A New Chapter for Somerton’s Youngest Learners
The sound of little footsteps, giggles, and learning adventures is about to fill the Somerton War Memorial Hall because Somerton is officially getting its very own preschool service.
On Wednesday morning's Breakfast program, I caught up with Gil Burke, Vice President of the Ooranga Management Committee, local resident and proud preschool parent, to talk about this exciting new chapter for the community. For more than a year, the team at Ooranga Family Resource Mobile Unit has been working hard behind the scenes to make this dream a reality. And tomorrow, it all begins with the very first day of preschool for children aged 3 - 5.
“We started the playgroup in Somerton in 2023 and it’s had such a great response,” Gil shared. “Somerton’s kind of halfway between Tamworth and Gunnedah, so it’s a long way for families to travel for early education. We’re so excited this service is finally kicking off in Somerton.”
This new preschool isn’t just another centre, it’s the only dedicated early childhood education provider in Somerton, joining Ooranga’s network of services that already support families across the Gunnedah, Liverpool Plains and Narrabri regions. Ooranga’s mission is simple: to help children flourish in their own communities. And for local families, this means less time on the road and more time building friendships, learning, and growing together right at home.
Gil, whose daughter Grace will be part of the very first intake, said the community spirit is already shining through.
“We had a stay and play day at the end of last term - Grace had an absolute ball,” Gil laughed. “She knew a couple of the kids from other farms. She’s a bit nervous but I’m sure once she gets in the door, she’ll forget I exist!”
Beyond the benefits for children, this new preschool will also create a space for local families to connect, sharing stories, produce, and support in ways that make small communities thrive. The new preschool service complements Ooranga’s current playgroup which operates fortnightly on Tuesdays at 10am. Somerton Playgroup welcomes families with children of all ages but places an emphasis on kids aged 0-3 years and preparing them to transition to preschool.
“When education centres are thriving, the whole community thrives,” Gil explained. “Parents get to interact more, and those little things, like sharing garden produce at playgroup, really build that sense of belonging.”
Location: Somerton War Memorial Hall
Days: Mondays & Thursdays
Ages: 3–5 years
For families interested in enrolling, there are still a few places available for Term 4.
Plus enrolments are open for 2026.
Visit www.ooranga.com.au
Or call the Gunnedah office on 6742 0603 for more details.
A huge congratulations to Ooranga and the Somerton community for bringing early childhood education back to the heart of town...because when our littlest learners shine - our whole community grows.
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