General News
12 May, 2025
Day care service opening in Rupanyup
Rupanyup is set to get a family day care service operating in the Dunmunkle Library Precinct, provided by Lil Bears Family Day Care Service.
The motion was carried at Yarriambiack Shire Council's meeting in March, councillors unanimously agreeing on the need for an in-venue family day care service in the town.
"Any form of day care anywhere is vital so this is going to be a great asset to the Rupanyup community," Cr Melinda Keel said.
Cr Karly Kirk backed Cr Keel's statement and said it was a "wonderful step forward".
"I'm sure they will build up pretty quickly," Cr Kirk said.
Lil Bears Family Day Care Service is run by Rupanyup local Katie Holmes who herself has experienced the lack of day care services in the region.
"The town has always needed family day care," Ms Holmes said.
When her daughter was younger, she used to commute to Horsham to access day care services.
"I used to work there so she would just be in the room – it was easy," Ms Holmes said.
"But then the travel was too much to continue going once I left.
"I know lots of people who travel to Horsham just for day care."
Ms Holmes completed a Certificate in Early Childhood through Uniting in 2022 and is currently studying for her diploma.
"I've always wanted to work with kids," she said.
She said this was a new business venture for her as she had never done anything like it before.
"I was approached in the community to do this," Ms Holmes said.
"This is a great opportunity."
Ms Holmes will be the only staff member, meaning only a small group of children can be cared for at any one time.
"I can have four under five and three between five and 13 years old," she said.
She came on board with the Yarriambiack Shire in 2021–22 but the building hasn't been ready until now.
"I'm very excited and can't wait to get set up," Ms Holmes said.
The upgraded facility has a dedicated early-years area alongside offices, meeting rooms, kitchenettes, storage, bathroom facilities, an updated library and an enclosed children's play area.
"It's a great space," she said.
A commencement date is yet to be announced due to final approvals pending with the Victorian Department of Education.
Once the service is approved and enrolments are opened, the community will be notified.