Edward School 50th Anniversary

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME

Welcome to Edward Public School’s 50th Anniversary. I am very proud to be a teacher at Edward PS. I have taught here for the past 33 years. It is an amazing school and that is evident by the fact that I have not left! I wouldn’t want to teach anywhere else.

We have always had an amazing staff. They are supportive and always go above and beyond for our students and our community. We have always been a leader in technology and this continues on today with each student having their own iPad and access to interactive panels and computers. Our students receive a wellrounded education and are prepared to take their place in the world. Academic achievement is our main focus, but we believe that students need to be nurtured in all areas. Students have always had many opportunities to participate in sport and cultural activities, travel to a variety of destinations on excursions, embrace the creative and practical arts and develop the most important skills of tolerance and acceptance. Edward Public continues to grow and develop but we never forget the reason we are here…..for our students. Enjoy reliving treasured memories and catching up with old friends.

EDWARD PUBLIC SCHOOL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS!

Edward Public School will celebrate the completion of 50 years of quality public education to the students and families of Deniliquin and district this weekend.

From its beginnings in 1972, Edward has grown to become an vibrant, innovative and inclusive school.

As long serving past Principal Adrian Parker (1977-1987) remarked:

‘Edward School has always been characterised by three very distinct features:

• Enthusiastic, fun loving students

• A core of hardworking, supportive parents

• A dedicated, talented and loyal staff, bound together to make a great teaching team.

As the year have rolled by, it is so rewarding and gratifying to see ex-Edward student achieving great success in life and contributing enthusiastically to their communities.

Schools are all about people, but traditions and history help shape the direction taken. Let’s hope that the next 50 years are as rich and rewarding for the future generations of Edward School students, as they have been for those of the past.’

Happy 50th Birthday Edward!!

TIME CAPSULES

Two time capsules have been laid over the course of the last 50 years on ‘Mount’ Edward.

The first was buried in 1985 and taken up in 2000 while the second was buried on 1997 in a different location on the hill, on the occasion of Edward 25th Anniversary celebrations. Many students, staff and parents in 1997 contributed items to this capsule.

It was due to be unearthed last November 2022 on the day of the original 50th Anniversary but the forecast for very wet weather on the weekend necessitated it being it dug up earlier. The contents were in pristine condition and may be viewed and collected tomorrow at the school.

Another time capsule has been prepared and the opportunity exists for the 2022 Year 6 group and current pupils, staff, parents and school community members from 2022/23 to contribute a small item. The capsules will be on display and zip lock bags and labels will be available.

This capsule will not be buried, but bundled and stored in the rafters of the old school hall – to be opened in the Year 2047 –Edward’s 75th birthday!

Kind regards,

Rhonda Blacker, Principal Edward Public School

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Congratulations to Edward Public School on celebrating 50 years of providing inclusive, cohesive learning!

Education throughout the Edward River Council area is, and will continue to be, strongly advocated by Edward River Council. Accessible education creates a level playing field as our children make their way in the world and is something never to be under-valued.

I am proud to say my son attended Edward Public School and I congratulate everyone who has been involved in some way with the school over the past 50 years. On behalf of my fellow Councillors and Edward River Council staff, I extend best wishes to the school community on this important milestone. We look forward to a continuing and cooperative association with Edward Public School.

Cr Peta Betts, Mayor Edward River Council

EARLY YEARS

The Edward School buildings (built on the Lethbridge Park Plan) were occupied by the Principal and staff on Tuesday February 8 1972 and on the following day 186 children were enrolled.

89 pupils were transferring from the old Deniliquin (George St) School, 65 form Deniliquin South School and 32 new Kindergarten pupils.

On May 16 an additional teacher was appointed to teach Kindergarten the total enrolment has reached 218 pupils.

The school was officially opened on September 29 by Mr. J.A. Lawson, MLA Member for Murray. With the closing of the Deniliquin Public School and the new intake of Kindergarten children, the enrolment reached 297 at the beginning of 1973.

Two classes were accommodated at the old Deniliquin School (George St) while one class was housed in the school library. The first Year 6 class was formed with Miss Joan Asmussen the teacher.

From the beginning of 1974 the school was reclassified with a Primary and Infants Department.

Miss Mary Kemp from Kempsey was appointed as the first Infants Mistress. Enrolment at the time was 134 infants and 156 primary. However it was still necessary to house three primary classes at Deniliquin Public School. Pupils were bussed down in the morning, back for lunch, back to George St and return on a daily basis.

On August 29 1974, the second stage of the building program commenced. This consisted of four classrooms and a shelter shed. The work was completed on September 18, 1975.

One day later, four classes from the old Deniliquin Public School site moved into the new accommodation and Edward became a complete school.

To cater for the dental care of the pupils of the Deniliquin District a Dental Clinic was established in the main administration block with the work completed on June 27, 1976.

First staff photo, 1972. Standing: Mrs R Hussey, Miss S Patch and Mrs N Leeson. Sitting: Miss P Kneipp, Mr D Lutton (Deputy Principal), Mr L Davey (Principal), Mrs M Smith and Mrs B Whittakers.

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

GREAT MEMORIES - GREAT TRADITIONS

Recollections of a past Principal

I had the great honour of being Principal at Edward Public School from 1977 to 1988. Without doubt these were some of the most rewarding years of my teaching career.

First impressions are always important. After teaching in many New South Wales schools I couldn’t believe how appreciative Edward students were of how adults were trying to assist them. This of course motivated teachers and the broader school community to enhance and enrich the overall educational experience. All staff members were totally committed to providing the best education possible. The parent body and the general community united in supporting Edward school.

This indeed was an amazing environment to embark on some great enhancing educational activities.

To broaden the outside of Deniliquin experiences the staff were determined to have an extensive excursion policy. To do this, money was essential and hence followed amazing fundraising activities. The Edward School fete was massive, highly successful, hard work but great fun. Vivid memories of Sonia Rapley and Margaret Smith working on the giant raffle, Des Lutton extracting amazing prizes from local businesses for “Pick a Box” and every staff member contributing in some form, backed up by a hard working Parents and Citizens Association. There were often many sore heads at the clean-up on Sunday mornings. Other highly successful fundraisers followed, some of which continue today. The good old school concert got severely modified to

be a music hall type activity with patrons enjoying top entertainment and a superb meal.

The Edward School Production was born! So engrossed were adults and students in presenting a memorable spectacular that rehearsals even occurred at the weekend. I can still visualise “Alley Cat” and “Bound for Botany Bay”. Special performances were often presented to community groups such as Rotary. The broader community quickly realised that Edward school was a vital educational community with a very dedicated staff strongly supported by parents. Walkathons and Ride-a-thon s were often coupled with sponsorship, so not only was physical fitness strongly emphasised but finances were enhanced.

As a result of money raised and government grants programs, the school purchased a complete camping outfit, including kitchen type equipment to cater for up to 50 students. Younger students camped overnight at Bolton’s property and by Year 5 and 6 horizons were broadened with wonderful trips to places such as Ballarat, Canberra and Melbourne. These experiences enriched the lives of so many students and staff.

To prepare students for the challenges of adult life it was apparent that a strong emphasis on basic skills was essential. Set teaching times using all available staff characterised learning activities at Edward. Students had the opportunity to maximise their potential, as many over the years have done. Having Bob Armytage as a teacher in Year 6 meant hard work but what a fantastic academic grounding!

The emphasis on creative arts and improving the learning environment resulted in fun

Brian Mitsch & Associates

Registered Land Surveyor, NSW

rewarding activities and projects, including the water wheel and gardens, building a raft and competing in the Edward River Rotoract raft competition, making jewellery with Julie Follett or participating in the Year 6 tile table projects. I wonder if any are still are in existence.

Many wonderful talented and dedicated people have contributed to the rich history of Edward School. I have mentioned a few only. So many students, staff and parents – bound by a collective belief they were part of a wonderful team

Adrian Parker

WATER WHEEL

Brett Mitsch (School Captain 1980) and family and Chris Mitsch (School Captain 1982 and 1983) and family would like to join Shirley and Brian in congratulating the Edward Public School for 50 years devoted to Primary Education in Deniliquin.

Both Brett and Chris have come a long way since their formative years at Edward under Wayne Bradley and many other wonderful and dedicated teachers. Brett has worked around the world including 9 years in the nancial turmoil of Wall Street USA.

Chris has gone on to play with the Sydney Swans while working as a Surveyor setting out high rise buildings in Central Sydney before re-joining Brian in the Survey Practice in Deniliquin where he has now notched up a further 30 years in the Survey Profession.

Congratulations to all Teachers, Parents and students who have made the Edward Public School a showpiece for Primary Education in Deniliquin.

Land Surveyors | Town Planners | Property Consultants| Cartographers | Land Economists

Phone 5881 2177 Brian 0429 812 177 AH 5881 2525

The Water Wheel project was the brainchild of Principal Adrian Parker who had a passion for bricklaying and construction. He wanted to improve the aesthetics of the school surrounds with the construction of two elevated brick pond structures, one of which was to house a working Heathridge Wheel fed by a pump and incorporating a fountain. The connection to the district rich irrigation heritage was obvious. The major part of the structure was built on the Butler St/Harfleur St corner while a second pond and feature wall was erected outside the former Dental Clinic facing Butler St. The project commenced in mid-1980 and took continued on many Sunday mornings over a twelve month period with a number of staff, P&C members and families enlisted to see the task to fruition.

The official opening took place in 1981 with Federal Member for Riverina Noel Hicks and State Member for Murray Tim Fischer both present.

Sadly, OH&S restrictions now mean the fountain, wheel and ponds are now in-operable but they still provide a very notable school feature. Adrian’s brick laying skills at Edward also included the central garden beside the library and garden beds around the playground. He also constructed many well-known local landmarks such as the Rotary Park entrance gates on Wirraway Drive, the train turntable, and garden bed edging at the High School District education office – along with building countless backyard barbecues and undertaking many home improvement projects for staff and friends.

