Children in rural and remote Australia are up to twice as likely to start school experiencing developmental challenges compared to their metropolitan peers. Timely allied health supports, delivered in partnership with preschools and kindergartens, can be a gamechanger for these children, their families, and educators.
Glencore Coal has been supporting Royal Far West’s Early Years work in Queensland since 2018, helping us build strong relationships firstly in Clermont and Springsure, and then Collinsville–Scottville. The program’s success in Queensland has paved the way for expansion into New South Wales, where we’re now working in Gulgong and Dunedoo.
At this time of year, visits focus on children about to transition from preschool/kindy to primary school. Our teams provide observations, assessments, consultations, and strategies for families and destination schools for children progressing next year and also identify younger children who may benefit from scaffolding at preschool in 2026 to ensure a smoother start in 2027.
During the November visits to Springsure, Gulgong and Dunedoo, approximately 80 clinical occasions of service were delivered, ranging from individual assessments and parent consultations to guided book-reading demonstrations and professional development sessions for preschool staff, and information sessions for parents. Follow-up reports are now being prepared for families and schools, with recommendations for therapy and capacity-building supports across 2026.
A dedicated multidisciplinary team, including a speech pathologist, occupational therapist, and psychologist support each community through regular visits and telehealth services year on year. This consistency is vital in Modified Monash Model 5 and 6 locations, where allied health and early childhood development supports are scarce.
Recognising both the need and the opportunity to create lasting change, Glencore Coal has supported Royal Far West to work long term with five rural and remote communities across Queensland and New South Wales. Their multiyear commitment has been instrumental in enabling flexible services and ensuring commitments to these communities can be honoured.
Together, we’re helping country kids thrive in their early years and beyond.
