Byford Primary turns 100

Byford Primary turns 100

2011
Jan Cousins and Logan Johns. Photograph – Aaron Van Rongen.

The local school community is invited to join the oldest past student and youngest current student, Jan and Logan to help Byford Primary School celebrate its 100th birthday.

On Saturday, October 23, the school will host their 100-year celebration, which will consist of a Welcome to Country, an address by the Principal and a question and answer panel scenario with past students and staff to give the audience an understanding of the school’s history.

After the official proceedings there will be an afternoon tea while the Heritage Country Choir put on a performance, the day will also include pony rides, a few food stalls, and old-fashioned outdoor games on the oval.

The Rotary Club will provide donuts, and Byford Primary School 100 Year organising committee are aiming for a relaxed afternoon to reminisce over memories.

According to current parent and Chair of the School Board Michelle Charlton both current and previous members of the school community are encouraged to view the photographs and relics provided by past students for display.

“As well as photos, there will be an online recorded interview with former student and Melbourne Cup winner Damien Oliver for people to view,” she said.

“The afternoon will follow into the evening with The Mucky Duck Bush Band and a family bring your own picnic.”

As part of planning for the event, the organising committee were looking for the eldest past student they could find, to take a photo alongside the youngest student currently attending the school.

They found and made contact with past student Jan Cousins, who is 94 and currently lives in Armadale.

Various local businesses and associations made donations for the event, and the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale provided a grant to help cover a few costs of the event.

“Without the support in our local community this event would not be possible,” Ms Charlton said.

“We were also fortunate to have a committee of community members as well as current student parents and teachers making this all come together and has been 12 months in planning.”

Anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to register for a free ticket, to give the Organising Committee ideas for rough numbers for the event.