Pegging out the Water Wheel in 1980... Vanessa Macleod, Susan Rich, Brett Mitsch, Wade Newman and Adrian Parker.

CAMPING AND EXCURSION PROGRAMS

The camping and excursion program has always been an integral part of the culture of Edward School.

The camping program had its birth back in 1977 with the first of Adrian Parker’s famous river camps on the Edward River at Bolton’s property on the outskirts of town.

These camps are no doubt remembered by participants for the legendary Parker’s ‘river stew’, brisk 10 kilometre cross country hikes, fishing, swimming, tent accommodation, ‘state of the art’ toilet facilities, camp fire sing-a-longs, concerts, Parker and Armitage’s’ famous ghost stories and ‘twisties on a stick.’ Col Butcher’s magnificent scones from the camp oven, served with strawberry jam and whipped cream were also a delight!

The camps were held as a socialising and practical camping experience for Year 5 students before the major excursion the following year. The first trips to Canberra in the late 1970s were made in mid-winter with tent camping and catering by accompanying staff and parents. The theory was that basic tent accommodation and self catering kept the cost to an affordable level for families. Memories include rolling against the side of nylon tents and hearing the ice crackle

and slide down the aside, then huddling round the camp fire each morning. A vivid memory from an early trip was boarding the bus (with students still in pyjamas and sleeping bags) one morning at 5am and travelling into town. Students were able witness the spectacle of hundreds of hot air balloons rising silently and majestically over Lake Burley Griffin in the first light of dawn.

Other places were visited including Tumut, Broken Hill, Ballarat, Gippsland, Sydney and Melbourne. Rain and wet tents sometimes offered challenges but our resilient Edward students and staff took that in their stride.

Trips now feature comfortable lodge/motel accommodation and catered meals.

A constant was the fabulous coach service provided by Husseys and later Purtills, together with wonderful accompanying drivers who were such an important part of the team.

Our past camping and present excursion program were and still are a vital part of the school experience and have no doubt provided many past Edward students with some of their fondest and enjoyable school memories.

The original school hall has seen many changes since its initial life as an open shelter shed, and later as the venue for school assemblies and many memorable production performances over the years.

The lasts refurbishment has seen it developed as ‘Wellbeing Hub’. It has a well-equipped kitchen, tables and seating and comfortable furniture. It is the venue our Indigenous Studies programs conducted by George Day and Narelle Labib, as well as Art and Music activities.

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

SCHOOL CHOIR/MUSICAL PERFORMANCE

The Edward School Choir has always been an important part of Edward School’s musical tradition over the years.

Robyn Ryan, Rod Patten, Julie Kirby, Cheryl Fuller, Sue Werner, Barbara Marshall, Kim Roebuck and Margaret and Neville Werner all contributed much to many notable choir, musical and vocal performances over the years. From street performances, district school tours, school

productions and other special events the Edward School Choir has been a wonderful performance vehicle for our young singers.

Adam Bodey, a current staff member has also inspired many students of late by introducing bucket drumming and percussion into production performances.

Music has always been highly valued at Edward and over the years many

talented groups and individual performers have taken their early steps musical at Edward events. The support and encouragement of those within the school environment and the amazing contribution over the years by Brett Allitt, Michael Ladson, Chris Bodey and Shane McGrath

A special musical event – ‘Edward on the Edward’ was held the between 2016-18 which featured many Edward and local musicians and in

a relaxed and tranquil river setting overlooking the ‘Lily Pond.’ Thanks to the generosity of the Barnett and Harvey families and the organisation of Scott Mildren, Felicity Michael and the Edward P&C these were highly successful events.

Michael King, Anna Bowie, Taylah King, Lachie Downs, Sophie Butcher, Sam Young and Georgina Mildren and Kate McCalman, Deniliquin’s first all-girl band, the Maggots, local

rock group the West Enders, as well as many other talented singers and instrumentalists from Edward have all made their mark in their respective musical performance fields. There may well be some of these ex-Edward performers featured on Saturday together some with an Edward connection performing with some the high school bands.

BOOK WEEK

Book Week has been held every year at Edward as a wonderful celebration of books and reading. Dress up Book Week characters and special book related craft workshops are a highlight as well as an Annual Book Fair.

Karen Druitt has been the inspiration and driving force behind fabulous Book Week activities for well over three decades. Karen also introduced local Book Fairs during Book Week to Deniliquin schools with the assistance and cooperation of the Deniliquin Newsagency and Bookstore.

CongratulationsEdward Public School

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

Edward School Productions

PRODUCTIONS

The Edward School Production continues to be a highlight of the school year.

With its inclusive nature and opportunity for all children to shine, the laughter, enjoyment and confidence that is seen throughout the production makes it a very special annual offering.

From its inception in 1979, under the direction of then Principal Adrian Parker, it has grown to be a much anticipated event each year in the school and local community.

