The Gamarada Playgroup commenced in 1998 on Eveleigh Street, Redfern, at the Eloura Community Centre which incorporated the Anthony Mundine Gym.  A small space at the gym was donated by the Aboriginal Housing Company.  Enrolment included children from the Block area of Redfern, and the Centre was open five days a week. 

In 2000, the Redfern Public School generously offered the Centre a small room in their complex.  Operating in this new public school venue meant Gamarada was able to cater to a community of more diverse cultures and support more families. 

When Redfern Public School closed down in 2002, the Centre lobbied for a larger room and was given one which became available in a vacated classroom.  The Centre continued to serve children from birth to six years old. 

In August 2003, the classroom next door became available and was added to the Centre’s facilities making it possible to provide separate environments for the birth to three-year olds and the three to six children.  The Playgroup offers early preparation for children up to three years of age who are accompanied by a parent. 

The Centre also worked with Alexandria Park Public School to offer a programme for 4 to 6 year olds within the public school system.  This programme met with success but was discontinued when the instigating Principal left the school.

In 2006 the programme was forced to leave Redfern Public School. The Education Department promised other premises and after some time the programme was given a room at the Bourke Street Public School. 

Barbara Stephen, Director of the Gamarada Redfern Montessori Learning Centre devotes her life to promoting the wellbeing of children across all cultures and is dedicated to quality education to enhance the human potential. In 2003, Barbara was awarded “Citizen of the Year” by South Sydney Council for her tireless contribution not only to local early childhood education but also to the community at large. Funding is urgently needed to support the recurring costs of the project and to properly equip the learning environments with Montessori teaching resources. A bus is also needed to assist in transporting the children to and from school.