Welcome to the Education Fair Sunshine Coast 2026, and thank you for visiting today!
Now in its fourth year, we’re once again thrilled to bring this growing event to the families of the Sunshine Coast.
Why host such a unique event? Because we know that choosing an education pathway is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a parent. It can shape your child’s friendships (and yours!), their interests, achievements, and—most importantly—their happiness. It might even influence where you choose to live!
From school selection to sports, tutoring to uncovering passions, every decision contributes to your child’s future.
Eeek—no pressure, right?
That’s why we created an annual event to save busy parents a bit of sanity—bringing together a wide range of education options under one
roof, in one fun-filled day. A place where kids can try out sports and workshops, enjoy demos and shows, while parents chat with leading education providers, compare options, and explore what’s on offer.
Best of all? Entry is free, the activities are free, toddler meltdowns are totally normal, the coffee is good, and the whole family is catered for. We hope today helps you discover the perfect learning journey for your child, and sparks an excitement for learning in every kid who walks through our doors.
Have a fantastic day, and remember to give us a follow on socials. We’re a small, mumowned-and-operated business, so your visit and support truly mean the world to us.
EVENT PARTNERS
18 FUTURE / Where learning with robots has never been more human
Shore Media: PO Box 852, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 shoremedia.com.au
Where imagination takes flight FOR SUNSHINE COAST’S LITTLEST SCIENTISTS
Blending world-class STEM programs with nature play and global inspiration, Rise & Shine Kindergarten is nurturing the minds of the next generation of innovators.
For almost ten years, Rise & Shine Kindergarten has been a trusted fixture for Sunshine Coast families, quietly redefining early childhood education. As a family-owned and Australianoperated early learning service, the centre has built its reputation on delivering a premium, fully inclusive environment where children don’t just feel safe and supported; they are inspired to thrive.
BALANCING
EMOTIONAL WELLBEING WITH BIG IDEAS
At the heart of the centre’s philosophy is the Shine Advantage Curriculum. This playbased framework is intentionally designed to nurture curiosity, confidence, and emotional wellbeing. Families also benefit from a personalised approaach to care through Care+, vibrant Kindy+ excursions and a comprehensive Transition to School Program.
A major standout is Orbit, Centre of Imagination — an industry-first STEM program. As pioneers in early-years science and technology education, Rise & Shine uses Orbit to turn abstract concepts into handson exploration, helping children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills from a very early age.
BLENDING NATURE PLAY WITH FARM-TO-PLATE
DISCOVERY.
Step outside, and the focus on rich childhood experiences becomes even more evident. The expansive outdoor play spaces encourage active, nature-based exploration, complete with water sprinklers that are a welcome relief during warm Queensland months.
At the Maroochydore service, the connection to nature and the environment is enhanced by a unique on-site farm experience. In the garden, children can collect fresh eggs and participate in genuine farm-to-plate learning, fostering an authentic understanding of sustainability and healthy living.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION
This global perspective highlights the organisation’s heavy investment in its people. Supported by a dedicated local Head Office, educators have access to continuous professional development, ensuring international best practices are brought straight back into local Sunshine Coast classrooms.
The centre’s Directors recently returned from an advanced training study tour in Singapore, focusing on world-renowned Reggio Emilia-inspired practices and educational leadership.
Ultimately, while the programs are innovative and the facilities are state-of-the-art, the priority remains beautifully simple: the safety and happiness of every child. By creating a secure, nurturing space, Rise & Shine Kindergarten ensures that a child’s very first steps into education are filled with confidence, joy, and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
The Sunshine Coast sports club changing the game for all abilities.
What started over 20 years ago as a casual weekly gathering of friends has evolved into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most impactful community organisations. Today, Suncoast Spinners Wheelchair Basketball is a thriving, volunteer-led not-for-profit delivering social programs, school workshops, and a major annual tournament that draws athletes from right across Australia.
While the club caters to all ages, one of its most significant successes is the Suncoast Spinners Kids Club. Launched in 2021 with just three participants, the program has rapidly grown into a weekly highlight for local families, giving kids an energyfilled, supportive space to enjoy wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, and even wheelchair dance.
