Our Team
Playgroup WA has a wonderful team of people focused on supporting and advocating for playgroups in Western Australia. We believe in all children having the opportunity to participate in play-based social activities in their early years and for parents to be given opportunities to be confident in their parenting roles and within the community.
CEO
David Zarb
David Zarb has been the CEO of Playgroup WA since 2008. Initially qualified as a social worker he has worked with children, families and communities for over 30 years. He has worked extensively in child protection and family support roles as practitioner and manager.
This work has informed a passion for the importance of work in the early years, particularly in supporting and acknowledging the role of families and communities in having healthy and happy children. Over the past ten years he has worked exclusively in the early years, including managing two WA Communities for Children sites.
David was a long -term member of the WA AEDC Coordinating Committee and has served on the Boards of Nature Play WA, Family Partnership Training WA and the WA Branch of Early Childhood Australia. David was the WA representative the National Early Years Chapter of the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth between 2012 and 2019 and is a current member of the Parenting Connection Advisory Committee.
Programs Team
The Programs Team supports and guides new and existing playgroups across the state in a range of ways including by phone, email, workshops, face-to-face visits, and participation in play days and events. We assist playgroups in a variety of settings, including community venues and facilities, schools and aged care settings, providing information and advice, as well as practical hands-on activities and support.
The team works across a number of different program areas and develops strong links within the community to highlight the important role of playgroups in communities, to support and provide advocacy for local playgroups, as well as encouraging participation in playgroups.
The Programs Team is also involved in facilitating a number of funded Supported Playgroups, such as PlayConnect+, which are playgroups for children with a disability or developmental concern, as well as playgroups for Aboriginal families in a range of communities.
Programs Manager: Narelle Pryer
Team Leader: Renee Myles
Development Officers:Â Amy Varis, Jenny Smith, Michelle Roberts, Trina Bourke, Jen Gordon
South West Development Officer: Cj Aston and Paige Rae
Midwest Development Officer: Kiara Jones
You can view Development Officer Support Areas here.
Administration Team
The Administration team brings experience, skills and enthusiasm to the everyday corporate services provided to our staff and members.
The team provides membership assistance and helps families find a playgroup.
If we can help you, please contact the Playgroup WA Hotline on 1800 171 882 or email hotline@playgroupwa.com.au.
Administration Manager: Dawn Prendergast
Administration Officers: Cheri Bonser, Kelda Free
Finance Team
Finance Manager: Samantha Thomas
Finance Support Officer:Â Kylie Ballin
The finance team manages Playgroup WA's finances and ensures financial compliance.
Marketing Team
The marketing team focuses on promoting playgroups and supporting playgroup communications, through events, social media, newsletters, advertising, media, website, projects and partnerships. We love to share great stories about playgroups and playgroup members. If you have a story or photos, please email us: marketing@playgroupwa.com.au
Marketing Manager: Caroline Ince
Senior Marketing Officer: Belinda Cordova
Digital Marketing Officer: Natalie Lynch Davila