Vale Cathy Bavage
Family Day Care Queensland is deeply saddened to acknowledge the passing of Cathy Bavage on Sunday, 21 September 2025. Cathy was not only one of Queensland’s most respected leaders in family day care, but also a cherished mentor, colleague, and friend to so many across our sector.
Cathy’s remarkable 38-year journey with Wynnum Family Day Care began in 1988, after her early career in child protection sparked her passion for creating safe, nurturing environments where children could thrive. Under her leadership, Wynnum FDC grew to become a model of excellence. In 2013, it was the first service in Australia to receive ACECQA’s Excellent Rating, and in the years that followed, it was recognised nationally as a benchmark for quality and innovation.
Cathy was an innovator and an advocate, never shying away from the big conversations. She played a pivotal role in elevating the role of carer to “Educator,” shaping professional identity in family day care. She was also a long-serving Director on the Board of Family Day Care Australia, where her wisdom and experience contributed significantly to national policy, practice, and governance — always with a focus on the needs of children, families, and educators in Queensland, to the benefit of children and educators Australia-wide.
As FDCQ’s very first Life Member, Cathy embodied the values of leadership, advocacy, and community connection that continue to guide our work today. Her influence extended far beyond her own service—mentoring new leaders, guiding services through complex change, and championing evidence-informed approaches that put children’s wellbeing first.
Cathy leaves behind a lasting legacy. Her dedication, passion, and belief in the power of family day care have shaped generations of educators, strengthened families, and improved the lives of countless children.
On behalf of the Queensland family day care community, we extend our deepest condolences to Cathy’s family and loved ones. We will miss her presence dearly, but her impact will be felt for years to come.
