In their
own words.

It is with great pride and confidence that I provide this reference for Cassie Hobbs and Candice Geoghegan, who have been critical to the growth of our childcare centres since 2012.

Over more than a decade, they have consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to quality in early childhood education. Cassie and Candice have played pivotal roles in the successful operation and growth of our childcare centres, achieving outstanding results across the sector. Their contributions have led to:

• Multiple award-winning centres, recognised for innovation, quality, and community impact.

• Exceeding ratings under the National Quality Standard, reflecting their unwavering focus on educational excellence and compliance.

• Strong financial acumen, ensuring sustainable operations and profitability across all sites.

• Scalable systems and leadership, enabling the successful expansion of our group while maintaining high standards.

• Significant increases in family engagement, fostering strong community ties and trust.

• Rapid occupancy growth, driven by their ability to create welcoming, high-quality environments that meet the needs of families.

• A deep commitment to continuous improvement, professional development, and sector leadership.

Their combined expertise in centre operations, team leadership, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement has been instrumental in positioning our group as a leader in early childhood education.

I have no doubt that Cassie and Candice will continue to deliver exceptional outcomes in any future ventures or partnerships. They are visionary, capable, and deeply passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of children and families.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I am pleased to provide this reference for Cassie Hobbs, with whom I had the privilege of working on the Brassall Kids Early Learning Centre project. Throughout the duration of the build, Cassie demonstrated an exceptional understanding of the early childhood education sector and a remarkable ability to navigate the complexities of a large-scale development.

Cassie’s outstanding sector knowledge was evident in every phase of the project. She brought clarity and purpose to the design and operational requirements, ensuring that the centre would not only meet regulatory standards but also reflect best practices in early learning environments. Her ability to think on her feet was invaluable. As with any construction project, unexpected changes and challenges arose, and Cassie consistently responded with calm, strategic thinking and practical solutions.

Her collaborative approach and quick decision-making helped keep the project on track and aligned with its vision. Cassie also possesses a keen eye for detail, which was instrumental in achieving a high-quality finish across the centre. From layout and functionality to aesthetics and compliance, her input ensured that every element contributed to a space that is both beautiful and purpose-built for children, educators, and families. It was a pleasure working alongside someone so professional, knowledgeable, and committed to excellence. I would not hesitate to recommend Cassie for any future ventures, particularly those requiring leadership, sector expertise, and a results-driven mindset. driven mindset.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I am delighted to provide this reference for Cassie Hobbs, with whom I have had the privilege of collaborating for over a decade on the design and delivery of multiple high-quality childcare projects.

Cassie’s extensive knowledge of the early childhood education sector has been an invaluable asset throughout our work together. She brings a rare combination of operational insight, regulatory expertise, and a genuine passion for creating environments that foster both learning and wellbeing. Her input has consistently shaped designs that are practical, compliant, and deeply inspiring for children, educators, and families alike.

Over the years, I have been continually impressed by Cassie’s professionalism and foresight. She navigates complex projects with clarity and confidence, always maintaining focus on the bigger vision while responding flexibly to changing circumstances, whether these are site-related, regulatory, or operational. This balance of strategic thinking and adaptability has been instrumental in ensuring projects achieve their intended outcomes.

Cassie also possesses a meticulous eye for detail. She is a strong advocate for design features that enhance safety, flow, and functionality while ensuring that spaces remain warm, inviting, and purpose-driven. Her ability to articulate operational needs in a way that informs architectural solutions has made her an exceptional partner throughout every stage of our projects.Having worked alongside Cassie for more than ten years, I can confidently say that she is a trusted and highly skilled professional whose expertise elevates every project she contributes to. I would not hesitate to recommend her for any future endeavours requiring a blend of sector knowledge, creativity, and a commitment to excellence.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I am pleased to provide this reference for Cassie Hobbs, with whom I have had the privilege of working on the design and development of several state-of-the-art childcare centres.

