Ms Graham is the daughter of Athol, who recently celebrated his 90^th birthday and the late Gwen, who was the first president of the Ararat Ladies Probus. 

She was thrilled to be invited to speak about her work at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne.

Ms Graham’s first experience and first introduction to caring for children was though work experience at Betty Flavell's Child Care Centre.

She has a Diploma in Early Childhood and a Bachelor in Early Childhood.

She worked though the process of making children aware of pre-operation processes – simple things adults understand and take for granted.

About 22 years ago during her time at the hospital she noticed that many families attending the hospital brought along many other siblings while attending appointments.

This led her to thinking about a way to assist families, many of which were from country areas.

This led her to form a committee to open a child care area where 45 children could be accommodated.

This has grown and some children have mothers working at the hospital. Indoor and outdoor activities are encouraged.

Dietarians prepare special meals if needed. Cots and mattresses are provided and the children can play inside or out. Many children choose their own activity. Children with learning difficulties are also catered for.

Accreditation is undertaken every three years. Excursions are organised for the children to visits the lost dog home, bush programs and outdoor activities. 

Sausage sizzle days are part of social events held to prepare children for school.

Some children are exposed to Ipads and parents are kept informed about their progress. One attraction at the hospital are meerkats and many probus members remembered seeing these while attending the hospital.

Ms Graham recently received the Early Childhood Achievement Award which was very special to her.

Residents have been encouraged to save their Christmas and birthday cards and give them to probus members so they can be forwarded to Ms Graham.