Celebrating 150 Years
A legacy of learning
One hundred and fifty years of education is a significant milestone worthy of celebrating with students, families, staff and community in the history of Mooroopna Primary School.
Our current enrolment of 226 students and 11 classrooms is vastly different to the one room building that William Crimp was first appointed to as headmaster in 1873.
Since then, Mooroopna Primary School has grown and developed to become what it is today.
Our school has a wonderful relationship with the larger Mooroopna community, who are very supportive of us.
Our students have played bowls at the Mooroopna Bowling Club and helped plant trees to beautify our town.
Our focus on families and inclusion is evident in the number of multigenerational families that we have.
Our students love sharing that a parent or grandparent attended MPS before them.
Our students enjoy their regular classes as well as specialist subjects in the arts, physical education, library, choir and band.
We are fortunate to have large playing and oval areas with plenty of undercover spots as well.
We run before and after school care programs, along with vacation care.
Mooroopna Primary School has changed over the years to meet the needs of its students and families.
The latest of these is the Children and Family Centre which houses the kindergarten, long day care and Our Place, connecting services with families.
There is a Maternal and Child Health Nurse, several playgroups and Mother Goose catering for children from birth. We provide an holistic approach to supporting children and families through services such a paediatrician, play therapist and speech therapist.
Having the Early Years Centre onsite makes for a seamless transition to primary school for our students.
At MPS I have the privilege of working
with a dedicated team of teachers and support staff who ensure that all students are provided with the academic and wellbeing support to reach their full potential.
We work closely with our families to ensure they are involved in everything that happens at school.
Our 150th celebrations are being held on Saturday, July 20 and there has been a lot of work going on to organise this.
I would like to acknowledge all the students, staff, families and community members who have contributed.
Our sesquicentennial, 150th anniversary, is a huge milestone and one that I am very proud of.
Thank you to all our students, families and staff, both present and past, for contributing to the wonderful place that is Mooroopna Primary School.
Here’s to the next 150 years.
Karen Goodwin Mooroopna Primary School Principal
Mooroopna Primary School Principal Karen Goodwin.
Year 4 students Caleb Young, Hunter Allen and Kaide Wright about to get into some downball.
Year 1 student Anderson Domaille playing outdoors.
Year 4 student Noella Macline happy to be learning.
School council acknowledges milestone
The school council is pleased to congratulate Mooroopna Primary School on reaching its 150th anniversary.
This is a significant and celebrated milestone, not only for the school but the greater community.
Over the journey to reach this milestone, MPS has shown resilience, and when faced with major events like floods, fire and global pandemic, the school has bounced back stronger than ever.
This has been evidenced by the school’s ability to strive for excellence and inclusion through its supportive and committed staff.
Milestones such as our 150th are a good time to honour and celebrate the school’s history and provide an opportunity to look to the future with great confidence.
Over these 150 years, the school has seen a huge alumni from the community study within its walls, and it’s a testament to its dedication that
it’s seen many multi-generational families studying here.
To our incredible staff both past and present, your influence on the students of MPS has and will continue to provide a rich and nurturing environment for the students to excel in all aspects of life.
To all the families and students that have been a part of the MPS journey, we would like to thank you for creating the strongly valued and successful legacy that is Mooroopna Primary School.
The school council would also like to thank Greater Shepparton City Council for it’s grant towards our 150-year publication.
As we look forward to embracing the future built by a solid foundation of history, it is our great pleasure to congratulate MPS on this 150th anniversary.
Luke Barrette Mooroopna Primary School Council President and School Council members
Year 5 student Rosani Khadka engaged in learning.
Year 2 students Penelope Spencer and Charlie Trotter don’t mind being out in the rain.
From log hut to modern campus
A history of Mooroopna Primary School.
The first school in Mooroopna was a private school established by William Crimp in 1873.
The school operated three days a week in a log hut with a bark roof, charging pupils sixpence a day for lessons. An average of 15 students attended.
With the population growing due to increased settlement, public meetings were held to establish a State School.
Landholders William Archer and W. Morrell offered to donate land.
The Board of Education chose Archer’s site over Morrell’s because Morrell’s was near a new hotel.
This is the current site of Mooroopna Primary School, with Archer and Morrell commemorated by naming two of the school’s sports houses after them.
