Festivities began with an official opening ceremony, where students both past and present shared reflections on the school’s rich history.
Those in attendance enjoyed a High Tea, rides and games, explored a “Walk through the ages” display, browsed fete stalls and were treated to combined instrumental performances by students from both Bundaberg North State School and Bundaberg North State High School.
The highlight of the day was the unveiling of a commemorative garden, featuring engraved bricks purchased by families, staff and former students as part of the school’s “Buy a Brick” initiative. The personalised bricks, created in the lead-up to the anniversary, form the garden’s pathways and stand as a lasting tribute to the school’s 150-year legacy.
Officially opened in 1875, Bundaberg North State School is the oldest primary school in Bundaberg. It has served the Bundaberg community for generations and will hopefully continue to do so for many years to come.
Photos from the day and memories shared by past students and staff can be found on Bundaberg North State School 150th Anniversary Facebook page.
Past Principal Michael Delaney and his wife Julia
Back in 1966 Arthur Begeda started teaching at North Primary and spent 11 years there. He said that the children loved their sport and he was involved in all sporting activities.
Arthur pictured at the anniversary with his wife Dorothy later taught at Walkervale, West School, Avondale and Branyan where he was Principal.
One of the speakers at the Anniversary Celebrations was Michael Delaney. During his time as Principal at North he found the local community, staff and children were “Great”!
He said that Bert Hinkler was a pupil at the school and Australian cricketer Don Tallon who played 21 test matches as a wicket keeper for Australia was also a pupil. Michael is pictured with two of Don’s daughters Cathie and Jane.
Colin Weiss an Australian former rugby league player grew up on a farm at Sharon and attended North School
Felise Kaufusi a professional rugby league footballer was born in Auckland, New Zealand
At age seven, Kaufusi moved to Australia and was educated at North School and then at Shalom.