At Node Motherhood Centre, we believe that motherhood isn’t meant to be done alone.

We’re a heart-led space in Ballarat where mums, whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, can come to feel supported, seen, and deeply connected. Our centre was born from the real, raw experience of early motherhood and the deep knowing that mothers need more than just check-ups and to-do lists. We need community. We need nourishment. We need to be held.

Through our signature mothers’ groups, gentle postpartum support, guest workshops, one-off classes, community events, and occasional wellness retreats, we walk alongside you during those tender first 12 months and beyond.

Our facilitators (who are mums and dads too) create a safe space to share stories, ask the big questions, cry if you need to, and most importantly, laugh and exhale.

Node is for the mums who want more than just advice. It’s for the mums who want to feel a little less alone, a little more themselves, and a whole lot more supported.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just bring your baby, your questions, your tired eyes, and your beautiful, messy self. We’ll meet you there.

Hey, I’m Melissa, founder of Node Mothers, mum to one beautiful daughter, photographer, life coach, and postpartum doula (in-training). I created Node because I know how transformative and overwhelming the early days of motherhood can be, and how much we all need real connection and support during that time.

Supporting women is at the heart of everything I do. Whether it's through heartfelt coaching, photography, or simply holding space in our mothers’ groups, I'm here to remind you: you’re not alone, and you were never meant to do this without a village.

My background is a bit of a mix! Creative, emotional, practical, and that blend is exactly what allows me to offer holistic support to mums at every stage. Creativity, empathy, and grounded guidance all matter when you're navigating the biggest identity shift of your life.

Over the years, I’ve been proud to become a recognised voice for maternal wellbeing in the Ballarat community. Through Node, I’ve been able to connect with incredible women and continue advocating for more support, more care, and more visibility for mothers.

Node is the space I longed for when I became a mum, and I’m so glad you’re here to be part of it!

Meet the founder 

  • Melissa Decarli

    FOUNDER & FACILITATOR

  • Kaitlin Taylor

    CENTRE COORDINATOR

  • Michael Brennan

    CENTRE & FACILITIES MANAGER

  • Krystal Simmons

    COMMUNITY CARE COORDINATOR

“Node has made me feel like I belong again and that I have found a community, I couldn’t be more grateful.”

— Katrina, Term One Mama