Playing Field LEVELLING THE
MORE THAN JUST A GAME
For children living with a disability, navigating childhood can unfortunately come with feelings of isolation or exclusion from mainstream activities. Missing out on the weekend team sports ritual doesn’t just limit physical activity; it can deeply impact a child’s self-esteem, social development, and emotional wellbeing.
Participating in wheelchair sports directly addresses these gaps. It gives children a fun and regular avenue for building physical confidence, making friends, and experiencing the simple joy of being part of a team. Whether they are defending a rugby play or learning a dance routine, the emphasis stays firmly on skill, strategy, and social connection.
THE POWER OF REVERSE INCLUSION
What truly sets Suncoast Spinners apart is their pioneering approach to community connection. In 2017, the club formalised its Reverse Inclusion Initiative. This program actively encourages people without a disability, including siblings, parents and friends, to strap into a sports wheelchair and play alongside people with a disability.
In this space, the wheelchair ceases to be viewed as a mobility aid. Instead, it becomes a piece of high-performance sporting equipment that completely equalises the playing field.
The Reverse Inclusion philosophy also means a child with a disability doesn’t have to watch from the sidelines while their siblings play. Instead, the whole family can team up to compete together and enjoy sport on completely equal terms.
This simple shift does more than just boost player numbers; it breaks down social stigmas at a grassroots level and builds genuine, lifelong empathy among young participants.
By inviting everyone to join in, Suncoast Spinners has created a truly inclusive environment where the invitation is open to all. You don’t need your own equipment or prior experience. You just need to be ready to roll.
Suncoast Spinners will be on Stand 70 and Activity Zone 5 at the 2026 Sunshine Coast Education Fair.
RParenting Resource
aising awesome little humans takes a village … and an exceptional amount of coordination. And navigating this while balancing the beautiful chaos of everyday family life can sometimes feel like herding toddlers at a playground. Fortunately for Sunshine Coast parents, there is a trusted companion dedicated to making that journey a whole lot easier.
For almost 20 years, Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City have been vital pillars of the local parenting community.
The team behind these publications might be too humble to shout it from the rooftops. Still, they have quietly become the region’s premier go-to parenting resources, helping families cut through the noise to find exactly what they need.
THE POWER OF PRINT WITH A LOCAL HEART
At the very core of the brand is a longstanding love for print. Every quarter, three distinct premium regional editions are published, covering family life from Tweed to Gympie. Whether a family is based in Brisbane, the Gold Coast or the Sunshine Coast, the physical magazines are tailored specifically to their local area.
A 24/7 DIGITAL VILLAGE
While the print magazines are perfect for a read at after-school activities, modern family life moves fast. The Kids on the Coast/Kids in the City digital channels work seamlessly alongside the print editions to provide parents with real-time support whenever and wherever they need it:
• A content-crammed website:
The online hub is packed to the brim with expert parenting tips, education features, kid-friendly recipes, and honest reviews.
• Premium event calendar: Split into dedicated regions (Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast) for ultimate convenience, the website’s calendar is the definitive guide for always knowing what’s on for kids.
• Thriving social communities: Their regional social pages act as lively, supportive virtual playgrounds where local parents stay up to date on local news and activities and catch the latest giveaways.
NEVER MISS
THE ULTIMATE SCHOOL HOLIDAY LIFESAVER
For many local families, the absolute saviour of the school break is the famous School Holiday Guides. Published two weeks before the endof-term bell rings, these digital guides are packed with local camps, creative workshops, live shows, and the best kids’ events to keep little ones active and thriving through the school break. They have become a household staple, and local parents genuinely don’t start the holidays without them.
SAY HELLO AT THE EDUCATION FAIR!
As proud organisers of the Education Fair, the team at Kids on the Coast/Kids in the City is deeply passionate about connecting parents with the best education options, insights into childhood development and kids’ activities available across South East Queensland. Drop by their stand for giveaways, to grab the latest copy of the magazine and meet the people behind the pages.
ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE
READING CORNER
BIANCA EDGAR AUTHOR
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Author Bianca Edgar shares her picture book Bob the Blob, a fun and accessible introduction to online safety for young learners, followed by an interactive online safety quiz and colouring-in activities.
