Proud Gomeroi woman Rachael Phillips has been acknowledged as part of HESTA's Early Childhood Education and Care Awards.
The director of Tamworth's Birrelee Multifunctional Aboriginal Children's Service has been recognised for her leadership in advancing education for First Nations children and advocating for more culturally appropriate early childhood settings.
She was recently awarded HESTA's individual leadership award for 2023.
For the entirety of her career, Ms Phillips has worked with and for the local Gomeroi community for her entire career after attending Birrelee as a child.
She said being selected as a HESTA winner was a proud moment which presented an opportunity for her to continue to grow as a leader and teacher.
"Being a HESTA award winner is such a great achievement, especially in an industry where there are so many amazing leaders, including those I look up to and have admired my whole career," Ms Phillips said.
In thanking those who have contributed to her growth, Ms Phillips said she has seen the benefits of implementing First Nations culture in early childhood education contexts.
"Although this award highlights my individual leadership, there are many people who have helped shape who I am as a person and as an Early Childhood Education professional. From my family, colleagues, community, and ancestors, I am thankful for every experience and opportunity I have received," she said.
"I have experienced and witnessed the importance of culturally strong and safe practices in the education setting and truly believe that cultural practices and values should be the core of early childhood education."
Ms Phillips was one of three 2023 award winners alongside South Australia's Nazareth Early Childhood Centre and Victoria's Balnarring Pre-School.
HESTA chief executive, Debby Blakey, said the award winners and finalists were committed to creating inclusive and supportive learning outcomes for children.
"Congratulations to all our winners and finalists for their incredible contributions to early childhood education. We are so grateful for the impact early childhood professionals make on our communities," Ms Blakey said.
"In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, the role of an early childhood educator is one of profound significance. I'm proud that the HESTA Awards can help recognise the important work of these incredible professionals."
Since 2010, the national awards have recognised the front-line educators and carers at the heart of Australia's early childhood education system.
ME chief executive Martine Jager also praised the winners and their ongoing dedication.
"ME is proud to congratulate the deserving winners of these awards. Their consistent display of leadership in early education and care goes well above the call of duty, and their dedication to giving children the best chance of reaching their full potential is an inspiration," Ms Jager said.
The three winners each received $10,000, courtesy of ME Bank for professional development or to improve services or processes in the workplace, with Ms Phillips planning on using the prize money to visit and collaborate with remote communities and First Nations schools where cultural practices thrive.
