Katrina Owen
Co-Director, Nominated Supervisor, Teacher – Green Group
Katrina has been working at Nambour Community Kindergarten since 1999. Prior to accepting a permanent position, Katrina worked in day cares, community kindergartens and primary schools, including five years at Hervey Bay Community Kindergarten.
Katrina continues to love working in the early childhood field, where every day is different. She remains committed to making connections with families and loves being part of the village which helps children to become the best that they can be. Away from work, Katrina holds voluntary positions with Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra.
She loves to spend time with her near-adult/adult children and two grandchildren and supporting their endeavours as well as appreciating the great outdoors.
Desley Lanham
Co-Director, Educational Leader, Teacher – Yellow Group
Desley has been teaching at Nambour Community Kindergarten since 2014. She has a long history of working in early childhood in various fields, starting her career in state preschools. Desley has also taught in the day care system, state primary school and a British International Primary school in Malaysia.
After 30 years in the field, she maintains a passion for developing relationships with children and their family and creating a safe, secure environment where children thrive. Desley calls the Nambour district home and her family have long connections in the community.
When not at work, Desley loves being with her three almost grown daughters and husband, and embarking on outdoor adventures.
Karina McMeeken
Educator
Born and raised in the Nambour district, Karina started working at Nambour Kindergarten in 1995 after completing an Associate Diploma in Early Childhood. While continuing to work, Karina went on to study a Bachelor of Teaching externally, graduating with her degree in the mid-2000’s. As such, Karina brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge to her role. She continues to be fascinated by children’s curiosity and desire to learn and discover. Working with children to support putting their ideas into action remains a highlight in her role.
Karina is Mum to two daughters and maintains an active life with her involvement with the Sunshine Coast Badminton Association.
She also swims regularly and enjoys camping and bushwalking with her family.
Belinda Gleeson
Additional Needs Educator, Relief Assistant
Belinda began her association with Nambour Community Kindergarten in 2012. Since that time she has worked in various roles in contract and relief capacities.
She has also worked with other community kindergartens across the Sunshine Coast, adding to her experience and skills.
Belinda brings a calm and sensitivity to her role and she is rewarded with strong connections with children.
Belinda is a busy Mum of four and seems to spend most of her non-working hours as Mum’s taxi.
Leanne Laxton
Bookkeeper
Leanne has worked as Nambour Kindergarten’s bookkeeper since 2003. On the remaining three days, she works at Nambour State College as teacher aid and administration officer.
With a long history with the kindergarten and Nambour district, Leanne brings a very personal touch and knowledge to her role. Working closely with families, Leanne provides enormous support to staff and parents.
Leanne is also a keen gardener and cook and loves to hang out with her family.