Kylie Burke
B. App. Sc (Physiotherapy)
What’s your connection to the Mid Coast / Taree?
Although I moved to the Mid Coast in 2024, my connection to the area began many years ago. As a child, I spent holidays here with my family, creating wonderful memories of this beautiful region. As an adult, I continued to return regularly with my own family, and over time the Mid Coast became a place that felt increasingly like home.
Having grown up in rural and regional communities, I have a deep appreciation for the strengths of country towns, including their resilience, sense of connection and commitment to supporting one another. I am also honoured to live and work on Biripi Country and value the opportunity to learn from and acknowledge the rich culture, history and continuing contributions of the Biripi people to this region. Being part of the Mid Coast community is both a privilege and an opportunity to contribute to the wellbeing of local children and families.
What does First Steps Count mean to you?
First Steps Count represents the belief that every child deserves the best possible start in life, regardless of their circumstances. Throughout my 30-year career in health, including more than a decade managing child and family health services, I have seen first-hand how early support can positively shape a child's future and strengthen families and communities.
What I value most about First Steps Count is its strong commitment to working alongside families, communities and partner organisations to create lasting change. I am particularly inspired by the First Steps Count’s focus on collaboration, prevention and early intervention, ensuring children and families receive the support they need when it matters most. First Steps Count reflects values that are deeply important to me: equity, community connection and creating opportunities for every child to thrive.
What does success look like for you here at First Steps Count?
Success for me is seeing First Steps Count continue to grow its impact and reach while remaining deeply connected to the needs and aspirations of the communities it serves. As Business Manager, I see my role as helping to build strong foundations behind the scenes through sustainable systems, sound governance and effective resource management, so that our teams can focus on delivering meaningful outcomes for children and families.
More broadly, success means knowing that First Steps Count is making a genuine difference in the lives of children across the Mid Coast, that families feel supported and empowered, and that we continue to strengthen relationships with all communities, including our Aboriginal communities and the Biripi people. If our work contributes to children being healthier, more connected and better prepared for their future, then I believe we are succeeding in our mission.