The first building was a one-roomed structure made from hardwood planks.
William Crimp was appointed headmaster, and the school opened on July 20, 1874. The building was soon found inadequate, leading to protests from parents.
In 1876, tenders were called for a new school. A tender for 372 pounds, 14 shillings ($745.40) was accepted to
construct a brick building with a slate roof, completed in March 1877.
This building, still in use today for administration and staff facilities, has undergone many internal renovations over the years.
Another brick classroom was added in 1929. After World War II, the town’s population increased, prompting the addition of several timber classrooms between 1948 and 1972.
The school experienced two major fires in 1978 and 1979, destroying several classrooms.
Portable classrooms replaced the lost rooms. Despite the fires, the original brick building remained
largely unscathed.
In 1980, Mooroopna Park Primary School opened with its own staff and principal, however, shared the Mooroopna Primary school site until its own buildings were ready for occupation.
Since then, Mooroopna Primary School has seen numerous changes, including a new library in 1982, modular buildings, and the purchase of adjoining Anglican Church property in 1984 which was dismantled and removed and the church hall and meeting rooms became the school hall, computer/music room and canteen.
Additional classrooms were built in 1997 and opened by the Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, in early 1998.
A third fire in March 2001 destroyed seven classrooms, and an extensive rebuilding and modernisation program was completed in October 2003.
Nine new classrooms and an art room were provided. The existing students’ toilet block was demolished, and new toilets built.
By 2008, the school had around 325 students. Modern classrooms, art, library, and learning technology rooms were available, alongside redeveloped playgrounds and open spaces for recreation.
In 2010, a large, modern, open learning area was built, removing the need for portable classrooms.
At present, in 2024, the school has a current enrolment of 226 children from varied socio-economic backgrounds, with approximately 20 per cent being Koori students.
The school is dedicated to fostering a caring environment where children are encouraged to be responsible, resilient, respectful learners, guided by the motto: Motivated, Persistent, and Successful, with a strong focus on social skills, literacy, numeracy and the arts.
BY Kelly Carmody
Best of both worlds suits Ash
Ash Moore might still be learning the ropes, but it’s clear he’s already a natural education support worker.
While he hasn’t been working at the school for too long, he has already had a significant impact on students at Mooroopna Primary School.
Ash is a friendly face to all the students, and someone they can come up to when they’re needing a little extra help in and out of the classroom.
Starting as an education support worker at the end of term one, you’d think Ash had been working in this field all his life with the way he interacts with the students.
“I was previously a concreter for 17 years and then when I had health issues come up, I thought it was time for a career change,” Ash said.
“All of my friends and family said I should try education support, as I’d love working with kids, and I’m good with kids.”
Although Ash isn’t from the area, his wife Katie grew up in Mooroopna, attended Mooroopna Primary School, and was a school leader in Year 6.
After having their first daughter, they decided to move to Mooroopna, so his daughters could attend the same school his wife did.
With his oldest now in Year 6, he has been part of the school community for seven years and an education support worker for the past two terms.
“I should have done it years ago,” Ash said.
“I WILL STAY IN THIS FIELD FOR AS LONG AS I CAN, I LOVE BEING A PART OF IT.”
– Ash Moore
“When we first moved up here, I should have looked into it, but concreting was all I really knew.”
He enjoys connecting with the students, assisting in and out of the classroom, but most of all, he enjoys being close to his daughters.
“That’s the best part [of the job], I get to bring them to school, and we go home together,” Ash said.
“I will stay in this field for as long as I can, I love being a part of it.”
BY Georgia Tacey
Lily, Indi, Ash and Macey Moore.
A journey of true dedication
With fond memories and joyous moments, Cathy Tricarico has happily walked through the gates of Mooroopna Primary School for nearly 20 years.
She began as a parent volunteer while one of her children attended the school, and then was offered a parttime role as an educational support worker, a role she stayed in for 14 years.
However, showing no signs of slowing down and driven by a deep love for her role and students, Cathy made the bold decision to return to her studies and become a full-time teacher.
“I thought, why not?” she said.
“It took me three and a half years to complete my degree, and I’ve now been a teacher for five years, and I love it.”
