Staff

Aunty Gloria Rankine-Wright

Chief Executive Officer, Director Early Learning, Nominated Supervisor.

Qualifications: Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Teaching from Macquarie University in Sydney. Gloria also holds a current MR licence, Blue Card, First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis & Asthma, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates. 

Work days: Monday to Friday.

Gloria Rankine-Wright is a proud Wagaya woman, a devoted mother to two adult children, and a loving grandmother to three beautiful grandchildren. Her journey has been deeply intertwined with her community, as her children attended Koobara, and she has dedicated nearly 40 years of her life to this organisation. Over the decades, Gloria has worn many hats—administrator, teacher, and now Chief Executive Officer and Director of Early Learning.

Gloria's unwavering commitment and contributions to the community have earned her immense respect and admiration. She is cherished for her humility, kindness, and infectious sense of humor, qualities that set her apart as a truly remarkable individual. Her leadership style is rooted in service, inspiring those around her to follow by example.

A passionate Cowboys supporter, Gloria's love for her team is rivaled only by her deep connection to the land. She feels most at peace with the red dirt beneath her feet, embodying her strong cultural ties and grounding spirit.

Gloria’s remarkable journey and selfless dedication make her a treasured figure in the local community—someone who is deeply loved, profoundly respected, and impossible to replace.

 

Joseph Armstrong

Director Operations, Leadership, and Engagement.

Qualifications: Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion (Social and Emotional Wellbeing), numerous qualifications in Financial Service, Business, Blue Card, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates and holds a LR Licence.

Work days: Monday to Friday

Joseph Armstrong is proud Mandandanji man, has connections to South West and North West Queensland. With a career within the Private, Government, and Community Controlled sectors spanning various sectors including finance, human resources, executive services, and statewide programs, Joseph has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to enhancing functions across these diverse environments.

As an advocate for child development, Joseph's dedication to providing exceptional early learning experiences is evident in his role at Koobara Kindy.

His passion for continuous learning and skill development within the administration function has been instrumental in ensuring that children receive a strong foundation in life and that families are supported to achieve the best possible outcomes.

 

 

 

Belinda Ross

Early Education and Care Coach and Mentor, Early Childhood Teacher, Nominated Supervisor.

 

Qualifications: Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood),  Bachelor of Education, Blue Card, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates.

Belinda Ross has had the pleasure of being part of the Koobara team since 2013. Her roles at Koobara are diverse, encompassing Nominated Supervisor, Teacher, and Educational Consultant. She thrives in the forward-facing and dynamic Koobara community, comprising learners, families, educators, and elders.

Belinda began her journey in the small town of Hughenden, near Julia Creek in Central Queensland, her mother's hometown. After a few years of moving around Queensland, her family settled in Toowoomba, where she spent most of her formative years. Following high school, Belinda relocated to Brisbane to attend the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), where she earned a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood) and subsequently, a Bachelor of Education.

Belinda's career as an Early Childhood Teacher has spanned the childcare and kindergarten sector, working with Education Queensland, C&K, and Lady Gowrie. She has extensive experience in teaching, directing, supporting, and advising on all aspects related to curriculum, programming, supporting children and educators, the National Quality Framework, and quality improvement across the sector.

When not at Koobara, Belinda's work takes her across Queensland, enabling her to witness and engage with the dynamic and diverse landscape of Early Childhood Education throughout the state.

Melissa Meehan

Senior Administration and Transition Officer

Qualifications: Certificate of competence in Clerical and Administrative Skills, Certificate III Early Childhood Education Care. Melissa currently holds Blue Card, First Aid, CPR, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates and LR Licence.

Work days: Monday to Friday

Melissa Meehan is a proud Bigumbul and Mandandanji Woman with connections to South West Queensland. She was born and raised on the Northside of Brisbane. As a child, she attended Koobara Kindergarten and has fond memories of riding around on the Kindy bus and singing songs with Aunty Lydia.

After finishing high school, Melissa returned to the Koobara Family Resource Centre, where she worked as a Trainee Bookkeeper alongside Uncle Lewis, Aunty Annie, and Aunty Gloria. She reflects on her time with them as invaluable, considering Uncle Lewis, Aunty Annie, and Aunty Gloria as exceptional mentors who taught her important lessons and shared stories that have guided her throughout her career.

Melissa’s children continued the family tradition of being Koobara Kindy kids, and now the next generation is following suit, with her grandchildren enrolled and ready to learn. She believes that the strong leadership and deep cultural connections at Koobara Kindergarten make it a special and grounding place for her family and community.

Melissa is recognised by the Koobara Kindy team for her strong organizational skills. She describes her current role as fast-paced, rewarding, and fulfilling. She is dedicated to ensuring the organisation runs smoothly, safely, and effectively.

