
Case Coordinator
I am excited to be a part of the BUSHkids team and be able to work with a group of people who help children and their families grow together and achieve positive outcomes.
Jaydah
Early Childhood Coordinator
I am extremely passionate about helping those in need and hope to harbour a safe and positive environment for clients and their families. BUSHkids values align with me both on a personal and professional level and I am excited to be working with the team as I progress through my studies.
Matilda
Early Intervention Facilitator
After living in rural and remote areas of Queensland and seeing the good their services provide for families in need, I wanted to be a part of the change for these families and communities.
Emma
Service Manager – Allied Health, Children and Parenting Support, eKindy and Kindy Uplift
I joined BUSHkids as I wanted to work for an organisation that has a history of providing support to families and helping children in rural areas.
I’m really enjoying working with BUSHkids to provide families with support to access Early Intervention and to access the NDIS.
Shavaun
Team Leader
With over 20 years experience in a wide range of early childhood settings, I am always passionate about providing great learning outcomes for children and their families. It is important for me to work for an organisation that has a similar set of core values that align with my core values, which I feel BUSHkids does.
Shanley
Team Leader – Healthy Outback Kids
During my three years working as a paediatric OT in Mackay, I saw a gap between NDIS and those who didn’t fit the criteria. When I searched for services to fill this gap, I found the answer – BUSHkids.
Grace
Practice and Operations Lead
Since graduating, I have worked as a paediatric occupational therapist in the Hunter Valley and on the Sunshine Coast. Working within multi-disciplinary teams to support children and their families to achieve their full potential was most rewarding and this experience encouraged me to jump at the opportunity to work at BUSHkids.
Eliza
Acting Lead Speech Pathologist
One of my first jobs as a new graduate was in a rural setting, an eye opening experience as it really highlighted the need for allied health services in these communities. BUSHkids seemed an obvious fit for me as I thrive on partnering with families and educational providers to better outcomes for children.
Anita
Intake Officer – Early Childhood Teacher
Inclusion for children with their varied, additional needs requires support to work towards their goals and independence. I enjoy supporting families to work together as a positive and cohesive unit to support their children.
Alicia
Early Childhood Coordinator
I am passionate about early years learning and enjoy incorporating this passion in to my home environment with my energetic children. When the position with BUSHkids popped up I felt like this was a unique and exciting opportunity to assist children and families from a different perspective. It is important that our families and our children know that they are cared about and their ideas, thoughts and feelings are highly valued.
Stacey
Early Childhood Coordinator
I am currently pursuing studies in primary education and early childhood, with a keen focus on children’s psychology and supporting children with disabilities within school settings. As I continue to expand my knowledge and skills, I aspire to make a positive impact in the lives of children and their families, particularly those facing unique challenges.
Jen
Early Childhood Coordinator
I am passionate about early intervention and believe that when families feel supported and empowered, children thrive. I feel honoured to be part of a collaborative team that works together to create positive, practical outcomes for children during such important early years.
Rebecca
Team Leader Allied Health | Speech Pathologist
I am so excited to be a part of a multidisciplinary team that provides allied health services to the region! I feel extremely lucky to be a part of a company with such a rich history and a strong value system.
Shanley
Team Leader – Healthy Outback Kids
During my three years working as a paediatric OT in Mackay, I saw a gap between NDIS and those who didn’t fit the criteria. When I searched for services to fill this gap, I found the answer – BUSHkids.
Cara
Speech Pathologist
I had the opportunity to work with BUSHkids as part of my Masters degree and immediately felt like I’d found my home. I love the diversity of clients and families we have the opportunity to work with, and the passion of the BUSHkids team for the work we do.
Madison
Allied Health Assistant
Natalie
Administration Officer
I firmly believe that empowering kids (and their families) to be their best selves is one of the most loving things you can do for them and for your community, and BUSHkids goes a long way in doing that. I’ve always admired the work that I have seen BUSHkids do with people I know/have worked with and with my own son. I feel so privileged to be a part of that and contribute to such an amazing organisation.
Rebecca
Team Leader Allied Health | Speech Pathologist
I am so excited to be a part of a multidisciplinary team that provides allied health services to the region! I feel extremely lucky to be a part of a company with such a rich history and a strong value system.
Dannielle
Occupational Therapist
Kahlee
Service Centre Coordinator
The opportunity to join the BUSHkids team has reignited my passion and sense of purpose to contribute to our community in a meaningful way. I am excited to work for an organisation that provides much needed support and services to children and their families, and whose values align so strongly with my own.
Kate
Case Coordinator
Working with BUSHkids gives me the opportunity to support children and families throughout regional Queensland.
Julianne
Child and Family Facilitator
With a background working in mental health and community development, I am passionate about working collaboratively to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable families through community capacity building. I have a degree in Behavioural Science, four children of my own, and am excited to be able to engage with families as a part of the BUSHkids team to provide support and education around child development and building the capacity of parents. Empowering children and their families in rural, remote and regional Queensland to be engaged, connected, resilient and ultimately helping communities to grow.
Annalise
Team Leader
I have assisted in the delivery of person-centred supports, previously engaged with BUSHkids assisting a young client, meeting individual needs, breaking past barriers and creating professional rapport with clients and families. I am overjoyed at the opportunity BUSHkids presents and feel privileged to work for a child and family-focused, non-profit organisation, giving back to our local community through early childhood intervention supports.
Nicole
Administration Officer
Having lived in remote locations across three states, I appreciate the benefits that BUSHkids services provide to families and children through the early years of discovery and development.
Casey
Allied Health Assistant
What interested me most about this role was that it aligned with my values and that I get to help children and families in the community who need support.
Crystal
Senior Case Coordinator
I am excited to be a part of the BUSHkids team and able to work with a group of passionate people who help children and their families grow together and achieve positive outcomes.
Meagan
Case Coordinator
I have experienced the work that BUSHkids do first-hand with my own children accessing their support. I now want to give back to my local community by working with vulnerable families and children. I am currently undertaking a Certificate IV in Allied Health, as well as completed an NDIS Risk Management Master Class and NDIS Worker Orientation Module to help me on this new path.
Michelle
Early Childhood Coordinator
BUSHkids’ vision and the role supporting children and their families is what interested me in joining BUSHkids. Access to services and supports should be equitable and timely no matter where a person is located or their socio-economic circumstances.
Rebecca
Team Leader
My child was involved with BUSHkids and in this time I have seen how empowering the NDIA system has been for my child’s development. Since this journey began, I knew I wanted to be a part of the bigger picture – helping others has always been important to me. Children are our most vulnerable and nothing empowers me more than to see a child grow and learn with the resources they need to develop.
Karen
Administration Officer
I love that the BUSHkids objective is to ensure that all children reach their potential, regardless of where they live. I loved the idea of combining my skills and knowledge of office management with education and I’m also undertaking further study as an Allied Health Assistant.
Emily
Administration Officer
Supporting early development and helping families thrive is something I find really important, and I wanted to be part of a team that makes such a positive difference in the community.
Breanna
Intake Officer – Early Childhood Teacher
During my time teaching, I was connected with BUSHkids by a parent who was an OT in the area. The connection I developed was amazing. I felt I could reflect, gain advice and support from the program. This connection developed and I began engaging families with the many services BUSHkids offer. BUSHkids provides a strong and engaged service within our rural community.
Julia
Case Coordinator
I was interested in joining the team at BUSHkids because I have observed the positive outcomes in students with a developmental delay and/or disability that had access to early intervention services at a young age. I also witnessed as a teacher how working with children in the early years had the greatest impact. I found when learning more about the organisation that my values aligned strongly as I am passionate about obtaining the best outcomes for each child.
Vicki
Case Coordinator
Siobhan
Early Childhood Coordinator
I was interested in joining BUSHkids to extend my knowledge and passion for helping families and children with complex needs reach their full potential. I strongly believe that the first five years of a child’s life is critical in their development.
Janet
Early Childhood Coordinator
I was drawn to BUSHkids because of the focus on accessibility, early support and family-centred practice, which aligns closely with my values and experience. I am excited to contribute my skills within a collaborative team and to be part of an organisation that makes a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families.
Sarah – Currently on leave
Acting Senior Coordinator
I know how important early intervention is and how valuable the support is to both the children and their families. Joining BUSHkids will further increase my ability to make a significant difference in the community I live in, I am very excited to be a part of that positive change.
Lily
Team Leader
I am currently completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science (Psychology)/Criminology and Justice. Having had experience as a residential youth worker, I know the importance of early intervention supports. I believe that being a part of the BUSHkids team will be beneficial to enriching the lives of children and their families by using a family-centred approach to provide the best individualised support.
Issy
Administration Officer
To work within an organisation that advocates for children and families, and being able to use my administration skills and experience within this environment, is just perfect!
Jacki
Workplace Trainer & Supervisor
I feel that working at BUSHkids will help me to continue to support children and families and allow me to use the skills that I have gained through diverse roles and through life experiences. I am excited to work with like-minded people as part of a team with a common goal.
Monica
Senior Case Coordinator
I have a Bachelor of Behavioural Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Disability studies. I have previously worked in Disability Employment Services and spent the last four years working with families in North Qld through the Intensive Family Support Program. I am excited to be joining BUSHkids in the Early Childhood Early Intervention team and look forward to continuing my work supporting children and families.
Jayden
Case Coordinator
With my background in Psychological Science and counselling, I’m passionate about working with families and children. Joining BUSHkids will allow me to help support families and contribute to the great work that BUSHkids does.
Tiff
Case Coordinator
My background in childcare and empathetic nature drives my passion to support children’s development and wellbeing. Joining BUSHkids has given me the opportunity to make a difference and allow me to contribute meaningfully while continuing to grow professionally in a field I care deeply about.
Tracey
Early Childhood Coordinator
BUSHkids is a fantastic organisation with a rich history of helping children and families in Queensland. Being able to work for an organisation that is focused on providing help for children who have a developmental delay is a great privilege and brings a sense of pride and integrity to my life.
Jo
Early Childhood Coordinator
Having worked with the NDIS and now being a parent myself, I was drawn to BUSHkids to support families to access the scheme and build a team around themselves and their children to navigate through these early years.
Raelee
Early Intervention Facilitator
One of my key phrases is “the earlier the intervention, the better the outcome”, so coming to work with BUSHkids was the perfect opportunity to live this ethos. I have been heavily involved with the Early Childhood Intervention Service in Tasmania and was keen to find a position that worked towards the same outcomes in Hervey Bay.
Jodi
Child and Family Facilitator
My decision to join BUSHkids was inspired by my own journey as a parent navigating my child’s diagnosis and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Through firsthand experience, I discovered that accessing early intervention does not have to be a difficult or overwhelming process.
Kirby
Child and Family Facilitator
Breanna
Intake Officer – Early Childhood Teacher
During my time teaching, I was connected with BUSHkids by a parent who was an OT in the area. The connection I developed was amazing. I felt I could reflect, gain advice and support from the program. This connection developed and I began engaging families with the many services BUSHkids offer. BUSHkids provides a strong and engaged service within our rural community.
Adele
Service Manager ECA
I have a strong practical understanding of Child Development and Health Promotion, and have worked with children and families in the community for many years. I have taught Early Childhood Studies at degree level and as such have a huge appreciation for the complexity of factors which influence children’s learning and development. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work for an organisation which takes an evidence based and family centered approach to early intervention.
Brooke
Team Leader Early Start Team ECA
I have a passion for working with children and families to ensure they reach their full potential. Prior to becoming an OT I also worked supporting children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families as a teacher’s aide, support worker and BUSHkids early intervention facilitator. I grew up in the South Burnett and am excited to be part of a team that provides accessible services to families and communities all over Queensland. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with families and communities of the Sunshine Coast region along with the team here at BUSHkids.