MY GUT FRIENDS
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Explore the magical universe of My Gut Friends, where trillions of microbes live in ‘Gutville’ (your child’s tummy), each with unique powers! In this interactive reading of ‘The Friends You Don’t Know You Have’, kids meet characters like Lacey, Biffy, Streppy, and Sia, learning how food keeps these friends happy, healthy, and energized. It’s more than storytime—it’s the start of your child becoming a “Gut Hero”. Expect giggles, “aha!” moments, and a new perspective on food.
STEPHEN BAINES AUTHOR
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Enjoy a book reading from Stephen Baines’ series of Rodney Rainbowfish books, followed by a hands-on activity around the importance of protecting our planet’s freshwater. The session wraps up with a fun and playful round of ‘fish yoga’. Beyond the author readings, this corner remains open for you! Grab a book, find a comfy spot, and enjoy some quiet family reading time at your own pace.
The Education Fair offers families a heap of free kids’ activities, workshops and education-based fun! Here’s the program for the day.
DEMO AREA
WANDER WITH THE WILDLINGS
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
Little wildlife lovers of all ages can get close to some of Australia’s most amazing native animals.
TESSA INC
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
The team will be demonstrating some of their tips and tricks, as well as examples of approach and response to various situations. They will also be doing some lifeskills games with volunteers. Interactive, fun and something to remember - all this and some Q&A for the curious, too!
FUNKY BOOKS
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Chris will be performing a mini-show on the main stage live narration to the audio-visual book. The audience will meet his puppet friends and sing and dance to one of the book’s songs!
RISE & SHINE
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
Experience the Rise & Shine Kindergarten and Orbit Centre of Imagination STEM program, where the team will proudly showcase their innovative resources. Enjoy an exciting science show that sparks curiosity and creativity, giving children a hands-on glimpse into the engaging STEM approach designed to inspire exploration, problem-solving, and a lifelong love of learning.
AUSFUNK CHEER & DANCE
1:15 - 1:45 PM
Ausfunk will display different styles of dance and cheerleading! Ages 5 years through to teens.
YOUR CAPABILITY STORE
The sensory room offers a safe, calming space designed to support relaxation, emotional regulation and sensory exploration for all ages. The room encourages self-paced discovery, helping to reduce stress, improve focus and enhance overall well-being. The sensory space provides a welcoming, inclusive space where visitors can relax, recharge and experience moments of peace and comfort.
SENSORY ROOM OUTSIDE AREA
RISE & SHINE ORBIT SHUTTLE
All aboard the Orbit Shuttle, where curiosity meets creativity and innovation fuels every corner of the play based learning at Rise & Shine. The Orbit Shuttle is bursting with hands-on experiences inspired by the exclusive Orbit STEM program, an industry-first in early childhood education.
ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE
ALL-DAY ACTIVITIES
ACTIVITY ZONE 1
RISE & SHINE
Discover the wonder of life cycles through this immersive butterfly experience. Children explore how butterflies grow and transform, observing each stage up close within the butterfly enclosure. This interactive opportunity brings learning to life, sparking curiosity, nurturing respect for nature, and deepening understanding through real, firsthand discovery.
ACTIVITY ZONE 2
ART ME SESSIONS // PHONICS & NUMBER FUN
Children can create their own soft-clay masterpiece. Alongside sensory crafting, parents and little ones can enjoy colourful counting, letter-matching, and motor-skill activities. Every hands-on resource perfectly matches the lively music and songs featured throughout these interactive sessions.
ACTIVITY ZONE 3
EDITGO2 EDU
Meet Edit, the friendly AI robot dog, in a hands-on robotics experience for children aged 4–12 and their families. Through movement, music, play and guided discovery, children will explore how people lead technology through choices and values, and learn how robots and humans can work together in a smart society.
ACTIVITY ZONE 4
BRICKS4KIDZ
Bricks 4 Kidz will be running a hands-on LEGO activity space at the Education Fair, where children can drop in and build freely at their own pace. With a range of creative stations set up, kids can explore, design, and construct using a variety of LEGO pieces and themed activities. It’s all about imagination, creativity, and having fun while learning through play.
