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Celebrating 50 Years of Sunshine Coast Hub (Mons)

Play Matters > 50 Years

In 2025, we celebrate 50 years of what has affectionately been known as ‘Mons’, ‘Mons Playgroup’, and the ‘Kookaburra Group’, a valued sanctuary for thousands, of families across the Sunshine Coast and beyond.

50 BIRTHDAY POST 22-02

A History Book

This anniversary book honours the diverse stories of families who found support, friendship, and joy at Mons Playgroup.

Across the decades, recurring themes echo the gorgeous natural environment, the freedom for children to explore, and the authenticity of early years play. These elements have made Mons an early educational space for children for over 100 years, dating back to its origins as a local 
school in 1916.

The history book was compiled with thanks to many members of the community who shared their stories alongside Mons and the Sunshine Coast Hub. Thank you for your contributions and commitment to play and community on the Sunshine Coast. 

Foundational Members of the Mons Playgroup in 1975 stand infront of the building

Foundational Members Celebration 

On Wednesday, 22 October, Sunshine Coast Hub (Mons) turned 50 years old! To recognise this milestone the Hub held Imaginative Play celebrations with over 100 children and families attending playgroup in the morning and concluded the celebrations with a foundational members high tea.

The event was an opportunity to bring together the women who founded Mons Playgroup on the site 50 years ago with some members travelling great distances to reconnect and reunite. 

The event took place at the Sunshine Coast Play Matters Hub with over 20 former committee members, playgroup parents and foundational members in attendance.

The event was also an opportunity for Play Matters to recognise the foundational members for their vision and celebrate the launch of the 50 Years of Play Matters Sunshine Coast Hub (Mons) history book. 

 

Featured Stories

Founding Mons Playgroup & Creating Community

Interview with Lori Freeman, Founding Member in 1975

From Visitor to Volunteer

Terri's unexpected journey with Mons



From Volunteer to Visionary

Interview with Michelle Poole, Regional Manager Sunshine Coast Hub