Cassie brings a deep and practical understanding of the early childhood education sector, which has been invaluable in shaping environments that are not only compliant and functional but also inspiring and purpose-built for children, educators, and families. Her insights into operational needs, educational flow, and regulatory requirements consistently guided our architectural decisions, resulting in spaces that truly support learning and development. Throughout our collaboration, Cassie demonstrated exceptional professionalism and adaptability. She approached every stage of the design and construction process with clarity, purpose, and a solutions-focused mindset. Her ability to cooperate with changes, whether driven by site conditions, regulatory updates, or evolving operational needs, ensured that the project remained aligned with its vision and goals.

Cassie’s eye for detail is one of her greatest strengths. She consistently advocated for design elements that enhanced safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, while remaining grounded in the practical realities of running a high-quality childcare centre. Her feedback was always thoughtful, timely, and constructive, making her an invaluable partner in the design process. It has been a pleasure working with Cassie, and I would highly recommend her for any future projects requiring sector expertise, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I have had the pleasure of working closely with Cassie and Candice for the past three years, and during that time they have consistently demonstrated genuine care, professionalism, and leadership. From the very beginning, they have shown nothing but kindness and a genuine interest in my well-being. Asking how I am doing each day and creating a positive, supportive work environment.

Their leadership style is built on empathy and integrity, always ensuring the best interests of those around them. I have learned so much about the childcare industry thanks to their guidance and the depth of knowledge and experience they willingly share. They have helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work with them. Cassie and Candice lead by example, fostering strong relationships and setting high standards, and I have no doubt they will continue to make a significant impact wherever they go.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

Working with Cassie Hobbs and Candice Geoghegan has been an exceptional experience. Throughout our time together, I was consistently impressed by their professionalism, reliability, and collaborative spirit. Cassie brings a sharp strategic mind and a calm, solutions-focused approach to every challenge, while Candice’s attention to detail and proactive communication made even the most complex projects run smoothly.

Both of my daughters received tremendous support from Cassie and Candice during their studies. Their guidance and encouragement were instrumental in helping them stay focused and confident throughout their academic journey.

Their combined strengths created a dynamic and nurturing environment, and my family and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to have partnered with them. I would gladly work with Cassie and Candice again and highly recommend them to any team seeking capable, compassionate, and committed professionals.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I’ve had the privilege of working with Cassie and Candice for over 15 years, and during that time I’ve witnessed first-hand the qualities that set them apart as true leaders. Both bring extensive knowledge in their respective fields and consistently demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism.

Their punctuality, integrity, and keen eye for detail have made every interaction seamless and stress-free. Through challenging times, Cassie and Candice have shown remarkable problem-solving abilities, accountability, and a human approach that inspires confidence in everyone around them. Their communication, both verbal and written is always clear, thoughtful, and effective, ensuring strong and lasting working relationships.

Over the years, their support of Just Click Print and Omni Signs has been instrumental in our growth. Their requests and feedback directly influenced the development of new products and services tailored not only to their needs, but to the broader pre-school education sector. This partnership also helped us streamline our operations, enabling us to better serve other clients across the industry.

What truly sets them apart, however, is the personal touch and tenacity they bring to everything they do. Cassie and Candice are driven by passion and purpose, and that energy is evident in every project they undertake. If you ever have the opportunity to work with them, you’ll be partnering with people who genuinely love what they do — and who will go above and beyond to achieve outstanding results.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

Cassie and Candice supported my team during an ownership takeover. Which could be quite a challenging time. It was a smooth process and transition. They always made themselves available to myself and my team. They made you feel that you were a priority. The relationship was both professional and also personal. As when I left the company I still felt very supported and knew that I could reach out at any time. A few years ago I moved interstate and recently I bumped into them at a conference. It was like we had never been away from each other. Their strengths are the relationships that they form with people. They are genuine and authentic. Putting people and children first. They are both very approachable and professional. Anyone who gets the chance to work with Cassie and Candice will certainly always feel that they can be heard, and always feel supported.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I have had the pleasure of working with Cassie and Candice for 3 years. I met them in my interview for a centre manager role. An interview is normally a daunting and overwhelming process, but they immediately put me at ease with their reassuring smiles, support and prompts when I needed them. In 3 years, that never changed.

