Kevin Hogan (Page, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In an electorate comprised of many regional and rural areas, local schools play a very important role in their communities. This year, 2016 is a very special year for Palmers Island Public School families, staff and especially students who recently celebrated the 150th anniversary of the school. This significant anniversary was commemorated with a march from the old school, site located on the Palmers Island riverbank, to the school's current location.

An opening ceremony was led by school captain Max Hutchinson and leader Reece Warburton. The school choir and drumming group also performed. The ceremony concluded with the ringing of the centenary bell and cutting of the cake by the oldest living past student, Mr Jack Bell, and the youngest current student, Jacob Swift. Community members enjoyed looking at old pictures, memorabilia and watching short documentary films created by staff and students.

This day was so successful due to the hardworking volunteers who contributed their time and efforts. I would like to acknowledge Shelley Swift, Kerry Woods, Margie and Marcus Johnson, Graeme and Belinda Skelton, Gail Campbell, Carol Woods, Susan Searles, Kristy Groth, Kath Hardaker, Andrew Bennett, Adrian Wiseman, Lynne Wilson, June Alexander, Wendy and Maria from the Yamba Historical Society, Alan Lawrence, Alan and Stuart Sonter, Garbie Croft, Mark and Naomi Connock, Jackie Hinshaw, Peter Campbell, Kendall O'Brien, David Tees (Time expired)