11 Queensland women including Port Douglas' own Erin Grange are facing two nail-biting weeks as State Finalists in the 2012 Australian Family Early Education and Care Awards. 

More than 1080 early childhood educators and services were nominated in the 2012 awards and they have been whittled down to 54 finalists nationally, whose submissions are now before the judging panel.

The Early Education and Care Awards recognise excellence in four categories; Early Childhood Director of the Year; Early Childhood Service of the Year; Early Childhood Educator of the Year and Rising Star Award (under 25s).

Erin from Tropical North Family Day Care in Port Douglas is a finalist in the Rising Star category.

"Having gotten this far along in the process is a huge honour in not only recognising my work I do with each child, but in my philosophy and work practices behind what I do," Erin said.

"Providing quality early childhood education is my passion as it not only ensures a holistic, happy childhood for children, but it lays a solid foundation for children to grow into happy, confident adults."

From the pool of 11 Queensland finalists, three State Winners will be selected to represent the state in the categories of Director, Educator and Service of the Year.

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2012 Judge and Director of the educational consultancy Edright Pty Ltd, Lorraine Walker, said the selection of State Winners was undertaken against strict criteria.

“This year we have created direct links between our judging criteria and the new National Quality Standards, and we can claim with confidence that the 2012 finalists in each category not only meet, but exceed the exacting professional standards now mandatory in the early childhood sector.

“Families, professional peers and colleagues expect no less!”

State Winners will be announced on 11 May and the four national winners will be announced on 25 May at the Gala Awards event in Sydney.

National Winners will receive a training grant worth $4000, a professional development grant for $4000, a $1000 travel voucher, $1000 worth of educational toys and resources and a luxury two-night stay at the 5-star Shangri-La Hotel in Sydney.