Rural goal led to Deni

While he was born and raised in Sydney, Mr Sundstrom has only taught in rural schools.

‘‘I’ve worked in places like Menindee, Collarenebri, Broken Hill, Lightning Ridge and recently in Narrandera East,’’ he said.

‘‘I decided to come to Deni as I haven’t had the chance to explore the Riverina.

‘‘I also wanted to find a bigger area in the Riverina and Deni fits my needs for the country life.’’

Mr Sundstrom is a graduate from the University of New England, Armidale campus, and intended returning to  the city to start his career.

“I was asked to be a temp teacher in rural Australia and I jumped at the opportunity because it was a job,’’ he said.

‘‘In that time I fell in love with the country and wanted to stay rural.

‘‘I’ve loved Deni so far. Everyone has been friendly and the town has everything I need.’’

Also joining the South School as a full-time teacher is Luke Moodie.

The Deniliquin local has been a staff member at the school for many years as a teacher’s aide.

He now teaches the Year 3 Alcott class, after completing an online teaching course through Swinburne University.

‘‘All the students are still in the habit of just calling me Luke,’’ Mr Moodie said.

‘‘It was a lot of hard work to juggle work, study and being a father of three kids, but it’s all paid off now.’’