They are quite possibly the most supportive people I know. If I’ve ever doubted myself or felt I’ve lost my way, it’s Cassie and Candice cheering me on. To know you have managers of their calibre supporting you is invaluable. They’re not only supportive to myself, but my whole team, regardless of the position they hold. No one is beneath them and this is reflected in their interactions with everyone. They are always very professional but also very approachable, quick to stop what they’re doing and simply listen. If I had to sum up Cassie and Candice in just one word (and that’s not easy when there’s so many to choose from), it would be “kind”. They lead with kindness and have the ability to put themselves in someone else’s position, a quality few leaders have. They inspire, uplift and empower those lucky enough to be in their presence.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I was very honoured to have Cassie and Candice showing me the best way forward with starting out as a new Childcare Director running a big centre and the way to conduct yourself in a professional way to develop the staff to grow as team. The families know that the children were going to be well cared for and the learning will grow as the children grow and learn through play. As very special pair for when it comes to helping out with all their knowledge it was no problem when I would call at any time, sometimes it would be out of hours to ask Cassie a question that would come to mind she was always there to support and assist you in where to go to get what you need to know about regulations, guidelines and philosophies you are helping the team with when it comes to programs. Cassie and Candice would come to staff meetings and answer any questions that the staff asked if they didn’t know it was no trouble for them to search out for the answer. Over the 11 years that I have known Cassie and Candice they are very committed and wonderful leadership qualities who supported the teams that I have managed over the years. The professionalism they have, I would highly recommend these 2 ladies to motivate your team to have high professional service given to your centre that you could ever have. I wish them all the best in the future..

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

During my 14 years relationship with Cassie and Candice they have always shown themselves to be professional in all areas of their leadership roll with myself. Candice and Cassie while juggling many service on their own in the beginning of their journey have chosen the right attitude and built a family valued company that I hope they are proud of. If I and my team/family need support they were there confidently guided myself to achieve what was necessary to get through the task from start to finish. I myself would never be where I am today, or had the opportunity I have without both of them building my confidence to succeed and showing me each step along the way. They are both truly down to earth beautiful passionate woman who believe that “Team work makes the dream works” I appreciate you both and wish you all the best in your next adventures.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

I have had the privilege of working under the leadership of Cassie and Candice throughout my journey as an educator, lead educator, and assistant centre manager.

Their leadership style is one that truly inspires – they lead with integrity, fairness, and genuine care, creating an environment where educators feel valued, supported, and motivated to grow. Cassie and Candice demonstrate the highest level of professionalism in every aspect of their work. Their open communication, consistent guidance, and ability to approach challenges with positivity and clarity has been instrumental in my own professional development. They encourage reflective practice, share their knowledge generously, and always ensure decisions are made with the best interests of children, families, and educators at heart. What I appreciate most is the support they have given me personally. Whether it was stepping into new responsibilities, navigating the challenges of leadership, or striving for continuous improvement, Cassie and Candice have always been approachable, encouraging, and empowering. Their mentorship has given me the confidence to grow as both an educator and a leader.