With a passion for teaching Year 5 and 6 students, Cathy has remained dedicated to these grades throughout her teaching career.
Affectionately known as Mrs T by students, she focuses on subjects like maths, reading, writing, and currently, history.
“We have been looking into our primary school history this year with
the 150-year celebrations coming up,” Cathy said.
“But we change it up every year and make it better each time. The number one thing in teaching is really knowing your kids, so we are very driven by what will get them engaged.”
Alongside Cathy’s commitment to education and teaching, the supportive school and staff have also contributed to her dedication.
“It’s been so much fun over the years with the staff here, and some days it feels like you come just for the fun,” she said.
“I often look back at all the memories, like the fire in 2001 that happened a week before my daughter was born. Every year, I take a moment to reflect on that time.
“I remember all the wonderful kids and all the incredible things they achieved. Now, some of them have kids attending the school — I’ve seen it come full circle.
“You definitely show up for the kids, but there aren’t many days when I’ve reached the school gate and not wanted to come in. I absolutely love it.”
BY Kelly Carmody
Mrs T is a dedicated and passionate teacher at Mooroopna Primary School.
What do you love about Mooroopna Primary School?
how even though Australia has not been the greatest back in the day for Aboriginal people, the school includes everyone.
MOOROOPNA FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB
Mooroopna Football Netball Club is a great environment whereby you can learn all about football and netball and have a great time doing it.
Footballers can go all the way from Prep Auskick through to 10s,12s, 14s, Youth Girls and 16s thru to the senior ranks, while the junior netballers can start at Net Set go through the grades to the GVL senior ranks as well.
Great facilities that include FOUR football ovals and first class netball courts.
Easy parking, plenty of seating areas and protection from the elements if needed.
Check us out.
For more information: www.mooroopnafnc.com.au
Lexi Dezwart, Foundation Playing with my friends on the playground.
Lucy Simpkin, Year 3 All of the staff.
Myla Spaul, Year 4 All the kids are really kind.
Kody McKenzie, Year 5 I love
Psalm Mack, Year 6
Being a school leader so I can make my Mum proud.
Zaiden Watson-Johnstone, Year 1 I like doing maths.
Rubi Beckman, Year 2 I get to learn with my friends.
Generations of learning
For 150 years, Mooroopna Primary School has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering a legacy of education and togetherness that spans multiple generations.
For 150 years, Mooroopna Primary School has been welcoming families into its community with open arms. One person who knows this well is former Mooroopna Primary School teacher Robyn Grieve.
Her children attended the school, and today her daughter-in-law teaches there, while her two granddaughters, Scarlett and Penelope, are students.
“My husband Ken was also a student here many years ago,” she said.
“Between raising kids and taking a few other teaching roles, I worked here on and off between 1975 and my retirement in 2012.
“Our three children attended here, and I saw many changes over the years. Technology has come a long way.
“It’s a wonderful school and I have many fond memories.”
Since 2006, Ellen Grieve, Robyn’s daughter-in-law, has been a teacher at the school and is currently teaching Year 3 and 4 students. Before that, she spent seven years teaching art.
“The team that works here are
wonderful,” Ellen said.
“From COVID to the floods, the way that staff supported our school community, and the greater community was amazing.
“I don’t think we could have done it any better, and I think that has made changes in how we operate now as a school.
“We are a diverse group in Mooroopna, but I think we all share what we’ve got and make sure that everyone has what they need.”
Ellen’s children, Scarlett and Penelope, also regard the school highly and both said they enjoyed coming to school each day.
Scarlett is a house captain that enjoys being a good role model and playing the saxophone in the school band. Penelope enjoyed art the most while her mum was teaching it, but now she enjoys writing.
“I like writing about animals, and I really like persuasive writing,” Penelope said.
“My favourite part about school is learning.”
The enduring legacy of Mooroopna Primary School continues to thrive through the generations, embodying a strong sense of community and commitment to education.
With dedicated staff and enthusiastic students like Scarlett and Penelope, the school remains a cornerstone of the Mooroopna community.
BY Kelly Carmody
Robyn, Ellen, Penelope and Scarlett Grieve.
Connecting the community
Transforming communities through education and support, Our Place Mooroopna is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and families.
Our Place is a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the education, health, and development of children and families.
