Baw Baw Shire Council is celebrating a major win at this year's 2026 Victorian Early Years Awards, taking home the award in the Promoting Children's Health and Wellbeing category for its innovative Pop-Up Playgroups program.
Presented by the Victorian Department of Education, the Victorian Early Years Awards celebrate achievements and recognise outstanding contributions across the early years sector. The award recognises the positive impact of Council's Pop-up Playgroups in creating welcoming, inclusive and accessible opportunities for young children and their families to connect, learn and play together.
The program began as a pilot in 2023 in response to a growing need for connection among local families, including families moving to the area without nearby friends or relatives and parents experiencing increased isolation following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since then, Pop-up Playgroups have brought play-based experiences into local community spaces, helping families with children aged 0–5 years access engaging early learning activities, build relationships with other families and connect with local services.
Through play, children have opportunities to develop their social, emotional, physical and communication skills, while parents and carers can build confidence, share experiences and strengthen their sense of belonging within the community.
By meeting families where they are, Council's Pop-up Playgroups help reduce barriers to participation and create informal, supportive environments where every family is welcome.
Baw Baw Shire Council Mayor Councillor Kate Wilson said the program has made a meaningful difference for local families and communities.
"We are thrilled that Pop-Up Playgroups is being recognised alongside other outstanding early years programs across Victoria," said Cr Wilson.
"This recognition celebrates the important work our team does with children, families and the community to help them come together, make connections and build a village of support."
Winners in each category receive a $15,000 grant to support professional development or further develop their early years initiative.
The award reinforces Council's commitment to supporting children's health and wellbeing, strengthening connections between families and helping give every child the best possible start in life.
Upcoming sessions for 2026
All sessions start at 10am and finish at 11:30am (unless otherwise stated).
Thursday 12th November – Warragul
Jack and Jill went up the hill to attend 'World Nursery Rhyme Week' at Family & Children's Service Playgroup, 12 George Street Warragul.
Thursday 17th December – Warragul
'Twill not be a Silent Night at the 'Christmas Celebration' at Family & Children's Service Playgroup, 12 George Street Warragul.
