Goodstart stories
Backing people to lead the way: Meet our WA State Manager, Joelene Brown
We’re proud to announce Joelene Brown as Goodstart’s State Manager for Western Australia
Goodstart Early Learning Harristown is located in a convenient pocket of suburban Toowoomba with easy access for families, taking the fuss out of the daily drop-off and pick-up. We are close to the main hospital and health service, local schools, shops and the city’s transport networks in a safe and leafy setting.
We are registered to care for up to 138 children, with fun and stimulating learning environments from Nursery through to Kindergarten. Our curriculum aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework, and our team work closely with parents and families to ensure each child's individual needs and interests are at the centre of the learning experience.
Our rooms are carefully planned out in colourful, stimulating settings based on themes and activities we are working through and, most of all, we foster a learning environment based on experience and fun! Our dedicated Educators take meticulous care to reflect the children's interests in all aspects of the program.
Outside we have large, sun safe play spaces which wrap around the entire Centre. This open plan design enables siblings to connect and play together throughout the day, while still assuring developmentally appropriate and safe settings for children of varying ages. We grow vegetables, compost to feed our worm farms and utilise rainwater tanks to support sustainability. With bikes, forts and spacious shaded grass areas, every aspect of outdoor play is catered for, fostering play and sensory based experiences and learnings.
We work closely with families to ensure open and clear communication and in partnership we develop the highest-quality early learning opportunities. Community plays an important role in the experiences we offer our children, and the Centre is active in many campaigns and activities throughout the year. By participating in events such as the annual Carnival of Flowers, Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC, multicultural celebrations and Toowoomba Show, the children have the chance to engage with – and feel a part of - the wider community.
We would welcome the opportunity to meet you and your family to discuss how we can give your child a Goodstart early learning experience.


I am looking forward to working with and supporting the Goodstart Harristown team as the Centre Director.
I am passionate about working with team members, children, families, and management in creating an environment & atmosphere that is stimulating, encouraging, engaging, safe and adaptive to each child’s individual needs. I have a passion for teaching and helping children grow and learn from a young age, to help them become the best they can be
I am a mother of a little boy, Flynn, he is 5 years old and started Prep this year. I lived and worked as a childcare educator and Director in Brisbane, before relocating to Toowoomba in early 2021 with my young son to be closer to family & friends, and to enjoy the family lifestyle Toowoomba offers.
During my 30 years’ experience, have gained a wealth of experience as an educator as well as an Educational Leader, Cook, Assistant Director and Director. I have completed a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood and Care and then went on to complete my Diploma in Children’s Services and advanced Diploma Community Services
I am looking forward to meeting you all soon.
Fun Facts: My favourite colour is Blues, having fun with Flynn, going to the beach and taking day trips to new places.

At Harristown, you and your child can enjoy the best of both worlds. Our centre offers a kindergarten program and long day care under the one roof. Our kindergarten teachers are University qualified and provide a play-based learning program that will support your child in learning the skills for school and life.

At Harristown, you and your child can enjoy the best of both worlds. Our centre offers a kindergarten program and long day care under the one roof. Our kindergarten teachers are University qualified and provide a play-based learning program that will support your child in learning the skills for school and life.

6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday

6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday

6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday

6:00am to 6:00pm, Monday to Friday