ACTIVITY ZONE 5
SUNCOAST SPINNERS
Throughout the day, Suncoast Spinners will offer wheelchair activities, including Wheelchair Dance, Wheelchair Basketball, and Wheelchair Rugby.
ACTIVITY ZONE 6
MAROOCHYDORE FOOTBALL CLUB
Come and try soccer with Maroochydore Football Club! There will be small-sided games run throughout the day by coaches/players to give kids a go at kicking a ball and trying some skills.
ACTIVITY ZONE 7
SCOUTS QLD
Scouts will be running several hands-on activities for kids to enjoy, including building a catapult from pop sticks and beaded keychains. Whilst the kids are busy, parents can chat to leaders and get an understanding of what Scouts is all about. The children can take home their creations!
ACTIVITY ZONE 8
SHOWTIME STARS
9:30 - 11:00 am: 90-minute Bees Show and Workshop 12:00 - 1:30 pm: 90-minute Multi-Cultural Show and Workshop
ACTIVITY ZONE 9
STUDENTS SAVE LIVES (MR PARAMEDIC)
Kids can have fun on the inflatable ambulance with a slide!
ACTIVITY ZONE 10
JUICED UP GROMS
Juiced Up Groms will be bringing highenergy movement games and interactive activities designed to get kids active, connected, and having fun. Participants will have the opportunity to join in games such as dodgeball, team challenges, movement circuits, and other engaging activities focused on building confidence, teamwork, communication, and resilience.
ACTIVITY ZONE 11
SISSY COMMUNITY
Join Jess, the founder of Sissy and an educator with over 20 years’ experience at the Sissy activity stall. Give your child a moment of calm creativity... drop in and use art materials to make a personalised affirmation card that celebrates who they are and empowers them to step into who they’re becoming.
ACTIVITY ZONE 12
IFYS / PROJECT PARADIGM
Project Paradigm will present a specialised suite of educational resources focused on the prevention of child sexual exploitation and the protection of young people.
Bucket-loads of arcade fun, including Mini Skittle Bowling, Mini Golf Putt Putt, Slippers in a Suitcase guessing game, Arcade Mario Kart on Switch and lots more.
ACTIVITY ZONE 14
GROVES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
Join Groves Distance Education to experience the hands-on side of their program. Get up close with life-cycle models, human anatomy displays, and investigative science tools. Whilst creative students can build, craft and innovate in the Makerspace.
ACTIVITY ZONE 15
SMART MOVE CHESS
Suitable for all ages and experience levels, this drop-in space lets you learn the basics of chess, enjoy a casual game, or test your skills.
ACTIVITY ZONE 16: CRAFT
READY SET PREP & HEADSTART
Crown making, craft fun and easy play activities for little ones.
ACTIVITY ZONE 19
HYPT
Kids can try out a range of crafty activities from HYPT’s extensive school holiday program. There is a free braiding bar too!
ACTIVITY ZONE 20
AUSFUNK CHEER & DANCE
Providing dance routines for ages 5-14 years old in Hip Hop, Pom & Lyrical Styles, plus an an all-ability interactive session.
ACTIVITY ZONE 21
HANNAH’S FACE PAINTING
Free face painting from 9:30 am - 1:30 pm
ACTIVITY ZONE 22
LITTLE SEED THEATRE CO
An introduction to Acting and Musical Theatre with improvisation, costuming and an explanation as to how Little Seed brings theatrical life to the Sunshine Coast!
Voted Australia’s Best Holiday Park at the 2025 Australian Tourism Awards! Escape to the ultimate family getaway, where magical moments and memories are made. Enjoy a fun filled day riding the ‘Magic Express’, making a splash at the Waterpark, or meeting Gwen the friendly park mascot. Then unwind at the resort style pool with food and drinks delivered straight to your cabana or dine under the twinkling lights at the Nibbles Cafe. Relaxation and adventure come together when staying in a Safari Retreat or choose from a range of Cabins and spacious camp sites. Endless smiles and laughter await, with something for everyone to enjoy - all in one place!
