After 45 years of devoted service, retired Tongala Primary School teacher Peter Tinning has been honoured with the school oval being named after him.
Mr Tinning was present for the ceremony before the school’s annual athletics day, which he also volunteered for on Wednesday, September 12.
Mr Tinning started teaching at the school in 1979 and has worked in various roles during his 45-year tenure, such as PE, bus coordinator and classroom teacher.
While he was grateful and honoured by the announcement of the oval name, he couldn’t help but feel a bit embarrassed, mainly as he didn’t do the job to be recognised.
“It’s a bit embarrassing. I didn’t do what I did here for those things, but when I think back, I am very proud and honoured,” he said.
“I’m grateful to those who thought enough to make it all happen, Ross, Rob and the school council who created it and put it all together, much to my surprise.”
Tongala Primary School principal Rob Hogan emphasised the importance of Mr Tinning to the school and how he has been the lifeblood of the Tongala community.
“He (Peter) means everything to the school; he is always something that can be relied upon when something needs to be done here,” he said.
“He’s massive not only in our school community but throughout Tongala.
“He is a reluctant lifeblood of the school; he’s a very humble guy, and it’s all about the students, families and people that make up the community for him.
“His retirement has left a huge hole here; he is invaluable, and you can’t put a number on what someone like him means to us.”
Following the ceremony, the students participated in various events for their annual athletics day.
Some of the events were modified for the students, including the triple jump being a standing jump and the discus being a vortex throw instead.
The students competed for their houses and sported colours to represent them at the events.