Sustainable Relationships: Growing Community in Castlemaine

Join EEEC for the next Sustainable Centre Visit at Castlemaine Childcare Co-operative, exploring how strong community relationships can become an important part of sustainability in early childhood education.

Why not catch the V/Line train to Castlemaine and spend a morning with us?

Castlemaine Childcare Co-operative is a 68-place Long Day Care and Kindergarten in the heart of Castlemaine. As a parent-founded co-operative, connection and collaboration have been part of the service’s story from the beginning.

During this centre visit, the team will share how they have developed strong and lasting relationships across their local community, and how these connections have created opportunities for children to connect, participate, contribute and have their voices heard.

We’ll hear stories of how educators have advocated alongside children for safer, more child-friendly communities, and how children’s ideas and perspectives have helped shape this work. We’ll also explore some of the unexpected opportunities and outcomes that have emerged through building relationships over time.

The visit will include a visit to the Hub Community Co-operative Garden, where the team will share their experience of developing an intergenerational gardening partnership.

Exploring sustainability through relationships

This session offers an opportunity to think about sustainability beyond environmental practices and consider the relationships that help communities thrive. Together, we’ll explore how early childhood services can build meaningful connections with their local communities, create opportunities for children to participate and contribute, and foster a sense of belonging across generations.

Whether you are already developing community partnerships in your service or looking for inspiration about where to begin, we hope this morning will provide practical ideas, thoughtful conversation and plenty of inspiration to take back with you.

Event Details

Saturday 14 November 2026
10.30am – 12.30pm
Castlemaine Childcare Co-operative
15–17 Templeton Street, Castlemaine VIC 3450

Easily accessible by V/Line train

Come along, connect with fellow early childhood professionals, and discover how relationships can help grow stronger, more connected and sustainable communities for children.

Contact the host of Sustainable Centre Visit to Castlemaine Child Care Co-Operative