For more than 17 years, Melissa has been a constant source of warmth and leadership, shaping generations of children, mentoring countless educators, and helping to build a strong, family-oriented culture.
“It’s been half my life; “I’ve grown up with Country Buddies, and it’s been such a huge part of who I am,” Melissa said.
Melissa’s journey began straight out of high school in 2009, when she joined the newly opened centre having completed her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education in year 12.
What started as a school-based opportunity quickly grew into a calling and a career built on kindness, connection, and a deep belief in the power of early education.
“Even when I was at school, I knew childcare was something I wanted to do,” Melissa said.
“It just felt right from the very beginning.”
Melissa soon became known for her professionalism and commitment and rose through the ranks to lead three Country Buddies centres in Yarrawonga, Wangaratta, and Woods Road.
Her time as Director in Wangaratta was a defining period, particularly during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Being an essential worker through that time was tough,” Melissa said.
“Crossing the border every day added hours to my commute, but I never wanted to let my team or families down.”
Melissa credits much of her success to the support of Country Buddies owner Matthew Kibble and area manager Kath Healy, who she describes as her biggest mentors.
“I’ll always be forever grateful for the belief they had in me and the opportunities they gave,” she said.
“They trusted me to lead, and that shaped the leader I became.”
In 2025, Melissa completed the Moira Shire Leadership Course, which she said was an important step in building her confidence.
“It polished what I already knew but also opened my eyes to new ways of connecting with people,” she said.
“I walked away feeling stronger; not just as a leader, but as part of the community.”
Over almost two decades, Melissa has made lifelong connections with families and children and says one of the best parts is seeing kids she looked after 17 years ago now grown up, working, and driving around town.
“They still remember me and that’s something really special,” she said.
While saying goodbye was deeply emotional, Melissa is now looking forward to spending more time with her own children, Remi, 13, and Taz, 10, and starting a new chapter working with her family at Riches Homes and Improvers.
“I’ll miss those morning hugs from the kids the most, but it’s the right time to focus on my own family for a while,” she said.
Melissa’s departure marks the end of an era, but her legacy of care, leadership, and community spirit will continue to inspire Country Buddies for years to come.
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