By ALENA HIGGINS
THE Maryvale community has helped raise more than $3000 towards the restoration of the school’s play equipment at a fun-filled fete and country market day earlier this month.
Fairgoers were treated to more than 40 quality stalls, featuring yummy home-baked goods and lovingly made ware as well as live music at the event, which was held at the school grounds on the long weekend Saturday.
Mother-of-two Nicole O’Malley-Jones estimated a couple of thousand people turned out throughout the day.
“For a little town of 500 people, we did exceptionally well,” she said.
“The day had lots of the things you would expect at a fete: fudge, home-baked goods and a barbecue.
“There was a guess the weight of the pig and cow competition, raffles, chocolate wheel and auctions (a pair of peacocks went for a very reasonable $50).
“The children were able to purchase wristbands for $6 that entitled them to all-day jumping castle balloons and face painting and lots of farm animals were on show…but the highlight for many on the day was the yabbie races.”
New Maryvale State School principal Chantelle Stephens, who came onboard at the beginning of Term 2, organised the day after the school playground was recently condemned in a safety audit.
While the school will apply for a grant to cover the expected $30,000 to $40,000 repair bill, Ms Stephens decided to get a jump start as grants often take time to be found.
She said the school was hopeful of welcoming a part-time staff member after school numbers spiked this term, jumping from 16 to 24.
Anyone wishing to donate should contact the school.
