Childcare crisis sparks frenzy as new Gladstone centre receives 200 enquiries in just 30 days
In a striking display of pent-up demand, a soon-to-be-completed childcare centre in Gladstone has sent local families scrambling for spots. Just four weeks after a sign was placed on-site, the Una Glen Eden childcare facility has been overwhelmed with over 200 enrolment enquiries along with over 150 educator applications.
Developed by award winning Queensland builder Evans Long, the new centre represents a significant investment in addressing the region’s childcare crisis.
Evans Long director Matt Evans said the opportunity to deliver a much-needed facility like Una Glen Eden was a key focus for the developer who identified a shortage of early childhood services in Gladstone.
“We saw the critical need for quality childcare services across all age groups, and that was a driving force behind choosing to establish the ninth Una childcare centre at Glen Eden.
“To have such strong interest from the community in just one month shows how essential this new centre will be for local families,” Matt said.
The new facility will be developed in partnership with Una, one of Queensland's leading childcare operators, who has committed to a 20-year lease for the site.
The Una Glen Eden centre offers nine spacious rooms that flow into expansive outdoor play areas, allowing children to explore a nature-inspired environment. The centre will feature sand pits, mud pits, and a bush kindy program spread across over one hectare of land, with the goal of reconnecting children with the natural world.
Talisha Long, Chief Operating Officer of Una said the centre is being designed to Una’s specifications, ensuring it meets the high standards for nature-based learning environments.
"We are thrilled to bring our highly regarded nature-based, child-led approach to this growing community. Families can expect pedagogy that goes beyond traditional education models, including our Forest School, Risky Play environments and a fully operational kitchen serving nutritious meals for every child.
“Our philosophy is based around providing children with opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and empathy. It’s about exploring; turning over rocks and pursuing answers. It's about making a mess, taking a risk and expressing yourself. Una’s philosophy of “Rewilding childhood” is about letting each child lead the way on their journey of becoming who they are,” Talisha said.
Enrolments are currently open for 2025, and demand is expected to increase as families secure places prior to the centre’s opening in February 2025. Open days and community tours are planned for early next year, offering prospective parents a chance to experience Una Glen Eden’s unique offerings firsthand.
"This centre is more than just a solution to the current childcare shortage—it’s about giving families the opportunity to provide their children with a nurturing, nature-based environment that fosters both learning and development," Talisha added.
For more information visit www.unakids.com.au/locations/childcare-gladstone
Contact details:
Peppi Bueti
0447 131 306