Melodramas, music halls, fairy tales and nursery rhymes, TV studios, the circus, monsters, time machines, magic, Australiana, the Anzacs, indigenous stories and a myriad of other themes have been explored over the years. The shows are exclusively written and produced by the staff to a wonderful standard, utilizing the interests of each year group. This also allows

for the injection of lots of local favour and topical events.

The first two decades featured cabaret shows, staged in the school hall with a fully catered three course meal provided by the School Catering Committee and served by the pupils.

As the production grew it became a vehicle to showcase a range of talents, including dance, choir small group vocalist and instrumentalist performers, as well as comedy and drama.

After outgrowing the school hall, various performance venues over the year have included an empty Cavallaro’s supermarket (which doubled as a circus big top), the High School MPC and the RSL Club, returning home in 2022 for a Christmas themed event in the Bradley Hall.

Class room teachers make sure the final presentation is of the highest quality with

Karen Druitt, Sarah Young and Melanie Kennedy continuing the senior dance group tradition, with Melanie also introducing gymnastics into the 2022 show.

Robyn Ryan, Rod Patten, Sue Werner, Barbara Marshall, Kim Roebuck and Margaret and Neville Werner all contributed much to many notable choir, musical and vocal performances over the years. So many staff parents and carers and community members over the years have continued to play a huge role in producing class items, choir, dance and musical items, and organising catering, ticket sales and raffles. A huge range of loved and well-remembered costumes, props and back drops were also created ty parents, staff and students over the decades. The Edward School Production will continue to be an important tradition of such a great school.

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin SCHOOL SPORT

Sport at Edward embodies all that sport stands for – individuals and teams enjoying fitness and sporting involvement in a school and community environment.

Edward promotes and recognises students who display outstanding sportsmanship and commitment to their sports – making sure the students’ achievements are celebrated and shared with the school and the community.

Sporting activities provide memorable and enjoyable moments for many Edward students during their school years. Our annual athletics, swimming and cross country carnivals are great days and are eagerly anticipated by students and parents. These carnivals have provided pathways for many of our students to progress to Deniliquin and District, Riverina and NSW teams. Every year Edward has multiple Riverina representatives which is an honourable achievement.

In recent years Edward has made a commitment to daily fitness activities. These have included ‘Running to Uluru’ and ‘Running Around Australia’.

State knockout events have continued to be entered with success. In the last decade our girls have made the final eight in NSW in soccer and final four in NSW in basketball.

Edward has always highly valued swimming and lifesaving with extensive programs in

both areas developed since the early Edward days, and continuing still.

Many Edward staff and families have also contributed tirelessly at school and community level over many years to swimming and lifesaving activities.

Staff and parents at Edward have made a great contribution to sport, not just at Edward, but in Deniliquin as well. At one stage, most junior sport committees in Deniliquin were steered by staff and parents from EPS. Something we are very proud of.

Wayne Bradley and Sarah Young have both been rewarded for their contribution to PSSA sports at Edward and in Deniliquin over many years with Life Memberships to the Deniliquin and District PSSA.

Sarah has also been awarded Life Membership of the Riverina PSSA, as well as a NSW School Sport Excellence Award. These were in recognition of her passionate support of public school sport in furthering sporting opportunities for students in regional and remote areas and her contribution to athletics coaching.

Edward continues to present the Middleton Shield for the overall champion house as well as the Les Davy and Hillier Family Athletics Shield awards, and the Deniliquin Swimming Club Shield and Sonya and Felicity Rapley Swimming

Encouragement awards at our annual presentation night.

Go Edward!

JUMP ROPE FOR HEART

1989 was a notable year for many reasons. New Principal Jim Wiblen was appointed, the Edward School fete raised a whopping $ 7000, Healthy Harold and the Riverina Mobile Life Education Van visited Edward for the first time (a program still continuing to this day).

That year also saw the introduction of a wonderful program – ‘Jump Rope for Heart.’

The program, which supports the fundraising efforts of the National Heart Foundation, promotes fitness and heart health while participants acquire motor skills though an intensive skipping program.

The program has continued at Edward to this day – approaching 35 years of fitness and fun.

The whole school participates in regular skipping skills sessions leading up to Jump Rope day late in Term 2, where the skills of all pupils and specially trained demonstration teams are showcased.

Highly skilled routines, performed to up-beat musical accompaniment are performed for the school community.

Over the years the demonstration teams have visited district schools, performing workshops across the Southern Riverina.

Nicole Bermingham, Sarah Young, Deb Bowie, Margaret Werner, Karen Druitt, Nat Dawson and Alisha Taylor (both former pupils) have all contributed enthusiastically to the program over the decades to training demonstration teams and coordinating whole school fitness and skipping skills session.

Jump Rope is a fabulous Edward tradition and will hopefully continue to be enjoyed by our pupils for the next 50 years.

SCHOOL FETE

The Edward School Fete was a much loved and special event that featured on the school calendar for well over two decades.

The date (the first Saturday after the Melbourne Cup) was inherited from Geroge St School when it closed down. The fete was a twilight event, commencing at 4pm and continuing through to dusk.

