What a start of the day…
The Little People, Big Dreams (LPBD) Conference once again brought together over 375 delegates from across the Northern Territory — educators, leaders, and professionals — to learn, question, laugh, and connect through their shared passion for the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector.
Tina Holtom, CEO mentioned: “The LPBD Conference continues to be a celebration of innovation, connection, and courage in our sector. Each year, we see educators and leaders pushing boundaries, asking bold questions, and imagining new possibilities for children’s futures. That collective drive is what makes our community so special and it’s what will continue to shape a brighter, stronger future for early learning across the NT.”
The day began with a spectacular Welcome to Country by the children from Bagot OSHC alongside Edwin Fejo, whose traditional dance set a powerful and joyful tone for the day ahead.
A delegate mentioned: “I loved that the Welcome to Country was done with children from the NT. It was refreshing, authentic and I can imagine, quite important to the children themselves.”
Delegates then heard from The Hon. Jo Hersey, Minister for Education and Training, who shared a heartfelt video message in support of the LPBD Conference and the ECEC sector, before Susan Bowden, Chief Executive of the Department of Education and Training, officially opened the event.
Tina Holtom, CEO of Child Australia, warmly welcomed delegates to the conference, taking a moment to recognise and celebrate Marita Mummery, Programs Manager of Bagot Community Outside School Hours Care, for her remarkable 10 years of service — a touching highlight early in the day.
Child Safety in the spotlight
The panel discussion was facilitated by Tina Holtom brought together Selena Bartlett, Nicole Talarico, Katy Brennan, and Connie Borg for a powerful conversation on “Child Safety in Plain Sight: From Compliance to Vigilance.”
Selena shared insights from neuroscience on how brain science can shape cultures of vigilance. Nicole discussed leadership strategies for guiding cultural shifts. Katy examined the “blind spots” that often go unnoticed and how vigilance can bring them to light. Connie provided a service perspective, reflecting on how educators can remain aware and responsive to risks amidst their busy environments.
The session concluded with an insightful takeaway: while compliance is measurable, vigilance is cultural — and it’s the everyday culture that keeps safety alive in services.
The speakers
The morning program continued with three inspiring keynote presentations and a thought-provoking panel discussion, setting the stage for a day of deep learning and meaningful reflection.
Professor Selena Bartlett, internationally recognised neuroscientist, opened with an exploration of the science of connection and how being ‘seen’ influences children’s brain development and emotional wellbeing.
A delegate said: “Selena Bartlett and her inspiring and informative session were my favourite of the day. Her keynote about screen time and children, the disconnect since social media/apps have been introduced and backing up stats/data on the negative effects like increased anxiety/depression, resilience and the struggle with executive functioning skills. She provided strategies on what we can do to make a change and how we can inform our families.”
After a well-deserved morning tea break, delegates returned refreshed and ready for more learning. Charlotte Thaarup-Owen, one of Australia’s pioneers in mindful leadership, shared evidence-based tools to reduce stress, maintain compassion, and lead with integrity in high-pressure ECEC settings.
A delegate mentioned: “The keynote speaker Charlotte Thaarup was excellent. Even though Mindfulness wasn’t focused particularly on the early years, it is useful for our ECEC work, working with children and life in general.”
Next, Sarah Forgan from Berry Street presented on trauma-aware practices, offering practical ways to create safe and resilient learning environments for both children and educators.
A delegate wrote: “I Ioved Charlotte, Selena and Sarah, very informative and engaging. Sarah’s presence on stage is so warm and engaging, she definitely stands out! “
The day concluded with 12 engaging breakout sessions, proudly sponsored by the Berry Street Education Model and HESTA, each offering valuable opportunities for delegates to gain new ideas, fresh perspectives, and renewed energy to take back to their services and communities.
Delegates mentioned:
“All the speeches made me reflect on the practices of our Centre. I learnt different ways to approach situations and how it’s important to drive change to ensure children’s safety, children’s voices and everything that we educators do for the children is priority.”
“The conference was really good and I am learning a lots from today conferences and I am extending my knowledge in this children industry.”
‘The highlight was how the speakers explain briefly about the stress and how to keep your body healthy and also the prizes and the food was amazing.”
“I especially enjoyed the interactive workshops where educators could share experiences and learn new approaches to implement in our own settings.”
The exhibition space
The exhibition space was buzzing with activity, showcasing innovative products, practical solutions, and beautiful resources for early childhood services. Delegates left with their Goodstart bags filled with goodies and plenty of inspiration to take back to their workplaces.
The exhibitors, who shone in our Marketplace and provided delegates with new resources, tools and ideas were: Department of Education & Training, 1Place, Berry Street, Catholic Education NT, Early Childhood Australia NT, Mile End Office Furniture, TCCG, ANZUK, Quality Education & Care NT, Camp Australia, Early Insight Consulting, Saltbush Social Enterprise Ltd, Affinity Education, Human Ability, Education National, One Tree Community Services and NAPCAN.
Of course, no LPBD Conference would be complete without a touch of fun! The Territory Childcare Group photobooth captured countless smiles and laughter throughout the day, and the 1Place sundowner was the perfect way to unwind, connect and celebrate — complete with drinks, door prizes, and plenty of good cheer.
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our major partner, the Northern Territory Government, as well as to all of our sponsors: Berry Street, HESTA, Territory Childcare Group, The Sector, Goodstart, Connetix, and Wingaru.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended, contributed, exhibited, sponsored, or volunteered. Your support makes this event a vibrant and memorable celebration of the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) community in the Northern Territory. We look forward to seeing you again next year!
