Toongabbie Christian College

PETER HESTER (continued…)

One of the critical factors in the start and ongoing development of a school is the ability to raise funds. One means widely utilised is the School Fete. Not only is this an effective fundraiser, but it also builds tremendous bonds within the school community while helping develop positive relationships with the local community as well. A few notable memories remain. One fete coincided with the local council clean up. A group of parents took a trailer out the night before the fete and raided the potentially saleable items left out by residents on the footpath. I think that stall was one of the most successful the following day. Another fete was held during the building of Stage 1 of the Primary School. I decided to “sell” bricks that were piled ready for the brickies to lay. For $1 people could write their initials on the side of the brick. These were then built into the walls of the building with the writing facing into the wall cavity. They will still be there for some future archaeologist to discover one day. By the time of the next fete, the building work was up to putting on the roof, so tiles were on “sale”. A gentleman stopped to enquire the cost. When told the asking price was $1, he responded, “That is cheap. Do you deliver?” Fete days were certainly memorable. In 1982, it became apparent that there were sufficient Year 6 graduates to justify extension of the school into Year 7. With Primary classes already overflowing available spaces, a temporary new site had to be found. Eric and Tanya Hudson had previously been involved in child care with the Churches of Christ using Dunmore House at Pendle Hill. This property was now vacant and available for lease at a moderate sum. After successful negotiations with authorities, the appointment of staff and the enrolment of students, the High School commenced classes in Dunmore House in 1983 with 23 students. I was invited by the Board to transfer from Regents Park Christian Community School (where I was Deputy Principal) and take on the role of Principal of the whole school. Many memories were created in those early high school years: A large tree that students could sit in with a rope swing which required “Rules for the Rope and Tree”; A photocopier which required its own fire extinguisher because jammed paper tended to catch on fire; Concerts run for the residents of the adjoining nursing home; Soccer games played on a sloping field; The day an annoyed teacher smashed her hand down on an overhead projector, smashing the glass; Outdoor Science lessons on a portable laboratory bench. They were also great years of spiritual growth and blessing, and many friendships were made which continue to this day. Three years later the High School was able to transfer to Stage 1 of purpose built classrooms on land adjoining the Primary School. Whether it was provision of staff, students or accommodation, the Lord proved that He had anticipated every need. The school continued to grow and be a blessing to all involved.

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