History & progress
Coleambally
Coleambally Preschool has been operated by the Coleambally Pre School Association Inc, a community-based not-for-profit organisation, for almost 50 years. The service provides preschool and long day care programs in a safe, engaging environment that supports children to learn, grow and thrive.
The building that houses the service was opened on 31 May 1977 as a preschool and play centre for the children of Coleambally, as part of the Coleambally Youth and Sport Centre. It was funded by the Australian Assistance Plan.
Over the years, the preschool has maintained strong community connections, embracing a play-based learning approach and fostering a love of learning, social development and connection with nature. These values continue to guide the service today.
In 2025, the preschool committee approached Murrumbidgee Council to take over the management of the centre. This step was taken with the aim of securing the long-term sustainability of early childhood services in Coleambally ane ensuring the preschool remains a vital part of the community for generations to come.
Darlington Point
The Darlington Point Early Learning Centre is currently in the design and planning stage. A feasibility study in early 2022 identified strong community demand for early childhood education and care, including long day care and before- and after-school care. Nearly all respondents indicated they would use local childcare services if available, highlighting significant demand for full-week early learning.
Following the study, Murrumbidgee Council held a community meeting to provide an update on the proposed centre and establish a committee to guide the project. The community has been an integral partner in working with council and driving the project forward.
Construction of the purpose-built facility is planned for 2026-2027, providing a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment in Darlington Point.
Jerilderie
Early childhood education in Jerilderie began in September 1971 under Dorothy Milthorpe, with Pre-school operating in the St Stephen’s Anglican Church Hall. In 1987, Maria Keating (née Zampin) became Director, with teacher assistants Peg Partridge, Anne Hardie and Marjorie Honeyman. Inaugural students were Gabrielle Allen, Stephen Anthony, Elizabeth Baldwin, Scott Ball, Rodney Claxton, Greg Collier, Julie Creed, Wayne Collier, Leonie Dunn, Julie Harris, Peter Jennison, Belinda Moore, Scott Taylor, Carolyn Tyndall, Dianna Wells and Kevin Whitehead.
The first Pre-school Committee was led by President Meg Wood, Secretary Jan Crittenden and Treasurer Julie Hannigan.
In 1989, operations moved to a new Pre-school/Community Health Centre attached to the local hospital. Over the decades, the service continued to provide trusted early education to the community.
In 2022, the pre-school relocated to a purpose-built Early Learning Centre on the former tennis courts at Elliott Park. Construction of the $1.3 million facility was funded by the NSW Government and managed by Murrumbidgee Council. It was officially opened by State Member Justin Clancy MP, Mayor Cr Ruth McRae, and Jerilderie Early Learning President Stephanie Girdwood on Wednesday 29 June 2021.
The move saw an expanded program to include long day care. The centre’s development reflects the tireless dedication of the local committee, whose passion over many years made the project possible and created a facility the community is proud of.
In 2026, Murrumbidgee Council assumed operations, ensuring long-term sustainability and continuing the proud tradition of supporting local families with high-quality, inclusive early education.