At the heart of this effort is the belief that schools can serve as universal platforms for change.
Education is a powerful tool for raising
aspirations and improving lives, Our Place’s vision is for all children and families to succeed.
With a focus on early learning and social opportunities, engaging families to participate in playgroups and highquality early learning programs, Our Place Mooroopna promotes positive learning environments at the centre and at home to ensure children are prepared for their learning journey. They are committed to creating a culturally safe environment for children and families, providing
support to help families maintain regular school attendance, and developing cohesive strategies between early years and school to ensure a continuity of learning.
Health and wellbeing support is another critical area, where they identify and promote relevant services, assist families in accessing these services, and increase child-related activities at the Mooroopna site.
They also aim to enhance family wellbeing by creating a welcoming environment for families, collaborating
with local services to offer opportunities, and building strong relationships to support families needs.
Our Place is an initiative of the Colman Education Foundation, implemented through a 10-year partnership with the Victorian Government and philanthropic support.
This partnership ensures that children and families in Mooroopna receive the support they need to thrive, building a stronger, healthier and more successful community.
BY Kelly Carmody
Sarah, Jamie and Koen taking part in the Greater Shepparton City Council Maternal Child Health program.
Syeda, Jordan and Kennedy attending a Greater Shepparton City Council Just 4 Bubs playgroup session.
Students hit the right note
Mooroopna Primary School students have been rocking out in the school band.
Matt Jefferis, who assists in running the school band, said students loved participating in the weekly classes.
“Every Friday we run a band lesson, and we do individual lessons for the kids,” he said.
percussion,” Matt said.
and dance in the big spectacle.
Students can learn a range of instruments.
“We have flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets and drums including
“We have two different groups, the juniors and the seniors, we work towards the big school concert at the end of the year.”
“The kids gain a lot from it from playing in front of people, and it’s good for their minds as well.”
The school concert in term 3 is a major event, where students showcase their artistic talents.
Students get to play their instruments on the big stage, and as well as sing
For many students, band lessons and learning an instrument are among their favourite subjects at school.
With many different opportunities to perform in and out of the school, the band is always a big hit.
BY Georgia Tacey
Best wishes to the teachers, staff and students at Mooroopna Primary School as you commemorate 150 years of Education. As we celebrate this remarkable journey, I look forward to your school’s continued success and the many more wonderful years ahead.
The students love to showcase their musical talents.
Year 6 student Stella Simpkin and Year 5 student Holly Barrette give their best performances.
Supporting Koorie students and families
Discover how Koorie Yarn Leaders and dedicated staff are fostering community bonds to empower students and families alike.
Aiming to support Koorie students and their families while strengthening connections with teaching staff, Koorie Yarn Leaders Courtney Tomkins and Crystal Bailey are the people that keep things going. They have built strong relationships with parents and families, continually striving together to maintain connection, communication and student attendance.
Alongside them, several Indigenous staff members help facilitate the growth of these connections and are passionate about supporting
these families beyond the school environment as well.
“We not only check in on the families for school related issues, but also to see if they need anything like food,” Koorie Yarn Leader Courtney Tomkins said.
“It’s important that they feel valued, listened too and understand that we are here to help them in any way we can.”
While reiterating the importance of learning and school attendance, the conversations and connections between the Koorie Yarn Leaders, who are also Indigenous, families and staff are having a significant positive impact.
Mooroopna Primary School Marrung Lead Cathy Tricarico believes the success stems from the strong
foundation behind the initiative and the trust the KYLs have built within their own community.
“It takes a long time to build any relationship, and these two are doing such a wonderful job,” Cathy said.
“I am truly proud of how they have both embraced the role alongside their educational support duties, making a significant difference within the school and benefitting many.”
BY Kelly Carmody
Campfire conversations created
As part of a new initiative formed last year by Marrung Leads in various schools, campfire conversations were introduced as a platform for families, staff and students to gather and discuss their needs. One idea that emerged was the redesign of the Year 6 school shirts, however, while the students’ names remained, there vision was clear.
Mooroopna is known to be represented as a deep waterhole, so a Yorta Yorta turtle, also known as the long neck turtle, alongside a platypus that represents the Bangerang, were drawn and added to the design.
