Raise your hand if your school knows how to throw a party. Layla Coltish, 9, agrees.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
The gates of Harston Primary School became a direct portal to the past on Saturday, October 19, welcoming current and former students to mark a milestone.
The school celebrated its 150th anniversary with a lively gathering on the grounds, filled with joy, nostalgia, and community spirit.
For school bus driver Paul Newman, the event was especially profound.
Mr Newman shared a heartfelt story about his lineage, revealing that his father, Vince, was the school’s first bus driver, and he continued that legacy by driving the school bus today.
Heather Stuart, an alumnus with strong ties to the school, also spoke at the event.
She reminisced about old times and expressed her pride in being one of four generations of her family to attend the school.
Among the guests were Department of Education and Training area executive director Sharon Hensgen-Smith and City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali.
Together with school principal Kaz Batson, they unveiled commemorative plaques celebrating the past and present.
News photographer Rechelle Zammit was behind the lens to capture the special occasion.
Layla Coltish, 9, delivers the Welcome to Country.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
School bus driver Paul Newman accepts an appreciation award from Joe Chant, recognising the service he and his father, Vince, provided through the bus service since 1966.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
School bus driver Paul Newman proudly shows his appreciation award, given to him by Joe Chant.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Heather Stuart reflects on the school’s history from her time as a student.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Department of Education and Training area executive director Sharon Hensgen-Smith unveils the commemorative plaque marking 150 years.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
The plaque commemorating the school’s 150th anniversary.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali and school principal Kaz Batson unveil a plaque honouring past and current principals and head staff.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
The plaque honouring the school’s past and present principals and head staff.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Elliot Warde, 9, jumping for joy during the celebration.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Heather and Bob Stuart and their daughter Fiona Stuart (centre) were among the day’s attendees.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Although the school is small, it holds great significance for the community.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
