Big Hearted Education Presents
Dream, Lead, Play'26
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The conference that had Family Day Care professionals talking all year is back, and this time, we're coming to Sydney.
Last year's Dream, Lead, Play blew us all away. The speakers were real. The conversations were raw. The energy in that room was something you had to feel to believe. And every single educator who attended said the same thing: "You need to be there."
So here we are. Year two. A new city. And we're making it even bigger.
Location & Dates: Sydney | September 11–13, 2026Â
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Register Your Interest NowCONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Mark Your Calendar. Three days. Different focuses. All unmissable.
Friday, 11th September Leaders DayÂ
(For Coordinators, Approved Providers, Admin & Educational Leaders)
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This is the day that had people flying in from around the country last year, and for good reason. Open to all Family Day Care professionals, educators, leaders, and providers, this is a full day of expert speakers, real talk, and the kind of connection that reminds you why you chose this work.
Saturday, 12th September Open Day
(All Leaders & Educators from Across Australia — Welcome)
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A day built specifically for the people who hold services together the leaders, the coordinators, the ones navigating compliance, culture, and the daily juggle of keeping everything moving. Expect practical strategies, candid conversations, and the kind of professional development that actually sticks.
Sunday, 13th September Rainbow Bridge VIP Day
(Exclusive to Rainbow Bridge Educators)
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A special day reserved exclusively for Rainbow Bridge educators.
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More details to come.
The Speakers Are Coming...
 Stay tuned.
You won't want to miss who's stepping onto the stage.
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We're finalising an incredible lineup and we can't wait to introduce them to you. What we can tell you is this: they're the kind of speakers who leave you with pages of notes, a racing mind, and a fire in your belly.
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Last year's speakers covered everything from child safety in a digital world to the power of saying no and the feedback was extraordinary. This year, we're raising the bar.
Don't Just Take Our Word For It
Heidi, FDC Educator
"Words can't convey how impactful it was — you had to be there!"Â
Natalie, Approved Provider
"It was amazing and the best conference I have been to. You need to be there!!"Â
Janeen, Coordinator
 "100% so much better than FDCA."Â
Karen, FDC Educator
"Uplifting, relevant and energising."Â
Dalena, FDC Educator
"Wow! So many emotions, eye-opening and validating — truly worth it!"Â
WHY ATTEND?
Because face-to-face matters. In a world of webinars and online PD, there is something irreplaceable about being in a room full of people who get it — who understand your world, your challenges, and your passion for the children and families in your care.
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Dream, Lead, Play was built for Family Day Care professionals, by someone who has lived it. Every session, every speaker, every moment is chosen with you in mind.
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- Expert speakers with real-world experience — not just theory
- Content tailored specifically to Family Day Care - no generic ECE filler
- A space to connect with like-minded professionals from across Australia
- Practical tools and strategies you can use the moment you walk back in the door
- An energy in the room you simply cannot get from a screen
MEET YOUR HOST
Hey Friend, I'm Victoria Edmond, your Dream Lead Play Conference host. As a fully qualified Early Years Educator with over a decade of teaching experience, I am dedicated to advocating for and supporting Family Day Care Educators like you.
Having spent years working across multiple EC disciplines, I started Rainbow Bridge Family Day Care Service in 2013 and Big Hearted Education during the pandemic. I have walked in your shoes, experiencing firsthand the struggles and frustrations that come with being a FDC Educator. I truly understand feeling overlooked, undervalued, and longing for a sense of community.Â
I’m on a mission to elevate FDC within Australia, fuelled by my passion for lifting other women up and creating community. Together, let's create a future where Family Day Care Educators are celebrated, valued, and empowered.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is this conference for?
Can I attend just one day of the conference?
What are the key topics covered?
Is there networking time?
Is the conference only for Gold Coast locals?
Will the sessions be recorded or available online?
What’s included in the ticket price?
Will there be opportunities to ask questions?
Why should I attend this instead of other professional development events?
Is there a discount on accomodation?
What if I purchase a ticket but can't make it?
Register Your Interest Today!
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on Dream, Lead, Play. Register your interest now and prepare for an unforgettable conference experience designed to uplift, inform, and inspire.Â
Register NowSECURE YOUR SPOT
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Lead Day
(Service Staff Only)
$250
Date:Â 5th June 2025
A full day dedicated to service staff, including Approved Providers, Coordinators, and Educational Leaders.
Gain practical leadership strategies, compliance insights, and tools to excel in your role—all while enjoying a catered experience.
Both Days
(Service Staff Only)
$400
Dates: 5th & 7th June 2025
Immerse yourself in two days of targeted learning. Day 1 focuses on leadership and compliance, while Day 2 explores innovative practices, networking, and strategies for educators.
Enjoy two full days of expert-led sessions and delicious catering.
Dream & Play Day
(Open to Everyone)
$250
Standard Price: $300
Date: 7th June 2025
This is your opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.
Open to all FDC professionals, this day is packed with expert insights, practical tools, and networking opportunities—complete with a fully catered experience.
Choose the option that best suits your needs and join us on the Gold Coast for an inspiring and practical professional development experience tailored to Family Day Care professionals!
All tickets include morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