Additionally, the students who would be wearing the shirt in their final year
helped design other images depicting Australian animals.
A creative collaboration that students are proudly wearing around the school today. The 2024 Year 6 school shirt was designed by students and staff and represents Mooroopna being known as a deep waterhole.
The Koorie Yarn Leaders work at Mooroopna Primary School goes beyond education.
Koorie Yarn Leader Crystal Bailey with Indigenous students catching up while colouring in.
Koorie Yarn Leaders Courtney Tomkins and Crystal Bailey.
Leah’s transforming literacy
Four years ago, Mooroopna Primary School engaged their first speech pathologist.
Leah Hawker, a speech pathologist with over 20 years of experience, joined the school four years ago when her family moved to the area.
She loves helping students with their learning and literacy needs.
Since Leah joined Mooroopna Primary School, there have been significant improvements in how literacy is taught in the classroom.
“In the last four years, we’ve changed our literacy program to be more in line with the latest science of reading research,” she said.
This approach is designed for Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 students, where she runs the Little Learners Love Literacy program.
“This is taught from Foundation to Year 2, and then we use it for
intervention in the upper years of school,” Leah said.
“Having someone on site means we can constantly be trying to work out what’s the best learning style [for students] and how we can better accommodate them in the classroom,” she said.
To help assist Leah’s coverage within the school, the school has one to two fourth-year university students through Going Rural Health.
“My position is partially funded through the Greater Shepparton Foundation, and part of it is to have regular university students [on site] through Going Rural Health,” she said.
“So I run literacy groups in Year 1, 2, 3 and 4 and my student is currently running one in Year 5 and 6.
“We couldn’t do what we do without the university students.”
BY Georgia Tacey
Honouring
Kevin Holden’s enduring legacy at Mooroopna Primary School is a testament to his profound impact on students, staff and the community.
Adored by many students and staff alike, Kevin Holden’s legacy at Mooroopna Primary School continues to breathe life into its surroundings today.
An integral part of the school’s history, his three decades of teaching and principal duties left lasting marks and memories for all who experienced his presence.
Fondly known as “Sir”, Kevin was well-liked and respected not only by the staff and students of Mooroopna Primary School, but also by the Mooroopna community.
With a rare understanding of children and a passion for discovering the uniqueness of each student, he will forever remain in the hearts of many. Alongside his passion for teaching, Kevin held a significant presence in the local football community, playing for Mooroopna and Shepparton United.
This year, as Mooroopna Primary School celebrates 150 years of education, “Sir” will be among those remembered and celebrated for their unwavering commitment to the school.
His legacy as an educator has left a lasting impression on the Mooroopna community, and the profound impact and respect he garnered reflects his dedication and influence on countless students.
As the school reflects on its history, many have shared their memories and gratitude for Kevin’s enduring contributions.
‘Sir’ Kevin Holden
“Most of the community continued to call Kevin ‘Sir’ long after his retirement, such is the respect and impact his role as educator/ teacher to the Mooroopna community, including mine.”
— Nicole Ready
“Kevin taught me at Mooroopna Primary School in 1953 in grade 3, I transferred to Ardmona Primary School in 1954 where he also taught while I was there from 19541957.
“I remember him being a very good footballer for Mooroopna, played fullforward, won a Goulburn Valley League goal-kicking award I think in 1956, at that time he was known as ‘True Boot’.
He retired from football fairly young to play golf. He won a Goulburn Valley Golf foursomes with Tom Gibbons and was a Mooroopna Football Club selector for many years.
Kevin was the first president of the Mooroopna Football Club past players club which has become quite famous for being the largest in members and longest running club in country Victoria.
At close to 90 years of age, he was still going to the gym in Mooroopna and Shepparton. Kevin was known as ‘Sir’ to hundreds of people throughout the Goulburn Valley.”
— Graeme Wood.
“Kevin Holden was a bit of a legend at the school, a bit of a prankster, a bit of a jokester.
“He used to dance on top of the school desks, you’ll be sitting there doing your work and all of a sudden, he’d jump up on top of the desk and start dancing and singing and carrying on, it was a real laugh.”
—Glenn Young
Leah Hawker with Foundation student Alexanda Warren-Lock.
Kevin Holden helping out at the school crossing.