Every year parents cooked, sewed, baked and propagated plants for the various stalls – sewing and crafts, sweet and cakes, plants and produce.

Pony and Harley rides were favourites on the back oval and one year a huge hot air balloon was tethered to the back oval – offering amazing views over the town.

Doug McBurnie and Jan Quayle were long time co-ordinators, and everyone pitched in to provide affordable family fun.

Bottle shops, Adrian Parker’s chook wheel, hot dogs, hot donuts and fairy floss were always popular attractions.

The bottle shoppe was a favourite but one year after a bottle of home brew exploded in the principal’s office in the lead up to the day, fermented beverages were off the donation list!

Peter Robinson selling ride tickets, and Robyn Lutton, June Armytage and Julie Follet on the White Elephant Stall were long time features, as was John Edwards turning ice into slushies with his big mincer from his Maher St Butchery.

RIDE-A-THON

The Edward School Ride-athon has been a success story from its inception in 1978. Promoting bicycle and road safety awareness, it was initially a fundraiser for many major projects that have benefited the school community. The first ride was an after school affair where we rode out to the Wakool River and had a barbecue tea. Younger students completed a walking course and this feature became an important component of the ‘Ride-a-Walk-a-Thon.’

Since then, we have ridden to Pretty Pine, Four Post, Birganbigal, a tour of the town ending up at the racecourse and for many years out to Steven’s Weir and back!

In recent years the Ride-a-thon has been held around the cross country track behind Memorial Park or at the Rams Oval. With an emphasis on fun, fitness and safety, the last three Ride-a-thon s have been held on the roads around our school. Local police have assisted in supervising riders

from Kindergarten to Year 6, ensuring that our students are safe. Students and staff from the Deniliquin High School’s Great Victorian Bike Ride team have also joined in.

This activity has always involved parents, staff and community members. It is an Edward School tradition which our students eagerly look forward to each year. We are the only district school which has continued to conduct an annual Ride-a-thon and hope to have many more in the future.

The Town Band often featured and one year the challenge to demolish a car wreck with sledge hammers was eagerly pursued by the locals.

Sonia Rapley was a constant, selling raffle tickets under the big umbrella near the school bell. After collecting returned books at the office and separating tickets in the weeks leading up to fete day.

And at the end of the day when the last scrap of litter, abandoned Pick-a- Box tickets, and toffee apple remains were collected and deposited in bins, Tony Smith was to be seen hosing down the concrete as dark fell.

For many years the major raffle was a boat and motor and tickets were eagerly sought by locals.

Other prizes included a go-cart, travel package and home entertainment system.

Pick-a-Box was the highlight of the day! Des Lutton called in to many businesses seeking support and donations, and the school was always supported.

Many major (and minor) prizes were on offer!

The highlight being a trip to Melbourne and weekend accommodation at the Victoria Hotel, generously donated by Jenny and Tony Tonta at what was then George Arthur Travel. Sadly, all things must pass and the fete concluded back in 2005. However as a 50th anniversary treat, a few old favourites may re-surface this Saturday!

over 60 years, Druitt Earthworks has been providing high-quality earthmoving services. All of our employees have the relevant qualifications and experience in the earthmoving industry. On top of that, we have the necessary equipment to complete any size civil construction work.

INDIGENOUS STUDIES/FIRST NATIONS AWARENESS PROGRAM

In 1981, Julie Follett was employed by Edward Public School to write an Aboriginal Studies Program in collaboration/consultation with George Day (AEA) and the local First Nations community. This was a pilot program funded by the education department as part of a change in emphasis in the social studies curriculum to add Aboriginal perspectives to curriculum.

This pilot program was one of the very few in the state and spanned three years. This program focussed on local history and local community participation and inclusion in the design and implementation of the program. At this time the Local Aboriginal Education Group and the Elders in the community were heavily involved in the process of establishing the program.

Through the partnerships, which were developed over a number of years, the school was supported by the whole community to design and implement the pilot program.

Although the school included perspectives to the curriculum as per school planning expectations, the Aboriginal studies program allowed consultation processes with the

Aboriginal community and agencies to coproduce a program which catered for a truer, appropriately localised studies program.

Mrs Follett and Mr Day modified and used the successful program for many years after its inception. Unfortunately, many of the community members who were instrumental in the development and implementation of the program are now only with us in spirit and memories. They would be so proud of its effectiveness to encourage many schools to follow suit and develop their own locally focussed Aboriginal studies program. Although the program may be considered outdated, processes and lessons suggested throughout are timeless, flexible and easily adapted to all school clientele. The scope for adaptation is huge.

During 2022, Mr Day and Narelle Labib commenced a First Nations Awareness Program which investigated the culture of first nations, history and present culture, cultural practices and knowledge. The program also reflected on

SOCIALS & DISCOS

From the earliest days in the old school hall with parents Bev and Richard King on the piano and drums, who remembers the Barn Dance? Then came recorded music – The Bird Dance, Hokey Pokey and the Limbo. Boot Scootin’ Boogie and all the line dances. Chips and a cordial at interval!

