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.