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Helicopter visit part of Dream Big day at Gowrie St

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Incoming: Yasemin Coskun spots the helicopter making its way to Gowrie St Primary School. Photo by Anna McGuinness

A visit from a helicopter to Gowrie St Primary School’s oval on Friday, April 1, was part of Dream Big day, opening up a world of new opportunities to students.

Pilot Chris Hensgen flew from Geelong to land at the school in front of captivated students from all grades.

Shepparton Search and Rescue members were also at the school, giving demonstrations and talking about volunteering and giving back to the community.

Other activities included cooking, instrument making and the Song Room program, which brings music to schools that don’t have music teachers.

Principal Eron Chapman said Dream Big day was about exposing the students to a variety of experiences, as well as having fun.

“One big focus for us coming back from COVID-19 is bringing joy to our classrooms and making school a really happy place to be,” she said.

“Some of our kids don’t come from families that have a lot of opportunities.”

Look out: Verna Baksh shields her face from the wind as the helicopter lands and Ayesha Bakhiet watches on. Photo by Anna McGuinness
Time to learn: Helicopter pilot Chris Hensgen takes questions from the students. Photo by Anna McGuinness
Touch down: Harrison Standley is excited to see the helicopter land. Photo by Anna McGuinness
It’s here: Meral Khan and Eddie Fotu welcome the helicopter. Photo by Anna McGuinness
All smiles: Harper Edwards looks thrilled as others shield from the wind gusts. Photo by Anna McGuinness
Cool customer: Archie Mackenzie-Ross watches on. Photo by Anna McGuinness
All in the detail: Students take a closer look at the aircraft. Photo by Anna McGuinness
What does this do?: Emmett West chats to pilot Chris Hensgen. Photo by Anna McGuinness