Disco favourites – and Sam Hall’s first steps into the world of dance! The themed dress up nights! Dancing rehearsals after lunch on the playground lines with Mrs Druitt and Mrs Youngwith everyone wanting to be called to assist as an instructor out the front! On to the Bradley Hall in later years with ‘DJ Linda’ Harvey, with all the upbeat tunes and flashing lights! Memories!

celebrations, current issues, politics and our local First Nations people in Deniliquin. The program catered for students from Kindergarten through to Year 6, so the scope and content of investigations conducted was varied in depth of knowledge.

During terms 2, 3 and 4 we utilised the learning kit, ‘Our Land, Our Stories- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Peoples. Histories and Cultures’. This learning kit allowed scope and flexibility to modify and adjust the investigative processes and learning activities to be embellished and enriched with local content. The whole program was enthusiastically undertaken and received by all students. Practical aspects of the program were easily implemented and adjusted to suit as we continued.

One of the outcomes of the program was the design and construction of the ‘Yarning Circle’ in our school garden for classes to use regularly. Another outcome of the program was an art display to showcase student art/craft pieces.

About George Day

George Day commenced his journey at Edward School in 1977, where he was employed as an Aboriginal Education Assistant straight from Deniliquin High School. From 1981 he was heavily involved with the writing of an Aboriginal Studies Program with Julie Follett. Over the next decade, George continued in this and other teaching support roles, and was encouraged to undertake his teachers training by distance education. Mrs Follett, Adrian Parker, and Margaret Smith offered great support and encouragement to George during his studies. In 1992 he proudly graduated and was appointed as the first Aboriginal teacher in the Riverina. George still remains a very special staff member of Edward School. Although ‘retiring’ in 2020, he remains teaching in a part time capacity, conducting our First Nations Awareness Program with Narelle Labib. George has spent his entire educational working life of more than four decades as a highly respected, loved and much admired member of the Edward School staff.

FRONT OFFICE!

Margaret Smith

Margaret was the original school clerical officer when Edward opened in 1972, working three hours a day. She previously worked as a full time clerical officer in a school of 600 at Woomera (SA) so her expertise was vital in establishing administrative systems. Margaret saw Edward School grow from the very beginning. She recalls the development of programs and traditions such as Aboriginal studies programs, school fete, computer room development, camping and excursion programs, school production and musical performances, great teachers and a very supportive parental body. Margaret retired in 1995. She returned to computerise the library system and became a long time voluntary library assistant.

Barb Larcombe

Barb commenced her employment at Edward in October 1988 as a teachers’ aide undertaking administrative and clerical tasks, and in assisting in Kindergarten classes as well. She progressed to the position of school administration officer (SAO) in 1995 after the retirement of Margaret Smith. Barb was then promoted to the role of school administrative manager (SAM), continuing in that role until her retirement in 2022. In this role Barb was responsible for the management of the vital school financial and

CANTEEN

A favourite recess and lunch spot for so many students during their school days.

Queuing up at recess and lunch at the windows next to the brick columns – before jumping on the steps - little ones to the right and Primary kids to the left!

Much loved supervisors over the years – Rosie Bawden, Nola Crowe, Cheryl Simmons, Jim and Gail Howitt, Geoff McKenzie and David Rolfe delivering the pies!

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin SONIA RAPLEY – A VERY SPECIAL ‘EDWARDIAN’

The late Sonia Rapley was a much loved member of the Edward School community who supported and promoted the school for over four decades.

During her time at Edward from 1977, Sonia was literally like ‘salt and pepper’ – she was in everything. From the Mother’s Club/Ladies Auxiliary and on to the P&C, her contribution over many years was rewarded when she and Margaret Robinson were named as the inaugural Life Members of the Edward School P&C.

Sonia Rapley was a selfless and gracious lady whose love for her family and dedication to Edward School and the Deniliquin community she cared about so much was exemplary. She will be remembered always with great affection and appreciation for her tireless efforts.

PARENTAL BODIES

Edward School has been extremely fortunate over its history to have always had amazing support from a wide range of hardworking and enthusiast parental bodies.

Mother’s Club, Ladies Auxiliary, School Council, Fete Committee, Catering Committee, Canteen Committee, Uniform Committee, and the P&C have all played vital roles in supporting the students and staff of our school.

So many committed parents have made a huge contribution by supporting the P&C through taking executive roles over the years, as well as ‘pitching in’ when special events and working bees were called for.

Past staff members Des Lutton, Robert Armytage and Wayne Bradley were all active members of the P&C over the entire course of their teaching careers at Edward – serving a

‘dual’ role as committed staff members and supportive parents.

The first ladies auxiliary president was Jean Harper, while the first P&C president was William

(Bill) Mulham OAM.

LIFE MEMBERS – EDWARD P&C

Sonia Rapley

Margaret Robinson

Pat Druitt

Cathy Davidson

Craig Druitt

Glenn Barnett

Felicity Michael

Thank you to all our past and present parents who have supported our school organisations over the years. You are all Edward legends!!

