Yarra Council Opens Dill-be-din Kindergarten
“Dill-be-din” means “safely look after and protect” in the Woi Wurrung language. This name reflects the role of early learning facilities and the emphasis on educating young people to care for Country in a culturally-informed way.
The name was chosen in consultation with, and with the permission of, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. A range of names were offered by a Wurundjeri Elder and local kindergarten-aged children and their families nominated their preference. Dill-be-din Kindergarten was previously known by the name of Atherton Gardens Kindergarten.
Dill-be-din Kindergarten was supported by a $1,589m grant from the Victorian Government Building Blocks Grants program and $100,000 from Yarra City Council. The $1.68M project was delivered in partnership with Homes Victoria and Yarra City Council.
The new facility accommodates 44 children and began operations in January 2025. It has a significant outdoor play space, featuring a large, tree-filled yard with many amenities to support imaginative play including a sandpit, mud pit, cubby, yarning circle and basketball ring.
The kindergarten offers free sessional kinder for 3 and 4 year-olds, thanks to the Victorian Government’s Best Start Best Life reform.
The event was attended by excited children, proud parents, and key community figures including Minister Enver Erdogan, the state upper house member for the Northern Metropolitan Region.
“The name of this new kindergarten is a reflection of both Council’s respect for the Traditional Owners of this land and also our dedication to nurturing the next generation to care for Country,” said Yarra Mayor, Stephen Jolly.
“We are thrilled to be able to watch the students of Dill-be-din Kindergarten learn and grow in an environment that fosters safety, inclusion and cultural exchange.”
Registrations for Dill-be-din Kindergarten are currently open via the form on our website.
https://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/about-us/news-and-media/yarra-council-celebrates-official-opening-dill-be-din-kindergarten