Plenty of fun to be had kidding around

A SIDE job which started out as a way for single mum Fay Georgakopoulos to earn extra cash has turned into a booming career for the Port Douglas-based nanny.

The former Sydney teacher and events manager began Busy Bees Babysitting a decade ago and said she still enjoys the day-to-day work of caring for children.

Nannies provide a safe and fun environment for children while their parents are unable to look after them due to work or other commitments.

They will sometimes provide meals and do other household chores as well.

“I love what I do, I’m hands on, I don’t just run my business but I work in it too,” the mum-of-one said. “I wouldn’t give it up for anything.

“You’re working with children, having fun with children and often times having a holiday with children.”

Ms Georgakopoulos said her job often takes her interstate when families from Melbourne, Sydney or Adelaide request her services down south.

Many times, the 51-year-old has come to know them when looking after their children while they are on holidays in the Far North.

With demand not slowing, the business is always on the lookout for keen workers.

Ms Georgakopoulos said one of the only downsides is saying goodbye when the family leaves.

“Sometimes you see them the next year, sometimes you see them in a few year’s time,” she said.

“There are also lots of local families we help out too.

“And I’ve noticed a few more international visitors requesting our services too.”

The business’ growth has taken Ms Georgakopoulos by surprise but she wanted to be an example for other single mothers.