EASTER FIRE - 1996

The fire early on Easter Sunday morning April 4, 1996 which destroyed the entire primary classroom block was a devastating blow to the entire school community.

When the fire brigade arrived just after midnight the whole building was well alight. The intensity of the flames was such that there was no way the building could be saved. Flames licking the edge of the school hall were fortunately extinguished and this building survived.

The next few days saw hundreds of people, most with a present or past connection to the school, wandering around the site in a state of shock, disbelief and intense sadness.

However, things did happen quickly. The school staff spent the final week of their holidays itemising lost property and ordering new supplies. Demountable buildings were on location within a few days and clearing of the site began immediately.

School resumed on time after the holidays, utilising furniture and equipment borrowed form neighbouring schools. A parental fundraising committee was quickly formed and with the wonderful support of the Deniliquin community sufficient funds were raised in a short time to equip the four demountable classrooms with reverse cycle air conditioners.

Planning and design work on the replacement building was underway promptly and plans were available for public display by September 1996.

Construction commenced in February 1997 and was completed in early September.

The official opening of the building took place on October 4, 1997 during Edward’s 25th Reunion celebrations.

Former school principal Adrian Parker, who by this time was the education department’s district superintendan, performed the opening.

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

STAFF, PARENTS & STUDENTS REFLECTIONS

CLASSIC STUDENT COMMENTS OVER THE YEARS

Canberra excursion 1989. Teacher Liz Howe diplomatically exiting a boutique in Belconnen Mall with a Year 6 student who had just tried on a $500 cocktail dress?

A query some days after a lesson on the thesaurus – ‘can I please borrow that dinosaur book again?’

(Liz Howe/Sasha Free) Remember!

At a combined Primary School’s Church service at St. Michael’s church many years ago - Grant Moon fainted and Wayne Bradley and Adrian Parker were seeking some water.

Honni Goulding (Allan) remarked: “are Mr Parker and Mr Brad trying to christen him?”

Sydney excursion – night bus trip around inner Sydney/ Kings Cross.

‘Hey Mr. Brad – “there’s one on that corner and (later)” LOOK - there’s another one over there.”

Mr Brad – trying to salvage what he thought was going to be a delicate situation – “what’s that Johnny? “ (what other name could be used!)

Reply – “ Macca’s restaurants Mr Brad – they’re everywhere”!

~ Wayne Bradley

Would love to be there this weekend! Missed the 25th anniversary in 1997 - heavily pregnant. Made it to Bendigo in October 2022 – stopped by floods/postponed/ sadly not to be. Left Deni on Monday 21st March 2023 after returning for a beautiful wedding. Have to hang in there for the 75th celebrations!

Lovely memories of Edward. Kids wanting to play on the ‘hill.’ What hill? George and his beautiful art work.

Hamburger Wednesdays – a Parker ‘Whopper’ Burger with the lot - including a chocolate frog on the top. Productions! That hall looks so small now!

Anthony Bradley kicking me in the ankle when I ‘escorted’ him back to Kinder after recess. He’d decided half a first day at Kinder was enough for his school career and he’d rather go home with mum after she finished canteen duty.

Mr Parker carrying me to his car and taking me home when I became very ill at school one day!

Ever smiling Mrs Smith in the office. Not to mention the lovely kids, many of whom keep in touch. I could go on but won’t...a special time, a special place and always a place in my heart. ~

Michelle Stenner

My first year at Edward was 1989. I have so many wonderful memories of my six years there.

Kids fantastic, staff the best and a most supportive group of parents.

It was a time of so many changes in education with school based budgeting, school councils, introduction of K-6 staffing, and the beginnings of sponsorship.

That all paled into insignificance compared to important issues such as Edward production, school fete, computer room, bike ride to Steven’s Weir, camps and excursions. Best wishes to the Edward School community on another 50 years of fantastic public education. ~ Jim Wiblen

I remember when we broke the Guinness Book of Records for the most people skipping at one time. ~ Sarah

Young

So many memories - school productions, sports days, excisions to Canberra and Borambola, penny crust at the canteen (Rosie), the school fountain (falling in). I remember every one of my year teachers, the massive library and school hall, the basketball courts and cricket nets, Jump Rope for Heart, some lifelong friendships, riding to school every day, Mario’s corner store, serious games of end to end footy and British Bulldog, some schoolyard scraps, hiding from the dental nurse when she walked into your classroom - it all helped shape who I am today and it was brilliant. Happy Birthday Edward! ~ Sam

Hall

One story that springs to mind was back when I was captain, Merv Bennett hurt his back and was unable to do the sprinklers on the sports ovals, so it was my job to put the sprinklers out and move them around. One day the pump over at the lagoon near Mario’s became blocked with mud. So Mr Parker grabbed me out of class got a pair of shorts out of lost property, and over we went. Down the pump well up to my neck in water, pulling mud out of the pipe by hand. Once we finished he hosed me down over near the water wheel to clean off the mud. It was a different world back then. Imagine doing that now.

