Will, Bruce, Charles, Jaxson, Hank and Rupert playing together before the ceremonies.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Generations of Bunnaloo families came together at their primary school for a special open day, celebrating the tight-knit community which keeps the small school thriving.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The day brought the school and Bunnaloo families together beneath the tree canopy, giving new and established families alike a chance to look around.
The day featured a barbecue lunch, musical performances from students, and a meaningful tree-planting ceremony — with a tree dedicated to every family at the school as a lasting symbol of their connection to the community.
Principal Darren Devereux said community support was vital to the school, with parents pitching in on hands-on projects such as the sandpit and outdoor eating area.
“Parents raise money and provide support and do things we just can’t always afford, but it allows us to provide the best education we can,” he said.
With 30 students currently enrolled and numbers expected to grow to 35 next year, the school continues to draw in families who feel a genuine and deep connection to the Bunnaloo community.
Mr Devereux emphasised the benefits of the rural school — the support from these close community connections.
“Coming to a small school is not a disadvantage,” he said.
“It gives them something different they can’t get anywhere else.
Mr Devereux said the school took enormous pride in seeing former students go on to rewarding careers spanning medicine, law, agriculture, hospitality and the trades — a testament to the strong foundations laid in Bunnaloo.
“We just try and set them up as best we can so they can do it,” he said.
Bunnaloo students showing off their building skills.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Students showing their parents around their classrooms on open day.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Bev Rankin and Lisa Cockayne embracing during Bev’s speech about Lisa and her teaching journey.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Teachers, staff and parents participating in a square dance during the celebrations.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Ash, Lisa, Peter and Zach Cockayne after Lisa received her plaque that will go on the building she taught kids in for 37 years.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW