Two playground favourites are named in birthday competition

At Y Learn and Swim, children gravitate to two cheeky characters in the playground.

It was only appropriate that given their popularity, that the specially crafted animals now have names. Following a competition as part of the First Birthday celebrations, it is Kala the koala who greets everyone from the entrance, while the kinder playground kangaroo has been given the name Roo-pert.

The winners were delighted to receive cuddly versions of the two creatures, taking home their own toy koala and kangaroo courtesy of the Ballarat Wildlife Park.

Celebrating with the community

Y Learn and Swim in Brown Hill, opened their doors to families, friends and the community to enjoy festivities and mark the milestone. Memories were snapped in the photobooth, sausages were sizzled by the Brown Hill Lions Club and following a Welcome to Country, and words of welcome from Y Ballarat’s CEO, Craig Mathieson, there was plenty of cake.

Families at the centre commented on the welcoming atmosphere and involvement of the staff. The centre team also enjoyed the lead-up to the event and the evening.

“Celebrating Y Learn and Swim’s first birthday was an opportunity for our kinder children to be involved and help with the preparation. The children were able to make banners and help decorate the room and really enjoyed this fun process,” Simone Keating, Kindergarten Assistant said.

“As this year is my first year at Y Learn and Swim, it was lovely to meet other families in the service and get to know the community.”

Additional places in the Swim School and Long Day Care program have recently been added, while the kindergarten team is excitedly preparing for their Open Day on the 12 June, taking place between 4.30pm and 6.00pm.

“We’re really looking forward to expanding our dedicated kindergarten program,” said Bhawana Gurung, Centre Director. “Registrations are now open for 2025, and we’d love to meet interested families at our Open Day in June. It’s a great opportunity to see the centre, ask questions and meet our experienced Kinder Educators.”

There are also new aspects to the program for 2025.

“Our high-quality program has always had an emphasis on nature play and we’re excited to be introducing a Bush Kinder program next year with all the benefits that this will bring,” Bhawana added.

Tours are also available year-round, for families unable to attend the Open Day.

To find out more about the free kindergarten program, Long Day Care or swimming lessons at Y Learn and Swim visit ylearnandswim.org.au.