Wooragee PS celebrates 150 years of golden history
Generations of Wooragee residents descended on Wooragee Primary School today to celebrate the school’s 150th anniversary.
Education Minister Martin Dixon and Member for Benambra Bill Tilley joined in the celebrations, congratulating the school on its remarkable history.
“Wooragee Primary School holds a special place in the hearts of the local community,” Mr Dixon said.
“Generations of Wooragee and Beechworth students have come to this school, which dates back to the height of the gold rush in 1862.
“It is timely that in the year the school celebrates this major milestone, we can also celebrate the $2.4 million of new buildings and an entirely new school.”
The Victorian Government provided $2.15 million for the new school, with the Commonwealth chipping in a further $250,000 from the Building the Education Revolution program.
As part of the celebrations the school commissioned the sculpture of 11 giant sunflowers, which have been installed beside another significant feature – the school’s centenary arch, which was unveiled at the 100th anniversary celebrations in 1962.
Mr Tilley said one of the standout features of the school was its involvement in the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program and its focus on sustainable living practices.
“The school’s new kitchen garden is a fantastic way to teach students about healthy eating and they will have plenty to snack on with an orchard, olive grove and bush tucker garden and produce patch,” Mr Tilley said.
“The school has been rebuilt in the footprint of the old buildings – with state-of-the-art learning centres interspersed between ancient trees.”
The Victorian Coalition Government announced $200 million in school capital projects in the 2012-13 State Budget.
