Mooroopna stores were full of smiles and giggles last week, as local business owners and managers read to primary school students.
To celebrate Catholic Education Week, St Mary’s Primary School students were welcomed by Mooroopna businesses on Tuesday, May 2 to enjoy an afternoon of reading and learning.
The school had its heart set on getting into the town after years of minimised celebrations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, St Mary’s Catholic identity leader Michelle Hicks said.
“Over the last couple of years, we haven’t been able to celebrate in a big way,” Mrs Hicks said.
“I was really conscious about getting out into the community and making connections with the businesses and community, especially after the floods and everything as well.
“So I thought that a great way might be for each class to go to a business and for them to read a picture story book to the students ... (who could) have a look around their business.”
The students visited six Mooroopna locations: Bill and Beat’s, Mooroopna Bakery, Paul Wickham Pharmacy, Taste of Capri café, Mooroopna Library and Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre.
“The businesses have been so excited,” Mrs Hicks said.
The success of the day was clear, and the school hopes to continue its community involvement in the coming years.
“I want that to be an emphasis — making connections between the school and community,” Mrs Hicks said.
“We don’t want it just to be a one-off. We want it to continue.”