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HIPPY Dandenong celebrates 15 years of learning, growth and belonging
Past and present Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) families, Tutors, staff and community partners came together at the Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre on 16 September to celebrate 15 years of learning, growth and belonging in Greater Dandenong.
The reunion-style event recognised the people who have shaped the Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters, known as HIPPY, since SMRC began delivering the program locally in 2011.
Guests reconnected, shared memories and reflected on the lasting impact HIPPY has had on children, parents and the wider community.
Representing the City of Greater Dandenong, Cr Lana Formoso addressed the gathering and helped recognise the contribution of the families, Tutors and staff who have built HIPPY Dandenong over the past 15 years.
Celebrating the people at the heart of HIPPY
A highlight of the evening was the premiere of Seeds of Learning: 15 Years of HIPPY Stories, a storytelling project featuring 16 videos from former HIPPY Tutors and their now-grown children.
The film invited guests to look back on their journeys, see where life has taken them and reflect on the influence HIPPY has had beyond each family’s time in the program.
For many parents, participating in HIPPY has been the beginning of a much longer journey. Parents who initially joined to support their children’s learning have gone on to become HIPPY Tutors, pursue further education, enter employment and contribute as mentors and leaders within their communities.
HIPPY Dandenong Coordinator, Tatjana Krneta, has seen these journeys unfold throughout the program’s local history since day one.
“What starts as a role supporting other families often becomes a pathway to employment, further education and leadership opportunities. Watching parents grow in confidence and realise their potential has been truly inspiring,” Tatjana said.
Left to right: Sharon Smith (SMRC HIPPY Program Manager), Siska Frederick (Senior Manager of HIPPY Operations), Tatjana Krneta (HIPPY Dandenong Coordinator)
Fifteen years of shared memories
The anniversary activities invited guests to contribute their own memories, experiences and hopes for HIPPY’s future.
A handprint mural created by the 55 families currently participating in HIPPY formed a flower, with each child’s handprint becoming one of its petals. The artwork extended into a photographic timeline spanning 2011 to 2026, featuring memories of home visits, group activities, graduations and family learning.
Former Tutors added their names and years of service to the mural through the Leaves of Contribution activity, creating a record of the people whose care and commitment have supported HIPPY families over the past 15 years.
Guests also contributed words representing the learning journeys nurtured through HIPPY and wrote messages of hope, encouragement and wisdom for children, parents, Tutors and community members to carry into the future.
The evening also featured performances by the Pakenham Chin Community Children’s Dance Group and the Šumadija Serbian Folk Dance Group, adding music, movement and cultural celebration to the program.
A lasting impact across Greater Dandenong
Since 2011, 693 local families have participated in HIPPY Dandenong, more than 460 children have been supported and 51 local parents have been employed as HIPPY Tutors. Fifty-five children and families are currently participating in the program.
HIPPY is a free, two-year early learning and parenting program that supports parents and carers in their role as their child’s first teacher. Through structured, play-based learning that fits into everyday family life, children build confidence, develop new skills and establish strong foundations for starting school.
The program also creates employment and development pathways for local parents. HIPPY Tutors gain paid work experience, training, professional development and opportunities to strengthen their confidence and leadership skills, with many progressing to further study or employment.
The 15-year celebration was more than an opportunity to look back. It recognised the children supported to learn and thrive, the parents who discovered new confidence and opportunities, and the Tutors who have helped strengthen connections across the Greater Dandenong community.
SMRC would like to acknowledge everyone involved in making this milestone event possible. From past HIPPY tutors, families and parents whose enduring connection embody the impact of the program to the current 15th generation of the HIPPY team for their efforts. We also thank Star Journal for their attendance and coverage of the milestone event.
HIPPY is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. The Brotherhood of St. Laurence holds the licence to operate HIPPY in Australia, with SMRC delivering the program in Greater Dandenong.
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