SHANNON SMITH

Hub Manager

Shannon Smith brings a dynamic, unique and people-focused approach to her role as Hub Manager at Shine Bright Maiden Gully Early Years Hub. With a passion for nurturing genuine and authentic connections, she believes that the heart of early childhood education and care lies within people —whether it’s the little people we’re entrusted to care for, or the bigger people being the families who place their trust in our team and the educators who bring dedication and passion to their roles every day. Shannon’s dedication to building strong relationships and fostering positive, supportive and empowering environments is at the core of how she leads and works.
While Shannon’s professional background is rooted in the HR and Business space – holding a Bachelor of Business – Management and Marketing – she brings with her extensive experience in the Early Childhood sector, particularly within the long day care space. Shannon’s career has seen her working not only across Bendigo but also throughout Victoria, where she’s been involved in existing established services, purchasing and rebranding of existing services as well as establishing brand new builds and brands within the long day care space. In every role, Shannon’s focus has remained the same: recognising the value and capability of the greatest resource – people. She strives to create an environment where educators, families, and the community are all seen, heard, and feeling genuinely appreciated. Her guiding motto “Positivity Promotes Productivity” speaks to her innate belief that when we invest in people, we cultivate the kind of positivity that drives authentic and sustainable success.
Born and raised in Swan Hill, Shannon attended what is now a Shine Bright Preschool “back in the olden days” and despite calling Bendigo home for nearly 15 years, where she’s raised her four sons, she’s still not entirely sure she’s earned the title of a local! Typically found busily working away with a coffee always in arm’s reach and an unconventional choice of background music that most wouldn’t consider relaxing or work conducive, Shannon is always on the lookout for ways to spark a conversation and believes there’s magic in putting all the people’s perspectives together to see the collective picture, bigger and more inclusive than any individuals picture.
As a leader, Shannon is passionate about seeking the input of families (and engaging in a chat) knowing that the collective voices are essential in shaping a service that truly meets the needs and is reflective of the community. She’s likely to repeatedly ask for your feedback time and time again, because she genuinely believes that the best outcomes are created when we bring all the perspectives of all the people together.
Shannon is excited to bring her energy and dedication to the Maiden Gully Early Years Hub, creating an environment where every child, family, and team member feels like they are at home and welcomed when they walk through the doors. With her at the helm, you can expect a culture that values open communication, community involvement, and a healthy dose of positivity.
Whether you have feedback, an exciting new idea, or just want to chat, Shannon is always ready to listen—and if it’s a Friday afternoon, you might even catch the smiles that come with Freddo Frog Fridays as children head off for the weekend!

Bridy Bourke

EDUCATIONAL LEADER

Introducing Bridy Bourke, a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience working in the field of early childhood and with 3 children of her own. Bridy is passionate about the critical first five years of a child’s growth and development and feels passionate about advocating for the children’s voice and giving children every opportunity to thrive.

 Bridy is grateful for the opportunity to work with children and the trust that parents place in us to care for their little ones. It is a privilege to be a part of their growth and development, fostering a nurturing environment where they can thrive, learn, and explore with confidence.

With a deep understanding of the importance of early childhood education, Bridy has committed her career to creating nurturing and stimulating environments for young learners. Through her extensive experience, she has gained valuable insights into child development, pedagogical approaches, and effective teaching strategies.

As a previous instructor at Bendigo TAFE, Bridy’s approach involves mentoring and placing a strong emphasis on wellbeing to achieve positive outcomes. This will crossover to supporting staff at the HUB to be the best they can be. I believe that when staff feel supported and valued, they thrive therefore providing a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for children and families.