Mackay childcare: Kool Beanz Academy joins Gold Coast Suns to build four new centres

A new early learning project is expected to create more than 100 local jobs, inject $16m+ into Mackay’s economy and provide specialised care and education for up to 50 children living with special needs.

A bold vision for new early learning centres is expected to create more than 100 local jobs and inject more than $16m into Mackay’s economy.

The centres would aim to provide specialised care and education for up to 50 children living with special needs, specifically Autism.

The first centre would be developed near Harrup Park but there were plans to develop at least four childcare centres in the Mackay region over the next 12 months.

Kool Beanz Academy is teaming up with the Gold Coast Suns

Kool Beanz founder Bruce Coulson has been in the childcare industry for more than 16 years, currently operating six facilities in Northern NSW.

Less than a month ago, he launched a $10m state-of-the-art facility at Metricon Stadium in conjunction with the Suns.

The Mackay expansion was announced on Thursday at the same time the Suns revealed they would play the first game of the AFLW fixture in the sugar city.

“Following the commencement of our childcare project with the Suns on the Gold Coast we are really excited to build on that partnership and develop a much-needed state-of-the-art childcare facility here in Mackay,” Mr Coulson said.

Kool Beanz Academy has teamed up with the Gold Coast Suns to develop four or more childcare centres in the Mackay region. This is an art room at an existing facility. Picture: Contributed

“We plan to develop four, maybe more, childcare centres within the Mackay region, supporting the childcare needs of the local community and providing a fully inclusive environment for all children including those that may require special support such as those with Autism spectrum disorder.

“Through our partnership with Autism Queensland we understand there is high demand for access to early childhood assessment and therapy services.

“There is nothing like this in Australia, these centres will be one of a kind with state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality early childhood education programs.”

Never seen before in childcare, the centres will feature classrooms and ancillary facilities as well as an art room, library, Lego room and kitchen.

Offering an early education like no other, extra-curricular activities will include yoga, music, Japanese lessons and a sports program.

Byron Bay's Kool Beanz Academy has an outdoor play area. It is expected new childcare centres to be developed in Mackay, through a partnership with the Gold Coast Suns, will have similar play areas. Picture: Contributed

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he was thrilled to have a company looking to nurture the development of the region’s youth in a meaningful way.

“Childcare services are in high-demand across the Mackay region,” he said.

“We believe parents and families will welcome this exciting announcement.”

Kool Kids Training College, the second largest registered training organisation in Australia, already has a strong presence in the area, providing training and support for students studying in the early childhood education sector.