I am truly grateful for their leadership and the impact they have had on my career. Working alongside them has been both inspiring and rewarding.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

My first time meeting Candice and Cassie was during A&R 2020, and I’ll admit I felt quite intimidated and terrified, knowing they would be overlooking our work at the centre and while I was in the WPHS role at the time. That feeling quickly disappeared when Cassie walked me through the centre. Her calming and inspiring nature immediately put me at ease. Since then, both Cassie and Candice have continued to mentor and inspire me with their wealth of knowledge and genuine passion for what they do. They consistently demonstrate that they have the best interests of the employees at heart, supporting and empowering us to succeed. Their ability to boost team morale, share new opportunities, and create an environment filled with good energy is truly admirable. They have inspired me in my own leadership role to be someone my team can approach for support, guidance, and encouragement, just as they have been for me. I am incredibly grateful for their knowledge, mentorship, and the lasting impact they’ve had on my professional growth.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

It has been an honour to work for a truly inspirational and passionate management team who truly cares about the children and the educators. Cassie and Candice strive to provide a work environment that is positive and supported in all aspects of your position. If it means high quality outcomes and learning for children then no request is to big or impossible. Cassie and Candice have this natural ability to make you feel safe and special in their presence. After spending even a small amount of time with Cassie on her visit it always gave me the strength and motivation to keep going because I always felt she believed I was capable of amazing things and that then influenced my growth as an educator. Having management believe in you and your capabilities and foster and nurture you to become the best version of yourself is rare to find. Educators Day is a day that you are truly celebrated by Cassie and Candice. We would always wonder what surprises they could have planned for educators and all I can say is they would never disappoint. When it comes to Cassie and Candice expect Exceptional and Amazing because they never disappoint with how much they care and value their educators.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

Having worked with both Cassie and Candace was truly an amazing experience. To find people who genuinely care for their colleagues, employees, families and children changed and shaped my experience in the Early Childhood Education sector. Their professionalism, knowledge and kindness as leaders helped to empower me to step into a leadership role myself, knowing I would be supported in every step of the process. Leaders who create leaders, Cassie and Candace foster a culture of growth, care, connection and empowerment. Their ability to transform people, places and things is truly inspiring, as they create a powerful movement of endless opportunities and potential for all lucky enough to work with them.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

Working with Cassie Hobbs and Candice Geoghegan has been transformative. Their leadership is both empowering and deeply professional, fostering an environment where growth and excellence thrive. Their genuine care, through heartfelt encouragement, recognition of achievements, and joyful Educator’s Day visits , made me feel valued and motivated. Their warmth, integrity, and vision have had a lasting impact on my development, both professionally and personally.

Thank you for your unwavering support and the profound difference you’ve made in my journey. Your legacy of kindness and dedication will stay with me always.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

The highlight of my time working with Cassie was her belief in me, and giving me the opportunity to be part of a Reggio Emilia study tour. During that experience, I saw her passion and vision for education shine, but I also got to know the beautiful, caring person she is. Cassie’s encouragement and leadership have left a lasting impact on me, I have no doubt anyone that has the chance to work alongside her in future will feel the same.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

ICassie and Candice have been very supportive any time we have needed resources, information, training or anything to help make our jobs easier and create better outcomes for children, educators and families. They do this with a smile on their face and often in their own personal time. Cassie and Candice always ensure that their team feel supported in every aspect including mental health and are always willing to help where they can. They are always positive and upbeat, creating a comfortable, fun and positive environment to work in.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website

Working with Cassie and Candice has been such a rewarding experience. They consistently encourage staff to grow by providing professional development opportunities, sharing knowledge, and guiding us to improve our skills. Their support has given me more confidence in my role and strengthened the quality of care we provide to children. They also show genuine care for our wellbeing, always encouraging us to maintain a healthy work–life balance. This helps us stay motivated, positive, and focused, which directly benefits the children and families we work with. One of the most valuable things they do is create a strong sense of teamwork. By fostering open communication, organising staff activities, and building connections, they make our workplace feel like a family. This supportive environment flows through to the children, who feel safe, happy, and engaged because they see us working together as a united team. Cassie and Candice’s leadership is both professional and compassionate. Their guidance not only supports the staff but also strengthens the bonds we build with children and families, making a lasting impact every day.

Read the original reference on Inspire’s website