Current and past staff and students of St Joseph’s Family Services gathered at Joey’s House in Warlters Street Port Macquarie on Saturday morning (5 August) for an open day to celebrate 50 wonderful years of providing early education for children and families in the community.

Established in 1973, St Joseph’s Family Services (SJFS) commenced operations in the Catholic Parish Hall, then in Horton Street. From these humble beginnings the service has grown, with a lot of hard work and dedication, into one of the most respected childcare providers in Port Macquarie.

Heather Mayne, SJFS Coordinator and Centre Manager for St Joseph’s Preschool & Long Day Care Centre, said it was great to take the time to reflect on 600 months of caring, compassion and connections and 2,609 weeks of laughter, love and learning.

“From the outset, the staff of our centres played a pivotal role in cementing the strong foundations that, as a family-oriented service, we continue to build upon today,” said Heather.

“We are indebted to people like Kay Wood, the first centre manager and SJFS manager who ran the service for 30 years – we wouldn’t be where we are today without her vision, leadership and commitment.”

“We are so blessed to have been able to serve the Port Macquarie Community for 50 years! Thanks to everyone who came to our open day and made the day so memorable!” concluded Heather.

For those interested in continuing the walk down memory lane with St Joseph’s Family Services over the last 50 years visit their Facebook page to see some lovely photos from their Archives, which will be posted each Friday till the end of the year.