Runaway Bay Indoor Stadium / 9 am - 2 pm
FUTURE Learning With Robots HAS NEVER BEEN SO HUMAN
EditGo2 at Discovery Zone 3!
Preparing today’s children to be the protagonists of tomorrow’s technology.
We’ve all seen sci-fi movies with robots taking over, but real life is more inspiring and far more human. We’re in the era of the Smart Society, where AI and innovation are already in our homes and classrooms.
According to DJ, the founder of EditGo2 Edu, a provider of curriculum-aligned robotics programs, the key to navigating this evolution isn’t found in a manual, but in our mindset. “Technology should serve the human… never replace,” DJ explains. “At EditGo2, we believe that learning with robots is about empowering children to be the protagonists of their own future, ensuring they lead the machines, not the other way around.”
THE HUMAN-LED REVOLUTION
The fear that technology might displace human connection is common, but EditGo2 is proving the opposite. Their programs are built on the philosophy that robots are tools for creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. By introducing kids to Edit, an intelligent and friendly robot, the mystery and ‘fear’ of the unknown are replaced with curiosity.
“Edit helps people get closer to innovation,” says DJ. “It breaks the fear of technology and shows that it can be simple, friendly, and most importantly, under human control.”
PROGRAMS DESIGNED FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
EditGo2 doesn’t just “show” robots; they integrate them into the educational fabric of Australia. Their programs are aligned with the Australian Curriculum (V9) and frameworks like EYLF, MTOP, and Little Scientists. Whether it’s a one-off spark of interest or a deep dive into logic, there is a pathway for every child:
• Show & Play (30–45 min): A fun, interactive introduction to robotics.
• Mini Program (Up to 8 Weeks): Progressive learning through collaborative challenges.
• Pilot Session: A single session for schools to observe real-world engagement.
A ROADMAP FOR EVERY AGE
As children grow, their relationship with technology evolves. EditGo2 tailors the experience to meet them where they are:
• Explorers (Ages 4–5): At this foundational stage, children develop an emotional connection and body awareness, learning the essential lesson that “robots are tools” for their own discovery.
• Discoverers (Ages 6–7): Young learners begin to master simple commands and
planning, with a strong emphasis on the importance of collaborative teamwork.
• Creators (Ages 8–9): Moving into more advanced territory, students engage in supervised control, taking on missions and using robotics to navigate complex problem-solving.
• Junior Programmers (Ages 10–12): The final tier focuses on logic and block programming, where students create their own projectbased solutions to real-world challenges.
EMBRACING THE FUTURE
DJ believes that we owe it to the next generation to provide them with the tools they need to thrive. Some jobs of the future don’t even exist yet, but the skills of logic, planning, and creativity are timeless.
“We do not replace teachers; we support and enhance learning,” DJ emphasises.
By embracing interactive robotics today, we are preparing the creators, inventors, and leaders of tomorrow.
“Let’s celebrate the incredible things humans can do with the right tools in their hands.”
Ready to see the future of learning firsthand? Come meet DJ and the team at Discovery Zone 3 to see Edit in action! Let your kids experience the fun, creativity, and empowerment of human-led robotics for themselves.
Each designed by award-winning educators and professionals with over 40 years of experience in early childhood care and education.
Delicious meals for your children prepared on site by our chef
Appealing, well equipped, unique indoor and outdoor play spaces
Nappies for 0-3 yr olds
Opportunities to develop creative thinking
Maroochydore 2 Newspaper Place | 07 5413 8099 newspaperpl@outandabout.net.au
Mooloolah Valley 6 Mooloolah Rd | 07 5356 9323 mooloolah@outandabout.net.au
TOP TIPS Ace Your Expo WITH THESE MUST-ASK QUESTIONS
With more providers, programs and pathways on offer than ever before, knowing what to ask can turn a quick chat into a genuinely valuable conversation.
The Education Fair brings together schools, early learning centres, support services and extracurricular providers all under one roof. It’s an incredible opportunity, but it can also feel overwhelming. These smart, practical questions will help you cut through the noise, compare options with confidence, and find the right fit for your child.
