Tiarna’s Nomination for a Child Protection Award
Every so often, we meet someone whose quiet dedication leaves a lasting impact. Within the KICS Kinship and Foster Care (KFC) Southwest (SW) program, this impact has not gone unnoticed. Recently, KICS KFC SW Team leader Tiarna O’Loughlin, was nominated for an Award as part of Child Protection Week. This is a recognition that reflects her unwavering commitment to children, carers, and families.
The nomination came from a carer who wanted to celebrate the difference Tiarna has made for them and the children they care for. With support from KICS KFC SW Program manager, Jason Manley, the nomination was submitted to Ipswich Community Youth Services (ICYS), organisers of the annual Child Protection Week Dinner for the Ipswich and West Moreton Region.
The carer’s words capture just how deeply Tiarna has touched their family’s life:
“Tiarna has shown a deep commitment to the wellbeing of the children in our care and to us as carers. She approaches everything with compassion, cultural respect, and a genuine understanding of child protection and safety. Her dedication to ensuring continuity of care has made an incredible difference to us all.”
In the nomination, the carer goes on to share how Tiarna went above and beyond:
“When she [Tiarna] moved into a new role within her organisation, she made the conscious decision to keep supporting our family, even though we could have been transferred to someone else. That choice alone speaks volumes about her integrity and how seriously she takes her role in these children’s lives.”
For Tiarna, the nomination was unexpected and humbling.
“Honestly, I was shocked,” she shared. “All I do is my job. I don’t do it for recognition. I do it so kids and carers get the support they need. If they feel heard and supported, that’s the real reward.”
More Than Just a Role
Jason, who has seen firsthand the care and commitment Tiarna brings to her work, couldn’t agree more.
“The work we do can at times be challenging,” Jason reflected. “To the kids and carers, it’s so much more than just a role we play. For a carer, family, child or young person who may have some worries, knowing someone has your back, knowing you will be heard, and having someone who will champion for you, makes all the difference. Tiarna does that, every single day.”
Jason describes Tiarna as a role model for her peers, someone who leads with empathy and strength.
“She builds trust, which is at the heart of what we do. Her determination and her compassion make her deserving of being a finalist.” He adds
Walking Beside Families
Tiarna’s journey in child protection began in 2017 as an intake worker before becoming a Kinship Support Worker. She joined KICS KFC SW in October 2023 as a Kinship Support Worker and stepped into the role of Team Leader in July 2024. Across every role, one thing has remained constant and that is her belief in walking alongside families.
When asked what advice she’d give to new staff stepping into the field, Tiarna didn’t hesitate:
“Be non-judgemental and be a good listener. You don’t need to have all the answers. Families just need someone to hear their stories, to hold space for them. That can go such a long way.”
Finding Strength in the Small Wins
Working in child protection means walking alongside families through both the highs and the lows. For Tiarna, her strength comes from the connections she builds and the positive changes she sees along the way.
“There’s a lot of positivity in this role,” she said. “You celebrate the small wins. Building up a carer’s capacity, seeing a child thrive, knowing someone feels heard, that’s what keeps you showing up every day.”
For Tiarna, teamwork and leadership support make a huge difference:
“I feel lucky to work alongside such a passionate and supportive team. The KICS Kinship and Foster Care Southwest Team is incredible. We lean on each other and celebrate our wins together, and our collective contribution ensures families receive the support they need.”
She also shared her appreciation for the support she receives across the organisation:
“Having a leadership team that listens and backs us makes a big difference. Since joining our team, Cameron Eastment, the KICS Senior Support Worker, has been such a great help to me and the team. I’m also grateful for the guidance and encouragement from our wider leadership group, including Jason who supported my nomination. It really is a team effort.”
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Tiarna’s nomination speaks not only to her dedication but also to the heart of child protection work, showing up, listening, and making sure voices are heard. Whether it’s advocating for carers, walking alongside families, or supporting children in care, Tiarna’s impact is felt deeply by those she serves.
As Jason put it best:
“It’s more than a job. It’s about making a difference and that’s exactly what Tiarna does.”
We’re incredibly proud to celebrate Tiarna’s nomination and the compassion, resilience, and care she brings to our team and the families we support.
About KICS
KICS is a government-funded partnership between Kummara Limited and Infinity Community Solutions Ltd (ICS) that prioritises connection first and placement second.
Kummara Limited (Kummara) is an Indigenous organisation established in 1999 to provide support to vulnerable families at risk. The organisation’s objective is to support the long-term wellbeing and resilience of children and families. Kummara offers many programs and works in partnership with families for the achievement of independence and the strengthening of the family’s capabilities. We believe in the strengths of family and community and have developed a strong reputation for engaging and supporting our community.
Infinity Community Solutions Ltd (ICS) is a not-for-profit organisation established in early 2017 to provide a range of services to children, young people, and families. ICS is motivated to make a difference in the lives of individuals. We strive to provide world-class professional services specifically designed to enable individuals to reach their full potential and live rich and fulfilled lives. We are client-centric, nimble and adaptable, boutique and personal; and innovative and outcomes driven.
Kummara and ICS successfully operate several services under the KICS banner in partnership including KICS Kinship Service Moreton Bay Region, KICS Kinship and Foster Care Service Moreton Bay Region, KICS Family Care Finder Moreton Bay, KICS Family Support Brisbane, and since January 2023 KICS Kinship and Foster Care Southeast Region and KICS Kinship and Foster Care Southwest Region.