About Us
Who are we?
We are a group of committed parents and community members who are dedicated to the continued operation of Wind in the Willows while restoring the stability that was lost during the period of uncertainty. We established a not-for-profit incorporated association in May this year and intend to submit a proposal to the Town of Bassendean for the transfer of the service.
We have been working hard behind the scenes, preparing to become an approved daycare operator and learning from parent and community-led centres such as Little Possums, Marjorie Mann and other organisations that operate as community-managed not-for-profits. We're already a proud member of Community Early Learning Australia (CELA), a not-for-profit peak body supporting Australia’s early childhood education and care sector. We have been collaborating with CELA and other peak agencies that support this model to ensure we are ready to create something exceptional for Bassendean families.
How would it work?
A parent and community-led committee would become legally responsible for the service upon transfer. The Willows Manager and Assistant Manager would continue to oversee the day-to-day running of the centre in accordance with existing policies and procedures and would attend meetings with the committee, so there would be minimal disruption to daily operations.
A parent and community-led committee would meet monthly with the Manager to oversee governance and operational matters. The committee would consider organisational issues, pass motions and vote on key decisions relating to the centre. It would ultimately be responsible for the overall operation of the service, including financial oversight, with the assistance and guidance of the Manager.
Our committee
Cara
Chairperson
Cara is a children’s and family lawyer and the legal practice director of a boutique family law firm. She has previously served as president and vice-president of Bassendean Primary School Playgroup and as secretary and general board member of Open Doors Youth Service. She is a driving force behind BCCA and demonstrates kind and caring leadership. She has a strong commitment to the opportunities BCCA can provide for the youngest members of the Bassendean community.
Siobhan
Deputy Chairperson
Siobhan is a consumer engagement coordinator with experience supporting meaningful community participation, accreditation and governance. She has played key roles in developing and implementing projects, processes and policies that affect children, young people and families. She values and champions the voices of Bassendean community members. She brings warmth, care, and professionalism to all her interactions.
Jenny
Secretary
Jenny is a Child Health Nurse. She believes all community members have a responsibility in growing the strong communities we need to build and maintain to have a positive lasting impact on our children’s health and wellbeing.
Jason
Treasurer
Jason works as a management accountant. He has worked with many different organisations, including private industry and non-profit entities, across areas of data, governance and finance. His focus for the BCCA is to ensure that carefully considered plans and policies are put in place to guarantee the long-term future of the service.
Emily
Committee Member
Emily is a Clinical Psychologist. She advocates passionately for the health and wellbeing of her patients. She is a proud member of the Bassendean community and brings thoughtful insight, strong interpersonal awareness, and a calm and considered approach.
Renae
Committee Member
Renae is a local Bassendean business owner. She is highly skilled in strategic planning and customer service and has strong connections throughout Bassendean. Renae is known for her kindness and empathy, which are evident in the relationships she builds.
Emma
Committee Member
Emma is a Senior Industrial Relations Consultant with experience in workplace relations, negotiation and dispute resolution. Having grown up in the Town of Bassendean, Emma has deep roots in the local community. She attended Wind in the Willows as a child, and her son now attends the service. This intergenerational connection underpins her commitment to preserving high-quality, not for profit, community focused, early childhood education and care for local families.
Our committee is currently made up of parents and community members with backgrounds in accounting, law, child health, governance, compliance and government. If the Town agrees to transfer the service to us, it is our intention to hold an Annual General Meeting in late 2026 or early 2027 so anyone with relevant skills and/or experience can also apply to become a committee member. Committee members would be appointed through an election process, and members of the organisation would be eligible to vote.
We would love you to become a member and help build the future of a community-led early childhood service for Bassendean.
Become involved
We welcome anyone who has skills or professional experience that may assist us, especially in governance, organisational management, specific childcare knowledge and fundraising.
If you would like to get involved, please contact us or visit the support page to learn how you can donate or become a member.