Announcements, Stories - October 9, 2025
State recognition for Barham OOSH partnership
A strong community partnership between Intereach, Barham Public School, and the school’s Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) has been formally recognised in NSW Parliament for helping meet a vital local need.
NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton presented the organisations with a Community Recognition Statement, acknowledging the successful launch of the Barham Out of School Hours (OOSH) program. The statement, read out during a ceremony in Deniliquin this week, will also be permanently recorded in Hansard – the official parliamentary record.
Ms Dalton described the OOSH Barham service as a “vital and standout initiative improving childcare access for local families”.
“The service responds to strong community demand and is already providing significant support to working parents,” Ms Dalton said.
Helen Dalton MP (right) presenting the statement certificates to (from left) Barham Public School Parents & Citizens Association President Taylah O’Neill and Intereach OOSH Program Manager Stacey Duke and Co-CEO Yvette Buhagiar.
“It not only eases pressure on local families but also creates jobs, supports children’s wellbeing, and contributes to broader workforce participation in our region.”
The Barham OOSH service opened its doors on 23 June 2025 following strong advocacy from the local community.
The service operates on school grounds from 3pm to 6pm each school day throughout the school term, and 9am to 3pm during school holidays, providing families with access to quality after-school and vacation care.
At present, 14 students access the service with capacity for more as interest grows.
“It really encompasses our vision of strong connected communities,” Intereach Co-CEO Yvette Buhagiar said during the presentation.
“The real acknowledgement should go to (P&C president) Taylah O’Neill, who was the committed and resilient parent that reached out to us to collaborate.”
Ms O’Neill said the partnership had been crucial to the project’s success.
“We as a school and P&C could not have done it without Intereach and are extremely grateful they came on board,” she said.
Pictured left: Intereach, Barham Public School and its P&C were among a number of people recognised at the celebration.
“The service supports working families, creates local employment opportunities and provides a caring environment for children before and after school. It’s an important service supporting families and the local community.”
OOSH Program Manager Stacey Duke said the service provided a safe, engaging and welcoming environment where children were inspired to learn and grow through enriching activities, positive food experiences and nurturing relationships in our community.
“It fills a gap for families who were previously unable to access care for children once they had transitioned to school,” Ms Duke said.
Ms Dalton commended Intereach, Barham Public School and its P&C Association for their collaborative effort in delivering this much-needed service.
“I encourage interested locals to join the team and help shape a positive future for Barham’s young people,” she said.
If you’re interested in a career as an educator at Barham OOSH, go to Careers page.
For more information about OOSH, phone 1300 488 226 or visit OOSH – Out Of School Hours care.
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