Kevin Holden celebrating his last day at Mooroopna Primary School.
Kevin Holden was a very respected and loved teacher.
Reflections: Steve Rogers
What was your role at Mooroopna Primary School?
Principal
What year did you start and finish your role?
2006-2021
What are your favourite memories about the school?
I have the fondest of memories of Mooroopna PS. I could always say I was proudly the principal of a great school. This was because of the terrific people at the school — students, families, staff and the community.
Mooroopna is a fantastic town and Mooroopna PS has been a part of this for 150 years — this is an amazing effort. So many students have benefited from a great start in life with their education at the school.
Other favourite memories include student outcomes, our concerts, Easter parades and sporting colour days, particularly when Richmond fans would out number other teams.
Another fond memory is that Mooroopna PS has always been part of such a strong community. The school has been an integral part of the town for longer than anyone can remember and community involvement is essential for the school.
What school staff do you remember? It is really hard to single out particular staff members — I was fortunate to work with so many great people. We had a particularly tight group as a staff — we cared for each other, the students and the school.
I was fortunate to work with dedicated assistant principals Rob French, Karen Goodwin and Carla May. During my time as principal, I also worked with many inspiring leading teachers, teachers and education support staff.
Most of us were more friends than colleagues. I was continually impressed with how dedicated and professional our staff were. They all cared for students, families and our community. This included looking after wellbeing and ensuring high quality learning.
Do you remember any significant events or funny moments at the school?
We were fortunate to have regular visitors to our school including the Minister for Education, Prime Minister’s partner, Minister for Children, local politicians, local councillors, philanthropists, famous singers, regional directors, and of course former students.
The building of and opening of
facilities was also amazing. The school has completely transformed in the last two decades.
New classrooms, re-modelling of the original school building, new Family and Children’s Centre, new covered play areas and high-quality play areas.
I think staff would say a funny event was the look on my face if any contractor damaged the beautiful grass on our oval. The oval was always
my pride and joy as I insisted on a neat and tidy school and grounds. As such I would have a look of shock on my face should the surface be damaged. Tell us what you are up to now. My current role is Senior Education Improvement Leader with the Department of Education in the Goulburn area. This means I am responsible for a network of 24 schools, which fortunately includes Mooroopna PS.
Former Mooroopna Primary School principal Steve Rogers.
Reflections: Glenn Young
What year did you start and finish at Mooroopna Primary School? 1969-1975.
Who was your favourite teacher and why?
Kevin Holden. He was a bit of a legend at the school, a bit of a prankster, a bit of a jokester. He used to dance on top of the school desks, you’ll be sitting there doing your work and all of a sudden, he’d jump up on top of the desk and start dancing and singing and carrying on, it was a real laugh.
What was your favourite subject? English.
How did you get to school?
We actually used to live on the fence backing onto the school on Elizabeth St, and we used to just jump the fence to come to school.
What was school life like?
There are lots of friends that I’m still friends with today. Back in those days, there was no such word as racism. Kids back then didn’t know what it was, we were all just mates growing up.
of the oval and one team at the other, and you’d run at each other.
We had a lot of fun as kids growing up playing British bulldogs, which was basically you had one team on one end
What was your least favourite thing about school?
Back in the day you used to get the strap, but attitude adjustments never really hurt.
What did you do when you left school?
I went to North Tech, finished up there and worked at the abattoirs for six months, which was an interesting place to work. Dirty work, but the money was good. Then a short stint in a pet food place, and then over to the cannery. Then into real estate where I’ve just done 43 years.
What are you doing now?
I’m still in real estate, at Youngs and Co Real Estate.
Tell us about your life after Mooroopna Primary School.
I basically haven’t left Mooroopna. Mooroopna has been very good to me, and very good to my family. My parents were born and raised in town, basically, and my kids have all been born and raised in town. They’re now working and living in Melbourne, but it’s been a great place to live and raise a family, it’s still got a good country town feel.
GLASS GLASS
Early childhood education develops skills
The Mooroopna Centre nurtures young minds with essential family services.
Nestled within the vibrant school grounds of Mooroopna Primary School, the Mooroopna Children’s and Family Centre stands as a beacon of support and growth.
