Shine Bright has appointed Carolyn Stewart to its Board, bolstering the organisation’s financial governance and regional leadership as it delivers Early Childhood Education and Care across 44 services in regional Victoria.
The appointment comes as Shine Bright progresses its 2026–2028 Strategic Plan and develops a growth plan focused on sustainable expansion, strong quality frameworks and improved outcomes for children and families.
Chair of the Shine Bright board, David Richmond, said that Ms Stewart’s experience in finance, governance and community-led service delivery will support the Board’s focus on responsible growth and effective stewardship.
“Ms Stewart brings a strong mix of commercial acumen, teaching and public-sector leadership. She holds a Master of Commerce (Accounting) and a Graduate Diploma in Education and is currently completing a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health for Education.
“Her career includes senior leadership roles in local government in the Shire of Buloke, including the role of Mayor, along with senior positions as a qualified accountant and ongoing governance involvement with community organisations.”
Shine Bright Early Years Manager has appointed a new board member, Carolyn Stewart.
“This background brings practical insight into regional operating environments, risk management and long-term planning – capabilities that are increasingly important as Early Years Managers navigate rising service demand, compliance requirements and workforce pressures,” Mr Richmond said.
Ms Stewart said the strong correlation between her current studies, her passion for making a difference in communities and her belief in the power of early education inspired her to join the Shine Bright board.
“Part of my current studies has involved developing a trauma-informed teaching and learning framework, and it aligned so well with Shine Bright’s new Strategic Plan that I felt inspired to apply for a position on the board with the intention of making a meaningful contribution.
“It feels like a really good time to join the Shine Bright board with Victorian Government reforms coming into play and the organisation at an exciting point in its maturity after serving in local communities for more than forty years.
“I’m motivated by the importance of the early years and the impact that these years have on the rest of a child’s education, life, and physical and mental health.
“I think there are great opportunities to advocate for the early years profession and to elevate it to where it deserves to be in our communities,” Ms Stewart said.