~

Chris Mitsch

The three years of Edward on Edward music concert. Watching the fantastic performances of our talented local musicians, many of whom were Edward students.

Scott Mildren

For a long time Kinders had their annual excursion to local farms. We visited the piggery and were able to cuddle new piglets. We saw honey being extracted and cows being milked. We always ended with a visit to Helen Dann’s place to see her horses. It was there that we were fortunate enough to witness a Shetland pony give birth to a foal right in front of the entire Kinder group. It caused great excitement. I’m sure those kids will remember it forever.

~ Jo Evans

I remember a swimming carnival one year when Bill Vernon swam under water for 2 and a half laps in the big pool.

The 5 cent penny crust was a favourite at the canteen with Rosie Borden running the show and the parents volunteering their time.

Cold rainy days all huddled in the auditorium around the gas heaters, eating a pie that turned up in a washing basket in a brown paper bag with your name on it in texta, that’s if you were lucky enough to get your order in the morning. The hall seemed massive back then!

The furnace outside the Kindy rooms! Not sure if that would be allowed these days.

One year at the school fete there was a car that was beaten up by the parents with sledge hammers between the sand pit and bbq. I remember Macca Oddy as one of them! They started off pretty quick, but soon ran out of puff.

Adrian Parker and building the 4 x 2 coffee table with tile tops. So 80s. Still got mine!

Not sure of any school that had a school dentist? But we had one. ~

Bernard Marshall

(80-87) Kindy to Year 6

I remember having a hot air balloon at the school fete. When in trouble having to stand on the wall. Rhys Westcott chasing bearded dragon’s on the back oval every lunch. Sleeping in tents in the pouring rain in Canberra. Ride-a-thon were always a favorite.

~ Anthony Bradley

My favourite memories of Edward School would have to be the fabulous staff who made coming to school everyday feel like fun with friends not work.

~ Georgia Jacobs

Remembering the bike ride to Stevens Weir. When I was told, my immediate thoughts turned to farm machinery, local traffic, hoons etc amid our students, including our smallest members of the school. But the organisation was superb with road closures, signs and an abundance of parental support assisting in what was wonderful community spirit. Bob Armitage driving the SAG wagon and Des looking after the stragglers, I couldn’t help but be impressed. It culminated with a picnic and, strangely, some students even decided to ride back to school - from memory it was 20km. Reflecting on it now, I don’t suppose it would be possible today and maybe children of today are the poorer. The staff were simply outstanding, promoting bike safety in a very practical manner.

The school productions had to be the most memorable moments! Everyone put so much effort into them! I distinctly remember every one, from Kinder where I was Glinda the Good Witch from the Wizard of Oz and my final year 6 production Spirit of the Anzacs.

~ Ella Harvey

~ Dennis Burton

Teaching at Edward has been a wonderful experience and I wouldn’t change anything from the fantastic kids great staff and school community.

Having my own three children enjoy the inclusive education offered at Edward provided them with great foundations as they now have successful, enjoyable careers. As parents, Craig and I loved the strong community spirit of the school and the many life long friendships we made.

So much that Craig, along with Glenn Barnett was awarded life membership of the P&C in 2010. From fun sporting trips, memorable excursions, productions that were like Broadway musicals.

Receiving the Director Generals award for performing arts was a highlight.

So many happy times as a staff member and parent that will always be special.

~ Karen Druitt

The kind and caring community of Edward School at all times. Our Year 6 trip to Canberra when one of the students was left in the mint! All our cross country trips.

~ Felicity Walmsley

“Where are you going Mrs Bowie?” said a Kindergarten student a few years ago. “I’m going out to playground duty”, I replied. “But where is Playground Judy ? Where is she? I want to meet her!”

~ Deb Bowie

The Digit Dick novel Mr Lutton read to us all took us all to another world of adventure. Penny crust and sunny boys at Rosie’s canteen was a hit, and the slush puppy machine at the fete was the best. When Mrs Stenner left and went to South we told her the big bad wolf would never blow Edward down as it was made of bricks. Best days of my life. ~ Clint Free

Many years spent helping out at P&C fundraising efforts at Conargo Mother’s Day markets! Great fun with families and staff cooking burgers and sausages and selling hundreds of cakes to grateful families so they had something to give Mum on Mother’s Day! Many of us still make those cake recipes today. ~

Christina Mildren

So sorry to be missing this reunion. Loved my time at EPS with the fabulous staff kids and parents that I met there. Hope you all post heaps of photos. I’ll be looking on from NZ. ~ Kim Roebuck

Wishing you all the best for a fantastic weekend of celebrating. I was a teacher at Edward from 1979 to 1983, approximately, and have so many fond memories. Mr Parker was the principal and Mrs Kirby was the infants mistress. I would have loved to have been there.

Congratulations ~Sue Lyons

Sadly, I am not able to attend either. So many memories. I love seeing the photos: the who, when, where and why.

~ Ingrid Hampton

Edward School - Celebrating 50 years of quality public education in Deniliquin

‘They were here, they made a difference, they were loved, they will be remembered.’