United Voice News
Childcare member recognised with award
LHMU member Raeline George has been recognised for her outstanding work as a childcare professional by winning the HESTA award for individual excellence in early childhood education and care.
Raeline, the director at Forrest Children’s Services, at Forrest Primary School in Canberra, was selected from over 160 applicants from across the country. The judging panel were particularly impressed with her tireless efforts to involve parents, families and the wider community in childcare issues.
‘I’m very passionate about making sure parents have a voice in their children’s care’ she said. ‘I try to go the extra mile to help explain issues to parents and I pay particular attention to helping new families feel welcome.’
Raeline has been involved in the sector for 20 years and has been a member of her union, LHMU for almost all of that time.
‘I think it’s very important that childcare professionals are members of LHMU. Over the years, it’s been really helpful for me and my colleagues to be a part of the union. It means we are informed of the different changes in the sector.’
One of those changes Raeline has seen in her time is the increased interest of the government in childcare.
‘There’s a lot more paperwork and government involvement in childcare now. That’s one of the reasons why I think Union membership is important, because it is easier for government to hear us when we speak with one voice. Being a member of LHMU has given me the opportunity to speak directly at government enquiries on childcare and I would encourage everyone working in the sector to join and get involved in the Big Steps campaign.’
The award was presented by HESTA super fund and Early Childhood Australia. For winning, Raeline received a $5,000 travel voucher and a $5,000 education grant courtesy of ME bank.
Picture: Raeline (L) with ACT Minister for Disability, Housing and Community Services Joy Burch