Heidi
Intake Team Leader
Having worked with children for many years, I am acutely aware of the barriers that families face when raising children with disabilities or developmental delays. As such, it gives me great pleasure to work with BUSHkids – supporting and advocating for families and being part of a team that promotes inclusion as we work to build the capacity of the Sunshine Coast community.
Sarah
Team Leader
I am passionate about helping families and children and making a difference in their lives. I previously worked with Queensland Health where I was flying to rural communities to assist with providing dental care to children and adults. I am proud to be working with an organisation and a team that always strives to make a difference in children’s long term development.
Sam
Administration Officer Early Start Team
I felt my personal philosophy aligned with BUSHkids and couldn’t wait to be a part of an organisation that respects children’s rights, dignity, competence, contribution and agency and values a strong partnership with the families of these children.
Abbie
Administration Officer
During my degree, I realised my passion is humanitarian and community development, especially in early intervention and child protection. BUSHkids stood out to me as a unique organisation that truly reflects both my values and career goals. It feels like the kind of place I pictured myself working when I finished my studies, and I’m really excited to be part of the team and contribute to the important work being done here.
Kath
Administration Support Officer
I made the decision to secure a role in a ‘helping’ organisation and the BUSHkids role perfectly suits my skillset but also my desire for meaningful work.
Dustie
Project Officer
Joining BUSHkids has allowed me to contribute to the growth and support of our community. The ECA team is essential in building awareness and providing great support for our local families. It feels great to be a part of a team that make real difference in children’s long term development.
Libby
Physiotherapist
I am passionate about helping infants, toddlers and young children gain the very best possible start in life. I was drawn to BUSHkids as I believe their philosophy, culture and work practices are closely aligned with my own and I am excited to work in a supportive and knowledge-rich environment with like minded professionals.
Aimee
Senior Social Worker Supervisor | Intake Social Worker
After spending some time working in University education, I am looking forward to getting back to directly working with children and families at BUSHkids. BUSHkids’ objective of child-focused, family-centered practice, and values of collaboration and accountability align closely with my own values and practice. I am also looking forward to working alongside other Social Workers in the organisation to strengthen practice and develop a strong, supportive team of Social Workers to care for families experiencing extra challenges in life.
Shay-Anne
Social Worker
Wanting the best for your children can, at times, be frustrating navigation the systems alone. I enjoy meeting people and I want to assist in providing the best possible support and outcomes for children and their families.
Lilly
Intake Social Worker
Having completed a double degree in Social Work and Criminology and Justice, I have developed a strong connection to practicing from a strength-based, trauma-informed and person-centred approach. I understand every person is unique and try to work with people to achieve their goals and navigate through psychosocial stressors.
Leva
Speech Pathologist
Sara
Occupational Therapist
I grew up rurally and was able to see the gap in services in remote environments. I am passionate about providing family-centred, strengths based interventions to children with delays and disabilities to help them reach their full potential and reach their goals.
Meg
Occupational Therapist
I completed a 10-week placement with BUSHkids and really enjoyed it. Throughout my placement at BUSHkids, I noticed the widespread, positive impact the organisation has on children and families across Queensland, I knew I would love to continue to be a part of that impact and the BUSHkids team.
Annie
Occupational Therapist
Chloe
Occupational Therapist
When I relocated to the Sunshine Coast, I was drawn to the commitment of BUSHkids to supporting children and families in their communities, regardless of where they live and its strong focus on early intervention and family-centred practice.
Renae
Occupational Therapist
I understand first-hand the challenges families can face in accessing timely services and supports, which has shaped my passion for equity in early intervention. I see BUSHkids as playing a vital role in bridging this gap and am inspired to support children and families in regional and remote communities.
Michelle
ECA Workplace Trainer and Supervisor
I am passionate about working in my local community and have dedicated my entire career to empowering families and supporting children. My values align with BUSHkids as being child focused and family centered. I am excited to build relationships in my role with BUSHkids and to inspire, motivate and empower people in my community.