Jessica Meehan

Community Relations and Wellbeing Officer

Qualifications: Currently studying a Certificate III Early Childhood Education Care, holds Cert III Business Administration, Cert III Education Support, Cert III Indigenous Land Management, Blue Card, First Aid, CPR, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates and obtaining a LR Licence.

Work days: Monday to Friday

Jessica Meehan is a proud Mandandanji and Bigambul woman with strong connections throughout South-West Queensland. Deeply rooted in her culture, heritage, and community, she embraces her identity with pride and purpose.

At Koobara Kindy, she has followed in her mother’s footsteps, working alongside her as part of the exceptional Koobara Team. Her role extends beyond community relations and wellbeing, as she also hosts the Playgroup session every Wednesday, creating a space where all Jarjums feel safe, supported, and valued. She cherishes the moments when she sees the smiling faces of the Jarjums and witnesses their growth and learning through play.

Her culture serves as a daily source of inspiration, guiding her to infuse her work with care and respect for diversity, ensuring that all families feel welcome and included. Through her contributions, she strives to honour the strength of her ancestors and pass on the values of kindness, learning, and unity to the future leaders.

She firmly believes that Koobara provides the building blocks to ensure cultural identity flourishes alongside early learning for the Jarjums.

This conviction is why her daughter is now a Koobara Kindy Jarjum. She wants her daughter to grow up with the same strong foundations of culture, connection, and community that she holds dear.

 

Tashina Moore

Teacher/Director in training.

Qualifications: Currently studying Bachelor of Education (Early Years),  Certificate III in Children’s Services.  Tashina currently holds Blue Card, First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis & Asthma, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates and holds a LR Licence.

Workdays:  Monday to Friday

Tashina Moore, known to all who know and love her as Sheena, is a proud Aboriginal woman with family ties to the Butchulla, Darumbal, Wangan, and Jagalingou peoples. Having grown up in Brisbane, her educational journey began at Koobara Kindergarten as a young jarjum.

During her teenage years, Sheena found her passion in soccer, a sport where her technical skills and enthusiasm truly shone. Few things brought her more joy than being out on the field, kicking the ball and embracing the spirit of the game.

Sheena, along with her husband and children, are all proud Koobara alumni. She is thrilled to return as a Teacher in training, bringing her rich personal experiences full circle. Having grown up with many of the families of the current jarjums, Sheena shares a deep bond with the local community. She applies the values instilled in her through soccer—such as discipline, teamwork, and determination—to her teaching, emphasizing the importance of nurturing healthy minds, bodies, and spirits.

Sheena’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that jarjums are future leaders and must be at the heart of their learning experiences to truly thrive and succeed.

 

Grace Hala

Assistant Educator

Qualifications:  Certificate III Community Services.  Currently studying Diploma Early Education and Care.  Grace currently holds Blue Card, First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis & Asthma, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates and is working towards a LR Licence. 

Workdays:  Monday to Friday

Grace Hala is a proud Wiradjuri woman, born and raised on Gabi Gabi land, where her family has resided for the past four generations. As one of six children, Grace grew up in a large and loving family. Inspired by her mother, grandmother, and aunty, who actively worked within the community, Grace was deeply influenced by their dedication and pride in their culture from an early age.

Their hard work and commitment to the community motivated Grace to follow in their footsteps. Today, she is passionately involved in supporting and empowering her community. Grace finds immense joy in working with young children and witnessing their growth and learning, especially when it comes to their cultural heritage. She is dedicated to instilling a sense of pride in Aboriginal culture in the younger generation, cherishing the moments when their eyes light up with newfound knowledge. Grace's work ensures that the cultural teachings and traditions are passed on to future generations, just as they were to her.

Uncle Bradley Wogan

Kindergarten Support Worker

Qualifications: Cert IV Small Business, Cert III Health Support Services, Business Administration, Food Safety, Manual Handling, Blue Card, First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis & Asthma, Child Protection, WH&Safety Training (including Fire Safety), Workplace Bullying, Sexual Harassment in the Workplace & Privacy Certificates.

Uncle Brad, a cherished figure at Koobara, radiates warmth, passion, and an unwavering commitment to community spirit. Hailing from his roots in Zillmere, Uncle Brad’s extensive experience in hospitality has always been infused with heart, creating countless joyful moments for others. Today, he brings those invaluable skills to Koobara, where his cooking for the jarjums and contributions to events beautifully illustrate his talent for bringing people together.

As our Kindergarten Support Worker, Uncle Brad finds immense fulfillment in providing a nurturing and safe space for the jarjums—a role he describes as deeply meaningful and rewarding. Beyond this, Uncle Brad's adaptability and willingness to take on any task embodies the true spirit of service. Whether it’s cleaning, cooking, or caring for the grounds, Uncle Brad embraces every role with dedication and love.

His story reflects an incredible journey of selflessness and the power of community—a shining example of using one’s talents to uplift and unite others. At Koobara, Uncle Brad is not just a team member; he’s the heart and soul of what makes this place truly special.