ACADEMIC FOCUS
• What is the school’s academic philosophy and curriculum approach? (Traditional, progressive, inquiry-based, etc.)
• How does the school support students with diverse learning styles?
• What are the average class sizes?
• Does the school offer arts programs like music, theatre or visual arts?
• Are there extension programs for highachieving students or extra support for those who need it?
• Does the school offer any unique programs or specialties?
ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY
• What extracurricular activities and clubs are available? (Sports, coding, debating, gardening, etc.)
• How does the school foster a sense of belonging and inclusion?
• What opportunities are there for leadership and student voice?
• How would you describe the school culture day-to-day?
• What is the transition process like for new students?
• How does the school approach behaviour management and wellbeing?
• What level of parental involvement is encouraged?
TEACHER QUALITY AND SUPPORT
• What is the teacher-to-student ratio?
• What qualifications and experience do teachers typically have?
• How does the school support ongoing professional development?
• How accessible are teachers for communication with parents?
SUPPORT SERVICES
• What academic and wellbeing supports are available? (Counselling, learning support, mentoring)
• How does the school support students with additional needs?
• What technology and digital learning tools are used and how are they balanced with offline learning?
• Are there career guidance or pathway planning services for older students?
ADMISSIONS AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
• What are the admissions requirements for your child’s year level?
• What does the application process involve?
• Are scholarships or bursaries available?
• What are the tuition fees and what do they include?
• Are there transport options available?
• What are the key application deadlines?
• Are there waitlists?
FUTURE FOCUSED
• How does the school integrate digital literacy, AI or emerging technologies into learning?
• What real-world learning opportunities are offered (industry partnerships, work experience, community projects)?
• How does the school build skills like resilience, critical thinking and adaptability?
TO ASK YOURSELF
Beyond the brochures and polished answers, trust your instinct. Ask yourself:
• What learning environment would best suit your child?
• Does the school offer programs aligned with your child’s interests and personality?
• How did the conversation feel: welcoming, genuine, aligned with your values?
Top tip: Don’t be afraid to take notes, grab brochures and follow up after the event. A great conversation at the Fair is just the beginning.
Armed with these questions, you’ll walk away from the Education Fair feeling informed, confident, and one step closer to finding the perfect fit for your child!
BOOKS
Is This a Plum?
BY DAN & FINN OJARI
Is This a Plum is a playful, laugh-out-loud picture book bursting with visual tricks and rhyming surprises. Peek through each page and guess what you see—then turn to discover something completely unexpected! Created by Oscar-nominated animator Dan Ojari and his son Finn, this bold, interactive read-aloud delights with clever cut-outs, vibrant art and joyful twists for curious kids and grown-ups alike.
Grandma Gogo’s Alphabet
BY MARGOT BAIN, ILLUSTRATED
BY HIRUNI KARIYAWASAM
Beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully crafted, Grandma Gogo’s Alphabet takes children on a delightful journey through the alphabet, with each letter paired with an uplifting word designed to inspire kindness, compassion and emotional resilience. Staying true to the spirit of the much-loved Grandma Gogo series, the book encourages children to grow into caring and confident individuals. Written by Australian author Margot Bain, this brings joy, warmth and positive life lessons to young readers and families across Australia.
My First Library of Australian Animals
BY RENÉE TREML
A delightful board book boxset introducing babies and toddlers to iconic Australian animals. This charming four-book library follows wombats, birds, kangaroos and platypus through playful daily moments, from diving to peekaboo. Beautifully illustrated in Renée Treml’s soft, classic style, each sturdy book is perfect for little hands. Presented in a handy slipcase, it’s a wonderful first introduction to books and Australian wildlife.
The Girl and the Ghost: Grand Opening (Book 3)
BY JACQUELINE HARVEY
A grand hotel opening, a missing locket and a ghostly mystery—Josephine has a lot to handle. With a vengeful enemy on the loose and her family’s secrets at risk, chaos unfolds at the château. As friendships shift and romance falters, Josephine must uncover the truth before everything unravels. Will she keep her family—and their future—safe? The latest instalment in the much-loved Girl and the Ghost series for middlegrade readers.