Leanne
Senior Case Coordinator
I have worked with children and families my whole career of over 30 years. My qualification is in Early Childhood Education and Care and I am passionate about walking alongside families to ensure that children get the best possible start and can reach their full amazing potential. I am so grateful to be working at BUSHkids with such a family-centred and practical support model. I hope to be able to have a positive impact on lots more little lives.
Tracy
Case Coordinator
My background is many years working in Early Childhood Education with experience of supporting children with development delays and their families. I am proud and excited to be part of an organisation that provides strong early intervention supports to children and families that are family centered and child focused.
Carla
Case Coordinator
I am ready to take my career in a new direction and this would be a great opportunity to take my knowledge and experience from working in early childhood education into this role. There is so much for me to learn with BUSHkids, which excites me and I’m looking forward to the challenge, and continuing to work with children and families to give back to the community where I can.
Lee
Early Childhood Coordinator
I have worked as an early years teacher in international schools for over 10 years and am passionate about early intervention. BUSHkids values and vision align closely with mine, being child-focused and family-centred and I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to work for an organisation that is collaborative and accountable.
Alison
Early Childhood Coordinator
After working as a kindergarten teacher for the past decade, I have seen the importance of services like BUSHkids, and the impact they have on supporting children and families. When I found the opportunity to work within BUSHkids, I was eager to take it on and continue contributing to children’s development – an area that I am extremely passionate about.
Melissa
Early Childhood Coordinator
I was interested in this role to draw on my teaching experience and to work more closely and collaboratively with families to support children in reaching their individual goals.
Lauren
Early Intervention Facilitator
I am excited to transfer my knowledge and experience to assist families in giving their child the best start to life. I am highly motivated by children and have a passion for play, development and wellbeing. As a teacher I have experienced firsthand the profound impact of quality early intervention.
Ally
Early Intervention Facilitator
Following 20 years in marketing and communications, I decided to head back to university and I’m now in my 4th year of an Occupational Therapy degree. I needed a more purposeful and fulfilling role working with and helping people and wanted to be part of the incredible work BUSHkids do to support kids and their families.
Austin
Early Intervention Facilitator
Currently completing my final year in Occupational Therapy and after completing my placement block, I felt I could enhance my developing skills by joining the BUSHkids team. I am most grateful for simply having the opportunity to help families and their children however I can.
Darcy
Early Intervention Facilitator
Growing up in a rural area I have seen the gaps in services in these environments and the barriers that families face when seeking support. As a 4th year Social Work student, I was drawn to BUSHkids for their commitment to supporting children and families in these communities by providing access to evidence-based, family-centred care to help them reach their goals.
Jordan
Early Intervention Facilitator
As a 4th year Social Work student, I look forward to the opportunity to learn more about child development, early intervention and NDIS services. It also felt like a valuable opportunity to learn from an experienced team and build skills that align with my future career goals.
Ashlee – Currently on leave
Lead Speech Pathologist
My final university placement in Broken Hill had highlighted the unmet needs of kids in rural and remote communities. I’m excited to be a part of an organisation that is making a difference in the areas of Queensland that really need it.
Kaity – currently on leave
Senior Coordinator
I am thrilled to be working with BUSHkids to make a difference for Queensland children in the Sunshine Coast community. With over 10 years’ experience in the Early Childhood Education sector, I have always been passionate about ensuring all children have equal opportunities to thrive and grow into capable and confident adults. The benefits of early intervention are far reaching, every child is unique and I love that BUSHkids has a family and child-centred approach to making every family’s journey unique also!
Danielle
Occupational Therapist
I feel passionate about helping local families to get the best possible outcomes for their children. With BUSHkids’ family focus, I hope to contribute as part of the team to support children and their families to achieve their goals.
Catherine
Speech Pathologist
With 7 year’s experience with the Queensland Department of Education in Mount Isa, I am very passionate about working with children with language impairments and improving healthcare equality in North-West Queensland.
