The Lakes South Morang Kindergarten officially opens, welcoming local families
Kids First Australia has officially opened The Lakes South Morang Kindergarten, marking an important milestone for children and families in Melbourne’s growing northern corridor.
06/2026
Having welcomed its first children and families in February, The Lakes South Morang Kindergarten officially celebrated its opening on 23 June with a special event attended by Kids First Australia Board Chair Sandy Forbes, Director of Transformation and Impact Mark Heeney, and Early Years Area Lead Gabbie Mantini.
Board Chair Sandy Forbes said the opening reflects Kids First’s long-standing commitment to supporting children and families through high-quality early learning and early intervention.
“At Kids First, we believe the early years are where the biggest difference can be made in a child’s life,” Sandy said.
“Our purpose is not simply preparing children for school, but helping to lay the foundations for healthy, confident and resilient lives.”
The celebration included a special moment where children presented Minister Blandthorn with a handmade thank you frame before joining in the official ribbon-cutting.
Minister Blandthorn spoke to the importance of continuity in education, highlighting the value of supporting children from their early years through to school and beyond.
“Seeing early years and school leaders together today reminds us that education is a continuum. When children are supported from the very beginning and through each transition, they have the best chance to thrive,” Minister Blandthorn said.
Located within the broader Lakes South Morang precinct, the kindergarten strengthens the connection between early childhood education and school, creating smoother transitions and a more connected learning journey for children and families.
The service can accommodate up to 99 children per day and offers a welcoming, inclusive environment designed to support curiosity, belonging and development.
As one of Australia’s leading child and family organisations, Kids First brings more than 130 years of experience supporting children and families, combining exceptional early childhood education with expertise in child development, family wellbeing and early intervention.
The opening of The Lakes South Morang Kindergarten is another step in Kids First’s commitment to helping children and families thrive from the very beginning.
Learn more about The Lakes South Morang Kindergarten and discover how Kids First is creating safe, welcoming spaces where children can learn, belong and flourish.