Mary-Anne has been a client of East West Insurance Brokers for 20 years and we have had the privilege to watch her business evolve from when she owned childcare centres and after-school care facilities to her present business, EPEC Education.
Tell us more about your business.
EPEC Education is a Registered Training Organisation that provides accredited training and professional development to those interested in contributing to the Early Childhood Education community.
EPEC’s training covers all aspects of the care of children with special focus on identifying and preventing child abuse.
What inspired you to start your business?
As a former Approved Provider of a range of early childhood services, I was hoping I could make a positive contribution in this space.
As a former University teacher, I believed the combination of both my theoretical and hands-on industry knowledge would make a positive contribution to the industry.
What’s the most rewarding part of running your business?
Supporting educators and other personnel to be more caring and compassionate in their interactions with the children in their care.
What do you wish you knew starting out?
That it takes a long time to develop the fundamentals of a business, and that there is always a solution to 99% of business problems.
What was your biggest challenge, and your solution?
Coming to terms with all the changing technologies. The best way to overcome these challenges is to stay acutely on top of new technologies and all the details of changing legislation.
What’s your favourite success story?
One of my proudest moments from my business journey is staying true to my belief in the importance of inclusive and compassionate care of all children.
What’s your one big goal for your business in the next year?
In accordance with EPEC’s commitment to the early childhood sector, it is starting to make moves into the recruitment sector and aims to develop this as another department of its business in 2026.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?
Exercising on the beach, connecting with nature and recovering from the challenges of the previous week.
What advice would you give to other business owners?
To be successful in business you need to have plenty of strength and courage. Staying the course is about mental toughness and resilience above all else.
Where can people find you to connect or support your business?
www.epeceducation.com.au
www.foodsafetycertificates.com.au
www.childprotectiontraining.com.au
or contact Mary-Anne via 07 4616 8111 to discuss how her business can help you.