Pauline
Administration Officer
I believe in what BUSHkids stand for and the work they do. I know firsthand how beneficial the work done at BUSHkids is not just for the child but for the families as a whole. So when the opportunity came up to be a part of that I was really excited.
Leanne
Team Leader
I have many years’ experience within the early childhood sector, and working at BUSHkids, will only enhance and develop my skills. I thrive on helping to support children and their families in health, development, education and social skills, providing an overall support system within the community.
Teagan
Administration Officer
The BUSHkids values line up with my own personal values as allied health for kids has always been something I’m passionate about.
Chloe
Speech Pathologist
Melissa
Senior Case Coordinator
I come to BUSHkids from the Department of Education and have a strong knowledge of the early years. My background is predominantly working in and with early childhood services and I have a particular interest in early childhood development, play development and behaviour management. I am excited to work at BUSHkids and look forward to meeting all the children and families in Rockhampton.
Mark
Case Coordinator
I was looking for new challenges in child services and the BUSHkids focus on providing early assistance to families and children who are in need appeals to me. I enjoy helping people, finding solutions and clearing obstacles so that children and families can get where they want to be and realise their potential.
Emily
Case Coordinator
I am very excited to be a part of a not for profit organisation, providing families and children with support and much needed services that allow children to be empowered.
Karley
Early Childhood Coordinator
With my background as a teacher aide and after my son was diagnosed, I have first-hand experience with how early intervention works and how important it really is. Now I have a Bachelor of Psychology and am about to start a Masters of Psychotherapy & Counselling, I know it is a path I would love to explore more to support and contribute to help families in need.
Ashleigh
Early Childhood Coordinator
With a Bachelor of Child & Family Studies and having worked as a child safety officer, I understand the importance of helping children to gain access to early intervention. Also the opportunity to learn and grow in the early intervention space and NDIS, as well as to collaborate with and help empower families was appealing to me.
Adela
Child and Family Facilitator
I have a background in Early Childhood, working in child care for 8 years. I’m passionate about nurturing children and supporting families. I like working at BUSHkids as I get to work with families to support their needs and provide fun activities for children.
Susan
Child and Family Facilitator
I have worked in a wide variety of Education and Child-Care services for nearly 40 yrs. I hold a B.Ed. Early Childhood teaching degree and in 2020 completed a level 3 Bush Kindy Leader course with Nature Play QLD.
I am looking forward to connecting with families and children in our community and supporting them through family centred, child focussed and strength-based programs and activities. I am passionate about Play, Nature and storytelling as vehicles and environments for life-long learning.
Linda
Family Health Support Worker
At BUSHkids I get to work with and support parents and children through the various programs that the centre offers. This is something that I thoroughly enjoy!
Annelie
Occupational Therapist
I have a passion for working with kids and their families to achieve what is important to them. I feel privileged to work for BUSHkids who align closely to my own values as a health professional. BUSHkids provides a good opportunity to support children and families, who might not otherwise have access to these services.
Monique
Occupational Therapist
I’m excited to be part of BUSHkids, an organisation deeply connected to the communities it serves. I value being able to see the real impact of our work, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to a team that takes pride in supporting local families.
Tanya
Allied Health Assistant
I feel privileged to be a part of the BUSHkids team and to be working with children, families, carers and other BUSHkids staff in a collaborative approach to making a positive change in children’s lives. Keeping a family unit functioning, happy, connected and empowered is so important, and I am glad to be part of a team supporting our community in this way.
Beck
Administration Officer
I was interested in joining BUSHkids because I liked that I would be contributing to an organisation that makes a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families. I am excited to be a part of the BUSHkids team.
Hannah – currently on leave
Speech Pathologist
As a speechie here at BUSHkids, my role involves helping families develop their children’s communication and literacy (reading/spelling) skills. Talking is one of my favourite things to do, so I love working with children to help them say what they want to say. It’s so great to work here at BUSHkids, as we take a team approach in supporting children to achieve their goals.