The name Koobara is an Aboriginal word from which dialect has not been ascertained but it was Auntie Melita Orcher who suggested the name after reading a book with the word Koobara in it which translated to mother and child. The logo was designed by Hope Neil in 1984.
Koobara’s story is a journey, spanning more than four decades, filled with knockbacks, disappointment, frustration, anger and every other human emotion in between. But this is the reality for Indigenous people in Australia. So, the story of Koobara speaks of a story so familiar to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the country. Dedicate women and men determined to build better futures for their children.
Koobara mums started with a simple desire, ‘to give their children the same rights to early childhood education that is enjoyed by all Australians,’ but created something far greater.
Thousands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, who are strong in their cultural identity, who have a sense of belonging and place. Children who through Koobara have been given a good start to their early learning life, and, who have become parents themselves and now send their children to a place so familiar and comfortable to them. It’s more than a Kindergarten, it’s an extended home, where all are, and feel welcome.
In the process, Koobara has also become a leader in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education. Sought out by Universities, academics, educational journals and conferences for knowledge, expertise and innovation.
The story of Koobara is one of empowerment for all those who have been involved in its history, its journey and its future. Strong leadership, strong communities creating strong jarjums.