With its array of essential services tailored to meet the diverse needs of families, this centre serves as a cornerstone in the local landscape.
At the heart of the centre’s mission is its dedication to early childhood education.
Through carefully crafted programs such as kindergarten and childcare, the centre provides a nurturing environment where children can thrive and develop crucial skills.
Early childhood educator Rachael Newman said experienced educators guided young minds, fostering a love for learning that lays a strong foundation for future success.
“Families have access to a range of services,” she said.
“Including kindergarten and childcare, health services, regular check-ups and immunisation programs facilitated by maternal and child health nurses,” she said.
“These initiatives help the future success of children, promote physical health and contribute to the overall resilience of the community.”
Understanding that parenting comes
with its unique set of challenges, the centre also offers comprehensive support programs for families.
From parenting workshops to support groups, caregivers receive the
guidance and resources needed to navigate the joys and complexities of raising children.
“Community engagement is a fundamental aspect of the centre too, and through various activities and events, families come together to celebrate, learn and connect,” Rachael said.
“These provide entertainment and enrichment for children and cultivate a sense of belonging and unity.
“It’s a unique and incredible centre and a wonderful place to work.”
For families seeking to benefit from the centre’s services and programs, the doors of the Mooroopna Children’s and Family Centre are always open.
Whether you’re in need of early childhood education, health services, or family support, the centre stands ready to welcome you with open arms, ensuring that every child and family receives the support they need to thrive.
As young minds prepare for their first year of school, Mooroopna Primary School stands just a few steps away, representing a collaborative partnership towards success.
BY Kelly Carmody
Mooroopna Primary School will be celebrating our 150th year of education.
Mooroopna Children’s and Family Centre’s Kindergarten early childhood educator Rachael Newman engaging with the children.
Memories close to Jenny’s heart
Jenny Ruhe has been a part of Mooroopna Primary School since she was a young student.
Her family has walked through the school’s halls for three generations, from her father and siblings to her own children.
Jenny has many fond memories from her time as a student, attending between 1955 and 1961.
“We used to have a school concert every year,” she said.
“It was a dress up event, like fancy dress, and we’d do a play.”
She holds many memories from her time as a student close to her heart, so much so that she sent her own children to the school, and when a position opened up, she applied for one.
“For a few years I worked in the office,” Jenny said.
“Then I worked in the classrooms with students.
“My last year [teaching] I did cooking classes with the students.”
Jenny worked as an education support in the school for 25 years, finishing up at the end of 2023.
Some of her favourite times as an education support were going on
excursions with the students, like all the school camps.
“They were very tiring, but the kids loved it,” she said.
While some things may have changed since she was a student, the school concert is still put on by the students every year, just in a different format.
“They’re totally different,” Jenny said.
“When I was here, we just did it down
at the old hall, and it was normally a play or something.
“But now the students sing and it’s quite a thing.”
While Jenny has officially hung up her boots and closed the chapter of her time at Mooroopna Primary School, she will always hold this school very close to her heart.
BY Georgia Tacey
What are you looking forward to about going to Mooroopna Primary School next year?
kindergarten Playing with my friends.
Mooroopna Primary School
The McPherson Media group would like to congratulate Mooroopna Primary School on 150 years of education, and thank them for the opportunity to produce this publication.
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Former Mooroopna Primary school student and staff member Jenny Ruhe.
Lucas Beckhurst,
A journey through time
1874
School opened on the present site in a wooden building which had been a selector’s hut. It was 16ft long and 11ft wide and valued at eight pounds.
Three-room brick building opened in October.
Two
Two more rooms and another store room added.
Four new classrooms, staff room, toilet block, art/craft room, office extensions. First portable classroom.
School enrolment neared 600. Mooroopna Park Primary School was established with Mr Ron Brown as principal. They shared the Mooroopna Primary School site until August when the new Mooroopna Park Primary School was ready.
Classrooms in the original brick building were remodelled. 1979
Second fire destroyed north-west wing –library, staff room and three classrooms. Portable classrooms and temporary administration and staff building brought in.
New library completed. School residence removed from the site to make way for a playground
Adjoining Anglican Church property purchased. The church building was dismantled and the church hall became the school hall.
Mooroopna Children’s and Family Centre.
Moorooopna Primary School celebrates 150 years.